New Delhi:
In a groundbreaking move to blend history, tourism, and patriotism, India has launched the ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ initiative, allowing tourists to explore the country’s most revered battlefields. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app on January 15, 2025, during the 77th Army Day celebrations, marking a significant shift in how India’s military heritage is presented to the public.
This innovative initiative includes sites such as Galwan, Siachen, and Doklam, offering a unique glimpse into India’s rich military history. The app and associated website are designed to boost tourism, create awareness about the country’s military past, and instil a sense of patriotism among its citizens. With virtual tours, historical narratives, and interactive content for 77 battlefield sites, the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app is set to revolutionize the way people engage with India’s wartime history.
On January 15, 2025, India’s Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, launched the ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ initiative. This project opens up historical and active battlefields, including Galwan, Doklam, and 75 other forward sites that have witnessed significant military action. These sites, often inaccessible in the past, are now available for exploration through a dedicated app and website.
The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app and website serve as a one-stop resource for tourists, facilitating travel arrangements and providing in-depth historical insights into the battlefields. Sites like Siachen, the world’s highest battlefield; Kargil, a key location in the 1999 conflict with Pakistan; Rezang La, Bum La Pass, and Pangong Tso are now accessible to the public. This initiative not only educates visitors about India’s military history but also honors the sacrifices of Indian soldiers who have defended the nation.
The economic benefits of this initiative are substantial. By promoting tourism in border regions, the government aims to stimulate economic growth by increasing demand for local services such as accommodations and guided tours. Enhanced infrastructure in these areas, including improved road networks, bridges, and tunnels, has made these sites more accessible. This development is expected to reduce migration from these areas and encourage local communities to engage in small and medium businesses.
The ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ initiative is part of the broader ‘Incredible India’ campaign, which merges tourism with education and cultural revival. The app features detailed accounts of 77 battlefield sites, including virtual tours and interactive multimedia content, ensuring that visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of India’s military history.
The initiative also complements the ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’ launched in 2023, which focuses on the comprehensive development of select villages along the northern border. This integrated approach is expected to enhance the tourism potential of these areas while promoting local culture and heritage.
Moreover, the presence of citizens in border areas is seen as a positive dynamic, enhancing security and national integration. As Lt Gen Satish Dua noted, the increased presence of citizens can act as an additional layer of security, as was evident during the Kargil intrusion, which was first reported by local graziers.
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