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Government of India Strengthens Focus on Rural Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism has outlined its efforts and future plans to promote rural tourism across India, with a strong emphasis on sustainable development, community engagement, and preserving the nation's ancient heritage.

Introduction

The Government of India is ramping up its initiatives to boost rural tourism, with a detailed plan that includes funding for various projects, the introduction of new schemes, and the involvement of multiple stakeholders. The Ministry of Tourism has provided insights into the funds sanctioned, projects initiated, and strategic plans to enhance rural tourism over the past five years.

Funding and Project Status

State-wise Fund Allocation

The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned significant funds for rural tourism projects across different states. Below are some key projects:

• Bihar: In 2017-18, ₹44.27 crores were sanctioned for the development of Bhitiharwa-Chandrahia-Turkaulia under the Swadesh Darshan scheme.
• Kerala: In 2018-19, ₹57.35 crores were allocated for the Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project.

These projects are part of the central sector scheme of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’, which supports the development of tourism infrastructure in consultation with State Governments and Union Territory Administrations.

Revised Scheme - Swadesh Darshan 2.0

In response to the evolving needs of rural tourism, the Ministry has revised the Swadesh Darshan scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism.

• Selected Destinations: Under this scheme, 57 destinations have been selected for development, with rural areas included in the delineated regions.
• Notable Projects: In 2022-23, ₹32.20 crores were sanctioned for the ‘Rural Tourism Cluster Experience at Gunji’ in Uttarakhand.

Criteria and Assessments for Promoting Rural Tourism

Effectiveness of Existing Schemes

The Government has developed specific criteria and undertaken assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of existing schemes in promoting rural tourism. These evaluations are crucial to ensuring that the schemes not only promote tourism but also contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas.

• Key Strategic Pillars:
  • Model policies and best practices
  • Digital technologies for rural tourism
  • Development of tourism clusters
  • Marketing support
  • Capacity building for stakeholders
  • Governance and institutional frameworks

Further Steps for Enhancing Rural Tourism

New Initiatives and Competitions

To further enhance rural tourism, the Ministry has launched several initiatives:

• Best Tourism Villages Competition: This competition aims to recognize villages that exemplify tourism destinations with strong cultural and natural assets, and a commitment to sustainability.
• Best Rural Homestay Competition: This platform allows rural homestays to showcase their unique offerings, encouraging tourists to explore novel and captivating lodging options.

International Participation

India also participates in the United Nations World Tourism Organization's (UNWTO) Best Tourism Villages Competition, showcasing the country's initiatives in sustainability, conservation, and rural tourism on a global stage.