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New Delhi : Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (Independent charge) Prahlad Singh Patel expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Bhoomi Pujan of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi at Ayodhya, UP, on August 5, 2020. Patel said that this is a great moment of faith and spirituality.
He added that Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, is a great place to take a plunge into the pool of spirituality. The city is dotted with temples and is one of the most venerable cities of ancient India. Ancient beliefs say, the gods themselves created this city, Patel said. He added that Lord Ram temple will boost the Religious/Spiritual tourism.
Patel further added that from time immemorial pilgrimages have been one of the most powerful motivator for travel. Religious/Spiritual tourism has proven resilient to the pressure of the global recession because it is not seen as a luxury but rather travel with a purpose and because of its nature the pilgrimage travel is elastic and strong in any economic scenario. Therefore, Ministry of Tourism sees hope in helping millions of followers of all great world religions that are deeply rooted in India.
Patel also said that the Ministry of Tourism under its Swadesh Darshan Scheme- Integrated Development of Theme Based Tourist Circuits – is developing tourism infrastructure in the circuits across the country having tourist potential in a planned and prioritised manner. Under this Scheme, Ministry of Tourism had sanctioned a project, ‘Development of Ayodhya’ under Ramayana circuit theme, for an amount of Rs 127.20 Crore in the year 2017-18.
The Minister added that the various components sanctioned under this project include development of Ram Katha Gallery and Park, Ram Ki Paidi, development of Guptarghat and Laxman qila ghat, rejuvenation of Ayodhya street, multipurpose hall at Digambarakhada etc. Other components included in this project are solar lighting, solid waste management, drainage components, police booth, signages at various locations, stone benches, gazebo, drinking water kiosks, cctv, bus depot and parking, tourist sheds, landscaping of public spaces and beautification of tulsi das garden etc. Almost 80% of the project is completed on ground as on date, according to a PIB release.
In addition, Ministry of Tourism had sanctioned another project, “Development of Chitrakoot and Shringverpur” under Ramayana circuit theme of Swadesh Darshan in the year 2016-17. This project has been sanctioned for an amount of Rs 69.45 Crore.
