Swadesh Darshan Scheme | 19 Mar 2025
Why in News?
The Central Government, in collaboration with States, has approved 116 new tourist destinations for development under schemes like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD), and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).
Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme
- SASCI scheme, launched in 2020-21 amid the Covid-19 pandemic, aims to support state governments in capital investment projects, boosting capital expenditure and enhancing economic productivity.
What is the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS)?
- Swadesh Darshan Scheme: It is a 100% centrally funded (Central Sector Scheme) launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015 to develop sustainable and responsible tourism in India.
- It aims at the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across India such as Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Northeast etc.
- It provides financial assistance to State Governments, UT Administrations, and Central Agencies for tourism infrastructure development.
- Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of sanctioned projects is the responsibility of respective State/UT governments.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0): SD2.0 adopts a holistic approach for development of sustainable and responsible tourism destinations, aligning with the ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision,
- It aims to increase private sector investment in tourism, hospitality and asset management marking a shift from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model for long-term growth.
- Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD): CBDD is a sub-scheme under SD2.0 that adopts a competitive approach to develop tourism destinations with a focus on sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management.
What is the Current Status of the Tourism Sector in India?
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What are the Key Initiatives for Tourism Development in India?
- National Tourism Policy, 2022
- Dekho Apna Desh Initiative
- Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
- Cruise Tourism
- PRASAD Scheme: Aims at the development and beautification of pilgrimage sites to boost religious tourism.
- HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana): HRIDAY seeks to preserve and revitalize heritage cities, ensuring sustainable urban development.
- Development of Tribal Homestays: Homestays for tourists are being developed in tribal areas under PM Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA).
- Digital Initiatives:
- e-Visa Facility
- Swachh Paryatan Mobile App: Enables tourists to report cleanliness issues at tourist sites for prompt action.
What is the Significance of the Tourism Sector for India?
What are the Key Issues Related to India’s Tourism Sector?
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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Mains
Q.1 How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism? (2019)
Q.2 The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate. (2015)