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Executive Summary

“REVIVING TRADITION IN A MODERN WORLD: PONDICHRRY’S ART AND CRAFT
VILLAGE.”

The Swadesh Darshan Scheme, an innovative Central Sector initiative by the
Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, represents a strategic effort
to enhance, develop, and exploit the full potential of tourism within the country. This
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
ambitious program has identified Puducherry, a unique coastal union territory on
India's south-eastern coast, as one of the locations for its tourism development

projects. Puducherry, with its distinctive blend of French colonial heritage and
traditional Indian culture, presents a rich tapestry of experiences ranging from
serene beaches and culinary delights to a vibrant tradition of local crafts. Home to
over 550 artisans, this territory thrives on its craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of
the locale beyond its physical monuments and structures.

The essence of Puducherry's identity, deeply rooted in its artisanal heritage, aligns
with the goals of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme to not only boost tourism but also to
preserve and promote cultural heritage. This program envisages engaging tourists in
the daily lives and cultural practices of the local population, through hands-on
experiences in village settings, cultural exchanges, and traditional activities such as
pottery-making, fishing, and farming.

This thesis will explore the multifaceted impacts of integrating the Art and Craft
Village within the broader objectives of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme in
Puducherry. It will examine how this integration can serve as a model for sustainable
tourism that respects cultural heritage, promotes economic development, and
fosters mutual respect and understanding between tourists and host communities.
Through this analysis, the thesis aims to demonstrate the potential of such initiatives
to transform Puducherry into a destination where tourism transcends mere
sightseeing, becoming a journey of cultural discovery and enrichment.

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