Guwahati: Four religious attractions in Meghalaya have been green-lit by the Centre to be developed further under the Centre’s PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme amid the ongoing International Tourism Mart.
Funds will now be allocated for the development of the Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple, officials informed in a release.
The Nartiang Durga temple located in the Jaintia Hills, a 500-year-old Shaki peeth with a rich history, comes alive during Durga Puja festivities. The Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, built in 1846 by Thomas Jones, on the other hand, is one of the oldest churches in the entire region. Aitnar Pool is an important element of the Behdienkhlam festival of the Pnar community and the Charantala Temple in West Garo Hills is a significant place of worship for the local Hajong and Koch communities.
Under the PRASHAD scheme, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned Rs.256.45 crore for the integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in the Northeast Indian states. Launched in 2014, this scheme focuses on developing pilgrimage sites across India in a prioritised, planned and sustainable manner to boost “pilgrimage tourism.”
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, inaugurating the International Tourism Mart on Tuesday, said that it has been a “key” in channelling the tourism potential of the region. According to Sangma, the 3-day affair will help highlight the region’s unique culture, heritage, traditions and products and is a hub where tourism stakeholders “can connect” with international and national buyers.
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