PRASHAD – Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality, Heritage Augmentation Drive – UPSC Prelims

Ministry/Department :  Ministry of Tourism
Aims at integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in planned, prioritised and sustainable manner to provide complete religious tourism experience.
Scheme:
  • It was launched in 2014-15 by Union Ministry of Tourism.
  • It is Central Sector Scheme.
  • It focuses on the development and beautification of the identified pilgrimage destinations.
  • Objectives
    • Harness pilgrimage tourism for its direct and multiplier effect upon employment generation and economic development.
    • Enhance tourist attractiveness in sustainable manner by developing world class infrastructure in the religious destinations.
    • It also seeks to promote local art, culture, handicraft, cuisine, etc.
  • Infrastructure development under this scheme includes
    • Development of entry points (road, rail and water transport), last mile connectivity, basic tourism facilities like Information/interpretation centres, ATM/ money exchange.
    • Development of eco-friendly modes of transport, lighting and illumination with renewable energy sources, drinking water, parking, toilets, waiting rooms, first aid centres, craft bazars/haats/souvenir shops/cafeteria, rain shelters, telecom facilities, internet connectivity etc.
  • Funding
    • Under it, Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments for promoting tourism at identified destinations.
    • For components within public funding under this scheme, Central Government will provide 100% fund. For improved sustainability of project, it also seeks to involve Public Private Partnership (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as well.
Factual Information:
  • Started in 2014-15
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