The Madhya Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, is committed to transforming the locations associated with Lord Ram and Lord Krishna into world-class pilgrimage sites. This significant initiative will include the construction of grand welcome gates dedicated to these revered deities at the entry points of the state capital, Bhopal. During a recent review meeting of the Culture and Tourism Department, it was reported that CM Yadav had issued specific directives regarding this matter.
"The Madhya Pradesh government will identify the places associated with Lord Ram and Lord Krishna in the state and develop them as pilgrimage sites," Yadav said. He directed the department to build magnificent welcome gates adorned with intricate designs and dedicated to the revered figures of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. Additionally, plans are underway to create majestic entry gates paying tribute to Raja Bhoj, an illustrious 11th-century king from the Paramara dynasty, and Vikramaditya, a figure steeped in legend and mentioned in Indian literature. Yadav has also emphasised the importance of constructing impressive entry gates at the state boundaries, aiming to showcase the cultural and religious significance of Madhya Pradesh to all who pass through.
The chief minister has instructed the administration to meticulously outline comprehensive plans aimed at the development and enhancement of religious sites to bolster religious tourism in the state. Furthermore, the department has been specifically tasked with formulating a detailed action plan for the grand celebration of Gita Mahotsav on Manas Jayanti, with the overarching objective of disseminating and promoting Indian culture and philosophy amongst the diverse populace within the state.
The chief minister emphatically highlighted the imperative to enlist the support and collaboration of local elected representatives in the concerted efforts to enrich and develop locations associated with the revered figures of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, thereby ensuring their preservation and enhanced appeal. Additionally, in light of the burgeoning influx of tourists in the state, the chief minister underscored the necessity and strategic importance of implementing a comprehensive branding and promotional strategy for all tourist destinations.
In a multifaceted approach, the chief minister also urged and encouraged officials to actively and vigorously promote local products and the unique offerings of religious tourism through the establishment and operation of various museums and cultural centers, thereby enriching the overall tourism experience for visitors while simultaneously fostering economic growth and the preservation of cultural heritage.