PM to Soni: End two-tier entry fee at monuments

In a letter written to Culture Minister Ambika Soni, Dr Singh has asked the Minister to try and evolve a system to create a more balanced system in terms of charging entry fees.

When contacted, Archaeological Survey of India ASI chief Babu Rajeev confirmed that there is a move to evolve a better system. 8220;The Ministry is thinking over different proposals. But nothing has been finalised so far,8221; he said.

However, it is understood that the ministry is not very keen on withdrawing the dual-tier entry fee as it means a drastic fall in revenue. It is to be noted that since 2002 these historic sites have seen a tremendous rise in revenue.

There is also a feeling that charges being levied on foreign tourists are not as high when compared to the entry fee being levied in various Western countries. 8220;The amount that we collect from the tourists, both foreigners and domestic, are being used for the conservation of heritage sites. Without this money, we will really feel the pinch,8221; said an official associated with the ministry. On the other hand, some in the ministry are of the opinion that increasing the entry fee for domestic tourists would prove to be a disaster as domestic tourism is now witnessing a tremendous growth.

The ministry is considering various alternative proposals which would look more 8220;egalitarian.8221; This includes provisions for package entry for families and different rates for SAARC nations.