Reference

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped complex of the 524-year-old Tripura Sundari Temple located in Udaipur, Gomati District, Tripura.

Key Points

• The temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and holds immense religious and cultural significance.
• The site was redeveloped under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD).

Development Work and Cost

• Total Cost: Approximately ₹34.43 crore
• The project upgraded facilities, connectivity, and infrastructure while preserving the sacred Shakti Peeth.
• Surrounding areas were modernized with contemporary amenities without compromising historical and religious importance.

Project Initiation and Expansion

• Approved in FY 2020-21 at a cost of ₹34.43 crore.
• 54 projects initiated across 28 states/UTs.
• Major pilgrimage and heritage sites are being enhanced with world-class facilities.

Objective and Significance

• Reflect Prime Minister Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development with Heritage).
• The PRASHAD scheme integrates heritage conservation with development.
• Aims to make North-East India a hub of spiritual tourism.

Tripura Sundari Temple Details

• Other Names: Tripureshwari Temple, Matabari
• Constructed By: Maharaja Dhanya Manikya of Tripura in 1501
• Main Deity: Goddess Tripura Sundari, worshipped as a Shakti Peeth
• Location: Hilly area near Bangao, West Tripura district, about 55 km from Agartala

Religious and Cultural Significance

• Considered one of India’s 51 Shakti Peethas, where a part of Goddess Sati’s body is believed to have fallen.
• Goddess Tripura Sundari is revered as the goddess of power and beauty.
• The temple is a cultural and religious center with Tantric practices.
• Major festivals: Tripura Sundari Jayanti, Durga Puja, and Navratri are celebrated with grandeur.

Architecture and History

• The temple blends Hindu craftsmanship and local architectural styles.
• Built on a turtle-back shaped hill called ‘Kurva Peeth’.
• Notable features: The main idol (Maa) and Chhoto Maa (small idol).

Redevelopment (Under PRASHAD Scheme)

• Cost: ₹52 crore (Central Government), Tripura Government contributed ₹7 crore.
• Redevelopment includes: Beautification of temple complex, new entrance, marble flooring, drainage system, food stalls, meditation hall, guest accommodations, administrative office, and drinking water facilities.
• Goal: Make the temple a center for spiritual tourism, boosting local industry, employment, and cultural revival.

Accessibility and Transport

• Located about 55 km from Agartala by road.
• Nearest railway station and airport are also in Agartala.

Socio-Economic Impact

• Expected to boost religious tourism, supporting local economy.
• Growth of tourism-related businesses: hotels, transport, handicrafts, etc.
• Redevelopment preserves religious sanctity while promoting regional cultural heritage.

PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme

Overview

• Full Name: Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)
• Launched: 2014-15 by the Government of India
• Objective: Conserve and develop India’s religious and cultural sites, providing modern facilities, connectivity, and infrastructure for pilgrims and tourists.
• Implementation: A central sector scheme fully funded by the Government of India.

Outcomes and Impact:

• Integrated heritage conservation with modern facilities, making pilgrimage sites centers of faith, culture, and economy.
• Established North-East India as a hub for spiritual tourism.
• Increased local employment and livelihood opportunities.
• Strengthened tourism infrastructure and enhanced tourist attraction.

Projects and Financial Details:

• As of August 2025: 54 projects across 28 states/UTs.
• Approved financial assistance: over ₹1,168 crore.
• Projects include ancient temples, Sufi shrines, Buddhist monasteries, and historical towns.
• Objective: Develop world-class spiritual tourism destinations.

Impact on North-East India :

• Contributed to spiritual and economic development of the region.
• Increased domestic tourism, growth of village homestays, and employment for young guides.
• Environmental, cultural tourism, and heritage revival converted into sustainable livelihoods.
• PRASHAD journey started with Kamakhya Temple in Assam (2015-16) and gradually expanded to Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.

Major Projects (State-wise) :