Current Affairs:(Art , Culture & Heritage of India)
Steps taken by the Government to increase Tourist Arrivals into the country:

As per the 2nd Tourism Satellite Account of India (TSA) 2009-10 and subsequent estimation, the contribution of tourism to total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during the years 2011-12 and 2012-13 were 6.76% and 6.88% respectively.
The steps taken by the Ministry of Tourism to increase the arrival of tourists to India are:
- Launch of Tourist e-Visa for citizens of 44 countries.
- Promotion of the destination through the Incredible India Campaign across the globe.
- Participation in major International Tourism & Travel Fairs & Exhibitions.
- Organising Road Shows to promote tourism destinations and products of country in major tourist source markets in collaboration with stake holders.
- Development and promotion “Niche Tourism” products.
- Creating an increased pool of trained man power in Hospitality & Tourism sectors for delivery of quality service to the tourist.
- Organising International Buddhist Conclave once in 2 years to show case the Buddhist Heritage and International Tourism Mart for showcasing the tourism potential of North East being held every year.