Shillong, Nov 22: Four projects under PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme for Meghalaya has been unveiled at the 11th International Tourism Mart .
They are development of pilgrim amenities at Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple in Garo Hills.
The 11th International Tourism Mart was inaugurated on November 21 in Shillong by Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Yesso Naik in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
Under the PRASAD scheme, the 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. Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, built in 1846 by Thomas Jones, is one of the oldest churches in North East India. Aitnar Pool is an important element of the Behdienkhlam Festival, the most celebrated cultural festival among the Pnars. 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.
The Centre launched the PRASAD scheme in 2014-2015 under the Ministry of Tourism. The 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.
The chief minister, during the inaugural ceremony expressed his happiness that Shillong is hosting the Tourism Mart for the second time.
