What is Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme?

About Swadesh Darshan Scheme

• It was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations in the country. 
• It is 100% centrally funded scheme.
• Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance to State governments, Union Territory Administrations or Central Agencies for development of tourism infrastructure in the country.
• Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of the projects sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan Scheme is the responsibility of the respective State Government/UT Administration.
• Swadesh Darshan 2.0:
  • The Ministry of Tourism has revamped its Swadesh Darshan scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) for development of sustainable and responsible tourist destinations covering tourism and allied infrastructure, tourism services, human capital development, destination management and promotion backed by policy and institutional reforms. 
  • The objective for the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme envisage increase in private sector investment in tourism & hospitality.
  • It may help in increasing Public Private Partnerships (PPP) in the field of tourism and operation and maintenance of the created assets under the scheme.

Key Facts about Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: It is situated in the Bargarh district of Odisha near the Hirakud dam (Mahanadi River).
• It finds a special mention because of noted freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. During his rebellion against the British, his base at ‘Barapathara” was located within the sanctuary.
• It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985.
• Vegetation: Dry deciduous mixed forests.
• Flora: Major trees found here are Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, Dhaura etc.
• Fauna: A huge variety of wild animals reside in the dense forest of the sanctuary, such as Tiger, Sloth Bear, Leopard, Hyena, Spotted Deer, Antelopes, Sambar, Gaur, Nilgai, Bison, Langur Monkeys etc.

Q1) What is a wildlife sanctuary?

A wildlife sanctuary is an area where birds and animals are protected and preserved safely in their native habitats, safe from criminal activities such as poaching and trafficking. A wildlife sanctuary is sometimes known as a natural reserve, a biosphere reserve, or a conservation area. These are directly regulated by the government and are also privately held by charitable organizations and research institutes.

Source: Debrigarh in Centre’s tourist scheme