Four projects under PRASAD - Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive scheme for Meghalaya has been unveiled at the 11th International Tourism Mart - development of pilgrim amenities at Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple.

11^th International Tourism Mart was inaugurated on 21^st November, 2023 amidst fanfare in Shillong by Union Minister of State for Tourism Shri Shripad Yesso Naik in the presence of Chief Minster Shri Conrad K Sangma.

Under PRASHAD scheme Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned a total of 8 projects for an amount of Rs.256.45 crore for the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations in the Northeast States.

Nartiang's Durga Temple is an idyllic stop on the Jaintia Hills culture trail, often eclipsed by the nearby Garden of Monoliths. A 500-year old Durga temple believed to be a Shakti Peeth and is one of the most revered shrines of Shaktism in the country.

Nartiang Shakti Peeth

 

Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, built in 1846 by Thomas Jones, is one of the oldest churches in North East India.

Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church

 

Aitnar Pool is an important element of the Behdienkhlam Festival, the most celebrated Cultural festival among the Pnars.

Aitnar Pool

 

The Charantala Temple in West Garo Hills is a significant place of worship for the local Hajong and Koch communities and also attracts many visitors from outside.

Charantala Kali Temple

 

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’. 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 prioritised, planned and sustainable manner to provide a complete religious tourism experience. The growth of domestic tourism hugely depends on pilgrimage tourism.

Chief Minister of Meghalaya during the inaugural ceremony expressed his happiness that Shillong is hosting the International Tourism Mart for the second time. He said that Government of India, under the dynamic leadership of Hon’ble PM, has continued to ensure NE is growing with the rest of the country by unleashing its potential across sectors, promising a greater future of economic prosperity for the region. He also expressed that the International Tourism Mart has been key in channelling the tourism potential of the North East, highlighting the region’s unique culture, heritage, traditions and products and is a hub where tourism stakeholders can connect with international and national buyers.

*****

Beena Yadav/Gopajit Das

(Release ID: 1980405) Visitor Counter : 1124