The Ministry of Tourism is according high priority to the development of tourism related infrastructure - with external assistance. In addition, to the on-going work on Ajanta – Ellora Conservation and Tourism Development Project Phase II being implemented with the loan assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). A loan agreement between Government of India and JICA has also been signed for the development of Uttar Pradesh Buddhist Circuit.

Ajanta-Ellora Phase II

A loan agreement for 7331 million Japanese Yen was signed with JBIC on 31st March, 2003 to undertake the Ajanta – Ellora Development Conservation Project (Phase II). The main components of the project are monument conservation, improvement of Aurangabad Airport, aforestation, improvement of roads, construction of tourist complexes, water supply at tourist attractions, public awareness activities, human resource development and computerization of tourist information. Work on the project is in full swing and several components of the project have been completed.

Development of Buddhist Circuit in Uttar Pradesh

A loan agreement for the development of Uttar Pradesh Buddhist Circuit Project was signed on 31st March, 2005 for an amount of 9495 million Japanese Yen with JBIC (Japan Bank of International Cooperation) now known as JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency). The scope of the project provides for improvement of roads, public utilities, site development, support programmes, etc. at Sarnath, Kushinagar, Kapilvastu, Sravasti, Sankisa in Uttar Pradesh.