The Indian Ministry of Tourism has announced a visa-on-arrival facility for tourists from the UAE, Japan, and South Korea, available for tourism, business, conferences, and medical visits. This service is accessible at six designated airports in India, allowing for a stay of up to 60 days with double entry, thereby simplifying travel procedures for visitors from these countries.
In addition to this, the Ministry has enhanced the e-visa program by introducing Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), now available to nationals from 167 countries. This e-visa allows entry through 30 international airports and six major seaports, significantly easing the travel process for international tourists.
The Ministry actively conducts tourism surveys, research, and feasibility studies to inform policy development and evaluate the effectiveness of current programs. These studies are essential for identifying areas needing improvement and ensuring that tourism policies meet their intended goals.
To enhance tourist safety and provide immediate assistance, 15 State Governments and Union Territory Administrations have established tourist police. Additionally, the Ministry offers a 24x7 Multi-Lingual Tourist Info-Helpline, available toll-free at 1800111363 or via short code 1363, providing support in 12 languages, including 10 international ones.
The Swadesh Darshan scheme, launched in 2014-15, aims to develop tourism infrastructure across India, with financial aid provided to States, UT Administrations, and Central Agencies. Since its inception, 76 projects have been sanctioned under various thematic circuits, with a total of Rs5287.90 Crore, of which Rs4944.47 Crore have been released. The scheme has been updated to Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) to promote sustainable and responsible tourism with a focus on tourists.
Furthermore, the Ministry introduced the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), a Central Sector Scheme focusing on the integrated development of selected pilgrimage destinations.
