Lucknow : In a significant move to strengthen tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor experience in the heritage city of Agra, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved funding of ₹118.28 crore (₹11,828.75 lakh) for 13 tourism development and beautification projects. This financial sanction is part of the state’s aggressive push to promote tourism across districts, focusing on both iconic and lesser-known heritage sites.
The announcement was made by the state’s Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, who emphasized the growing inflow of domestic and international tourists to Agra. “Agra is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several temples and monuments of historical importance. Considering the ever-increasing footfall of visitors, the state government is committed to improving tourism-related facilities,” Singh said.
The minister reiterated the vision to position Uttar Pradesh as the leading destination for international tourists, underlining that comprehensive tourism development projects are being sanctioned throughout the state with matching funds being released promptly.
Key Projects Approved:
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Kheri (Dhakam Mata Temple): ₹88.30 lakh sanctioned for tourism development based on a proposal by MLA Dr. Dharampal Singh.
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Kailash Temple, Agra: ₹1,526.24 lakh allocated for development.
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Installation of Signage at Prominent Sites and Temples in Agra: ₹205.62 lakh.
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Signage Installation at Holipura Village, Bah Block: ₹12.48 lakh.
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Dariyanath Temple Complex Development: ₹106.66 lakh based on a proposal by MLA Yogendra Upadhyay.
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Bateshwar (Birthplace of Bharat Ratna & Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee): ₹2,276.73 lakh sanctioned for memorial construction.
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Balkeshwar Temple (Near ITI): ₹147.89 lakh allocated as per MLA Purushottam Khandelwal’s proposal.
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Shaheed Park & Dashrath Kunj Temple: ₹95.11 lakh approved following a proposal by MLA Dr. G.S. Dharmesh.
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Shiv Temple Development: ₹88 lakh sanctioned on MLA Chotelal Verma’s recommendation.
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Ancient Shiv Temple (Requested by MLA Pakshalika Singh): ₹72.60 lakh approved.
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Integrated Development of Bateshwar: ₹7,150.84 lakh sanctioned.
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Beautification of the Entry Gate at Badshahi Bagh: ₹49.92 lakh as proposed by the Agra District Magistrate.
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Renovation of Ancient Hanuman Temple (near Collectorate Bar, Treasury Complex): ₹8.46 lakh allocated.
These projects aim to upgrade basic infrastructure at tourism sites, promote religious tourism, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The Uttar Pradesh Projects Corporation Ltd. has been tasked with executing these developments.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the government is striving to create a tourism-friendly ecosystem across the state that not only celebrates our rich heritage but also turns UP into an attractive global tourism model,” said Minister Jaiveer Singh.
With this significant financial push, Agra—already one of India’s most visited cities—aims to offer a more enriched, accessible, and holistic travel experience for tourists from across the world.
