India's Push for Green Tourism Gains Momentum with New Initiatives
By CCN News | Published: Dec 03, 2024
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India's Ministry of Tourism is taking bold steps to promote eco-tourism and sustainable travel through several new initiatives designed to preserve the environment while boosting the tourism industry. The recently revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme is a key part of the government's vision to develop tourism destinations in a holistic and sustainable way, partnering with local governments and communities. The scheme’s focus on eco-tourism aims to create environmentally responsible destinations, reducing the carbon footprint of travel while enhancing the tourist experience.
Swadesh Darshan 2.0 has introduced the “Challenge Based Destination Development” sub-scheme, which targets the integrated development of destinations, ensuring that tourism growth aligns with environmental preservation. The Ministry of Tourism has identified eco-circuits as a priority under this plan, with significant funding directed toward creating green and sustainable tourism hubs. As part of these efforts, various tourism projects, such as the development of wildlife and heritage circuits, have already been completed in states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, bringing eco-friendly travel options closer to millions of tourists.
Local Communities and Eco-Friendly Projects Set to Benefit from New Funding
In addition to the focus on eco-circuits, the government has been actively promoting projects that integrate sustainable tourism practices at the local level. The Ministry’s "Challenge Based Destination Development" initiative has already allocated ₹25 crore each to Madhya Pradesh's Mandu and Orchha, supporting cultural and spiritual tourism in a responsible manner. This funding will help enhance these destinations while minimizing environmental impact and preserving their cultural heritage.
The push for green tourism is also reflected in the development of projects under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. In Madhya Pradesh, the "Phoolbagh Experience Zone" in Gwalior and spiritual tourism initiatives at Chitrakoot are being developed with a focus on sustainability. In Maharashtra, a ₹76 crore investment is being made in the Shivsrushti Historical Theme Park in Pune, designed to promote cultural and heritage tourism while maintaining eco-friendly practices.
These efforts are part of a broader vision to develop India as a global leader in green tourism, offering tourists the opportunity to explore the country’s natural beauty while contributing to the conservation of its environmental and cultural resources.
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