Centre Supports Odisha Tourism Under Swadesh Darshan Scheme; Debrigarh Identified for Development Under Revamped Version

Bhubaneswar : The Ministry of Tourism has reiterated its support for the development of tourism infrastructure in Odisha under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism across the country.

Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, informed that the ministry has extended financial assistance to the state of Odisha under its central sector scheme to strengthen key tourism destinations. Under Swadesh Darshan 1.0, the Ministry sanctioned a project titled ‘Development of Gopalpur, Barkul, Satapada and Tampara’ during the financial year 2016–17, as part of the Coastal Circuit theme. The project has since been reported as physically complete.

With a renewed focus on sustainability and responsible tourism, the Ministry has revamped the scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0). In consultation with the Odisha government, Debrigarh, along with the culturally significant Khinda Village, has been identified as a potential destination for development under SD 2.0. However, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed site is awaited from the state government.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 adopts a destination and tourist-centric approach, emphasizing community participation, particularly from local and tribal communities. The scheme also promotes the development of tourism infrastructure in ways that foster local livelihoods, skill development, and self-employment opportunities.

Minister Shekhawat underscored that while the central government plays a supportive role, the primary responsibility for development and promotion of tourism destinations lies with respective State Governments and Union Territory Administrations.

The identification of Debrigarh—a protected wildlife sanctuary with rich biodiversity and historical significance—as a future tourism hub aligns with the Centre’s vision of creating eco-sensitive, culturally enriched, and economically inclusive tourism experiences.