Tourism project completed in Odisha: Minister
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Kendrapada: The ministry of tourism has completed the "Development of Gopalpur, Barkul, Satapada, and Tampara" project under the coastal circuit theme. This initiative, sanctioned in 2016-17 as part of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SD 1.0), has reached its physical completion, Union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed the Lok Sabha on Monday.
Responding to a query from Kendrapada MP Baijayant Panda, Shekhawat revealed that the Swadesh Darshan Scheme has been revamped into Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0). This new phase aims to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations with a focus on a destination and tourist-centric approach. In collaboration with the Odisha State Government, Debrigarh, along with the special attraction of "Khinda Village", has been identified for development under SD 2.0.
However, the detailed project report (DPR) for this initiative is yet to be received.
The ministry of tourism emphasises the development of tourism infrastructure that promotes local livelihoods and community participation, including the involvement of tribal communities. The projects sanctioned under the scheme are designed to create opportunities for skill development, self-employment, and engagement of local stakeholders, the minister added.
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While the development and promotion of tourist destinations and products are primarily the responsibility of the respective state government or Union Territory Administration, the ministry of tourism supports these efforts through its central sector scheme, Swadesh Darshan. This scheme provides financial assistance to state governments and UT Administrations, including Odisha, to enhance tourism infrastructure across the country.
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