The Central Government has allocated ₹284 crore to boost mountain tourism in Uttarakhand, with a focus on improving tourism facilities, developing new destinations, generating employment, and supporting the local economy. The information was shared in Parliament during the winter session by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The funding is being channelled through key central tourism schemes, including Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASAD, CBDD, and SASCI. Under these initiatives, Himalayan states have collectively received allocations exceeding ₹1,726 crore, with more than ₹1,200 crore already released for on-ground projects.
In Uttarakhand, major projects supported by central funding include the Integrated Development of Kedarnath, aimed at improving pilgrimage infrastructure and visitor management, and expansion works at Badrinath Dham to enhance facilities for pilgrims. Additional investments have supported infrastructure upgrades at the Gangotri–Yamunotri circuit and the development of a rafting base station in Rishikesh to promote adventure tourism.
Officials said the sustained investment is intended to create long-term economic benefits by strengthening tourism-linked livelihoods, improving visitor experiences, and positioning Uttarakhand as a leading destination for spiritual, cultural, and adventure tourism in the Himalayan region.
Source – The Daily Jagran
