The Ministry of Tourism clarified that development and promotion of tourism destinations remains the primary responsibility of the respective State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. Central schemes such as Swadesh Darshan are designed to support states by funding large-scale tourism infrastructure projects.
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme was launched in 2014–15 to develop theme-based tourism circuits across the country. Under the scheme, 76 projects have been sanctioned nationwide with a total outlay of ₹5,290.33 crore.
Uttar Pradesh, which holds a unique position in India’s spiritual and cultural geography, has been a major beneficiary of the scheme. Projects in the state were approved under multiple thematic circuits, including Ramayana, Buddhist, Spiritual, and Heritage circuits.
Ramayana Circuit Projects
Under the Ramayana Circuit, two major projects were sanctioned in Uttar Pradesh. The first, approved in 2016–17, focused on the development of Chitrakoot and Shringverpur, sites deeply associated with the Ramayana tradition.
The second Ramayana Circuit project, sanctioned in 2017–18, covered Ayodhya, regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram. A total of ₹127.21 crore was sanctioned for the Ayodhya project, of which ₹113.22 crore has been utilised. Both projects are now physically complete.
Buddhist Circuit Development
The Buddhist Circuit project in Uttar Pradesh was sanctioned in 2016–17 with a focus on Sravasti, Kushinagar, and Kapilvastu. These sites are of immense importance in the life and teachings of Lord Buddha and attract pilgrims from across India and abroad.
An amount of ₹87.89 crore was sanctioned for the Buddhist Circuit project, with ₹68.43 crore utilised. The government confirmed that the project has been completed, strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s position on the global Buddhist tourism map.
Other Thematic Circuits in the State
Besides Ramayana anvsd Buddhist Circuits, Uttar Pradesh has also seen extensive development under the Spiritual and Heritage Circuits. Multiple projects covering dozens of districts were sanctioned between 2016–17 and 2018–19.
These include heritage sites such as Kalinjar Fort, Maghar Dham, and Chauri Chaura, as well as major temple destinations like Gorakhnath Temple and Devipattan Temple. Most of these projects have reported near-complete or full utilisation of sanctioned funds.
New Buddhist Tourism Project at Shravasti
In addition to completed projects under Swadesh Darshan, the Centre has sanctioned a new project under the ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale’ scheme.
The project, titled “Integrated Buddhist Tourism Development in Shravasti,” was approved in 2024–25 with a total outlay of ₹80.24 crore. The initiative aims to comprehensively develop Shravasti as an iconic global Buddhist destination, focusing on infrastructure, visitor amenities, branding, and international outreach.
Boost to Religious and Cultural Tourism
The completion of Ramayana and Buddhist Circuit projects is expected to significantly enhance religious and cultural tourism in Uttar Pradesh. The state already receives millions of domestic and international visitors every year, particularly pilgrims.
Officials believe that improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and integrated destination planning will not only enrich visitor experience but also generate employment and boost local economies.