India’s tourism industry is poised for a major boost in 2025, with the Union Budget allocating ₹20,000 crore for the Integrated Development of Tourism Circuits. The funds will primarily support Swadesh Darshan 2.0, an updated version of the existing program aimed at improving theme-based tourist circuits across the country. The new initiative places a strong emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism, ensuring that destinations are developed with an eco-conscious approach while preserving cultural heritage.
Launched in 2014-15, the original Swadesh Darshan scheme focused on developing thematic tourist circuits, including Buddhist, Himalayan, Desert, Tribal, and Coastal circuits. Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, the government plans to go beyond traditional infrastructure development by integrating eco-friendly tourism models that align with global sustainability goals.
