PRASHAD Scheme Enhancing Pilgrimage Tourism in India

PRASHAD Scheme Enhancing Pilgrimage Tourism in India. The Ministry of Tourism, under the “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive” (PRASHAD), is actively working to improve tourism infrastructure at major pilgrimage destinations across India. The scheme provides financial assistance to State Governments and Union Territory Administrations for the development of pilgrimage sites, aiming to enhance the overall pilgrim experience and boost local economies.

PRASHAD Scheme Enhancing Pilgrimage Tourism in India

Overview of the PRASHAD Scheme

The PRASHAD Scheme was launched to:
✅ Develop infrastructure at pilgrimage sites.
✅ Improve visitor facilities and enhance the pilgrim experience.
✅ Generate employment opportunities for local communities.
✅ Promote sustainable tourism and environmental protection.

The scheme focuses on an inclusive and integrated approach to infrastructure development, ensuring that facilities are modern, accessible, and environmentally sustainable.

Current Status of PRASHAD Projects

• The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 48 projects under the PRASHAD Scheme.
• These projects are spread across 27 States and Union Territories (UTs).
• The projects cover major pilgrimage destinations, focusing on enhancing infrastructure and services.
• The status of these projects has been detailed in an annexure submitted to the Rajya Sabha.

Key Focus Areas of PRASHAD Scheme

The scheme emphasizes the following areas for infrastructure development:

1. Tourist Facilitation Centres

• Construction of facilitation centres for better visitor management.
• Provision of guides, information desks, and emergency support services.

2. Sound and Light Shows

• Installation of sound and light shows to enhance the cultural experience.
• Use of modern technology to showcase the history and significance of the pilgrimage site.

3. Parking Facilities

• Development of multi-storied car parking to manage visitor flow.
• Creation of dedicated parking areas to reduce congestion near pilgrimage sites.

4. Ghat Development

• Renovation and beautification of ghats at rivers and water bodies.
• Improved safety measures, lighting, and waste management at ghats.

5. Cleanliness and Sustainability

• Installation of solid waste management systems for eco-friendly practices.
• Deployment of solar panels to provide sustainable energy sources.
• Installation of CCTV cameras to ensure the safety and security of visitors.

Impact of PRASHAD Scheme

✅ Improved Pilgrim Experience

• Modern infrastructure and better facilities have enhanced the overall pilgrim experience.
• Well-maintained sites have attracted more tourists and visitors.

✅ Employment Generation

• Development of tourism infrastructure has created direct and indirect employment opportunities.
• Local communities have benefited through increased business and service opportunities.

✅ Preservation of Heritage and Culture

• The scheme promotes the preservation of India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
• Improved site management has helped in protecting historical structures and religious sites.

Special Assistance to States/UTs for Capital Investment (SASCI)

The Government of India has introduced a separate funding mechanism under the Special Assistance to States/UTs for Capital Investment (SASCI) to develop iconic tourist centres.

Key Highlights of SASCI:

• 40 projects approved across 23 States.
• Total approved funding – ₹3295.76 crore.
• Aim: Develop and promote iconic tourist destinations at a global level.
• Focus on:
  • Branding and marketing.
  • Infrastructure improvement.
  • Sustainable tourism practices.
  • Creating employment and boosting the local economy.

Successful PRASHAD Interventions

Some of the most impactful developments under the PRASHAD Scheme include:
➡️ Construction of modern tourist information centres.
➡️ Improved accessibility through better roads and pathways.
➡️ Enhanced security with the installation of CCTV cameras.
➡️ Provision of clean drinking water and hygienic sanitation facilities.
➡️ Use of renewable energy sources like solar power for environmental sustainability.

Challenges and Solutions

Challenges:

• Coordination between multiple agencies for infrastructure projects.
• Managing large tourist footfall without causing environmental damage.
• Ensuring long-term maintenance and upkeep of facilities.

Solutions:

✅ Strong coordination between the Ministry of Tourism and State Governments.
✅ Regular monitoring and review of project progress.
✅ Adoption of smart and eco-friendly technologies.
✅ Involvement of local communities in site management and services.

Future Outlook

The Government aims to:
✔️ Expand the scope of the PRASHAD Scheme to cover more pilgrimage sites.
✔️ Integrate modern technology for better visitor experience and site management.
✔️ Enhance global visibility through strategic branding and promotion.
✔️ Increase public-private partnerships (PPP) for faster infrastructure development.

Conclusion

The PRASHAD Scheme has played a pivotal role in transforming India’s pilgrimage tourism landscape. With 48 projects sanctioned across 27 States and UTs, the scheme has significantly improved infrastructure, created employment, and enhanced the overall pilgrim experience. Additionally, the SASCI initiative is expected to further elevate India’s status as a global pilgrimage and cultural tourism destination.

The combined impact of these schemes will contribute to India’s economic growth, strengthen cultural heritage, and position the country as a top global destination for spiritual and religious tourism.