0
0
The development and promotion of tourist destinations and tourism-related products across India are primarily undertaken by respective State Governments and Union Territory (UT) Administrations. However, to supplement these efforts, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has introduced several schemes and initiatives focused on religious, cultural, and sustainable tourism, aimed at both domestic and international audiences.
Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD Schemes
Two major central sector schemes administered by the Ministry of Tourism include the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and the PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive). These schemes provide financial assistance to State Governments and UT Administrations to build infrastructure, improve connectivity, and develop tourism circuits.
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme was introduced with a focus on developing theme-based tourist circuits across India. An impact assessment conducted in 2019 by the National Productivity Council highlighted that the scheme has significantly enhanced livelihood opportunities and created employment, particularly during the construction phase.
Recognizing the need for sustainable growth, the Ministry has now revamped the initiative as Swadesh Darshan 2.0. The updated scheme emphasizes sustainable and responsible tourism development, encouraging eco-friendly infrastructure and community involvement to ensure long-term benefits for local populations.
The PRASHAD Scheme targets the integrated development of pilgrimage and heritage destinations, enhancing their tourism potential and promoting spiritual and cultural tourism across India.
Promotion and Publicity Support
In addition to infrastructure support, the Ministry offers financial assistance under the Domestic Promotion & Publicity including Hospitality (DPPH) Scheme. This scheme supports the organization of tourism-related events, fairs, and festivals that celebrate local traditions and attract domestic travelers.
International Campaigns and Visa Incentives
To further encourage international tourism, the Ministry launched the ‘Chalo India’ campaign during the World Tourism Market in London in November 2025. This campaign encourages the Indian diaspora to act as Incredible India Ambassadors and invite their non-Indian friends to explore India’s diverse tourism offerings. As an incentive, the Ministry is offering gratis e-tourist visas to foreign visitors until 31 March 2025 under this initiative.
In a move to open more destinations to foreign tourists, the Ministry of Home Affairs has relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) norms for specific regions. This includes a five-year extension till 31 December 2027 for identified islands in the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Additionally, similar permit relaxations have been extended for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland till 31 December 2027, enhancing accessibility to these culturally rich and ecologically significant regions.
The concerted efforts of the Ministry of Tourism through infrastructural development, promotional campaigns, and regulatory relaxations are collectively aimed at making India a globally competitive and culturally vibrant tourist destination. These initiatives also empower local communities by creating employment, fostering entrepreneurship, and preserving heritage.
