Hidden away in India’s quiet corners are destinations waiting to be discovered, untamed landscapes, spiritual sanctuaries, and cultural marvels untouched by mass tourism. These places, like the rolling hills of Mizoram, the serene ghats of Madhya Pradesh, or the vibrant heritage villages of Nagaland, offer immersive experiences that rival the country’s more popular hotspots. Yet, for years, these underrated gems have remained in the shadows, lacking the infrastructure and visibility to claim their place on the global tourism map.
These hidden gems are now at the heart of a transformative vision to reimagine India’s tourism landscape. In a significant move to elevate these hidden treasures, the Indian government has recently greenlit a budget of Rs 3,295 crore for 40 tourism projects aimed at invigorating lesser-known areas across the country. As a part of its ambitious Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, the government is not just investing in infrastructure but also catalysing a cultural renaissance that could transform these Tier II and III cities into thriving tourist hubs.
The decision, announced on November 28, 2024, is poised to reshape the tourism landscape by focussing on destinations that offer unique experiences, yet have remained under the radar. While the headline figures stand out, the real story lies in the commitment to foster regional tourism, job creation, and sustainable development.
According to a recent statement by the Union Tourism and Culture Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat during a press briefing, “Based on the guidelines, 40 projects were shortlisted and submitted to the Finance Ministry. We have received approval. Under the scheme, a long-term loan a kind of soft grant will be provided to the states for 50 years. It will not impact their borrowing capacity and doesn’t reflect in their debt list.”
An investment in heritage and economy
The Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme adopts a more holistic approach compared to its predecessor. It focusses on sustainability, leveraging local participation and resources. With 57 destinations already identified across 32 states and UTs, projects under this initiative emphasise rural and eco-tourism circuits. Meanwhile, the PRASHAD scheme continues its emphasis on rejuvenating pilgrimage centres, integrating spiritual tourism with robust infrastructure.
This investment is part of a broader trend. Since the inception of these schemes, over Rs 5,294 crore has been allocated to 76 projects under Swadesh Darshan, while Rs 1,629 crore has funded 46 PRASHAD projects. Notable developments include eco-circuits in Madhya Pradesh, spiritual trails in Puducherry, and cultural circuits in Nagaland and Mizoram.
Tier II and III cities: India’s tourism future
The strategic emphasis on Tier II and Tier III cities underlines their potential to redefine India’s tourism map. Cities like Amritsar, Puducherry, and Sanchi, as well as smaller locales in the Northeast, are transforming to enhance their appeal. Initiatives include improving accessibility, upgrading amenities, and creating unique tourism experiences that blend local culture with modern conveniences.
This approach not only attracts visitors but stimulates local economies. Small towns and rural communities benefit from job creation, while local artisans and businesses gain exposure to new markets. The government’s push for tourists to allocate part of their travel budgets to local crafts and products further supports this vision.
Building a sustainable future
The vision ties deeply with Viksit Bharat 2047, with tourism acting as a catalyst for regional development and cultural preservation. These projects encourage community involvement, empowering local artisans, guides, and businesses. With initiatives like Dekho Apna Desh and diaspora-focussed campaigns, the government is also harnessing the emotional and economic potential of domestic and international audiences.
As the travel landscape evolves, these investments mark the beginning of an exciting chapter in India’s tourism journey, one that showcases not just its diversity but its promise of inclusive, sustainable growth. The question now isn’t why visit India? but where in India will you discover next?
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