INVC NEWS
Ayodhya : In a monumental decision, the BJP government in Chhattisgarh has given its approval to an annual free train pilgrimage for those seeking the divine experience of visiting the Ayodhya temple dedicated to Lord Ram. This decision, taken under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai in a meeting of the state cabinet, fulfills a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2023 assembly elections.
Fulfilling a Pledge: A Spiritual Odyssey for 20,000 Devotees
True to the commitment made by Prime Minister Modi, the government plans to facilitate the annual pilgrimage of 20,000 individuals to Ayodhya via train. Eligible participants, aged 18 to 75 and in good health, will be selected in phases, with the initial phase targeting individuals aged 55 and above. The selection process will be conducted through committees formed under the guidance of district collectors in each region.
Implementation and Collaboration: A Seamless Spiritual Sojourn
The execution of this visionary plan falls under the jurisdiction of the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, with the State Tourism Department allocating the necessary budget. To realize this initiative, a memorandum of understanding will be signed with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). This partnership will facilitate the operation of a special weekly train, allowing pilgrims to embark from stations in Raipur, Durg, Raigarh, and Ambikapur, with Ayodhya as the ultimate destination, covering a journey of approximately 900 kilometers.
An Enriching Pilgrimage: Beyond Ayodhya
This pilgrimage transcends the confines of Ayodhya, offering participants a night’s repose in Varanasi. Here, pilgrims will have the privilege of visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and participating in the Ganga Aarti—a truly divine experience. The itinerary promises a holistic spiritual journey, fostering a deeper connection with the cultural and religious heritage of India.
Recent Developments and Visionary Leadership
Notably, the Sai government declared a “Dry Day” in Ayodhya on January 22nd, symbolically marking the consecration of the Ram Temple. Additionally, in a separate decision, the state government appointed Prafull Bharat, a senior advocate from the Chhattisgarh High Court, as the new Advocate General. Bharat assumes the position vacated by the former Attorney General Satish Chandra Verma, who resigned in December following the BJP’s rise to power.
