New Delhi, June 25: The central government’s key tourism initiatives have significantly strengthened the tourism infrastructure across the country. Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, 76 projects and 54 projects under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme have been launched, with a total investment exceeding ₹1,700 crores. This information was shared in an official statement released on Thursday.
For the development of tourism infrastructure, over ₹5,000 crores have been invested in 15 tourism circuits under the first phase of the Swadesh Darshan scheme.
Out of these, 75 projects have been physically completed, leading to improved facilities for tourists, enhanced connectivity, and a stronger tourism support framework.
The PRASHAD scheme, aimed at developing pilgrimage sites, has approved 54 projects costing over ₹1,700 crores.
The statement further noted that this scheme has enhanced facilities and security arrangements for pilgrims visiting major religious sites like Somnath, Shri Shailam, and the sacred Govardhan in Uttar Pradesh.
Additionally, under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, 40 projects across 23 states have been approved, with a total expenditure of ₹3,295.76 crores.
The aim of this scheme is to develop tourism-centric locations into world-class tourism hubs.
Between 2014 and 2025, India recorded 18.12 crore international arrivals and 9.33 crore foreign tourist arrivals.
International arrivals include foreign nationals as well as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
In the past decade, over 100 tourist destinations across the country have been equipped with modern facilities.
Moreover, a proposal has been prepared for the development of 50 major tourist sites, enhancing their quality, facilities, and necessary preparations for tourism.
To facilitate travel for foreign tourists, the government has also significantly expanded the e-visa system, making it more convenient for citizens from many countries to visit India compared to before.
According to the statement, India is continuously strengthening its position as a leading global tourist destination.
Currently, India ranks eighth among the world’s top tourism economies, contributing $231.6 billion to the national economy.
According to estimates by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), India could rise to the fourth position in the global tourism economy within the next decade.
Leave a Comment