Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Context: Recently, the Ministry of Tourism has identified “Eco Circuit” as one of the 15 thematic circuits under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
About Swadesh Darshan Scheme

• It is a Central Sector Scheme launched by Ministry of Tourism for integrated development of theme based tourist circuits in the country in 2014-15.
• It is envisioned to synergise with other Government of India schemes like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Skill India, Make in India etc.
• The Scheme is 100% centrally funded and efforts are made to achieve convergence with other schemes of Central and State Governments.
• It is a joint venture by the Central Government and Ministry of Tourism.

Objectives of Swadesh Darshan Scheme

• To position tourism as a major engine of economic growth and job creation;
• Develop circuits having tourist potential in a planned and prioritized manner;
• Promote cultural and heritage value of the country to generate livelihoods in the identified regions;
• Enhancing the tourist attractiveness in a sustainable manner by developing world class infrastructure in the circuit /destinations;

Follow community based development and pro-poor tourism approach;

• Creating awareness among the local communities about the importance of tourism for them in terms of increased sources of income, improved living standards and overall development of the area; and
• To create employment through active involvement of local communities;

Harness tourism potential for its effects in employment generation and economic development;

• To make full use of the potential and advantages in terms of available infrastructure, national culture and characteristic strong points of each and every region throughout the country by development of theme based circuits; and
• Development of tourist facilitation services to enhance visitor experience/satisfaction.