Swadesh Darshan Scheme – UPSC Prelims

Ministry/Department : Ministry of Tourism

Objective : To develop theme based tourist circuits in the country

Scheme:

It is a Central Sector Scheme.
Tourist circuits will be developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner
They will be developed by synergizing efforts to focus on concerns and needs of all stakeholders to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities
Under this scheme, thematic circuits have been identified for development.
They are North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, Heritage Circuit, Sufi Circuit, and Tirthankara Circuit.
The scheme is 100% centrally funded for the project components undertaken for public funding
It also leverages Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Central Public Sector Undertakings and corporate sector

Recent Development:

Centre has approved the Sabarimala spiritual circuit under the scheme.
Government has expanded Krishna Circuit and Buddhist Circuit.
Direct bus between Ayodhya (India) and Janakpur (Nepal) was launched under Ramayan Circuit.

Factual Information :

NOTE: In Q related to Tourism, mention Swadesh Darshan, Krishna and Buddhist Circuit.