Swadesh Darshan 2.0

Background and Context

In India, tourism is not just about leisure—it is also a source of economic growth, cultural preservation, and job creation. To harness this potential, the government launched the Swadesh Darshan Scheme in 2015. Under this, 76 projects were sanctioned to develop theme-based tourist circuits.

Now, the scheme has been revamped into Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0), with a greater focus on sustainable and responsible tourism.

Quick Facts

• Type: Central Sector Scheme (100% funded by the Union Government)
• Purpose: To develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations.
• Implementing Agency: Will be designated by Central or State Government.
• Benefit: Central Financial Assistance to States/UTs for infrastructure development.

Objectives

The scheme is guided by four broad objectives:

1. Destination Development → Build infrastructure, services, and allied facilities for tourism.
2. Economic Growth → Increase contribution of tourism to local economies.
3. Employment Creation → Generate jobs, enhance skill levels, and attract private sector investment.
4. Resource Conservation → Preserve and enhance local cultural and natural resources.

Salient Features

(a) Core Principles

The scheme is based on certain principles, which make it more refined and future-oriented:

• Develop benchmarks and standards for tourism themes.
• Promote sustainable and responsible tourism.
• Destination-centric and tourist-centric approach.
• Introduce policy and institutional reforms.
• Focus on domestic tourism (important for resilience against global shocks).
• Integrated development with proper operation and maintenance.
• Ensure synergy with other Central and State schemes.

(b) Tourism Circuits Covered

The scheme identifies theme-based circuits, making tourism more structured and attractive. Examples include:

• Spiritual & Religious: Ramayana Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Tirthankar Circuit, Spiritual Circuit.
• Cultural & Heritage: Heritage Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Rural Circuit.
• Nature & Adventure: Himalayan Circuit, Desert Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit.
• Regional Focus: North-East Circuit, Wayside Amenities.

(c) Planning Mechanism

Two key planning documents ensure systematic development:

1. State Perspective Plan – Prepared by State Governments, it analyses:
   • Major tourism attractions
   • Connectivity to tourist circuits
   • Offerings/themes
2. Destination Master Plan – Prepared for each selected destination, based on benchmarking and gap assessment.

(d) Non-Admissible Projects

Certain projects will not be funded under this scheme, though they can be supported by other State schemes:

• Land acquisition
• Resettlement and rehabilitation packages
• Investment in private-owned assets/structures
• Rejuvenation/dredging of natural or man-made water bodies

Significance of Swadesh Darshan 2.0

• Creates a structured and thematic tourism ecosystem.
• Boosts domestic tourism, making India a year-round destination.
• Encourages public-private partnership.
• Balances development with sustainability.
• Aligns tourism with local economy, culture, and environment.

✅ In short, Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is not merely about building roads or hotels—it is about creating sustainable tourism destinations that preserve culture, generate jobs, and attract both domestic and international tourists, while ensuring responsible development.