15 Destinations In Northeast To Be Developed Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme

The northeastern states of India are known for their pristine beauty, majestic hills, scenic waterfalls, and adventurous treks. In order to boost tourism in the region, the central government has selected 15 destinations in the northeast for development under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme.

In a bid to promote tourism in the culturally and naturally rich northeastern region of India, the central government has selected fifteen destinations for development under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. This move not only aims to boost tourism in the eight northeastern states but also contribute to the overall development of the region.

Promoting Unexplored Tourist Sites

The northeastern states, some of which share borders with other countries, are known for their pristine beauty, majestic hills, scenic waterfalls, and adventurous treks. However, many of these sites remain unexplored by tourists. The Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme aims to change this by developing these destinations and attracting more visitors.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD Scheme Updates

During the 11th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) held in Shillong from November 21-23, Tourism Ministry officials shared details on the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme and provided updates on the PRASHAD scheme. Under the PRASHAD scheme, the ministry has sanctioned Rs 29.32 crore for the development of four key iconic religious tourism sites in Meghalaya: Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Aitnar Pool, and Charantala Kali Temple.

Focus on Sustainability and Development

Union Minister of State for Tourism, Shripad Naik, while inaugurating the ITM conclave, emphasized the central government's commitment to bringing more development to the northeastern region while also focusing on sustainability. In addition to the PRASHAD scheme, the government is taking steps to enhance the value of tourism destinations in the region through the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme.

Selected Destinations for Development

In consultation with state governments and Union territories, the ministry has selected fifteen destinations in the northeast for development under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. These destinations include Nacho and Mechuka from Arunachal Pradesh; Shillong and Sohra from Meghalaya; Aizawl and Champhai from Mizoram; Jorhat and Kokrajhar from Assam; Moirang Bishnupur in Manipur; Niuland and Chumukedima in Nagaland; Gangtok and Gyalshing in Sikkim; and Agartala and Unakoti in Tripura.

Planned Tourism Experiences

Several planned tourism experiences have received in-principle approval under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. These include the Police Bazaar-Wards Lake Cultural Zone in Shillong, the Meghalayan-age cave experience in Sohra, the MG Road experience in Gangtok, the Mechuka Cultural Haat in Arunachal Pradesh, and the rock-cut heritage experience in Unakoti, Tripura.

Revamped Swadesh Darshan Scheme

The Ministry of Tourism has revamped the Swadesh Darshan scheme with the objective of creating jobs, including self-employment opportunities for local communities, and preserving and enhancing the local cultural and natural resources. Under the scheme, the ministry provides financial assistance to state governments, Union Territory administrations, or central agencies for developing tourism infrastructure in the country.

International Tourism Mart in Shillong

The 11th edition of the ITM was launched in Shillong in the presence of Union Minister Naik, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, and Union Tourism Secretary V Vidyavathi. The event provides a platform for stakeholders in the northeastern region to interact with their counterparts from within the country and overseas markets, as well as to create awareness about the tourism potential of the region.

Northeastern States' Economic Growth

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, in his address at the event, highlighted the unprecedented economic growth and support that the northeastern states have received from the central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the strong focus on ensuring that the northeastern states keep up with the rest of the country in terms of economic development.

Promoting Northeast India's Unique Tourism Products

The ITM aims to showcase the northeastern region's unique tourism products, rich biodiversity, and intangible heritage, including local traditions, dance forms, arts, handicrafts, and handlooms, to both domestic and international audiences. Previous editions of the ITM have been held in various northeastern states, and Shillong is hosting the event for the second time.

By developing unexplored tourist sites, enhancing the value of existing destinations, and promoting the region's unique tourism products, the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme and the ITM are significant steps towards boosting tourism and fostering economic growth in India's northeastern region.