VARANASI, May 5 -- Varanasi is rapidly emerging as a major attraction for both Indian and international tourists. The double-engine government has not only transformed the infrastructure of this ancient city, but has also placed it firmly on the global tourism map, according to a communique form the state government on Sunday. According to data from the tourism department, Indian tourist visits to Kashi surged by 77.59% in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March) compared to the same period in 2024. Foreign tourist arrivals also recorded a notable increase of 34.21% during this time, as stated in the communique. According to tourism department deputy director Rajendra Rawat, Kashi welcomed 2,56,78,631 (2.56 crore) visitors from January to March in 2024. This number increased to 11,46,11,239 (11.46 crore) in the first three months of 2025. That is an increase of 8,89,32,608 (nearly 8.89 crore) domestic tourists within a year. Foreign tourist numbers also went up from 98,961 in 2024 to 1,50,425 in 2025-an increase of 51,464 visitors in just three months....