Recently, the centre approved 40 projects across 23 states to develop lesser-known tourist spots and boost tourism in India. The Union Tourism Minister Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat shared that it also green-lighted an interest-free loan worth Rs 3,295 crore for this initiative.
The Ministry of Tourism earlier issued guidelines for SASCI (Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment) and requested that project proposals be submitted that could be turned into impactful tourist destinations. By the last submission date, October 15, 83 projects were received. However, the top 40 projects were sanctioned after thorough analysis.
Some lesser-known destinations that benefit from this project are Bateshwar in Uttar Pradesh, Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh, Ponda in Goa, and Porbandar in Gujarat. Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, Rang Ghar in Assam, Matsyagandha Lake in Bihar, Orcha in Madhya Pradesh, etc..
The Department of Expenditure of the States has released the first instalment for 66% of the approved locations, and the remaining funds will be released before March 2026. All states have given a 2-year deadline to complete the projects. The Ministry of Tourism will monitor their progress.