State government plans to subsidize pilgrimages to different shrines
State government plans to subsidize pilgrimages to different shrines
BENGALURU:
With an eye on the 2018 assembly elections, the tourism department is now
contemplating subsidizing pilgrimages to various shrines through the Puneetha
Yatra.
With 25 per cent to 50 per cent subsidy
for the tour, the government is looking at these events organized by the
Karnataka state tourism development corporation (KSTDC) to be a clincher in
both, generating revenue for the coffers and also garnering political capital
ahead of the polls, sources said.
"We are yet to take a call on finances. We are working out how much of a
burden will it be on the exchequer, if subsidies are provided for these
trips,'' tourism minister Priyank kharge said.
The government has decided to conduct these tours by road alone as it will be
easier to subsidize tours. "Apart from 32 buses owned by KSTDC, we may
rope in KSRTC if the demand is high," kharge said.
Edited By
Shruthi G
Comments