Chandigarh, Aug 25 - The central government will fund the development of Sangrur and Faridkot towns of Punjab as tourist centres, a minister in the state government said here Tuesday.

'A few crores will be spent to make both these cities as well as surrounding areas centres of attraction for tourists. Our aim is to attract both domestic and foreign tourists,' said Hira Singh Gabria, Punjab's tourism and cultural affairs minister.

'For this purpose, 85 percent of the required amount would be spent by the central government and the remaining 15 percent would be spent by the state government. A Delhi-based firm will develop the cities and all formalities are being finalised,' Gabria added.

'Our main focus will be on developing religious, cultural and rural tourism in the state. Our network of roads will help tourists reach these places.'

Sangrur and Faridkot towns are around 100 and 230 km respectively from Chandigarh.