Sustainable Development Under Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)

The PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) is a flagship initiative of India’s Ministry of Tourism that integrates sustainable development with the rejuvenation of pilgrimage and heritage destinations. Here’s how sustainability is woven into the scheme:

Core Objectives
- Integrated Development: Focuses on holistic infrastructure upgrades at pilgrimage and heritage sites.
- Sustainability: Ensures projects are environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable.
- Community Empowerment: Generates local employment and supports small businesses around heritage sites.

Sustainable Development Features
- Tourism Infrastructure: Creation of amenities like clean drinking water, eco-friendly toilets, pathways, illumination, and signage.
- Accessibility: Barrier-free access for differently-abled and elderly visitors.
- Cleanliness & Waste Management: Emphasis on sanitation, solid waste disposal, and eco-friendly practices.
- Energy Efficiency: Use of solar lighting and renewable energy sources wherever possible.
- Preservation of Heritage: Protects spiritual integrity and cultural authenticity of sites during modernization.

Stakeholder Involvement
- State Governments/UTs: Prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) with sustainability plans.
- Local Bodies & NGOs: Participate in consultations to preserve cultural and spiritual values.
- Community Role: Local artisans, guides, and service providers benefit from training and certification under the Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) program.

Long-Term Impact
- Tourist Experience: Enhanced convenience, safety, and spiritual ambience.
- Employment: Boosts local livelihoods through tourism-linked activities.
- Cultural Preservation: Maintains the “soul” of heritage cities while modernizing facilities.
- Environmental Balance: Encourages eco-friendly infrastructure and responsible tourism.

✅ In short: The PRASHAD Scheme is not just about beautifying pilgrimage sites—it’s about revitalizing them sustainably, ensuring that heritage, spirituality, and local communities thrive together.