PRASHAD Scheme Boosts Pilgrimage Infrastructure in Maharashtra

New Delhi, Feb 13, 2026: The Ministry of Tourism has reiterated its commitment to strengthening pilgrimage and heritage tourism infrastructure under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme. Providing details in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that 54 projects have been sanctioned across 28 States and Union Territories at a total estimated cost of ₹1,726.74 crore. In Maharashtra, one project — “Development of Trimbakeshwar” in Nashik — was sanctioned during 2017–18 at a cost of ₹45.41 crore. The Ministry clarified that submission of proposals by States and UTs for financial assistance under PRASHAD remains a continuous process, subject to prescribed guidelines and availability of funds. At present, no proposal for the development of the Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple at Ellora is under consideration. The Minister emphasised that carrying capacity and crowd-flow management are integral to project planning under the scheme. Interventions sanctioned across destinations include queue management complexes, waiting halls, and widened approach roads to enhance pilgrim safety and convenience. To improve sanitation, security, connectivity, and accessibility, projects have also supported facilities such as CCTV surveillance systems, integrated command and control rooms, fire safety mechanisms, illumination, pathways, drinking water amenities, toilet blocks, and signage. As per scheme guidelines, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are prepared by respective State Governments and UT Administrations in consultation with local authorities and stakeholders. Implementation is carried out by States and UTs in coordination with relevant agencies. The Ministry noted that such infrastructure upgrades help manage pilgrim movement and services during peak seasons while promoting sustainable tourism, employment generation, cultural conservation, and local economic growth.