Jaipur, Aug 10 (IANS) The Rajasthan government is taking steps to give the state’s tribal regions a distinct identity on the global tourism map by developing destinations, conserving natural and cultural heritage, and promoting traditional handicrafts and folk traditions. Tourism projects worth more than Rs 306 crore are being implemented in tribal areas.
The initiatives include the development of the Tribal Tourist Circuit and the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit, with a focus on expanding tourism while creating employment and self‑employment opportunities for local communities. Officials said the objective is not limited to tourism promotion but also includes strengthening the rural economy and improving livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.
Under the proposed Tribal Tourism Circuit, Rs 49.40 crore will be spent on developing Beneshwar Dham in Dungarpur, popularly known as the ‘Kumbh of the Tribals’. Another Rs 13.41 crore has been earmarked for Mangarh Dham in Banswara. The circuit will also cover Matrikundia in Chittorgarh, known as the ‘Prayag of Mewar’, along with Sitamata Sanctuary in Pratapgarh, Gautameshwar Mahadev Temple, Tripura Sundari Temple in Banswara and Rishabhdev Temple in Udaipur.
To promote Rajasthan’s historical heritage, a proposal has been prepared for the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit at a cost of more than Rs 206 crore. The circuit will connect important historical destinations including Chavand, Haldighati, Gogunda, Kumbhalgarh, Diver and Udaipur. Other projects include the construction of a Shilpgram in Dungarpur and a heritage walkway in Chittorgarh. Conservation and development work is also planned for important religious and historical sites, including Baiji ki Bawdi in Gogunda and the Karni Mata and Neemach Mata temples in Udaipur.
A dedicated action plan is being implemented to promote rural tourism in tribal areas. The government is carrying out the ‘Saundh Mati Aadi Dharohar Documentation Scheme’ to document, preserve and promote the cultural heritage of tribal communities. Documentation is being undertaken on tribal musical instruments, traditional cuisine, paintings, murals, wood and stone crafts, dance and music.
The ‘Banphool’ Tribal Design Studio and the ‘Banphool’ branding initiative are also being used to connect tribal artists with markets and provide greater visibility to their traditional products. Several tribal places of faith have been included in the tourism development plan. These include Sitabari in Baran; Kamalnath Mahadev and Ramkunda Mahadev temples in Jhadol; Jawar Mata Temple in Udaipur; Sonar Mata Temple in Salumbar; and Salakeshwar Mahadev Temple in Banswara.
The government also plans to produce documentaries showcasing tribal culture, the contributions of tribal freedom fighters and the traditional relationship of tribal communities with forests and water resources at historically significant locations.
Officials said the ‘Tourism in Tribes’ initiative is being developed as more than a tourism programme, with an emphasis on socio‑economic empowerment and cultural pride. By increasing tourist footfall and encouraging longer stays in tribal regions, the initiative is expected to generate employment and self‑employment opportunities for residents, artisans and self‑help groups.
Tribal regions are expected to emerge as important destinations for both domestic and international tourists while contributing to the economic growth of local communities and Rajasthan as a whole.
–IANS
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