New Delhi | In a major push to strengthen India’s tourism industry, the Ministry of Tourism has approved 117 tourism infrastructure projects with a total investment of ₹5,756.62 crore over the last two financial years. The projects are aimed at improving tourist destinations, public infrastructure, visitor amenities, and overall travel experiences across the country.
The initiatives have been sanctioned under several flagship government programs, including Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD, Challenge-Based Destination Development, Assistance to Central Agencies (ACA), DA-JUGA (Tribal Homestays Initiative), and the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).
The large-scale investment reflects the Government of India’s continued commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and regional economic development while positioning India as a leading global travel destination.
117 Projects Approved Across India
According to the Ministry of Tourism, a total of 117 tourism development projects have been approved with an investment of ₹5,756.62 crore.
Project Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Projects Approved | 117 |
| Total Investment | ₹5,756.62 Crore |
| Implementation Period | Last Two Financial Years |
| Major Schemes | Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD, Challenge-Based Destination Development, ACA, DA-JUGA, SASCI |
The projects are expected to significantly improve tourism infrastructure while creating employment opportunities and boosting local economies.
Scheme-Wise Allocation
The government has allocated funding across multiple flagship tourism development programs.
| Scheme | Amount Sanctioned |
|---|---|
| Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) | ₹3,295.76 Crore |
| Swadesh Darshan 2.0 | ₹1,565.62 Crore |
| Challenge-Based Destination Development | ₹687.99 Crore |
| PRASHAD Scheme | ₹172.27 Crore |
| Assistance to Central Agencies (ACA) | ₹17.46 Crore |
| DA-JUGA (Tribal Homestays) | ₹17.52 Crore |
The largest share of funding has been allocated under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) to support large-scale tourism infrastructure projects across various states.
Wide Range of Tourism Segments Covered
The approved projects span multiple tourism categories, including:
- Spiritual Tourism
- Religious Pilgrimage Sites
- Heritage Tourism
- Eco-Tourism
- Adventure Tourism
- Beach Tourism
- Convention and MICE Tourism
- Tribal Homestays
- Cultural Tourism
- Nature-Based Tourism
The objective is to diversify India’s tourism offerings while enhancing visitor experiences across urban and rural destinations.
Major Tourist Destinations to Receive Infrastructure Upgrades
Several prominent tourist destinations across India have been included in the approved development projects.
Key locations include:
- Khatu Shyam Temple (Rajasthan)
- Bodh Gaya (Bihar)
- Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu)
- Orchha (Madhya Pradesh)
- Attari Border (Punjab)
- Bangaram Island (Lakshadweep)
- Hirakud (Odisha)
- Rishikesh (Uttarakhand)
Infrastructure improvements at these destinations are expected to enhance accessibility, visitor facilities, safety, and overall tourism experiences.
Government Expands Digital Tourism Initiatives
In addition to physical infrastructure, the Ministry of Tourism is actively strengthening India’s digital tourism ecosystem.
Key initiatives include:
- Expansion of the Incredible India Digital Platform
- Enhanced E-Visa Facilities for Citizens of 174 Countries
- Promotion of Destination Weddings
- Development of MICE Tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions)
- Support for Eco-Tourism Initiatives
- Improved Regional Air Connectivity under the UDAN Scheme
These initiatives aim to make India more accessible and attractive for both domestic and international travelers.
Tourism Expected to Boost Economic Growth
The government believes that improved tourism infrastructure will contribute significantly to:
- Employment Generation
- Local Business Development
- Cultural Preservation
- Regional Economic Growth
- Private Investment in Tourism
- Increased Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals
Tourism continues to play a vital role in supporting small businesses, hospitality services, transport operators, artisans, and local communities across the country.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Tourism Development
Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared the details of the approved projects in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, reaffirming the government’s commitment to modernizing India’s tourism infrastructure and promoting sustainable tourism development nationwide.
The Ministry stated that the investments are aligned with the broader vision of improving travel experiences while strengthening India’s position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.
A Major Boost for India’s Tourism Sector
The approval of 117 tourism infrastructure projects worth ₹5,756.62 crore marks another significant milestone in India’s efforts to transform its tourism landscape.
By investing in heritage conservation, religious tourism, eco-tourism, digital travel services, and modern infrastructure, the Government is creating new opportunities for economic growth, employment, and sustainable development.
With enhanced connectivity, upgraded facilities, and world-class visitor experiences, these initiatives are expected to make India an even more attractive destination for travelers from around the globe.
