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India is a country that has a lot more to offer than many Indians have discovered. With ancient temples, heritage towns, natural forests, mountain ranges, beaches and more hidden cultural destinations, there is immense diversity to experience when you travel in India. Dekho Apna Desh was introduced as a way to inspire citizens to see more of India and boost domestic tourism.
Dekho Apna Desh was introduced by the Ministry of Tourism in January 2020 with the intention of promoting India’ tourism destinations, culture, heritage and experiences to domestic travellers.
What Is the Dekho Apna Desh Initiative?
Under the Ministry of Tourism’ umbrella, Dekho Apna Desh is a campaign to promote domestic tourism in India. The aim is to inspire awareness and interest in exploring India.
Dekho Apna Desh is an initiative by the Government of India to promote domestic tourism. The ultimate objective is to enable more people to know about India’ rich heritage and entice them to explore different parts of the country.
The scheme is not a financial incentive programme. According to an official statement from government agencies, “there is no separate budget…” Dekho Apna Desh activities include webinars, quizzes, pledges, tourism promotional events, familiarity tours, a website and leveraging social media.
Why Dekho Apna Desh Matters
When you travel in India, it’ not just about taking a vacation. Tourism spending can benefit communities that you visit. When you venture to new destinations across India, far from India’ popular tourist spots, your money can help support:
- Local hotels and homestays
- Tour guides and tourism workers
- Small restaurants and transport providers
- Artisans and local businesses
- Cultural and heritage experiences
This is especially important for lesser-known destinations that may have strong tourism potential but limited national visibility.
How the Initiative Promotes Tourism
Since its launch, the Ministry of Tourism has conducted a variety of activities and events to promote tourism. This includes online campaigns, using social media to spread the word, tourism-focused events, webinars and interactive sessions to engage citizens.
As part of its campaign, the Ministry of Tourism created the Dekho Apna Desh People’ Choice poll to understand what tourist spots Indian citizens want to visit. Categories include Spiritual, Cultural & Heritage, Nature & Wildlife, Adventure and more.
Is Dekho Apna Desh a Travel Subsidy Scheme?
This is a common question from travellers. Dekho Apna Desh does not directly give Indian citizens subsidised trips, cash benefits, or offer travellers free vacations.
You may find travel packages advertised by tourism operators (private businesses and public sector enterprises) or state tourism departments. But free travels or tour subsidies are not provided to the public by way of Dekho Apna Desh.
Subsidies or voucher schemes may be announced by tourism stakeholders, but it’ always best to refer to official sources and know the terms before you book.
How Can You Take Part?
Supporting domestic tourism can start with the choice you make when you travel. You can travel to more places within India. Try exploring:
- Visiting destinations beyond the most crowded tourist circuits
- Exploring your own state and neighbouring states
- Supporting local and responsible tourism
- Learning about regional culture, food and heritage
- Following official tourism campaigns for destination information
For official updates and tourism information, travellers can visit the Ministry of Tourism’s official Dekho Apna Desh page.
The Bigger Idea Behind “Dekho Apna Desh”
At its heart, Dekho Apna Desh is about discovering your country. India is often visited by millions of tourists from around the world, but Indian citizens can shine a spotlight on local destinations too.
As more people travel within India, you never know which hidden gems could gain recognition. Domestic tourism allows Indians to experience their own country and showcase India to the world.
Final Thoughts
Think about what’ not on your travel bucket list yet. Venture beyond the usual cities and tourist attractions you always travel to and you might just discover your new favourite destination. Dekho Apna Desh should not be viewed as just an offer to get a free trip. Rather, it’ about seeing more of India and experiencing its diversity.
Travellers are advised to check in on official channels for up-to-date information about travelling in India. This includes destination openings, local guidelines, weather updates and more with regards to travelling domestically in India.