The PRASAD Scheme – Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spirituality Augmentation Drive is a transformative initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2014-15 that seeks to weave a tapestry of spiritual rejuvenation and cultural preservation across identified pilgrimage destinations.

What is PRASAD Scheme?

The PRASAD Scheme stands for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive. It is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism in India to holistically develop and revitalize key pilgrimage destinations across the country. The scheme aims to enhance the infrastructure, connectivity, and overall pilgrim experience at these sacred sites. It fosters cultural heritage preservation and promotes spiritual tourism.

Cities Under the PRASAD Scheme

Pilgrimage destinations in India that are covered under the PRASAD scheme are as follows:

• Kamakhya (Assam)
• Gaya (Bihar)
• Ajmer (Rajasthan)
• Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh)
• Dwaraka (Gujarat) 
• Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)
• Puri (Odisha)
• Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)
• Kedarnath (Uttarakhand)
• Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
• Velankanni (Tamil Nadu)
• Amritsar (Punjab)

Objectives

The scheme encompasses a comprehensive array of objectives, including:

• We’re making sure pilgrimage spots have top-notch infrastructure. That means better roads, water supply, toilets, and garbage disposal systems.
• We want to make it easier for people to reach these sacred places. That means improving air, train, and road connections.
• We’re not stopping at just getting there; we want pilgrims to have a great time. So, we’re adding lots of facilities and services.
• It’s important to us to protect the history and importance of these places. That’s why we’re working on conservation projects.
• We’re showing off the rich culture and spirituality of these sites to attract visitors from near and far.
• We’re helping locals find jobs and learn new skills from all the tourism activity.
• We’re being mindful of the environment too. Our projects focus on eco-friendly ways to develop tourism.

Components

The scheme encompasses a comprehensive set of components;

• The PRASAD Scheme puts a central focus on uplifting and strengthening infrastructure at pilgrimage destinations. This involves improving roads, ensuring water supply and sanitation, and managing solid waste effectively.
• Recognizing the importance of smooth travel for pilgrims, the scheme aims to enhance rail and air connectivity, as well as bolster public transportation services.
• At the core of the PRASAD Scheme is the goal of enriching the pilgrim experience. This includes providing comfortable accommodation, offering clean and hygienic food options, and improving signage for easier navigation.
• The scheme acknowledges the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage at pilgrimage sites. Efforts are directed towards restoring and conserving heritage structures, as well as promoting responsible tourism to preserve cultural legacies.
• The PRASAD Scheme endeavors to promote spiritual tourism, both domestically and internationally. This involves raising awareness about the cultural and religious significance of pilgrimage sites, launching promotional campaigns, and collaborating with the travel industry to create specialized pilgrimage packages.
• Recognizing the pivotal role of local communities, the scheme aims to empower them in the tourism development process. This includes creating job opportunities in tourism, providing skill development training, and involving locals in decision-making for sustainable tourism practices.
• The PRASAD Scheme underscores the importance of sustainable development principles.

Working 

The implementation of the PRASAD Scheme follows a structured process:

• Each state or Union Territory government is tasked with identifying the pilgrimage sites chosen for inclusion in the Scheme.
• To oversee the implementation of the Scheme, the central government has set up a Mission Directorate.
• This body is primarily responsible for identifying pilgrimage sites across states and Union Territories.
• Proposals put forth by the Mission Directorate undergo comprehensive review and approval by the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee.
• This committee ensures that the proposed projects are in line with the objectives of the scheme.
• Providing overarching guidance, a National Steering Committee monitors the progress of project implementation.

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