(Image source from: DNA India)

Narendra Modi-led government has extended e-visa facility for citizens of 165 countries at 25 airports and five seaports, seeking to promote tourism, Lok Sabha was informed today.

Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam said the government has launched the 'Incredible India 2.0' campaign, marking a shift from generic promotions to market-specific promotional plans.

A 24X7 toll-free multi-lingual tourist helpline has likewise been put in place as part of the attempts.

To promote tourism in India, events such as 'paryatan parv' (tourism festival), International Buddhist Conclave and International Tourism Mart too have been organized.

He said while development and promotion of tourism is primarily the responsibility of state government, the Union Tourism Ministry provides central financial assistance to states and UTs to organize fairs, festivals and tourism-related events for the promotion of tourism.

By Sowmya Sangam