By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

In a significant move towards boosting tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism has announced the development of 57 destinations under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. This initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to promote sustainable and responsible tourism, focusing on the development of various thematic circuits across India.

The Ministry of Tourism plays a crucial role in formulating national policies and programs for the coordinated development and promotion of tourism in the country. The scope of its responsibilities includes policy matters, planning, coordination with other ministries and state/union territory administrations, infrastructure development, research, international cooperation, and marketing and promotion activities.

Swadesh Darshan Scheme – Overview

The Swadesh Darshan Scheme, initially launched to develop theme-based tourist circuits, has now evolved into Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with a renewed focus on sustainable tourism development. Under this scheme, states and union territories prepare a State Perspective Plan, and the Ministry of Tourism selects destinations for development based on these plans. The latest announcement sees the notification of 57 destinations for development under Swadesh Darshan 2.0.

Table 1: Circuit-wise Projects Sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Sr. No.	Name of the Theme	Number of Projects	Amount Sanctioned (Rs. in Crore)
1	Buddhist Circuit	05	319.01
2	Coastal Circuit	10	631.39
3	Desert Circuit	01	50.01
…	…	…	…
15	Wayside	01	15.07
Total		76	5294.11

PRASHAD Scheme – Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive

In addition to Swadesh Darshan, the Ministry of Tourism also launched the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) Scheme. This scheme aims at the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations, with a focus on creating pilgrimage/spiritual tourism infrastructure.

Table 2: State-wise Projects Sanctioned under PRASHAD Scheme

S. No.	State/ UT	Number of Projects	Sanctioned Amount (Rs. in Crore)
1	Andhra Pradesh	3	124.89
2	Arunachal Pradesh	1	37.88
3	Assam	1	29.80
…	…	…	…
25	Uttar Pradesh	6	130.28
26	Uttarakhand	3	145.28
27	West Bengal	1	30.03
Total		46	1631.93

The comprehensive approach of the Ministry towards tourism development is reflected in its efforts to promote destinations both domestically and internationally. Through the “Incredible India” brand, the Ministry engages in media campaigns, travel fairs, and exhibitions to showcase the diverse attractions that India offers to tourists.

In conclusion, the notification of 57 destinations under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is a positive step towards enhancing India’s tourism potential. The concerted efforts of the Ministry of Tourism in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism will not only boost the economy but also showcase the incredible cultural and natural wealth of the country to the world. As these projects unfold, they are expected to create a ripple effect, leading to increased footfall and a more robust tourism industry in India.

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