02-December-2024-Editorial

DEVELOPMENT OF ICONIC TOURIST CENTRES TO GLOBAL SCALE UNDER SASCI

The Indian government is actively enhancing tourism by allocating ₹3,295 crore for developing 40 iconic tourist projects across 23 states under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme. This initiative aims to transform selected tourist destinations into globally recognized sites, boosting local economies and creating job opportunities.

What is the SASCI Development of Iconic Tourist Centres Scheme?

Objective

• Develop infrastructure at iconic tourist destinations and promote under-visited sites like Bateshwar (Uttar Pradesh), Ponda (Goa), and Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh).
• Provide 50-year interest-free loans to states for projects focusing on branding, global marketing, and sustainable development.

Key Features

• Proposal Evaluation: Projects are selected based on factors such as connectivity, site capacity, utilities, and long-term sustainability.
• Challenge-Mode Selection: Projects are chosen through competitive evaluation to ensure innovation and high standards.
• State Responsibility: States must ensure land availability, long-term maintenance, and may engage private entities through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
• Time-Bound Completion: Projects must be completed within two years, and funds will be available until March 2026.

Funding Pattern

• States can propose multiple projects, with a funding limit of ₹100 crore per project.
• Exceptional projects may receive higher funding with approval from the Department of Expenditure (DoE).
• Each state is capped at ₹250 crore in funding, with disbursements on a first-come, first-served basis.
• States are required to develop peripheral infrastructure, including connectivity and safety measures.

Monitoring and Implementation

• While states implement projects, the Ministry of Tourism will oversee progress and ensure compliance with guidelines.

About SASCI Scheme

Launch: Initiated in 2020-21 during the Covid-19 pandemic to support states in capital expenditure.

Evolution: Renamed as ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment’ in 2022-23 and 2023-24.

Objective

• Provide financial assistance through 50-year interest-free loans to boost development projects, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

Focus Areas

• Key projects include urban planning reforms, vehicle scrappage incentives, housing for police, and Unity Mall initiatives to promote national integration.
• Establish libraries with digital infrastructure at Panchayat and Ward levels to improve educational resources.

Capital Expenditure (Capex)

• Capital expenditure involves government investment in infrastructure, machinery, and other physical assets to enhance productivity.
• In the Union Budget 2024-25, ₹11.11 lakh crore (3.4% of GDP) was allocated for Capex, highlighting its importance for economic growth.

Impact of SASCI on Tourism

• Boosting Local Economies: Enhancing tourist destinations creates employment, supports small businesses, and attracts private investments.
• Sustainable Development: Focus on eco-friendly tourism infrastructure ensures long-term viability and minimal environmental impact.
• Global Branding: Promoting destinations at a global level can position India as a top tourist destination, attracting international visitors.
• Strengthening Tourism Ecosystem: Investments in transportation, accommodations, activities, and services create a holistic tourism value chain.

Key Indian Initiatives

• Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Focuses on developing theme-based tourist circuits across India, enhancing connectivity and infrastructure.
• PRASHAD Scheme: Aims to develop pilgrimage and heritage tourism sites, improving amenities and facilities.
• Draft National Tourism Policy 2022: Proposes strategies to promote sustainable tourism and develop infrastructure for high-value tourism experiences.
• Dekho Apna Desh Initiative: Encourages citizens to explore domestic tourism and celebrate India’s cultural diversity.
• E-Visa Facility: Simplifies visa processes for international tourists, boosting inbound tourism.
• RCS-UDAN (Regional Connectivity Scheme): Enhances air connectivity to underserved regions, promoting accessibility to remote tourist destinations.
• Incredible India Tourist Facilitator Certification Programme: Provides training to tourism professionals to enhance service quality and visitor experience.
• Assistance to Central Agencies Scheme: Financially supports infrastructure development at cultural and tourism sites by central agencies.

Conclusion

The SASCI scheme’s focus on developing iconic tourist destinations is a strategic move to elevate India’s tourism sector to global standards. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and local economic growth, the initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of becoming a leading global tourist hub. Complemented by other national initiatives, it holds the potential to transform India’s tourism landscape, benefiting communities and strengthening the economy.