JHANSI, June 14 -- State tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh on Saturday announced a series of initiatives to boost tourism and spur development in Bundelkhand region, including a subsidy of up to 30 per cent for entrepreneurs investing in the hospitality sector. Singh made the announcement during his first visit to Jhansi after being appointed as the district's minister in charge. Speaking to media persons, the minister said tourism has been granted industry status in Uttar Pradesh, enabling investors to avail themselves of a range of attractive incentives. Under the policy, entrepreneurs establishing projects such as homestays, luxury hotels, and rural tourism ventures will be eligible for a 25% subsidy, while women and Scheduled Caste entrepreneurs will receive a 30% subsidy. He also claimed that the state's tourism sector has attracted investments exceeding Rs 36,000 crore through more than 17,000 registrations. Highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in the state, Singh said significant progress has been made in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, rural development, energy and tourism over the past 12 years. Referring to Jhansi's development, he pointed to several ongoing projects, including road construction under state schemes, expansion of educational infrastructure and other public development works. The minister also emphasised that maintaining law and order remains a top priority for the government. He said crime indicators have improved significantly. Singh further stated that 17,352 CCTV cameras have been installed under Operation Trinetra, while 26 Anti-Romeo squads and cyber cells in all police stations have been set up to enhance security and strengthen crime prevention measures. Warning against unlawful activities, Singh said the government would not tolerate any form of illegal work and that strict action would be taken against those found violating the law. On the tourism front, the minister said the state government is making significant investments in infrastructure to enhance access to religious and heritage destinations. He stated that Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated to the Public Works Department for improving road connectivity to key pilgrimage sites. Singh also revealed that a proposal has been prepared to develop 32 forts across Bundelkhand as heritage tourism destinations under the PPP model....