Chandigarh, Dec 5 – Acknowledging the important role played by saints and mahatmas in the societal development of Haryana, the state government, after the launch of Saint Mahapurush Samman and Vichar Prachar-Prasar Yojana, now making a new beginning today as devotees of Shri Ram, including the artists who presented the Ramlila and the officials of the Ramlila Committee, were recognized and honored. Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal bestowed honors upon more than 325 Ramlila Committee officials and artists during a program held at Purushottapura Bagh in Kurukshetra district.
Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojna portal launched
In Haryana, the Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana is specifically designed for the elderly members of economically disadvantaged families, offering them the opportunity to visit pilgrimage sites at no cost. Under this scheme, individuals aged 60 years and above from Below Poverty Line families will be eligible for free pilgrimages. Today, the Chief Minister officially inaugurated the portal for this initiative. He said that since the launch of portal, one railway bogie has already been booked. He further announced that the first batch is scheduled to embark on a journey to Ayodhya after January 22. Emphasizing the success of the scheme, the Chief Minister expressed intentions to expand its scope in the future.
Chief Minister called upon Shri Ram devotees to become Nasha Mukt Prahari
During this event, the Chief Minister urged devotees of Shri Ram to serve as drug-free ambassadors, emphasizing the need to convey an anti-drug message to the youth through their theatrical performances. He stressed that combating social evils like drug addiction requires the collective effort in society. Drawing parallels with the successful Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao campaign initiated by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi in Panipat on January 22, 2015, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of both government initiatives and the involvement of social and religious organizations in achieving positive outcomes. He said the transformation of Haryana from a state once stigmatized for female feticide to one recognized for saving daughters. Similarly, in the fight against drug addiction, the Chief Minister advocated for public awareness and the rehabilitation of individuals from drug abuse, connecting them to mainstream of society through de-addiction centers. He called upon the people to contribute significantly to this noble cause by becoming vigilant advocates for a drug-free society.
He said that the government is actively pursuing strict measures to dismantle the nefarious designs of drug suppliers and those engaged in such activities. He highlighted the successful efforts in seizing narcotics, with drugs valued at over Rs 140 crore confiscated and destroyed in the past year. Additionally, the properties of 90 individuals involved in the drug trade have been demolished, and legal actions have led to the imprisonment of these individuals.
The Chief Minister said that Shri Ram is not just a word, but it has so much power in that. He said that the power of Shri Ram is so immense that even if the word "Ram" is inscribed on a stone, it remains afloat in water. While Ramlilas depict the divine deeds of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram, the Chief Minister commended the artists, emphasizing the often-underestimated impact of their work. These artists play a vital role in educating society, preserving cultural connections, and imparting lessons on leading righteous lives, guarding against social evils.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the historic moment of constructing the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya after a prolonged struggle, deeming it a source of pride for every citizen. He informed that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi will inaugurate the grand Shri Ram Temple on January 22, 2024, marking a celebration akin to a second Diwali on that auspicious day.
Development work worth Rs 4000 crore done in Kurukshetra - MLA Subhash Sudha
On this occasion, MLA Sh Subhash Sudha commended the Chief Minister for organizing a felicitation ceremony for the devotees of Shri Ram, highlighting that it is the first of its kind in the state. He extended his congratulations to the Chief Minister for this initiative. Sh Sudha acknowledged the various efforts undertaken by the state government to elevate Kurukshetra's status on the global stage. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal, significant developmental projects amounting to Rs 4000 crore have been implemented in Kurukshetra. He also highlighted the installation of a grand statue of Lord Shri Krishna in Jyotisar as one of the notable achievements.
CM elevating Haryana's Cultural Heritage to Global prominence through strategic initiatives – Dr. Amit Agrawal
On this occasion, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Director General of the Information, Public Relations, Language, and Culture Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal extended a warm welcome to Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal and other distinguished guests. He highlighted the uniqueness of today's program, which honours Shri Ram devotees, officials of Ramlila committees, and artists.
Dr. Agrawal said that significant strides have been made in the past nine years under the Chief Minister's guidance to showcase Haryana's cultural heritage on the global stage. The annual International Gita Mahotsav is being organized at the sacred land of Kurukshetra, where Lord Shri Krishna imparted the eternal message of the Gita. With the efforts of Chief Minister, Gita Mahotsav is now celebrated in foreign countries, reflecting the state's commitment to sharing its cultural richness with the world. He further highlighted various government initiatives, including the restoration of the Saraswati river and the development of Rakhigarhi and Agroha, aimed at presenting Haryana's cultural heritage on a global scale. The Chief Minister is actively showcasing our invaluable cultural heritage to the entire world.
Dr. Agrawal commended the Chief Minister's dedicated mission to eradicate the menace of drugs from society. On his birthday, the Chief Minister invited saints and mahatmas to his residence, urging their cooperation in this noble endeavor.
CM Manohar Lal is the first Chief Minister who prioritize Society over Politics – Tarun Bhandari
Mr. Tarun Bhandari, Publicity Advisor in the Department of Information, Public Relations, Language, and Culture, expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal and said that said that no Chief Minister had ever conceived such a program. He praised Sh Manohar Lal as the first Chief Minister prioritizing societal concerns over politics. The Chief Minister, demonstrating his commitment to social welfare, marked his birthday by inviting sages, saints, and mahatmas to his residence, seeking their collaboration in combatting the menace of drug addiction in society. This exemplifies the Chief Minister's character, focused on the constructive development of society.
On this occasion, Additional Director General of Police, Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (Headquarters) Sh. OP Singh provided comprehensive details regarding the efforts taken by the police in the drug-free Haryana campaign. He emphasized the importance of empowering the youth with skills and the ability to work as a deterrent against falling into drug abuse. By acquiring skills, the youth can lead a happy life without succumbing to the challenges associated with drug dependency. He said that such programs will also be organized at the village level, due to which Haryana, the country and humanity will progress.
During the program, the Chief Minister also administered an oath to the people, urging them to break free from drug addiction and inspire others to avoid the pitfalls of substance abuse. The program also featured a performance by the renowned singer Sh Kanhaiya Mittal, whose soul-stirring bhajan left the audience deeply moved and emotionally engaged.