HRIDAY Scheme 2026; Objectives, Benefits & Other Details

The HRIDAY Scheme stands for Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana. It was launched by the Government of India on 21 January 2015 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to preserve and develop the rich cultural heritage of historic cities across the country. The main aim of the scheme is to improve infrastructure, conserve heritage sites, and provide better facilities for tourists and local residents while maintaining the traditional identity of heritage cities. Under this scheme, the government places special emphasis on improving roads, drainage systems, street lighting, sanitation facilities, public spaces, water supply, and various tourist amenities in selected heritage cities. Furthermore, this scheme encourages cultural preservation, local economic development, and the expansion of the tourism industry.

Overview of HRIDAY Scheme 2026

• Scheme Name: HRIDAY Scheme
• Full Form: Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana
• Launched By: Government of India
• Launch Date: 21 January 2015
• Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
• Objective: Heritage conservation and infrastructure development
• Beneficiaries: Residents, tourists, local businesses, artisans
• Focus Areas: Heritage preservation, tourism, urban development
• Official Website: mohua.gov.in

Objectives of HRIDAY Scheme 2026

Preserve and revitalise heritage cities.
Improve basic infrastructure and public services.
Promote tourism and local employment.
Enhance cleanliness and sanitation in heritage areas.
Protect cultural and historical monuments.
Improve quality of life for residents.
Encourage sustainable urban development.

Cities Covered Under HRIDAY Scheme:

The scheme was implemented in 12 major heritage cities of India:

• Ajmer
• Amaravati
• Amritsar
• Badami
• Dwarka
• Gaya
• Kanchipuram
• Mathura
• Puri
• Varanasi
• Velankanni
• Warangal

Key Features of HRIDAY Scheme 2026

Development of heritage infrastructure.
Improvement of tourist facilities.
Conservation of historical monuments.
Better pedestrian pathways and public spaces.
Revitalization of riverfronts and heritage zones.
Smart signage and information systems.
Promotion of local art, culture, and handicrafts.

Benefits of HRIDAY Scheme 2026

For Citizens -

• Better roads, lighting, and sanitation.
• Improved urban facilities.
• Preservation of local culture and traditions.

For Tourists -

• Better travel experience.
• Improved cleanliness and accessibility.
• Enhanced tourist amenities.

For Local Economy -

• Growth in tourism-related employment.
• Increased business opportunities for artisans and shopkeepers.
• Promotion of local handicrafts and cultural industries.

How the HRIDAY Scheme Works 

The government selects heritage cities.
A development plan is prepared for each city.
Funds are allocated for infrastructure and conservation projects.
Local authorities implement the development works.
Alongside the improvement of civic amenities, heritage assets are conserved.

Impact of the HRIDAY Scheme 2026

The HRIDAY scheme has helped improve the infrastructure and tourism facilities of many heritage cities. Furthermore, in addition to fostering local economic growth through tourism and urban development, it has also raised awareness regarding the preservation of India's cultural heritage.

HRIDAY Scheme 2026 - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1. What is the full form of HRIDAY?

• Answer: HRIDAY stands for Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana.

Q2. When was the HRIDAY Scheme launched?

• Answer: The scheme was launched on 21 January 2015.

Q3. Which ministry manages the HRIDAY Scheme?

• Answer: The scheme is managed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Q4. How many cities are covered under HRIDAY?

• Answer: A total of 12 heritage cities were selected under the scheme.