PRASAD Scheme

The Ministry of Tourism in the year 2014-15 launched the National Mission on Rejuvenation and Spiritual Enhancement of the Pilgrimage (PRASAD). This scheme was launched with the aim of a comprehensive development of the various identified pilgrimage destinations in the country. The name of the program was later changed from PRASAD to National Mission for Rejuvenation on Pilgrimage and Campaign to Increase Spiritual Heritage (PRASHAD) in the year 2017. The projects which are identified under this scheme are carried out by the designated agencies of the respective governments of the various states and Union territories.

Objective of this scheme

• Spiritual expansion and rejuvenation of important places of pilgrimage and cultural at the national and world level.
• Follow community-based development and raise awareness among local communities.
• Integrated tourism development of heritage cities, local art, culture, crafts, gastronomy, etc. to guarantee livelihoods.
• Strengthening of the mechanism for overcoming infrastructure gaps.

Development under this scheme

The development of infrastructure under the PRASAD program includes the development of lighting with renewable energy sources, first aid centers, environmentally friendly means of transport, waiting rooms, drinking water, parking lots, bathrooms, handicraft bazaars, haats, souvenir shops, cafeteria, telecommunication facilities, rain shelters, internet connection, etc.

Funding of this scheme

A Mission Directorate has been established to implement the PRASAD program. The department provides key grants to state governments to promote tourism in certain destinations. The central government provides a 100% fund for the components within the public financing of this program. In order to improve the sustainability of the project, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) are also included.