Chhattisgarh’s state minister, Brijmohan Agrawal, announced on Thursday that all schools and colleges in the state will remain closed on January 22 to mark the idol consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Addressing a press conference, Agrawal, who oversees the Religious Trust and Endowment, School and Higher Education, as well as Culture and Tourism portfolios, shared details of additional initiatives planned to commemorate the auspicious occasion.
In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment, Chhattisgarh residents will benefit from a weekly free train travel scheme to Ayodhya to witness the darshan of Ram Lalla. The state government is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) for a dedicated train accommodating 850 to 1000 devotees each week.
Agrawal emphasized that special arrangements would be made for the elderly and disabled passengers on the train, including travel with an assistant and the presence of a doctor on board. The state government will also provide accommodation and food for the travelers during the journey.
The minister outlined additional programs to mark the temple inauguration, including devotional songs and rituals in the morning and a “Ganga aarti” ceremony on the banks of rivers across the state in the evening. Furthermore, the state government plans to develop Shri Ram Van Gaman Path and transform Bhuteshwar Mahadeo, Jatmai-Ghatarani, Shiv Mahapeeth, Sirkatti Ashram, and Kopeshwar Mahadeo temple in Gariaband into a tribal circuit.
These initiatives reflect the state’s commitment to celebrating the momentous occasion of the Ram Temple consecration and ensuring the participation of its residents in the festivities.
Sources By Agencies