In a recent development, the government has disclosed plans to initiate development projects at 27 new sites under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme. The announcement was made by Union Minister of Tourism G Kishan Reddy in a written response to a parliamentary inquiry on February 5.

Additionally, Minister Reddy highlighted that 57 destinations have been earmarked for development under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. Launched by the Union Ministry of Tourism in 2014-15, both PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan aim to enhance infrastructure at various tourist destinations, including religious and heritage sites.

Furthermore, the Swadesh Darshan scheme has been revamped as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the goal of creating sustainable and responsible tourism destinations. The minister stated that a total of 46 projects, amounting to INR 1,631.93 crore, and 76 projects, costing INR 5,294.11 crore, have been sanctioned under PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan schemes, respectively.

Reddy emphasised the ministry's commitment to promoting Indian tourist destinations and products comprehensively. The aim is to position India as a preferred tourism destination in global markets through an integrated marketing and promotional strategy, collaborating with the travel trade, state governments, and Indian missions overseas under the "Incredible India" brand.

Responding to another query, Minister Reddy provided data on foreign tourists arriving in Goa in recent years. The figures revealed that 4.03 lakh foreign tourists visited Goa during January-November 2023, with 9.34 lakh arrivals in 2018 and 1.75 lakh in 2022.

(With inputs from PTI)