Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Sub : Schemes

Sec: Tourism

Why in News

The Union Tourism Ministry has announced that a total of 76 projects under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme have been sanctioned, with 75 of them physically completed. The scheme, launched in 2014-15, has now been revamped as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to promote sustainable and theme-based tourism.

About Swadesh Darshan Scheme:

Launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, the Swadesh Darshan Scheme aims to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations across India.
It is a 100% centrally funded scheme that supports state governments, Union Territories, and central agencies in creating tourism infrastructure.
The Ministry provides financial support for infrastructure development, including theme-based tourist circuits.
Operation & Maintenance (O&M) is handled by respective State/UT administrations.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0):

Focus on sustainable and responsible tourism with an integrated approach covering:
- Tourism and allied infrastructure
- Human capital development
- Destination management and promotion
- Policy and institutional reforms
Encourages increased participation from private players in tourism and hospitality. Strengthens partnerships for operation and maintenance of assets.
Introduced challenge-based destination development, identifying 42 destinations for development across various tourism themes.

Significance:

Enhances employment opportunities and boosts local economies, especially in remote regions.
Focus on heritage, eco-tourism, spiritual, and adventure tourism, catering to diverse tourist interests.
Contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Integrates responsible tourism practices, ensuring environmental and cultural preservation.