The HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) is a scheme launched by the Government of India to preserve and rejuvenate the rich cultural heritage of heritage cities in India. The scheme was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in January 2015. The primary objective of HRIDAY is to revitalize urban heritage, enhance the quality of life for the residents, and attract tourists.

1. Conservation: HRIDAY aims to conserve and restore heritage structures, sites, and precincts in the identified cities. This includes historical buildings, cultural sites, public spaces, and more.

2. Improved Infrastructure: The scheme focuses on enhancing basic infrastructure such as water supply, sanitation, drainage, and waste management in heritage areas. Upgrading these facilities is essential for preserving the heritage sites and ensuring a better quality of life for residents.

3. Promotion of Culture and Tourism: HRIDAY aims to promote the cultural and historical significance of the heritage cities. This includes organizing cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions to showcase the city’s heritage. By doing so, it attracts tourists, boosting the local economy.

4. Skill Development: The scheme includes skill development programs for the local community. Preserving heritage often requires specialized skills, and training programs are conducted to create a skilled workforce capable of conserving heritage structures.

5. Public Participation: HRIDAY emphasizes the active involvement of local communities, residents, and stakeholders in the revitalization process. Public participation ensures that the community’s views and concerns are considered in the development plans.

6. Documentation and Research: The scheme encourages documentation and research related to heritage structures and traditions. This research is essential for understanding the historical and cultural significance of heritage cities.

7. Sustainable Development: HRIDAY promotes sustainable development practices in heritage cities. This includes the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable urban planning.

Under HRIDAY, specific cities with a rich cultural and historical heritage are identified. Detailed plans are made for each city, focusing on the preservation and development of heritage areas. The scheme involves the active collaboration of various stakeholders, including local bodies, heritage experts, urban planners, and the local community.

HRIDAY is a crucial initiative to ensure that India’s rich cultural heritage is preserved and passed down to future generations. By combining preservation efforts with community development and tourism promotion, HRIDAY aims to create vibrant and sustainable heritage cities.