All You Need to Know About the HRIDAY Scheme

The HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2015 with the aim of preserving and revitalizing the cultural heritage of 12 identified cities in the country. These cities, known for their rich cultural and historical significance, are Ajmer, Amaravati, Amritsar, Gaya, Kanchipuram, Mathura, Varanasi, Puri, Warangal, Dwarka, Velankanni, and Vellankani.

The Focus of the HRIDAY Scheme

The HRIDAY scheme focuses on the development and conservation of heritage sites, structures, and landscapes in these cities. It aims to promote sustainable urban development and improve the living conditions of the people living in these cities by preserving their cultural heritage. The scheme also aims to enhance the tourism potential of these cities, thereby promoting economic growth and job creation.

Components of the HRIDAY Scheme

The HRIDAY scheme covers a wide range of activities, including restoration and conservation of heritage structures, development of heritage precincts and areas, urban renewal, promotion of local arts and crafts, and capacity building and training. The scheme also focuses on creating an enabling environment for the private sector to invest in these cities and promote heritage-based tourism.

Development of Heritage Precincts and Areas

One of the key components of the HRIDAY scheme is the development of heritage precincts and areas. This involves the restoration and conservation of heritage buildings, streetscapes, and public spaces in these cities. The scheme also focuses on the development of public amenities such as parks, gardens, and playgrounds in these areas. This will not only improve the living conditions of the people living in these areas but also enhance the tourism potential of these cities.

Promoting Local Arts and Crafts

The HRIDAY scheme also focuses on promoting local arts and crafts. This involves the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts and skills, as well as the development of infrastructure to support these crafts. This will not only help to preserve the cultural heritage of these cities but also create new economic opportunities for the local people.

Capacity Building and Training

The scheme also focuses on capacity building and training. This involves the training of local communities, artisans, and other stakeholders in heritage conservation and management, as well as the development of institutions and organizations to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of these cities.

Implementation of the HRIDAY Scheme

The HRIDAY scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, in collaboration with state governments, local bodies, and other stakeholders. The scheme is being implemented through a project-based approach, with each city receiving an allocation of funds for the implementation of specific projects.

Conclusion

Overall, the HRIDAY scheme is an important initiative for the preservation and revitalization of the cultural heritage of 12 identified cities in India. By promoting sustainable urban development, improving the living conditions of the people living in these cities, and enhancing the tourism potential of these cities, the scheme is expected to contribute to economic growth and job creation in these cities.

FAQs

Q: What is the Hriday Scheme?

A: The Hriday (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) Scheme is a government initiative in India aimed at preserving and revitalizing the historical and cultural heritage of identified cities. It aims to preserve and enhance the unique character and identity of these cities while also promoting sustainable urban development.

Q: Which cities are covered under the Hriday Scheme?

A: As of 2021, the following cities are covered under the Hriday Scheme: Amaravathi, Warangal, Vellankani, Gaya, Dwarka, Kanchipuram, Mathura, Varanasi, and Velankanni.

Q: What are the objectives of the Hriday Scheme?

A: The objectives of the Hriday Scheme include:

1. Preservation and revitalization of historical and cultural heritage

2. Promotion of sustainable urban development

3. Enhancing the unique character and identity of the cities

4. Development of tourist infrastructure

5. Encouraging private sector participation in the development of heritage cities

Q: How is the Hriday Scheme implemented?

A: The Hriday Scheme is implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) set up by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in partnership with the state government and the local urban body. The SPV is responsible for the overall planning, implementation, and monitoring of the scheme.

Q: Who can apply for funding under the Hriday Scheme?

A: The scheme is open to all urban local bodies, state governments, and other implementing agencies such as private sector entities, NGOs, and community-based organizations.