Boosting Tourism: 76 Projects Approved Under Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Central Assistance Schemes

The Union Tourism Ministry has been quite active of late in realising India’s tourism potential and improving the country’s tourism facilities. Swadesh Darshan Scheme New Delhi: Of the 76 projects sanctioned in the latest scheme Swadesh Darshan, 75 have been physically  completed with costs of 5,287.90 cr. INR. 

Launched in 2014-15, the Swadesh Darshan Scheme provides for the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits.

Swadesh Darshan has been rebooted as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the objective of making responsible tourism in sustainable destinations. Already 34 projects costing INR 793.2 crore have been sanctioned under this arrangement. 

The inclusion of the “challenge-based destination development,” which is a sub-scheme within Swadesh Darshan 2.0, aims at proposals in topics such as spiritual tourism, ecotourism, etc. To date, 42 destinations in different themes have been identified for development as more diversified and engaging travel experiences are planned.

The Development of Physical Underpinnings of Pilgrimage Tourism

Parallel to Swadesh Darshan is the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) Scheme. Concentrating on improvement of tourism facilities at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and other pilgrimage places, this scheme has attracted 48 projects of about INR 1,646.99 crore, out of which 23 have been already implemented. 

This initiative guarantees the right experience in spiritual tourism in India to home and abroad tourists.

Capital Expenditure for State-Wide Tourism

The Ministry is also releasing funds for additional amounts on capital expenditure under Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). Under this scheme, 40 projects in 23 states have been cleared and Rs 3,295.76 crore approved. 

The facility of these long-term, interest-free loans is again to refurbish the already existing state-based tourism infrastructure with the goal of empowering the Center and the states working on tourism together.

India’s Global Tourism Footprint

India’s tourism sector is not just evolving on the domestic front but also strengthening its global presence. The country recorded an impressive 18.89 million international tourist arrivals and 9.52 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2023. 

This robust growth translated into foreign exchange earnings of INR 2,31,927 crore during the same year, showcasing tourism’s critical role in India’s economic development.

A Sustainable Future for Indian Tourism

The revamped Swadesh Darshan Scheme and the complementary PRASHAD initiative underline the government’s commitment to creating a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism ecosystem. 

By focusing on themes like eco-tourism and spiritual tourism, these schemes aim to offer unique experiences while preserving the country’s cultural and natural heritage.

As India continues to expand its tourism infrastructure and attract international visitors, these initiatives are setting a strong foundation for a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry. With the collaboration of state governments, private players, and local communities, India is well on its way to becoming a top global travel destination.