In the Union Budget 2024, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed ambitious plans to enhance tourism infrastructure in Bihar. The Vishnupad Temple corridor in Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya are set to be developed into major tourist and pilgrimage hubs. Additionally, the ancient city of Nalanda will be revamped to become a “world-class pilgrim and tourist destination.”
The development will follow the successful model of the Kashi Vishwanath temple corridor in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Sitharaman emphasized the profound spiritual significance of these temples to the nation.
The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2021, was constructed at a cost of ₹339 crores. The corridor features 23 buildings, including facilities such as Yatri Suvidha Kendras, a Tourist Facilitation Centre, a Vedic Kendra, Mumukshu Bhavan, Bhogshala, City Museum, Viewing Gallery, and Food Court.
The Budget also includes plans for the comprehensive development of Rajgir, another significant spiritual city in Bihar, which holds religious importance for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. The government aims to revitalize Nalanda, focusing on both its tourist appeal and the revival of Nalanda University to its former glory.
Odisha also received attention in the Budget announcements. Sitharaman highlighted plans to enhance Odisha’s tourism potential, noting its scenic beauty, temples, monuments, craftsmanship, wildlife sanctuaries, and pristine beaches as key attractions.
In her seventh consecutive budget presentation, Sitharaman underscored the integral role of tourism in India’s civilisational heritage. The government’s initiatives aim to foster investment, create economic opportunities across various sectors, and generate employment. These plans complement the measures introduced in the interim budget for 2024.
