The Union Government is redesigning the PRASAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) to enhance pilgrim tourism throughout India, Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat revealed in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The government aims to modernize major pilgrimage sites and integrate them into the broader tourism sector.
During the Question Hour, Shekhawat clarified that 54 projects have received approval under the PRASAD scheme in the past ten years. He emphasized the need for a redesign, stating the existing framework is nearing its financial cycle completion. Thus, the Ministry seeks to uplift and enhance the program.
The PRASAD scheme was launched in 2014-15 and focuses on the development, beautification, and rejuvenation of key pilgrimage sites across India. By collaborating with state governments, the scheme targets to:
- Enhance tourist infrastructure to accommodate increasing pilgrim footfalls,
- Improve facilities and accessibility for a wider visitor base,
- Provide a better overall experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.
This redesign aims to establish a comprehensive plan aligning pilgrimage sites with India’s larger tourism framework. The Ministry believes this will generate significant economic benefits while preserving the spiritual essence of these locations.
As India welcomes millions of pilgrims yearly, implementing a strategic plan concerning the PRASAD scheme becomes vital for sustaining and expanding pilgrim tourism. Such investments not only ensure a seamless travel experience but also bolster local economies, creating jobs and socio-economic development.
Fostering an environment that embraces spirituality while promoting tourism requires careful planning and execution. This interdisciplinary approach by the government highlights an evolving recognition of the importance of pilgrim tourism in enhancing cultural exchange and visitor engagement.
In his statement, Shekhawat remarked, ‘Revitalizing these pilgrimage sites strengthens our heritage and promotes responsible tourism, crucial for local communities.’ His remarks underline the government’s commitment to ensuring that India’s rich spiritual history draws increased tourist interest.
As redesign efforts progress, stakeholders, including tourism experts and local governments, eagerly anticipate improvements that align with global tourism trends while showcasing the unique character of Indian pilgrimage sites.
The Ministry calls for patience and cooperation as the redeveloped plans take shape, promising that the enhancements will significantly benefit pilgrims and investors in the long run.
