NEW DELHI: The ministry of tourism has kickstarted the process to engage a team of private professionals for the effective implementation of its destination development schemes such as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and Prashad.
These schemes aim at developing ‘world-class infrastructure’ at tourist places, enhancing tourist experiences, and boosting community participation.
The team — National Programme Management Unit (NPMU) — will primarily review the Detailed Project Reports (DPR), focus on the evaluation of drawings and maps to ensure that the proposals are feasible and according to the industry standards.
The goal is to position India as a top global tourism destination, said officials.
To appoint the NPMU, the ministry has already invited the bid and so far received over 170 queries. It is expected to complete the process this month, after which the Letter of Award will be issued.
Following the appointment of the consultant, the ministry plans to merge the existing individual Project Management Units of different schemes into a comprehensive team that will focus on realising the vision to elevate India’s tourism globally.
According to the officials, the team comprising 16 professionals will handle future schemes or sub-schemes devised by the ministry. In addition to preparing DPRs and Master Plans, the NPMU will monitor and evaluate deliverables from Project Development and Management Consultants (PDMC), state implementing agencies, and other divisions or agencies.
The ministry has notified 57 destinations under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, a scheme to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations, and has appointed Project Development and Management Consultants in various states.
The inception reports and first iteration of master plans have been completed at all the destinations and their DPRs are at an advanced stage. The revamped Prashad (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme launched in 2014-15, is for the sustainable and responsible development of pilgrimage destinations.
Meanwhile, the ministry has also decided to carry out an assessment of its Central assistance schemes including both versions of Swadesh Darshan and Prashad. Based on the review, the Government will decide the future course of action. For the review, the ministry will rope in an Indian Institutes of Management.
The officials added that the NPMU would oversee, coordinate and manage implementation of all tourism destination schemes and also provide mandatory support to the ministry to conceptualise and prepare guidelines for their holistic and inclusive development.