Centre provides Rs 50 lakh for "Hampi Utsava"

HAMPI: The central government has released Rs 50 lakh towards " Hampi Utsava" to be held here from January 9 to 11, Minister for Tourism R V Deshpande said today.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting of a committee with regard to organisation of the event, he said the state government had made a plea to the Centre which had responded positively.

He said the 'Hampi Utsava" will provide a platform to about 1,100 local artistes and 200 national artistes.

Deshpande said providing connectivity to tourist spots was of paramount importance and it would be his endeavour to take steps in that direction during his ministership so as to attract more tourists from within the country and abroad.

He said steps would be taken to improve basic facilities at Hampi.