The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has approved 40 projects worth ₹3,295.76 crore to develop lesser-known tourism sites across 23 states. This strategic initiative aims to reduce pressure on high-traffic destinations, promote a balanced tourist distribution, and enhance visitor experiences. By focusing on untapped locations, the Ministry seeks to boost local economies, foster sustainable growth, and preserve cultural heritage.
The investment, under the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme, will stimulate economic activity by improving infrastructure, enhancing amenities, and attracting private sector participation. The projects are designed to create jobs and promote long-term regional development. States are encouraged to adopt advanced technologies and sustainable practices to streamline operations, optimize tourist flow, and safeguard natural and cultural resources.
The Ministry is also emphasizing community-based tourism to empower local populations and protect heritage. This approach integrates sustainability into tourism planning, ensuring growth while maintaining ecological balance.
Funded as part of the SASCI scheme, the initiative provides interest-free loans for 50 years to comprehensively develop iconic tourist centers and market them globally. States have been given a two-year timeline to complete these projects, which aim to transform India’s tourism landscape and support local economies.
