Srinagar, Dec 08: The Ministry of Tourism has said that it has approved three major projects under a central government scheme that focuses on sustainable and inclusive tourism in UT of Ladakh.
The ministry said that the projects were approved under its revamped scheme Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme and the Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD).
The official data placed before the Lok Sabha, the Centre has sanctioned two projects for Ladakh under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and one additional project under CBDD, collectively focusing on biodiversity, border tourism, eco-tourism and community-based livelihood development.
The official figures reveal that under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Ladakh has received Rs 23.17 crore for ‘Julley Leh Biodiversity Park’ that is aimed to enhance eco-tourism experiences. Besides, the Rs 11.91 crore has been received under ‘Exploring LoC and Hundarman Village Experience, Kargil’.
Additionally, under the CBDD sub-scheme, the Ministry has sanctioned ‘Advancing Mushkoh as a Sustainable Tourism Hub’ with Rs 9.82 crore.
The Ministry noted that Swadesh Darshan 2.0 focuses on developing sustainable and responsible tourism destinations, including lesser-known regions and eco-tourism circuits, with an emphasis on enhancing local amenities, capacity building, and digital infrastructure.
The projects are to be implemented by the Ladakh UT Administration, while the Ministry of Tourism will regularly monitor progress. The Centre further informed that the initiatives are designed to create local livelihood opportunities, particularly for youth, artisans and communities dependent on tourism.
The Union Government also said that it has allocated Rs 1,900 crore for the Swadesh Darshan scheme for 2025–26 and RS 25 crore for the Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) programme, which also covers service providers from J&K and Ladakh—(KNO)
