PRASHAD scheme has sanctioned 48 projects across 27 states and union territories promoting India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy while driving economic growth and sustainable development.
India, a land of diverse cultures and spirituality, has always been a haven for pilgrimage tourism. Recognizing its immense potential to boost tourism, generate employment, and enhance the country’s heritage, the Government of India launched the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This scheme has become a cornerstone in promoting India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy while driving economic growth and sustainable development.
Objectives of the PRASHAD Scheme
The PRASHAD scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Tourism, aims to rejuvenate pilgrimage sites by improving infrastructure and services. It focuses on developing tourism infrastructure in an integrated, inclusive, and sustainable manner. The key objectives include:
- Enhancing the pilgrim experience through modern amenities.
- Boosting employment opportunities for local communities.
- Promoting skill development and capacity-building initiatives.
- Ensuring sustainability through eco-friendly practices.
Achievements Under PRASHAD
Since its inception, the scheme has sanctioned 48 projects across 27 states and union territories, with a cumulative sanctioned amount running into hundreds of crores. The success stories include:
- Andhra Pradesh: Development of pilgrimage amenities at iconic sites like Amaravati, Srisailam Temple, and Simhachalam, showcasing 100% progress in projects initiated in earlier years.
- Assam: The renowned Kamakhya Temple has seen a complete transformation, with state-of-the-art facilities enhancing the pilgrim experience.
- Gujarat: Key sites like Dwarka and Somnath were developed under the scheme, with amenities such as promenades, ghats, and sound-and-light shows.
- Varanasi: The Varanasi Phase-I project in Uttar Pradesh revitalized one of India’s holiest cities, integrating modern facilities while preserving its spiritual essence.
Employment and Community Development
A significant aspect of the PRASHAD scheme is its contribution to employment generation. By involving local communities in skill development and hospitality training, the scheme has enabled residents to find meaningful employment opportunities. Additionally, the integration of features like solid waste management systems, solar panels, and CCTV installations ensures that the projects adhere to sustainable and safe practices.
PRASHAD and the Special Assistance Scheme (SASCI)
Complementing PRASHAD, the government has also launched the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI), with an allocation of ₹3,295.76 crore for 40 projects across 23 states. This initiative aims to elevate iconic tourist centers to global standards, leveraging India’s cultural and historical assets.
Transforming Pilgrimage Tourism: By the Numbers
- 48 projects sanctioned under PRASHAD across 27 states/UTs.
- Major milestones: Projects in Srisailam, Dwarka, Amaravati, and Kamakhya Temple achieved 100% completion.
- Projects focus on diverse elements such as tourist facilitation centers, multi-level parking, ghats, and sound and light shows.
- Integration of modern systems like solid waste management and renewable energy sources ensures sustainable tourism.
Impact of the Modi Government’s Vision
Under PM Modi’s leadership, the focus on cultural heritage and tourism development has not only elevated India’s global standing but also empowered local communities. The PRASHAD scheme exemplifies the government’s commitment to preserving India’s spiritual heritage while fostering economic growth. By aligning tourism development with the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), the Modi government is setting a benchmark in public policy and governance.
The PRASHAD scheme is a testimony to the Modi government’s visionary approach to inclusive and sustainable development. It has transformed India’s pilgrimage tourism landscape by blending cultural preservation with modern infrastructure. As the nation progresses toward its goal of becoming a global tourism hub, initiatives like PRASHAD will play a pivotal role in realizing the dream of New India—a nation proud of its heritage and committed to its future.
