India & ADB sign $31 mn loan agreement for Tamil Nadu's Tourism Program 'IDIPT'

India & ADB sign $31 mn loan agreement to develop tourism & jobs in Tamil Nadu: Details, Aim, Purpose, Highlights

Union Government has inked $31 million loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Tamil Nadu Government’s Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT).

The loan is a fourth loan tranche for this program aimed at building-up tourism industry and boosts visitor arrivals in Tamil Nadu.

About Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT)

IDIPT project is $250 million project approved in September 2010. It aims to build opportunities for local communities and boost the local economy by enhancing tourism in three other states Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand besides Tamil Nadu.

This will be achieved through developing and preserving sites of natural and cultural heritage, and building connectivity, capacity, and infrastructure around State tourist sites.

IDIPT project will support the conservation and restoration of eight heritage monuments, one museum, three temples, and pond. It will build various facilities at the sites, including information centers, rest centers and toilet blocks with facilities served by solar-powered lighting and energy-efficient lighting. The estimated completion date is June 2020.

IDIPT project is also believed to improve tourism infrastructure in Tamil Nadu and also help the state in preserving natural and cultural heritage.

The activities under the project will also boost economic opportunities for the local people. It will also generate extra jobs in Tamil Nadu, especially through skills training and community-based activities target poor and women.