India’s Ministry of Tourism launched a mobile application titled “Incredible India” on September 3. The app was formally released by Union Tourism Secretary Parvez Dewan in New Delhi. The app provides important information to international and domestic tourists about Ministry of Tourism recognized tourism service providers, such as inbound tour operators, adventure tour operators, domestic tour operators, tourist transport operators, travel agents, regional level guides, and classified hotels available in various cities and tourist areas. Tourists can find these articles of information for any city they plan to visit. The app also lists various places of interest in the various cities.
The app was developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and will be available for Android Phones on the Google Play store and for Iphones in the Apple App Store in coming week.
“This mobile application has been developed as part of the initiative of the new government in taking important and positive decisions, especially, affecting the general public since its taking over the charge. The application demonstrates Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to the use of technology for service delivery,” said Union Tourism Secretary Parvez Dewan, while launching the application.
India has over 3650 monuments listed under the aegis of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and handled by it for restoration and maintenance purposes. Many other monuments and places are unlisted though they are of great historical consequence. Usually, most monuments lack proper guide facilities or information boards, and tourists generally find the places neglected, or are harassed by touts looking to make a quick buck. India received nearly 7 million foreign tourists in 2013, and catered to almost 1.2 billion domestic visits. Most tourists are looking to experience some of India’s diverse natural, cultural and religious landscapes. However, the abysmal infrastructure takes the sheen of the visit and puts most people off. This app will be a welcome addition to many a tourist’s kit.