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MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification Scheme 2026

The PRASHAD scheme, launched in 2014-2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on developing and enhancing India's  Read More... pilgrimage sites to create a complete and enriching religious tourism experience. Read less

Details

India is a land of diverse spiritual traditions and holds immense significance for religious tourism. To harness this potential and provide a world-class experience for pilgrims and tourists, the Indian government introduced the PRASHAD scheme. This initiative aims to transform key pilgrimage destinations into vibrant hubs that offer both spiritual fulfillment and modern amenities.

What Is This Scheme?

The Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) is a Central Sector Scheme initiated by the Ministry of Tourism in 2014-2015. Its core purpose is to identify and develop important pilgrimage and heritage sites across the country. The goal is to systematically improve these locations to offer a comprehensive and memorable religious tourism experience, thereby promoting spiritual tourism in India.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

While the scheme directly focuses on developing tourism infrastructure, the benefits ripple out to various groups. Local communities near these sites gain from improved infrastructure and job opportunities. Tourists and pilgrims experience enhanced facilities and a more comfortable journey. Furthermore, stakeholders involved in the tourism sector, including small businesses and artisans, stand to gain from increased economic activity.

Why This Scheme Is Important

PRASHAD is crucial for several reasons. It not only helps in preserving our rich cultural and religious heritage but also boosts the local economy by creating employment and generating income. By developing world-class tourism projects and integrating destinations in a planned manner, the scheme aims to position pilgrimage and heritage tourism as key drivers of economic growth and employment nationwide.

Objective

The PRASHAD scheme, launched in 2014-2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on developing and enhancing India's pilgrimage sites to create a complete and enriching religious tourism experience.

Benefits

Cost of Certification:• Certification Level 1: BRONZE: ₹ 10,000/-• Certification Level 2: SILVER: ₹ 40,000/-• Certification Level 3: GOLD: ₹ 90,000/-Subsidy on cost of ZED certification:• Joining Reward of ₹ 10,000/- (Bronze will become free if availed)• 80-60-50% for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Additional subsidy:• 10% for Women/SC/ST owned MSMEs OR MSMEs in North Eastern Region (NER)/Himalayan/Left Wing Extremism(LWE)/Island territories/aspirational districts.• 5% for MSMEs which are also a part of the SFURTI OR Micro & Small Enterprises - Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) of the MinistryAdditional subsidy:• 10% for Women/SC/ST owned MSMEs OR MSMEs in NER/Himalayan/LWE/Island territories/aspirational districts.• 5% for MSMEs which are also a part of the SFURTI OR Micro & Small Enterprises - Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) of the Ministry.Financial Assistance in Testing/Quality/Product Certification:• Up to 75% of the total cost of Testing/Certification, with the maximum ceiling of subsidy being ₹. 50,000/-.Handholding Support :• Up-to ₹ 2,000,00/- for consultancy for all ZED certifiedMSMEs.Support in Technology Upgradation for Zero Effect Solutions:• Up-to ₹ 3,000,00/- lakhs for all ZED certified MSMEs.MSME KAWACH (Knowledge Acquisition through WASH for an Accelerated COVID-19 Handling) Certification:• After taking ZED Pledge, MSMEs can avail support for their preparedness to mitigate COVID 19 risks after obtaining Certification based on WASH Standard.Graded incentives:
  • MSMEs can avail graded incentives as prescribed for the three ZED Certification Levels. Wherever possible, the incentives provided by States will be linked through API integration with the ZED portal to ensure interoperability
  • Sources and references

    Eligibility Criteria

    This scheme is designed for the development of pilgrimage sites and does not have specific eligibility criteria for individuals to apply for direct benefits.

    How To Apply

    This scheme is implemented through the Ministry of Tourism and State/UT Governments. Project proposals are submitted by the respective State Governments/UT Administrations for consideration and approval.

    Documents Required

    As this scheme focuses on infrastructure development and promotion of tourism sites, there are no direct document requirements for individual citizens to avail of its benefits.

    Official Sources

    For detailed information on project proposals and implementation, please refer to the Ministry of Tourism's official website.

    FAQ’s

    How does the PRASHAD scheme choose which heritage cities to develop?

    Heritage cities are selected based on how many tourists visit them, if their heritage sites are officially recognised (like by UNESCO or ASI), the number of historical monuments they have, and how much funding they need. This helps decide which cities get priority for integrated heritage development.

    What are the specific types of infrastructure projects funded by PRASHAD?

    The scheme supports building essential facilities like first-aid centres, toilets, waiting areas, and terminals for transport. It also includes improvements to sewerage, water supply, drainage systems, and roads at the pilgrimage sites.

    Can we get financial help for operations and maintenance of facilities built under PRASHAD?

    No, funding for the operation and maintenance of assets created under the PRASHAD scheme is not permitted. The scheme focuses on the development and creation of new infrastructure and facilities.

    What's the main goal of the PRASHAD scheme in making tourism destinations more attractive?

    The scheme aims to make pilgrimage and heritage sites more appealing by developing them in a well-planned, sustainable way. It focuses on creating top-notch tourism projects and promoting local culture and livelihoods, positioning these sites as major contributors to the economy and job creation.

    Does the PRASHAD scheme help promote local skills and knowledge?

    Yes, it encourages travel and hospitality education, preserves tourism knowledge, uses local artistic talents, and offers skill development programs like 'Hunar Se Rozgar Tak' and 'Earn While You Learn' to empower local communities.

    Are there any restrictions on the kinds of projects that can be funded by PRASHAD?

    Yes, certain projects are not allowed. These include packages for resettlement and rehabilitation, costs for operating and maintaining assets, investments in private property, and acquiring land specifically for development purposes.

    What is the purpose of digital tools like apps and websites under PRASHAD?

    The aim is to improve the digital presence of pilgrimage sites. This includes using data analysis, GIS portals, and mobile apps to provide tourists with necessary information and enhance their overall visit experience.

    How does PRASHAD ensure that all parts of India get development opportunities?

    The scheme aims for balanced development across the country by prioritizing states that haven't had many pilgrimage destinations developed yet. This ensures that India's entire pilgrimage map is covered comprehensively.

    What makes a pilgrimage destination eligible for development under PRASHAD?

    Destinations are chosen based on factors like how well projects have been implemented in the past (measured by Utilization Certificate pendency), the general parity for development across India, and the site's importance for tourism. This helps ensure that funds are used effectively and equitably.

    How does PRASHAD encourage different government bodies and private companies to work together?

    The scheme promotes collaboration between central and state governments, as well as private sector efforts. This integrated approach helps in planning and developing sites more effectively, making the most of available resources.

    What kind of services can pilgrims expect at information centres set up by PRASHAD?

    These centres act as information hubs providing details about the pilgrimage site, local culture, and heritage. They may also include facilities like ATMs or money exchange counters to make the visitor's experience smoother.

    Does the PRASHAD scheme focus on making pilgrimage sites safer for visitors?

    Yes, a key objective is to improve safety and security measures for both pilgrims and tourists. This ensures a secure and enjoyable experience at all destinations covered by the scheme, along with enhancing the quality of tourism services.

    What are the allowed project components under the PRASHAD scheme?

    Eligible projects include creating online tools for information, developing skills and capacity among locals, building infrastructure like first-aid centres and signages, and restoring or conserving historical structures and monuments.

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