Previous Year Question
Which one of the following States has been declared the best State in the implementation of rural tourism projects?
Sikkim
Kerala
Goa
Assam
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India declared Sikkim the best State in the country for the implementation of rural tourism projects.
The official Tourism Policy of the Government of Sikkim records the award as “Best State in the Country in implementation of Rural Tourism Projects – 2012.” It was a National Tourism Award for 2012-13, awarded by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Sikkim developed Village Tourism, Rural Tourism and Homestay-based Tourism with strong participation of local communities. This helped tourism benefits reach local people directly while providing visitors with experiences of local culture and the natural environment.
The State's tourism strategy gave particular importance to Eco-tourism, community participation, environmental conservation and homestays. As a mountainous and environmentally sensitive State, tourism development was linked with the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage.