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Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Khinda Village, after Koraput, have become the latest additions to the Ministry of Tourism's revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) scheme. The scheme, designed to propel destination tourism across India, is set to transform these locations into sustainable and responsible havens for travelers.
Last week, the Ministry of Tourism announced its decision to grant a special package for the development of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Khinda Village under the SD2.0 scheme. This move was prompted by a letter from Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Union Tourism and Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy last year, advocating for the inclusion of these two destinations.
A Tale of Nature and History: Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Khinda Village
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in Bargarh, is among the most sought-after wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. Embracing a tourist and destination-centric approach, the sanctuary is poised to offer a captivating experience to nature enthusiasts. Its diverse flora and fauna, alongside a commitment to sustainability, make it a perfect fit for the SD2.0 scheme.
Khinda Village, located 30 km from Sambalpur, holds historical significance as the birthplace of the legendary freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. Beyond its role in the Indian Independence movement, Khinda is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts eager to delve into Sai's life and contributions. The revamped scheme recognizes the potential of Khinda as a cultural and historical hub for tourists.
The Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Revolution
Launched in 2014-15, Swadesh Darshan aimed to develop theme-based tourist circuits in India, with a coastal circuit project for Odisha. The SD2.0 scheme represents a comprehensive evolution, focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism. With a holistic mission, it covers tourism and allied infrastructure, human capital development, destination management, and promotion, supported by policy and institutional reforms.
The mantra of 'vocal for local' and the pursuit of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' underscore the scheme's vision to unlock India's full potential as a tourism destination. Out of the 50 destinations selected nationwide, Debrigarh and Khinda stand out for their themes of wildlife and history, respectively.
A Collaborative Approach to Development
Crucially, the SD2.0 scheme emphasizes collaboration, involving the private sector, local communities, and state governments in the development and management of these destinations. This inclusive approach aims to not only boost domestic tourism but also generate employment opportunities, preserve natural and cultural heritage, and enhance the quality of life for local residents.
The inclusion of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Khinda Village under the SD2.0 scheme signals a promising chapter for responsible tourism in Odisha. As these destinations undergo development, they are set to become shining examples of sustainable tourism, inviting travelers to experience the beauty of nature and the richness of history in a responsible and immersive manner.
The Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme is not just a development initiative; it's a promise to unlock the true potential of India's diverse tourism landscape, one destination at a time. As Debrigarh and Khinda embark on this transformative journey, they beckon travelers to discover the untold stories of wildlife and history while contributing to the sustainable growth of these enchanting locales.
