State PCS - Rajasthan (RAS)

• 06 Jul 2024

Rajasthan to Form Tourism Board

Why in News?

The Rajasthan government is taking steps to establish a tourism board to enhance the industry's role in economic development.

Key Points

• The tourism sector has experienced substantial growth post-pandemic, contributing 14% to the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• More than 1,200 tourism units are benefiting from industry status advantages.
  • Plans to include international tour operators in the upcoming tourism mart aim to increase foreign tourist inflow.

Initiatives Related to Tourism in India:

• Swadesh Darshan Scheme: It was launched to develop theme-based tourist circuits across India, leveraging cultural, historical, and natural heritage.
  • Improved infrastructure and tourist experiences in circuits like the Buddhist Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Desert Circuit, and Eco Circuit.
• PRASAD Scheme: Focuses on the development and beautification of pilgrimage sites.
• HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana): Aims to preserve and revitalize heritage cities.
• Paryatan Parv: A nationwide campaign to encourage domestic tourism, involving cultural events and activities
• Dekho Apna Desh Initiative: This initiative encourages domestic tourism by promoting the exploration of India's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: It promotes cultural integration through state pairings, encouraging exchange and collaboration and fostering unity and diversity, enhancing domestic tourism and cultural appreciation.