Why in News?

  • On 21 July 2025, the Ministry of Tourism released operational guidelines for the scheme: ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale (SASCI)’
  • Aims to promote iconic tourism destinations through capital investment, branding, and global-level infrastructure.
  • Projects have been sanctioned across 25 states, with a total approved cost of ?3,295.76 crore.
  • Funding available till 31st March 2026.

WHAT IS SASCI SCHEME?

  • A centrally supported scheme under the Ministry of Tourism.
  • Focuses on the holistic development of iconic tourist centres into globally competitive destinations.
  • Implemented under the broader Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment
Total Projects: Across 25 states Total Outlay: ? 3,295.76 crore

KEY OBJECTIVES

  • Develop world-class tourism infrastructure.
  • Create end-to-end tourist experiences.
  • Strengthen the entire tourism value chain.
  • Enable sustainable operations and maintenance.
  • Promote destinations through global branding and marketing.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO STATES FOR CAPITAL INVESTMENT (SASCI) SCHEME explained for UPSC SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO STATES FOR CAPITAL INVESTMENT (SASCI) SCHEME explained for UPSC

LINKAGES TO OTHER SCHEMES & THEMES

  • Swadesh Darshan Scheme
  • PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation)
  • Dekho Apna Desh
  • National Infrastructure Pipeline
  • Digital India (for smart tourism promotion)