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Transport & Infrastructure

HRIDAY: Heritage City Development & Augmentation Yojana

Launched on 21st January 2015, the scheme "National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana", also known as "HRIDAY" is a central sector scheme by the Ministry of Tourism. The scheme was introduced to bring together urban planning, economic growth, and heritage conservation.

Authority

Central

Region

Central Government

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

For the Residents | - Improved quality of life through enhanced infrastructure, better sanitation facilities, and revitalized public spaces. | - Preservation of cultural heritage fosters a sense of pride and identity among residents. | - Economic opportunities are generated through tourism, cultural events, and heritage-related businesses. | For the Tourists | - Enriched cultural experiences through the restoration and promotion of heritage sites, monuments, and historic areas. | - Enhanced amenities and facilities for tourists, including improved signage, interpretation centres, and guided tours. | - Increased safety and accessibility, making heritage cities more attractive destinations for domestic and international visitors. | For the Businesses | - Expanded market opportunities resulting from increased tourism and foot traffic in heritage areas. | - Investment incentives for heritage-related businesses, such as heritage hotels, handicrafts, cultural events, and eco-tourism ventures. | - Preservation and promotion of traditional crafts and skills, supporting local artisans and craftsmen. | For the Local Authorities | - Strengthened governance and capacity-building for heritage conservation and urban planning. | - Increased revenue generation through tourism-related taxes, entry fees, and commercial activities in heritage areas. | - Enhanced collaboration and partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and private stakeholders for sustainable development.

Who can apply

There are no eligibility requirements to avail the benefits of this scheme.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

What is the composition of the City Level Mission Directorate under the HRIDAY scheme?

The City Level Mission Directorate is chaired by an officer not below the rank of Chief Executive Officer/Municipal Commissioner of the ULB. It serves as a full-fledged project implementation unit, working as an extended arm of the National Level Mission Directorate.

What are the broad thematic areas of focus under the HRIDAY scheme?

The HRIDAY scheme focuses on four thematic areas: Physical Infrastructure, Institutional Infrastructure, Economic Infrastructure, and Social Infrastructure, aimed at reviving and revitalizing the soul of heritage cities.

How are projects funded under the HRIDAY scheme?

Projects under the HRIDAY scheme can be funded directly or through support from other stakeholders, including the private sector. The scheme provides an indicative list of components that can be funded based on the needs of the city.

What are the key components of the HRIDAY scheme?

The HRIDAY scheme includes components such as heritage documentation and mapping, heritage revitalization, city information/knowledge management and skill development, and memorandum of agreements for effective project implementation.

What role does the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) play in the HRIDAY scheme?

The NIUA serves as the National Project Management Unit (NPMU) for the HRIDAY scheme and functions as a secretariat for the Mission Directorate.

What are the key steps cities need to take to avail assistance under the HRIDAY scheme?

Cities are required to prepare a Heritage Management Plan (HMP) and develop Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for identified projects to avail assistance under the HRIDAY scheme.

What is the objective of the Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) scheme?

The main objective of the HRIDAY scheme is to preserve the soul of heritage cities and facilitate inclusive heritage-linked urban development, focusing on various aspects such as infrastructure, tourism, livelihoods, and cultural identity.

What is the funding arrangement for the HRIDAY scheme?

The HRIDAY scheme is a central sector scheme with 100 percent funding provided by the Central Government.

What are the key steps cities need to take to avail assistance under the HRIDAY scheme?

Cities are required to prepare a Heritage Management Plan (HMP) and develop Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for identified projects to avail assistance under the HRIDAY scheme.

Who is responsible for developing the Heritage Management Plan and Detailed Project Reports for cities under the HRIDAY scheme?

The Heritage Management Plan (HMP) and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) may be developed by the National Mission Directorate/City Mission Directorate through various agencies such as Public Works Organizations (PWOs), Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), Central Public Sector Units (CPSUs), State Para-statals, and reputable NGOs.

What are the key responsibilities of the Mission Directorate in the HRIDAY scheme?

The Mission Directorate plans, develops, and implements the HRIDAY scheme. It collaborates with states, ULBs, and institutes for heritage management plans, DPRs, and project implementation. It also monitors progress, facilitates coordination, and ensures financial management.

How are City Level Advisory and Monitoring Committees (CLAMCs) constituted under HRIDAY?

CLAMCs are chaired by the DM/Municipal Commissioner and include stakeholders like elected representatives, officials, and representatives from CBOs/NGOs. They oversee project performance, facilitate coordination, and recommend corrections as needed.

What is the composition of the City Level Mission Directorate in HRIDAY?

The City Level Mission Directorate, chaired by a senior officer, implements projects at the city level. It is supported by a PMU comprising urban planners, heritage specialists, engineers, financial experts, and support staff. Their roles include project implementation, coordination, and monitoring.