India targets 10 million tourists by 2010

India is setting a target of 10 million tourists by the end of 2010, the tourism ministry said on the occasion of World Tourism Day...

"This year we are expecting a four million tourist arrivals and by the end of 2010, the ministry keeps its eye on a record 10 million tourist," said N.C. Joshi, the official spokesperson of the ministry.

Joshi said the government is preparing a plan to develop 15 special tourist destinations and circuits at a cost of Rs.250 million and Rs.500 million.

Last year, the Indian tourism industry earned a record revenue of Rs.55 billion ($1.2 billion) and 3.3 million tourists visited the country. While there was 27 percent growth in the tourist inflow, the growth in terms of revenue was 36 percent.

The ministry is also embarking on campaigns to promote India all over the world. In its first attempt the tails of 25 planes of the national carrier Air India will be decorated with the Incredible India campaign logo.