Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 25 projects under the Swadesh Darshan scheme worth Rs. 2048 Crore so far to 21 States and Union Territories since its launch of in January 2015. These States and UTs include Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura.
For North Eastern States, the Ministry has sanctioned nine projects worth Rs. 821 Crores covering all the eight states. For Tribal areas, the Ministry has sanctioned three projects for Rs. 282 Crores to the SG of Nagaland, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. For Buddhist Circuit, the Ministry has sanctioned two projects worth Rs. 108.11 Crore to the SG of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.
The Ministry of Tourism has launched the Swadesh Darshan Scheme in 2014-15 with an objective to develop theme based tourist circuits in the country on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner by synergising efforts to focus on needs and concerns of all stakeholders to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities. Under this scheme, 13 Thematic Circuits have been identified, for development namely; North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit.
The aim of the scheme is; to position tourism as a major engine of economic growth and job creation; to promote India as a global brand and a world class tourist destination; to develop world class infrastructure in varied thematic circuits and pilgrimage sites; to showcase full potential of wide range of unique products; to provide complete tourism experience by enhancing tourist attractions; responsible tourism Initiative- active involvement of local communities , pro-poor approach in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
