Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, announced the availability of the Visa-on-Arrival facility for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Monday. This facility caters to tourism, business, conference, and medical purposes, allowing a stay of up to 60 days with double entry.
The Visa-on-Arrival can be used at six designated airports across India, simplifying the travel process for visitors from these countries. In addition, the Ministry has expanded the e-Visa facility with Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to nationals of 167 countries. This e-Visa permits entry through 30 designated international airports and six major seaports, making it easier for international travelers to visit India.
The Ministry of Tourism conducts need-based tourism surveys, research, and feasibility studies to develop policies and assess existing programs. The data gathered helps identify areas for improvement and ensures that tourism policies align with their intended objectives.
To enhance tourist safety and provide immediate assistance, 15 State Governments and Union Territory (UT) Administrations have deployed tourist police. Additionally, the Ministry has established a 24×7 Multi-Lingual Tourist Info-Helpline, available toll-free at 1800111363 or short code 1363. This service supports domestic and foreign tourists, offering guidance and information in 12 languages, including 10 international languages.
Launched in 2014-15, the Swadesh Darshan scheme aims to develop tourism infrastructure across India. Financial assistance is provided to States, UT Administrations, and Central Agencies. Since its inception, 76 projects under various thematic circuits have been sanctioned with a revised total amount of Rs 5287.90 crore, of which Rs 4944.47 crore has been released. The scheme has been revamped as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) to promote sustainable and responsible tourism destinations with a tourist-centric approach.
The Ministry also introduced the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) as a Central Sector Scheme. This initiative focuses on the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations. Under the PRASHAD scheme, Rs 1621.14 crore has been sanctioned, with Rs 1024.18 crore already released.
