PRASHAD Scheme and Its Strategic Integration with Other Tourism Initiatives

PRASHAD Scheme and Its Strategic Integration with Other Tourism Initiatives

Introduction

The PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive), launched in 2014-15 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, focuses on the development of infrastructure at pilgrimage and spiritual heritage sites. Over the past decade, this scheme has been strategically integrated with other flagship initiatives such as Swadesh Darshan, HRIDAY, and Dekho Apna Desh, creating a unified tourism framework across India.

Integrated Schemes – A Unified Vision

1. Swadesh Darshan Scheme

  • Launched by: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
  • Objective: To develop thematic tourism circuits (e.g., Buddhist Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Desert Circuit) across states for better connectivity and tourist experiences.
  • Relevance to PRASHAD: While PRASHAD develops individual religious/spiritual sites, Swadesh Darshan builds larger circuits connecting these sites thematically and geographically.
  • Outcome: Enhances inter-state pilgrimage networks, boosts eco- and heritage tourism, and supports sustainable tourism ecosystems.

2. HRIDAY Scheme (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana)

  • Launched by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India
  • Focus: To preserve and rejuvenate the heritage character of Indian cities while improving urban infrastructure.
  • Link to PRASHAD: Complements PRASHAD by upgrading the surrounding urban environment of pilgrimage sites, ensuring a seamless visitor experience.

3. Dekho Apna Desh Initiative

  • Launched by: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
  • Aim: To promote domestic tourism by encouraging Indian citizens to explore lesser-known spiritual and cultural destinations within the country.
  • Connection to PRASHAD: PRASHAD upgrades the infrastructure of religious sites that are then promoted under Dekho Apna Desh, increasing visibility and encouraging footfall.
  • Impact: Empowers local communities, boosts small-scale tourism businesses, and fosters cultural pride.

Recent Developments

In March 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated 52 tourism infrastructure projects worth ₹1,400 crore under PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan across various states.

  • Notable destinations included:
  • Hazratbal Shrine (Jammu & Kashmir)
  • Jogulamba Temple (Telangana)
  • Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh)

Introduction of Swadesh Darshan 2.0, which includes the Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD) model:

Promotes competitive, destination-centric sustainable tourism development.

Aligns with PRASHAD’s goal of rejuvenating key pilgrimage sites.

Key Outcomes of Scheme Integration

  • Comprehensive Development:
    PRASHAD develops individual sites, Swadesh Darshan connects them in thematic circuits, HRIDAY enhances the urban aesthetic, and Dekho Apna Desh promotes the destinations to domestic tourists.
  • Employment Generation:
    Tourism-driven development has spurred local livelihoods, especially in tier-2 and rural pilgrimage areas.
  • Preservation + Promotion:
    The combination ensures both infrastructure modernization and cultural conservation, critical for sustainable tourism.

Exam-Oriented Summary

Scheme Ministry Key Focus

PRASHAD Ministry of Tourism Infrastructure development at pilgrimage/spiritual sites
Swadesh Darshan Ministry of Tourism Thematic tourism circuits across states
HRIDAY Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs Heritage-based urban revitalization
Dekho Apna Desh Ministry of Tourism Promotion of domestic tourism and lesser-known destinations

Budget Snapshot

  • PRASHAD Scheme (2025–26): ₹240 crore
  • Ministry of Tourism Total Budget (2025–26): ₹2,541.06 crore

This coordinated framework showcases the government’s integrated approach to transforming India into a world-class spiritual and cultural tourism destination, aligned with sustainable development goals and local empowerment.