New Delhi: Five Northeast India states – Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura have featured in Tourism Ministry’s Swadesh Darshan initiative.
The Tourism Ministry has recently announced the progression of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, a significant initiative aimed at the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across India.
Launched in 2014-15, the Swadesh Darshan scheme has now evolved into Swadesh Darshan 2.0, focusing on creating sustainable and responsible tourism destinations.
Altogether 76 projects were approved under the Swadesh Darshan with an investment of ₹5,287.90 crore, and out of which, 75 of the projects have reached physical completion.
The revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 has further endorsed 34 new projects with funding of ₹793.20 crore.
The ministry has also introduced a sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 titled ‘Challenge Based Destination Development’.
The new initiative seeks proposals for developing tourist sites under four thematic areas – Spiritual Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Vibrant Village Programme, Ecotourism, and Amrit Dharohar Sites.
Already, 42 destinations have been earmarked for enhancement under various tourism themes, the Tourism Ministry officials said.
Moreover, the PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) is another initiative that complements the Swadesh Darshan initiative.
With an allocation of ₹1,646.99 crore, the scheme aims to improve infrastructure at key pilgrimage sites. Out of 48 projects under the scheme, 23 have been completed.
Following the 2024-25 Budget announcements, the Tourism Ministry has also approved 40 projects across 23 states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura.
These projects channel ₹3,295.76 crore through the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).
The funding mechanism provides states with long-term, interest-free loans to promote the comprehensive development and global marketing of iconic tourist centers.
In terms of tourism performance, India saw significant traffic in 2023, with 18.89 million international tourist arrivals, generating a substantial ₹2,31,927 crore in Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs).
