PRASAD Scheme: Enhancing Pilgrimage Tourism in India with Improved Infrastructure and Cultural Preservation”
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.