Ministry of Tourism (MoT) approves 40 Projects for Development of Lesser-known Tourism sites in 23 States | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Ministry of Tourism (MoT) approves 40 Projects for Development of Lesser-known Tourism sites in 23 States

Posted 05 Dec 2024

2 min read

By focusing on lesser-known destinations (Rang Ghar in Sivasagar (Assam), Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa (Bihar), etc.), MoT aims to ease pressure on high-traffic sites and promote balanced distribution of tourists across country.

  • These projects are approved under Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme of Department of Expenditure.  
    • SASCI scheme aims to infuse long term interest free loans for a period of 50 years to States for development of iconic tourist centers in country.
    • States have been given a timeline of 2 years for completing projects. 

About Over-Tourism 

  • It occurs when a destination receives more tourists than it can sustainably accommodate.
  • Causes: Enhanced connectivity and cheap travel; Rising income and emerging middle class; Affordable accommodation due to improved hospitality sector etc. 

Impact due to Over-Tourism

  • Wear and Tear: Heavy foot traffic erodes intricate carvings on natural and cultural sites. E.g. Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia.
  • Community Resentment: Drive up the cost of living, making it difficult to find affordable housing and displacing residents. E.g. Tourism protests in Barcelona.
  • Environmental impact: Pollution, littering on sites, traffic jams, improper garbage disposal, water scarcity and degradation of ecology.

Initiatives taken for Sustainable Tourism

  • COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism: To promote and champion sustainable tourism practices and reduce GHG emissions in tourism sector.
  • Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism, 2002: To minimise negative economic, environmental, and social impacts.
  • National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism, 2022: To position India a global destination for responsible tourism and increase economic, social and environmental benefits to build resilient tourism sector.
  • Tags :
  • SASCI Scheme
  • Over-Tourism
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • COP29 Declaration
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