SWADESH DARSHAN SCHEME

Subject: Government Schemes

Context: Tamilnadu government informed the Madras HC that it has sent a proposal to the Union Ministry of Tourism, seeking ₹563.5 crore for the overall development of Mamallapuram township. The quantum includes ₹232 crore under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS).

Concept:

Swadesh Darshan Scheme:

• It is implemented by Tourism Ministry.
• Objective: to develop theme-based tourist circuits in the country. These tourist circuits will be developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner.

Features of Swadesh Darshan Scheme:

• 100% centrally funded for the project components undertaken for public funding.
• To leverage the voluntary funding available for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Central Public Sector Undertakings and corporate sector.
• Funding of individual project will vary from state to state and will be finalised on the basis of detailed project reports prepared by PMC (Programme Management Consultant). PMC will be a national level consultant to be appointed by the Mission Directorate.
• A National Steering Committee (NSC) will be constituted with Minister in charge of M/O Tourism as Chairman, to steer the mission objectives and vision of the scheme.
• A Mission Directorate headed by the Member Secretary, NSC as a nodal officer will help in identification of projects in consultation with the States/ UTs governments and other stake holders.