The Ministry of Tourism has launched the Swadesh Darshan Scheme for IntegratedDevelopment of theme-based Tourist Circuits for development of tourism infrastructure

including last mile connectivity in the country. Recognizing the potential of Village tourism inthe country, the Ministry has identified Rural Circuit as one of fifteen thematic circuitsidentified for development under this scheme.

Ministry of Rural Development provides a list of leading sub districts to each State forselection of Non-Tribal clusters under SPMRM, within which the clusters could be identified.One of the parameters in the selection of these sub districts by the Ministry of RuralDevelopment is Presence of places of Tourism and Pilgrimage significance.

One of the rural development schemes being implemented is Shyama Prasad MukherjiRurban Mission (SPMRM) under Ministry of Rural Development. SPMRM is a program

focused on integrated development of Rural clusters by stimulating local economicdevelopment, enhancing basic services, and creating well planned Rurban clusters.SPMRM follows the vision of “Development of a cluster of villages that preserve and nurturethe essence of rural community life with focus on equity and inclusiveness withoutcompromising with the facilities perceived to be essentially urban in nature, thus creating acluster of “Rurban Villages”. Under SPMRM, 300 clusters are developed across 28 States and6 Union Territories. Tourism is one of the themes of Rurban cluster development. Tourismrelated activities/ projects are among the 21 component categories under SPMRM and suitableworks are undertaken in clusters with tourism potential.Under SPMRM, there are 105 clusters in 30 States/ UTs where tourism related activities have been proposed.

For the promotion of village tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism undertakes

several promotional activities in the domestic and international markets. As part of itsmarketing/promotional activities, the Ministry produces publicity material and collaterals inimportant and potential markets under the “Incredible India” brand-line. Promotions are alsoundertaken through the website and social media accounts of the Ministry.

This information was given by Minister of State for Tourism & Culture Shri Prahlad Singh Patelin a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

                                                                                              

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