How to Apply for Marketing Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme — ₹3.5L Tourism Subsidy

There is no competitive shortlisting round. Assessment happens in two verification stages, and the Overseas Marketing division of the Ministry of Tourism handles both.

Stage 1 — Prior approval. Before any overseas tour begins, the applicant submits the Annexure-I form. The division reviews it against the scheme's eligibility conditions, checks that the documentation is complete, and judges whether the proposed promotional activity is genuine, properly planned and consistent with the objective of promoting Indian tourism abroad. Only activities that clear this review may go ahead with the expectation of support.

Stage 2 — Reimbursement claim. Once the approved activity is over, the applicant files Annexure-II, III and IV. These are examined against the approved activity plan and the scheme's financial limits, with every expenditure proof, invoice and mandatory document verified. The Assistant Director General (Overseas Marketing) is responsible for ensuring compliance and processing claims within a reasonable time.

Two timelines govern the process: the prior approval request must be emailed to mda-tourism@gov.in at least 21 days before the planned tour, and the reimbursement claim must be submitted within 45 days of the activity's completion. Claims sent on paper are not accepted — the entire process is digital.