Tourism plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural heritage, boosting the economy, and generating employment opportunities. Recognizing its importance, the Government of India has undertaken several initiatives to develop sustainable tourism infrastructure across the country. One such flagship program is the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism. Among the many destinations that stand to benefit from this initiative, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha holds special significance due to its unique ecological and historical value.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme: An Overview
Launch and Objectives
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The primary aim of the scheme is to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations by creating integrated theme-based circuits that highlight India’s rich cultural, heritage, and natural diversity.
Key Features
- Funding: It is a 100% centrally funded scheme, ensuring full financial support from the central government.
- Beneficiaries: State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, and Central Agencies receive financial assistance for tourism infrastructure development.
- Operation & Maintenance (O&M): The responsibility for managing and maintaining the projects lies with the respective State/UT administrations.
Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0)
In order to further strengthen India’s tourism sector, the Ministry of Tourism has revamped the scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0. This new version focuses on:
- Development of sustainable and responsible tourist destinations.
- Coverage of tourism and allied infrastructure, human capital development, destination management, and promotion.
- Enhancing public-private partnerships (PPP) to attract greater private investment in tourism and hospitality.
- Institutional and policy reforms to ensure long-term sustainability of created assets.
The emphasis of SD 2.0 is not only on developing infrastructure but also on improving the overall experience of tourists while ensuring minimal ecological footprint.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: A Natural and Historical Gem
Location and Significance
The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Bargarh district of Odisha, close to the famous Hirakud Dam built over the Mahanadi River. Apart from its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary holds historical importance. It served as a base for the noted freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai during his rebellion against British colonial rule. His hideout at Barapathara, situated inside the sanctuary, makes this area historically revered.
Establishment
The sanctuary was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985 to protect its unique ecosystem and wildlife.
Vegetation
Debrigarh is primarily characterized by dry deciduous mixed forests, which provide an ideal habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
Flora
Some of the major tree species found here include:
- Sal (Shorea robusta)
- Asana (Terminalia tomentosa)
- Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium)
- Aanla (Phyllanthus emblica)
- Dhaura (Anogeissus latifolia)
These plant species are not only ecologically valuable but also hold medicinal and commercial significance.
Fauna
The sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, making it an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Some of the key species include:
- Carnivores: Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Hyena.
- Herbivores: Spotted Deer, Antelope, Sambar, Nilgai, Gaur (Indian Bison).
- Other species: Langur Monkeys, Wild Boar, and numerous bird species.
The presence of both predators and prey highlights the sanctuary’s balanced ecosystem, which is crucial for biodiversity conservation.
Linking Swadesh Darshan with Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, eco-tourism sites like Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary can be developed as sustainable tourist destinations. With improved infrastructure, guided tours, interpretation centers, and community-based tourism initiatives, Debrigarh can emerge as a model for responsible wildlife tourism.
- Economic Benefits: Tourism will generate livelihood opportunities for local communities.
- Conservation: Revenue from eco-tourism can be reinvested in wildlife protection and habitat conservation.
- Cultural Heritage: Showcasing the legacy of Veer Surendra Sai alongside the natural beauty of the sanctuary can create a unique blend of historical and ecological tourism.
Conclusion
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme is a significant step toward positioning India as a global tourism hub while ensuring sustainability and responsibility in tourism practices. Its upgraded version, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, promises to attract private participation and bring long-term benefits to the sector.
On the other hand, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary exemplifies how natural beauty, biodiversity, and historical heritage can coexist. With initiatives under the Swadesh Darshan framework, Debrigarh can evolve into a world-class eco-tourism destination, fostering both conservation and community development.
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