As many as 15 Northeastern locations have been selected for development
under the Centre’s Swadesh Darshan 2.0 initiative, which aims to expand tourism
in the area rich in natural and cultural heritage.
Among them are two from each of the seven other Northeastern States and
one from Manipur.
The Tourism Ministry officials gave updates on the PRASHAD programme and
provided information on the SD 2.0 scheme at the 11th International Tourism
Mart (ITM), which took place in Shillong from November 21–23.
Under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation
Drive or PRASHAD scheme, the ministry announced on its opening day that it has
sanctioned Rs 29.32 crore for the development of four important iconic
religious tourism sites in Meghalaya: Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Nongsawlia
Presbyterian Church, Aitnar Pool, and Charantala Kali Temple.
The centuries-old Durga temple Nartiang Shakti Peeth is thought to be a
Shakti Peeth; Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church is situated in Sohra, East Khasi
Hills; Aitnar Pool is the site of a well-known festival in West Jaintia Hills;
and, according to officials, Charantala Kali Temple is in the West Garo Hillsi
district and is dedicated to Goddess Kali.
From Arunachal Pradesh, Nacho and Mechuka; from Meghalaya, Shillong and
Sohra; from Mizoram, Aizawl and Champhai; from Assam, Jorhat and Kokrajhar;
from Manipur, Moirang (Bishnupur); from Nagaland, Niuland and Chumukedima; from
Sikkim, Gangtok and Gyalshing; and from Tripura, Agartala and Unakoti.
NE Watch Desk
