Four projects under PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme for Meghalaya have been unveiled at the 11th International Tourism Mart.
These include development of pilgrim amenities at Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple.
The 11th International Tourism Mart was inaugurated on November 21 amidst fanfare at Mawdiangdiang by Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Yesso Naik in presence of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
Under the PRASHAD scheme, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned a total of eight projects for an amount of Rs 256.45 crore for the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations in the North East states.
Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church at Sohra, built in 1846 by Thomas Jones, is one of the oldest churches in North East India.
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.
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 Government of India launched the PRASAD scheme in 2014-2015 under the Ministry of Tourism. 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.
The chief minister of Meghalaya during the inaugural ceremony expressed his happiness that Shillong is hosting the International Tourism Mart for the second time.
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.
