Swadesh Darshan Scheme, Objective, Features Circuits

Swadesh Darshan Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Tourism. Launched in 2014-15, the scheme focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across the country. Swadesh Darshan Scheme aims to promote tourism as a key driver for economic growth, job creation, and cultural preservation.

A  2019 third-party impact assessment conducted by the National Productivity Council highlighted that the Swadesh Darshan Scheme has significantly contributed to livelihood opportunities and local employment, especially during the construction phase of various projects.

What is the Swadesh Darshan Scheme?

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Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0

Swadesh Darshan Scheme Objectives

• Integrated Development: To develop theme-based circuits that showcase India’s cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage.
• Infrastructure Upgradation: The government aims to improve tourism-related infrastructure, including roads, airports, hotels, and local amenities, to make tourism more accessible for visitors.
• Boosting Economic Growth: By focusing on tourism, Swadesh Darshan supports local economies, creating jobs and enhancing business opportunities.
• Promoting Sustainable Tourism: The SD 2.0 scheme advocates eco-friendly tourism practices to ensure that India’s natural beauty and cultural assets are preserved.
• Improving Connectivity: With a focus on better transportation networks, the scheme seeks to improve connectivity to remote areas, making it easier for tourists to visit these places.
• Cultural Promotion: The scheme seeks to promote the cultural and heritage value of India. By highlighting local traditions and practices, it aims to generate livelihoods in identified regions.

Key Features of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme

• Theme-Based Tourism Circuits: The scheme divides the country into different thematic circuits like Buddhist, Himalayan, Coastal, Eco, and Tribal, focusing on different aspects of India's heritage and landscapes.
• Central Financial Assistance: The scheme provides financial assistance to state governments and union territories for developing tourism amenities.
• Integrated Development: Each circuit is developed with an integrated approach, considering all aspects of tourism development, such as infrastructure, local community involvement, cleanliness, safety, and security.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): The scheme encourages private sector involvement in tourism infrastructure projects, promoting collaboration between the government and private businesses for better outcomes.
• Capacity Building: The scheme aims to enhance the skills of local youth in tourism and hospitality. This capacity-building effort is essential for creating a skilled workforce that can cater to the needs of tourists.
• Smart Tourism: Integration of digital tools like apps and portals to improve visitor experiences. Further, under SD 2.0 measures to reduce the environmental impact of tourism activities will be taken.

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Swadesh Darshan Scheme Circuits

1. Buddhist Circuit: This circuit focuses on the rich Buddhist heritage of India, including sites like Bodh Gaya and Sarnath.
2. Coastal Circuit : This circuit promotes tourism along India's beautiful coastlines such as Ross Smith Island, Neil Island, etc.
3. Desert Circuit: This circuit showcases the unique desert landscapes and cultural heritage of regions like Sambhar Lake Town.
4. Eco Circuit: This circuit emphasizes eco-tourism at sites like Mahaboobnagar, Tehri Lake, etc.
5. Heritage Circuit: This circuit focuses on India's rich historical and cultural heritage, including the Kumaon Region, Katarmal, Jogeshwar, etc.
6. Northeast Circuit: This circuit promotes the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the northeastern states of India (e.g. development of Bhalukpong- Bomdila and Tawang).
7. Himalayan Circuit: This circuit highlights the stunning landscapes and adventure tourism opportunities in the Himalayan region like Kiarighat, Shimla, Uri-Kargil-Leh, etc.
8. Rural Circuit: This circuit aims to promote rural tourism, showcasing the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of rural communities like the Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project.
9. Spiritual Circuit: This circuit focuses on spiritual tourism, promoting pilgrimage sites and spiritual experiences (e.g. Mandar Hill & Ang Pradesh).
10. Wildlife Circuit: This circuit emphasizes India's rich biodiversity and wildlife sanctuaries, promoting eco-friendly tourism at sites like Manas, Probitora, Nameri, etc.
11. Tribal Circuit: Highlights tribal culture in regions like Bastar and Chhattisgarh to promote local crafts, festivals, and traditions.
12. Ramayana Circuit: This circuit highlights pilgrimage sites like Ayodhya related to the Ramayana, promoting spiritual tourism connected to the epic's history.