Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Why in the News?

The Central Government, in collaboration with various States, has approved the development of 116 new tourist destinations under initiatives like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD), and the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).

Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme
Launched in 2020-21 during the Covid-19 pandemic, the SASCI scheme aims to assist state governments in capital investment projects, thus boosting capital expenditure and enhancing economic productivity.

What is the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS)?
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015, is a 100% centrally funded initiative (Central Sector Scheme) designed to promote sustainable and responsible tourism in India.

The scheme focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across India, such as those focused on Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, and Northeast tourism. It offers financial support to State Governments, Union Territory (UT) Administrations, and Central Agencies for developing tourism infrastructure.

The operation and maintenance (O&M) of approved projects is the responsibility of the respective State/UT governments.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0):
SD2.0 takes a more holistic approach to the development of sustainable and responsible tourism destinations. It aligns with the ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives and aims to boost private sector investments in tourism, hospitality, and asset management. This approach shifts from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model that fosters long-term growth.

Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD):
CBDD is a sub-scheme under SD2.0, taking a competitive approach to develop tourism destinations. It emphasizes sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management of tourism sites.

What is the Current Status of the Tourism Sector in India?

[Link: Current Status of the Tourism Sector in India]

Key Initiatives for Tourism Development in India:

• National Tourism Policy, 2022

• Dekho Apna Desh Initiative

• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

• Cruise Tourism

• PRASAD Scheme: Focuses on the development and beautification of pilgrimage sites to enhance religious tourism.

• HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana): Aims to preserve and revitalize heritage cities for sustainable urban development.

• Development of Tribal Homestays: Promotes homestays for tourists in tribal regions under the PM Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA).

• Digital Initiatives:

  • e-Visa Facility

  • Swachh Paryatan Mobile App: Allows tourists to report cleanliness issues at tourist sites for prompt action.

What is the Significance of the Tourism Sector for India?
[Link: Significance of the Tourism Sector for India]

Key Issues Related to India’s Tourism Sector:
[Link: Key Issues Related to India’s Tourism Sector]

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)

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