Swadesh Darshan Scheme : In News
The Central Government, in collaboration with States, has approved 116 new tourist destinations for development under schemes like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD), and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).
- It is a 100% centrally funded (Central Sector Scheme) launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015 to develop sustainable and responsible tourism in India.
- It aims at the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across India such as Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Northeast etc.
- It provides financial assistance to State Governments, UT Administrations, and Central Agencies for tourism infrastructure development.
- Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of sanctioned projects is the responsibility of respective State/UT governments.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) adopts a holistic approach for development of sustainable and responsible tourism destinations, aligning with the ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision,
- It aims to increase private sector investment in tourism, hospitality and asset management marking a shift from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model for long-term growth.
- CBDD is a sub-scheme under SD2.0 that adopts a competitive approach to develop tourism destinations with a focus on sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management.
