Lucknow: The state tourism and culture departments on Monday launched a statewide ground review of tourism and religious projects proposed for 2026-27.The exercise, covering all 18 divisions of the state, began with Agra and Aligarh divisions where tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh reviewed 80 proposals worth over Rs 500 crore. The review combines consultations with legislators, meetings with district administrations and physical inspections of project sites.Officials said the first round included 58 tourism proposals from Agra division, three religious affairs projects in Mathura and 19 tourism proposals from Aligarh division. Singh directed officials to ensure that every proposal is backed by verified land records, site photographs, realistic cost estimates and historical or religious documentation, wherever applicable. . “Every proposal should have a verified site, realistic estimates and a responsible executing agency. Citizens should know what has been approved, why it has been taken up and who is accountable for its delivery,” he said.Among the major proposals reviewed were integrated development of Baldev Tirth Kshetra, eco-restoration of 36 religious forests, restoration of Keshav Qila and development of the Gokul Parikrama route in Mathura. Agra proposed the second phase of conservation works at Bateshwar Dham, while Firozabad sought funds for the Arya Sanskriti Sankul and expansion of the Baba Neem Karoli museum project. Mainpuri proposed tourism infrastructure around cultural sites.The meeting also reviewed three religious affairs proposals worth about Rs 245 crore, including restoration of 15 religious sites in Mathura and the proposed Rs 150 crore Shri Banke Bihari Ji Maharaj Corridor.
