The Union Government is redesigning the PRASAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) to bolster pilgrim tourism in multiple states, Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. This initiative responds to growing demands for better facilities and infrastructure at pilgrimage sites across India.
During the Question Hour, Shekhawat revealed that over the past ten years, the government sanctioned 54 projects under the scheme. These efforts mark the government’s commitment to promote not only cultural heritage but also economic opportunities tied to tourism.
According to Shekhawat, the existing framework of the PRASAD scheme followed a specified financial cycle, which is nearing completion. As a result, the Ministry is taking steps to redesign the program, focusing primarily on strengthening and upgrading it for future relevance.
Launched in the 2014-15 fiscal year, the PRASAD scheme primarily aims for the development, beautification, and rejuvenation of major pilgrimage sites throughout India. It dedicates resources to enhance tourist infrastructure, improve facilities and accessibility, and deliver a better overall experience for pilgrims and visitors alike.
The redesign effort seeks to modernize pilgrimage destinations, enabling them to more effectively integrate into the broader tourism ecosystem of the nation. Improved infrastructure is expected to not only benefit the pilgrims but also attract tourists from home and abroad.
According to government estimates, enhancing pilgrimage tourism can significantly boost local economies, create jobs, and foster cultural exchange. Experts believe that by improving basic services and accessibility, more visitors will explore these historic sites, thereby supporting local businesses.
Statements from tourism analysts underscore that key pilgrimage centers like Varanasi, Amritsar, and Rishikesh already experience significant footfall. Upgrading amenities can further capitalize on this trend. Shekhawat mentioned that pilot studies indicated an increase in tourists by nearly 30% in enhanced regions.
With the redesign, the government also aims to incorporate feedback from local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that developments align with cultural sensitivities and local needs. The Ministry plans to involve state governments more actively in this re-evaluation process, aiming for cohesive growth across all states.
The PRASAD scheme serves as an essential tool for promoting domestic tourism and enhancing India’s vast cultural heritage. As the government prepares to launch the redesigned initiative, stakeholders and the public are keenly watching to see how these changes will unfold.