Development and conservation of Buddhist centres

The tourism department is extending central financial assistance for development of tourism infrastructure for various Buddhist sites in the country and has spent Rs93.47 crore between the 8th and 10th plan till date. In addition, the department of tourism is also mobilising external funding from Japan for development of infrastructure at major Buddhist sites and is coordinating with relevant ministries to improve and develop road, rail and air connectivity.

The department of culture is granting financial assistance for preservation and development of Buddhist art and culture in the country. It also extends budgetary support to Buddhist institutes and provides full funds for three autonomous central institutes at Leh, Sarnath and Nalanda which impart education in Buddhist religion and philosophy etc.

The centrally protected Buddhist sites in the country are maintained on a day-to-day basis and structural repairs of special nature are taken up as and when required. Preservation of structures and sculptures is also taken up besides environmental development to present the monuments in a befitting manner.