Development of different tourist destinations is primarily undertaken by the concerned State Governments/UT Administrations. However, the Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’, ‘Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0)’, ‘Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD)’ – a sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan and ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ schemes complements the efforts of tourism infrastructure development and amenities at tourism destinations across the country. This also includes tribal areas where tribal communities are significantly represented for enhancing tourism experiences by extending financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations.

This financial assistance is extended subject to availability of funds, adherence to scheme guidelines and other instructions issued from time to time, submission of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) by the concerned State Governments/UT Administrations, etc.

In addition, Government of India under its initiative for ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI)’ has also provided financial assistance to the States for development of tourism projects.

Under the SD Scheme, launched in 2014–15, thematic circuits were identified for development. Among them, the Tribal Circuit was one of the key themes, with an aim to showcase the rich tribal culture, traditions, crafts, and heritage of various regions.

The Details of the projects sanctioned under SD Scheme in Tribal Circuit is Annexed.

Further, with the aim to promote tourism in tribal areas, the Ministry of Tourism has recently issued guidelines along with template for formulation of proposal by State Governments and UT Administrations for 'Development of Homestays in Tribal Areas' (A sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan Scheme) under Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA).

The objective of the initiative is to develop homestays in tribal areas to promote responsible tourism and enhance livelihood opportunities for tribal communities. The guidelines also focus on technical upskilling and training of the Homestay owners. The said initiative includes development of 1000 homestays with support of Up to ₹5 lakh for village community requirement, Up to ₹5 lakh for construction of two new rooms for each household and Up to ₹3 lakh for renovation of existing rooms for each household. So far, no funds have been released under this scheme.

Ministry of Tourism as part of its ongoing endeavour promotes various tourism destinations and products of India including tribal tourism, through various initiatives including promotional events, assistance to State Governments for organizing fairs and festivals, participation in exhibitions, websites, social media etc.

This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

 

****

 

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

ANNEXURE

 

The list of the Projects Sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan scheme in Tribal circuit is as under

 

 

Note: All the aforesaid projects are reported physically completed.

******

(Release ID: 2155159)