Why in News?  

The Ministry of Tourism has issued operational guidelines for the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale.  

Objective  

• To develop iconic tourist centres to global standards.  
• To enhance end-to-end tourist experience and promote destinations through branding & marketing internationally.  

Key Features  

• Funding Support: Central Government to provide financial assistance for selected projects till 31 March 2026.  
• Implementation: Projects to be executed and managed by State Governments, with completion within 2 years.  
• Tourist Value Chain: Focus on infrastructure, sustainability, design & development expertise, and operations & maintenance.  
• Promotion: Ministry will promote these destinations through domestic & international campaigns, events, and digital platforms.  
• Announced by: Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat  

Selection Criteria for Projects  

Based on State Government proposals evaluated on connectivity, carrying capacity, sustainability, existing tourism ecosystem, marketing plans, and project impact.