- Amoghavarsha IAS Broucher
- +91 9916766911 / 8088776736
- info@amoghavarshaiaskas.in
- E-Learning
- Blog
The Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. It was launched in 2014-15 with the objective of holistically developing pilgrimage and heritage tourism destinations across India. The scheme focuses on infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and improved tourist facilities to enhance the experience for pilgrims and visitors.
Objectives of PRASHAD Scheme
Holistic Development: Strengthening infrastructure and facilities around religious and heritage sites.
Tourism Promotion: Enhancing the spiritual and cultural tourism experience.
Sustainability: Promoting eco-friendly tourism through waste management and green initiatives.
Employment Generation: Creating job opportunities by boosting local economies.
Branding and Publicity: Showcasing India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage to a global audience.
Some of the Key PRASHAD Projects Implemented Across India
Ajmer, Rajasthan – Development of infrastructure around the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
Kamakhya Temple, Assam – Enhancing facilities at the revered Shakti Peetha in Guwahati.
Amritsar, Punjab – Upgrading tourist amenities around the Golden Temple.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Modernization of ghats and spiritual sites along the Ganges.
Velankanni, Tamil Nadu – Strengthening pilgrimage infrastructure at the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health.
Dwarka, Gujarat – Improvement of facilities in the sacred city of Lord Krishna.
Puri, Odisha – Beautification and renovation of infrastructure at Jagannath Temple.
The scheme continues to add more locations to its list based on religious importance and the potential for tourism growth.
Economic Impact
Boosts local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transport services.
Enhances employment opportunities in tourism-related industries.
Increases foreign tourist inflow contributing to the economy.
Social & Cultural Benefits
Helps preserve India’s cultural and religious heritage.
Encourages community participation in tourism development.
Strengthens national integration by promoting religious harmony.
Environmental Considerations
Promotes sustainable tourism with eco-friendly practices.
Focuses on waste management, water conservation, and clean energy.
| Feature | PRASHAD Scheme | Swadesh Darshan Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Development of pilgrimage sites | Development of theme-based tourism circuits |
| Funding | Fully Central Government funded | Central funding with state participation |
| Scope | Religious and spiritual tourism | All tourism-related infrastructure |
| Key Focus | Pilgrimage rejuvenation | Thematic and heritage circuits |
Both schemes are complementary and work together to promote tourism in India.
Delays in Project Execution – Bureaucratic procedures and land acquisition issues.
Coordination Issues – Lack of cooperation between central and state governments.
Environmental Concerns – Risk of over-tourism leading to pollution and habitat destruction.
Insufficient Awareness – Need for more promotion to attract global tourists.
To ensure the success of PRASHAD Scheme, the following steps must be taken:
For UPSC Prelims – Questions on government schemes, tourism sector initiatives, and infrastructure development.
For UPSC Mains (GS Paper 2 & 3) –
For Essay Writing & Interviews –
The PRASHAD Scheme plays a crucial role in preserving India’s religious and spiritual heritage while enhancing tourism infrastructure. With its focus on sustainability, economic growth, and cultural preservation, it is an essential initiative contributing to India’s overall development. Understanding its objectives, features, and impact is highly relevant for UPSC aspirants, especially in the context of governance, tourism, and economic policies.
Maximize the benefits of mock tests for IAS and KAS preparation with guidance from Amoghavarsha IAS Academy . For more details, visit https://amoghavarshaiaskas.in/.
Youtube: click here
Amoghavarsha IAS/KAS Academy was founded in 2014 since from their we have been excellence in the field of civil Service examination preparation and state services. The Academy is completely dedicated to provide excellent quality education by experts and bringing innovations etc.
Copyright © 2014 – 2024 Amoghavarsha IAS Academy. All Rights Reserved
Developed & Maintained by BIGGSITE
Amoghavarsha E Magazine
Current Affairs ( Prelims )
UPSC
KPSC
