Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced in the Lok Sabha that the Central Government has released hundreds of crores for the development of historic temples and tourist sites in Karnataka. While temple upkeep generally falls under state jurisdiction, these funds are part of key schemes like Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, CBDD (Challenge-Based Destination Development), and PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive).
Highlighting allocations, Shekhawat said ₹45.38 crore was sanctioned under PRASHAD for developing pilgrim facilities at Mysuru’s Chamundeshwari Hill Temple in 2023–24. Additionally, ₹2.71 crore was provided under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to establish a Tonga Ride Heritage Zone and ₹18.48 crore for creating an Ecological Zone in Mysuru.
Further support includes:
- ₹18.37 crore under PRASHAD for Saundatti Yellamma Temple in Belagavi
- ₹22.25 crore for Papnash Temple in Bidar
- ₹25.63 crore under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 for Hampi Historical Site, Vijayanagar
- ₹99.17 crore for building a cultural hub at the Roerich and Devikarani Estate in Bengaluru
- An additional ₹100 crore for the Saundatti Yellamma Temple under a Special Investment Plan
These investments aim to boost spiritual tourism, enhance visitor amenities, and preserve heritage zones, aligning with India’s broader vision to modernize sacred and cultural destinations while fostering local economic growth.