Development of Tourism in Tribal Areas: A focused priority for the Ministry of Tourism

The development of tourism in tribal areas has become a focused priority for the Ministry of Tourism, aiming to combine cultural preservation with livelihood generation for indigenous communities.

National-Level Framework
- Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SD & SD 2.0):
Tribal circuits are a major theme, funding infrastructure and experiences in states like Chhattisgarh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Telangana.

- Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD):
Supports innovative projects in tribal regions, encouraging eco-tourism and cultural immersion.

- Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI):
Provides large-scale funding for iconic tribal tourism centres.

- Homestay Development in Tribal Areas (2025–26):
Launched under Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA), targeting 1,000 homestays to boost community-based tourism and provide alternative livelihoods.

Examples of Tribal Tourism Projects
- Chhattisgarh Tribal Circuit (2015–16):
Destinations like Jashpur, Mainpat, Kondagaon, Jagdalpur, and Chitrakoot developed with ₹96.10 crore.

- Nagaland Tribal Circuits (2015–17):
Peren–Kohima–Wokha and Mokokchung–Tuensang–Mon circuits funded with nearly ₹200 crore.

- Telangana Tribal Circuit (2016–17):
Mulugu, Laknavaram, Bogatha Waterfalls, and Medavaram developed with ₹79.87 crore.

- Mizoram Eco-Adventure Circuit:
Aizawl–Lengpui–Chatlang–Sakawrhmuituaitlang developed with ₹66.37 crore, blending tribal culture with adventure tourism.

Objectives
- Cultural Preservation: Showcase tribal traditions, crafts, cuisine, and festivals.
- Community Empowerment: Generate income through homestays, handicrafts, and guided experiences.
- Eco-Tourism: Promote sustainable tourism in forests, hills, and river valleys.
- Connectivity: Improve roads, amenities, and visitor centres in remote tribal belts.

Impact
- Strengthens local economies by creating jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Enhances India’s cultural diversity in tourism offerings.
- Builds global appeal by positioning tribal areas as unique, authentic destinations.