PRASAD Scheme: Enhancing Pilgrimage Tourism in India with Improved Infrastructure and Cultural Preservation”
Subscribe our Channel
Launched by the Ministry of Tourism in the year 2014–2015, the “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD)” , this scheme comes under Central Sector. The scheme proposes the development of pilgrimage destinations across the country in a prioritized, planned and sustainable manner, thereby enriching the religious tourism experience. By weaving together infrastructure, cultural preservation, and promotion of local traditions, PRASAD takes spiritual tourism on a truly holistic journey.
Key Benefits
The scheme provides the following benefits:
1. Improved Infrastructure
- Enhanced roads, transportation, utilities, and sanitation in tourism-rich areas.
- Better facilities improve the quality of life for locals and enhance tourist experiences.
2. Employment Opportunities
- Jobs in hospitality, tour guiding, transportation, and handicrafts are created.
- Locals gain employment in tourism-related services and businesses.
3. Income Generation
- Increased demand for goods and services boosts income for artisans, vendors, homestay owners, and small businesses.
4. Preservation of Cultural Heritage
- Efforts are made to maintain and restore cultural landmarks and traditions.
- Opportunities for cultural exchange and education for visitors.
5. Promotion of Local Culture and Traditions
- Initiatives like cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional performances are organized.
- Community pride and cohesion are strengthened.
6. Increased Tourism Revenues
- Improved tourism infrastructure leads to higher revenues, stimulating local economies.
7. Skill Development and Capacity Building
- Programs target local communities to equip them with skills needed to participate in the tourism industry.
Eligibility
- There are no specific eligibility criteria to avail of the scheme’s benefits.
- It is implemented directly by the government for the development of pilgrimage and spiritual tourism destinations.
Application Process
- Offline Application:
- Citizens do not need to apply individually. The benefits of the scheme are provided through government-driven projects.
Documents Required
- No documentation is required to avail of the scheme’s benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the role of tourism information centres in the PRASAD scheme?
- They provide guidance to tourists, enhance visitor experiences, and promote the destinations effectively.
- How does PRASAD encourage convergence between government and private sectors?
- It integrates private investments and initiatives with government-funded development projects.
- What types of infrastructure development are supported under PRASAD?
- Projects include roads, sanitation, utilities, cultural centres, and tourist facilities.
- Does the scheme include capacity building for locals?
- Yes, it includes skill development and training programs for local communities to help them actively participate in tourism.
- How are heritage cities selected for PRASAD implementation?
- Selection is based on tourist footfall, cultural significance, infrastructure needs, and pan-India development goals.
- Are there components not permitted under PRASAD?
- Projects outside the scope of religious and spiritual tourism are excluded.
- What safety and security objectives does the PRASAD scheme have?
- The scheme prioritizes the safety of tourists through improved infrastructure and trained personnel.
- Why is tourist footfall a crucial criterion for selecting pilgrimage destinations?
- Higher tourist numbers ensure the economic viability of infrastructure investments.
Sources and References
- Ministry of Tourism – Official Guidelines
- Framework for Implementation: Available on the Ministry’s website.
- Contact Information: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
The PRASAD scheme is a landmark initiative aimed at rejuvenating India’s spiritual and pilgrimage destinations while preserving cultural heritage and promoting tourism-driven growth.