The move has the backing of the Ministry of Home Affairs and aims to mainstream states in central and eastern parts of the country and boost economic activity. These areas were inaccessible to the common people for the past few decades due to violence induced by Left-Wing Extremism. 

Targeted States

States most affected by Left-Wing Extremism, such as Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, receive very low numbers of both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals. These states have been unable to attract a major chunk of tourist inflow and lag in the sector. Tourism Ministry sources stated that many states affected by left-wing extremism are home to ancient temples and heritage sites.

The decline in Left-Wing Extremism can enable the reopening of forgotten spiritual and cultural landscapes in these regions and help enhance tourist numbers. The aim is to make these states catch up to others like Kerala and Goa, where tourism is a major economic activity. Uttar Pradesh leads with 21.94% share of total domestic tourists, followed by Tamil Nadu with 10.41% and Karnataka with 10.33%. The total number of domestic tourists for the country in 2025 stands at 294.8 crore visits. While Naxal violence-affected Jharkhand stood at a minuscule 5.4 crore, Chhattisgarh at 3,14 crore, and Odisha at 1,09 crore. 

Local Circuits

The Central government's region-focused thrust aims to drive tourists to these states. Special effort will be made to promote wildlife tours, religious shrines and circuits neglected over the past few years due to extremist violence.

The government feels that developing wildlife tourism in the region could be one of the biggest attractions. These regions host several national and state-level wildlife sanctuaries that tourists have not yet discovered.

As a prime example, the government wants to mainstream the Danteshwari Temple in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh. Similarly, in Jharkhand, ancient Sar­na tribal worship sites, hilltop shrines, and early temples linked to local folklore are becoming accessible.

In parts of Odisha and Maharashtra, Buddhist religious sites, folk temples, and forest shrines that once lay behind security checkpoints can now be approached with safety.

Speaking to The Secretariat, Subhash Goyal, Chairman, STIC Travel & Air Charter Group, and Chairman, Aviation and Tourism Expert Committee of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), said,  "India has immense potential to improve its tourist potential by enhancing infrastructure."

Beyond traditional circuits such as the Golden Triangle, India can promote lesser-known destinations such as the Northeast, Ladakh and other regions, along with unique experiences like wellness, yoga, adventure and wildlife tourism

— Subhash Goyal, Chairman, STIC Travel & Air Charter Group

Hotels and the tourism industry are one of the fastest-growing sectors that can provide ample employment opportunities. The International Labour Organisation has pointed out that, being labour-intensive and a valuable source of employment, it can raise income in rural areas, especially for those with limited access to the labour market.

Incentives Planned

The Central government and states are planning to provide MUDRA loans for homestay development in these regions. Performance-linked incentives to states will also be offered for effective destination management, including tourist amenities, cleanliness, and marketing efforts.

The states have also been asked to improve the ease of travel and connectivity to tourist destinations and improve the overall law and order situation, providing adequate security to such areas. 

What is The Red Corridor

The Red Corridor is the name given to the Maoist-affected region of the country, which comprises districts spread over the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.

Sources stated that the plan will initiate the setting up of infrastructure essentials like better law and order, roads, and access to healthcare. Respective state governments have been roped in to give a detailed presentation to the Central government to develop opportunities for local populations. It is felt that tourism can turn out to be a big enabler in bringing these regions back to the mainstream.

It is widely believed that tourism thrives where people feel safe. The attempt is to change travellers' perceptions, both Indian and foreign, and foster a safer environment.  With the Maoist threat curtailed, roads are reopening, mobile networks are improving, and once-isolated districts are integrating into mainstream governance.  

Fuelling Economy

Reviving the religious and cultural spaces in these regions can ensure an increase in tourist numbers, which can in turn boost the local economy. 

By involving local communities in the tourism sector, state governments can strengthen intergenerational traditions and ensure that culture and traditions are not lost.  From May 2014 to August 2025, the Central Government has constructed 12,000 km of roads in Left Wing Extremism-affected regions, while projects for a total of 17,589 km have been approved at a cost of ₹20,815 crore, ensuring all-weather connectivity and mobility in previously inaccessible areas.

Responsible Tourism

Unlike large industries, tourism generates employment at the grassroots level; drivers, guides, homestay owners, artisans, food vendors, and performers all become stakeholders. Tourism offers youth alternatives to violence and encourages communities to invest in education, skills, and entrepreneurship.

There are also fears in certain sections that any rapid, unplanned tourism can damage fragile ecosystems and overwhelm communities. So the state governments would need to work in tandem with the Centre to ensure that the sacred sites, natural wonders, and cultural richness that were hidden behind years of conflict aren't overexploited. A growth in "responsible tourism" is expected to ensure that former conflict zones are turned into corridors of growth and hope.