In a major push to strengthen India’s tourism sector, the Ministry of Tourism has announced new efforts to promote sustainable tourism infrastructure, with a special focus on tribal regions and heritage destinations. While tourism development is largely carried out by respective State Governments and Union Territory Administrations, the Centre continues to complement these initiatives through flagship schemes such as Swadesh Darshan (SD), Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), the Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) sub-scheme, and the PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive).
Among these, the Tribal Circuit under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, launched in 2014–15, has gained special attention for highlighting India’s rich tribal culture, traditions, crafts, and heritage. Several projects have already been sanctioned under this theme, aiming to enhance tourist experiences in tribal heartlands while creating livelihood opportunities for indigenous communities.
Further strengthening this objective, the Government has introduced the ‘Development of Homestays in Tribal Areas’ sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA). This initiative aims to build 1,000 homestays in tribal villages, offering tourists an authentic cultural experience while promoting responsible tourism and community-based development. Financial assistance includes up to ₹5 lakh for village community needs, up to ₹5 lakh for building two new rooms per household, and up to ₹3 lakh for renovating existing rooms. The scheme also emphasizes technical upskilling and training for homestay owners to ensure quality services for visitors.
Additionally, under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) framework, the Centre has extended funds to States for the development of tourism projects across India. Promotional efforts are also being amplified through national and international fairs, festivals, exhibitions, social media campaigns, and official tourism platforms, highlighting tribal tourism destinations as a unique draw for visitors.
With these initiatives, the Ministry of Tourism aims to create sustainable tourism ecosystems that not only enrich visitor experiences but also empower tribal communities, promote cultural preservation, and generate livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level.
