Narasimhakonda Temple Selected for PRASHAD Scheme

 Nellore: In a major boost to religious tourism in Andhra Pradesh, the Union ministry of tourism has identified the historic Vedagiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Narasimhakonda in SPSR Nellore district for development under the prestigious PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme.

The ministry, through an official memorandum issued by deputy secretary Lalithambigai K. on June 8, invited state governments to submit detailed project reports (DPRs) for selected pilgrimage destinations across India. Narasimhakonda is the only site from Andhra Pradesh to figure in the list of 16 identified heritage and pilgrimage centres.

The PRASHAD scheme aims to enhance infrastructure, improve visitor amenities and preserve the spiritual and cultural significance of major pilgrimage destinations. Development works may include improved roads, pilgrim facilities, sanitation, illumination, landscaping, interpretation centres and other tourism-related infrastructure.

The inclusion of Narasimhakonda is expected to open the door for substantial Central assistance for upgrading facilities at the ancient temple, which attracts thousands of devotees, particularly during annual Brahmotsavams and other religious festivals.

The ministry has asked concerned state governments to submit DPRs through the programme management information system (PMIS) portal by June 20. Once approved, the proposed projects will be considered for funding under the PRASHAD scheme.

Nellore Rural constituency legislator Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy, religious tourism stakeholders and devotees in the Nellore district have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the project will transform Narasimhakonda into a major spiritual tourism destination while preserving its rich heritage and religious importance.