The Union Ministry of Tourism has approved 76 projects under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, with a total investment of INR 5,287.9 crore. Of these, 75 projects have been completed, contributing to the development of theme-based tourist circuits across India. The Ministry has also introduced new guidelines for the challenge-based destination development sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0. This initiative invites proposals for destination development in specific tourism sectors such as spiritual tourism, ecotourism, and more. To date, 42 destinations have been selected for development under this revamped scheme.
Additionally, the Ministry is progressing under the PRASHAD Scheme, which focuses on enhancing tourism infrastructure at pilgrimage sites. A total of 48 projects, with a combined cost of INR 1,646.99 crore, are currently being implemented, with 23 already completed.
Further, the government has sanctioned 40 projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme. With an allocation of INR 3,295.76 crore, this initiative aims to provide long-term, interest-free loans to support state-level tourism infrastructure development.
Swadesh Darshan, launched in 2014-15, focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits, while Swadesh Darshan 2.0, its revamped version, emphasizes sustainable and responsible tourism. The Ministry has already approved 34 projects worth INR 793.2 crore under the new framework.
These efforts align with the Ministry’s ongoing push to enhance India’s tourism infrastructure, offering better facilities for both domestic and international travelers.
