India is a land of diverse cultures and religious heritage, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. Recognizing the potential of pilgrimage tourism in the country’s economic growth, the Indian Government launched the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme. The initiative, which began in the fiscal year 2014-2015, aims to transform key religious sites across the nation into well-facilitated tourism destinations.
Overview of PRASHAD Scheme
The PRASHAD scheme was conceived as a strategic effort to bolster religious tourism by enhancing the infrastructure at pilgrimage sites. The central sector scheme focuses on improving facilities that cater to the needs of tourists and pilgrims. This includes developing better connectivity to these sites, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment, providing amenities such as clean drinking water, accommodation, sanitation, and information centers. The overarching goal is to create a more appealing and tourist-friendly experience while preserving the spiritual and cultural essence of these locations.
Impact on Tourism Sector
Religious tourism plays a significant role in India’s tourism industry, contributing to the country’s GDP and employment generation. Through the PRASHAD scheme, the government has identified the potential of pilgrimage sites to draw both domestic and international visitors. By upgrading the infrastructure and facilities, the scheme not only enhances the pilgrimage experience but also encourages longer stays, resulting in increased spending and economic activity in the area. This targeted approach helps in the sustainable development of the tourism sector, fostering community participation and promoting local arts, crafts, and cuisine.
Development of Varanasi Under PRASHAD Scheme
Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, holds immense religious significance for Hindus. As part of the PRASHAD scheme, the city has received considerable attention from the government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Tourist Facilitation Centre, which is set to provide tourists with necessary information and services to ensure a comfortable visit. Additionally, the introduction of a Cruise Boat service from Assi Ghat to RajGhat offers a unique experience for visitors to explore the city from the Ganges river, giving them a panoramic view of the ghats and the ancient architecture.
Phase II of Varanasi Development
The project titled “Development of Varanasi Under PRASHAD Scheme – Phase II” received approval from the tourism ministry in 2018, with a substantial budget allocation of Rs.44.69 crores. This phase aims to further advance the city’s tourism infrastructure, making it more accessible and tourist-friendly. The financial outlay covers various aspects of development, including the construction of new facilities and the upgradation of existing ones. These enhancements are expected to accommodate the growing number of tourists and pilgrims visiting Varanasi each year.
Conclusion
The PRASHAD scheme represents a strategic investment in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. By focusing on the development of pilgrimage sites, the government is not only preserving the historical and cultural significance of these places but is also tapping into their tourism potential. Initiatives like the development of Varanasi under the scheme demonstrate a commitment to creating a harmonious balance between modernity and tradition, ensuring that the spiritual legacy of India continues to thrive while contributing to the country’s socio-economic development. As the scheme progresses, it promises to rejuvenate numerous pilgrimage sites across India, enriching the experiences of tourists and pilgrims alike.
