The Union Tourism Ministry, in collaboration with state governments, has approved 116 new tourist destinations under various schemes.

• These projects aim to promote sustainable tourism, enhance infrastructure, and develop iconic destinations. Listing of New Tourist Destinations
• A total of 116 destinations will be developed at an estimated cost of ₹4,088 crore.
• These destinations are categorized under three schemes:
  • 34 destinations under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0).
  • 42 destinations under the Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) initiative.40 destinations under Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).

About the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme

• Swadesh Darshan is a flagship initiative of the Union Tourism Ministry, designed to develop thematic tourism circuits across India.
• It was revamped as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to focus on sustainable and responsible tourism development.
  • For example destinations like Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) and Kaziranga (Assam) are being developed as sustainable tourism hubs
• The scheme provides financial assistance to state governments for building tourism-related infrastructure and promoting local culture.
• The revamped version emphasizes the development of entire destinations, rather than just circuits, ensuring a holistic tourist experience.
• Tribal homestay initiative has been introduced under this scheme as part of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, supporting:
  • ₹5 lakh per unit for new homestay construction.
  • ₹3 lakh per unit for renovation of existing homestays.
  • ₹5 lakh for community development in tribal villages.

About “Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD)”

• CBDD is a sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 aimed at holistic development of tourist destinations.
• 42 destinations have been identified and approved under this initiative.
  • It includes locations like Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra) and Sunderbans (West Bengal)
• It focuses on enhancing the tourist experience by improving amenities, accessibility, and safety at selected destinations.
• The initiative encourages state governments to propose and compete for funding, ensuring that the best tourism projects receive financial backing.

About Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI)

• SASCI is a funding initiative under the Union Finance Ministry, designed to develop iconic tourist centers on a global scale.
• 40 tourist projects in 23 states have been approved under this scheme with a total allocation of ₹3,295.76 crore for FY 2024-25.
  • Under SASCI, iconic sites such as Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Konark (Odisha) are set for global-scale development.
• The scheme focuses on:
  • Upgrading major tourism destinations to international standards.
  • Branding and marketing these locations globally to attract more international visitors.
  • Enhancing infrastructure such as roads, public transport, and visitor facilities to improve accessibility and visitor experience.

Tourism Ministry’s Skill Development Initiatives

• The Ministry of Tourism is conducting short-term, job-oriented skill programs across India to improve tourism services.
• Training is provided through various institutes.
  • For example , Bihar Skill Development Mission (BSDM), to equip local manpower with professional expertise.
• The initiative aims to maximize India’s tourism potential by training service providers and ensuring a world-class hospitality experience.