The Union Government is redesigning the PRASAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) to boost pilgrim tourism across India. Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed the Lok Sabha on Monday about this initiative aimed at enhancing the experience for pilgrims.
During the Question Hour, Shekhawat addressed supplementary questions regarding the PRASAD scheme, revealing that a total of 54 projects have been sanctioned over the last ten years. These projects underline the government’s commitment to revitalizing pilgrimage sites.
Shekhawat elaborated that the current structure of the scheme corresponds to a specific financial cycle that is approaching its conclusion. Consequently, the Ministry of Culture is launching a redesign to bolster and modernize the program. This effort reflects the government’s dedication to improving the pilgrim tourism sector.
The PRASAD scheme, initiated in 2014–15, concentrates on the development, beautification, and rejuvenation of significant pilgrimage sites throughout India. The scheme empowers state governments to propose projects aimed at uplifting their respective tourism infrastructure.
The primary objectives under the PRASAD scheme focus on enhancing the overall experience for visitors. These objectives include:
- Upgrading tourist infrastructure,
- Boosting accessibility and facilities,
- Enhancing the overall pilgrim experience.
With the redesign process in motion, the government aspires to integrate pilgrim destinations into a comprehensive tourism network. By modernizing these sites, the initiative aims to attract more tourists and enrich their spiritual journeys.
The government expects that through extensive collaboration and visionary planning, the PRASAD scheme will not only promote pilgrim tourism but also stimulate local economies surrounding these significant sites. The redesign signifies a proactive approach toward not just preservation, but also the growth of pilgrimage tourism in India.
Minister Shekhawat’s statements in the Lok Sabha reflect a broader vision where pilgrim tourism aligns with national tourism strategies. As more people seek spiritual refreshment, the government’s renewed focus on pilgrimage sites can transform the landscape of Indian tourism.
