PRASAD SCHEME - GOVERNMENT SCHEME

News: President inaugurates ‘PRASAD’ project to create a slew of facilities at Srisailam

 

What's in the news?

       President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 'PRASAD' project at the tourism facilitation centre in the pilgrim town of Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh on December 26.

 

PRASAD Scheme:

       The Government of India launched the PRASAD scheme in the year 2014-2015 under the Ministry of Tourism.

       The full form of the PRASAD scheme is ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive’.

 

Aim:

       The PRASAD scheme aims at paving the way for the development and promotion of religious tourism in India.

 

Objectives:

       Harness pilgrimage tourism for its direct and multiplier effect upon employment generation and economic development.

       Enhance tourist attractiveness in a sustainable manner by developing world class infrastructure in the religious destinations.

       It also seeks to promote local art, culture, handicraft, cuisine, etc.

 

Features:

       This scheme focuses on developing and identifying pilgrimage sites across India for enriching the religious tourism experience.

       It aims to integrate pilgrimage destinations in a prioritized, planned and sustainable manner to provide a complete religious tourism experience.

 

Infrastructure:

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 centers, craft bazaars/haats/souvenir shops/cafeteria, rain shelters, telecom facilities, internet connectivity etc.

 

Funding:

       Under it, the 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, the Central Government will provide 100% funds. For improved sustainability of the project, it also seeks to involve Public Private Partnership (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as well.