Foreign/Indian Media Gathers to Witness Holy Bath of Mauni Amawasya in Mahakumbh

Huge Foreign and Indian Media Gathers at Praygraj to Witness 2nd Holy Bath of “Mauni Amawasya”- Yogi Cabinet Takes Holy Dip and Chairs Meetings

By Prof (Dr) Ratnesh Dwivedi

Ex Vice Chancellor*Awarded Academic*Journalist*Intelligence & Defense of OCATRY at INISEG*NASA Proposal Reviwer*VP-501(c)3 US Army Veteran Organization*Bush Center Member*Country Director for Ind at ESJ-Paris*Board Member with Nobel Laureates & JIMMC -India*Russian Gov Fellow@Ural Federal University 

Jan 22. Praygaraj (Teerth of Teerths) Eastern Uttar Pradesh India

 The stars of the Universe have come in such a line after 144 years that Prayagraj described as “Prayag” in Hindus holy book “Vedas” is witnessing “Mahakumbh” (The largest religious gathering on this Earth) . A “Mahakumbh” is witnessed after 12 Christian years An Ardhkumbh after six years and a Singhasth Kumbh again after 12 years. Now it might be a case that an Ardhakumbh a Mhakumbh and a Singhastha Kumbh may occur not necessarily after six years or twelve years but after less than that. Similarly after “Mahakumbh 2025” in Prayagraj the “Singhastha Kumbh” is occurring in “City of Baba Mahakal” in 2028. It's belived that nearly 60—70 Crore of devotees will visit and take bath on confluence of Ganges Yamuna and symbolic Sarswati by the the time it gets over by February 26 2025 with roughly 18-20 Crores of Sadhus/Vairagis/Saints/Mahtmas/Nagas/Yogis/Yoginis/Sadhvis/Tantriks/Pilgrims/Devotees/Grihasth visiting and taking bath on Mauni Amawasya falling on 29th ^of this month.

On other hands Mahanth Yogi Aditya Nath Government and his administration is putting herculean effort to make “Mahakumbh 2025” a grand success. It's believed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit and take bath on “Triveni” on “Mauni Amawasya” or any other day.

The huge crews of Indian Print/Television and Digital Media and Foreign Media such as BBC/ARD German TV/DW/Associated Press/DPA/AFP/Der Spigel/CNN/Sky News has already positioned them selves in Prayagraj and a brand new Global Media Center with large TV Studio/PCR/MCR/Edit Ways with facilities of Live Broadcast has been erected. The entire 10000 Hectares of land has been declared as “Mahakumbh Nagar” divided in many sectors.

Sri Adi Shankar Viman Mandapam Temple is a key attraction at Mahakumbh representing Indian philosophy & wisdom  

After CM Yogi Adityanath, industrialist Gautam Adani and his family offer prayers at the temple

Temple site witnessed historic dialogue between Adi Shankaracharya and Kumaril Bhatt

Temple showcases Dravidian architecture; CM Yogi visits to see the idol.

The Sri Adi Shankar Viman Mandapam in Prayagraj is witnessing a historic surge in attention, drawing countless devotees and notable figures like Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and industrialist Gautam Adani. Following Adani's recent visit with his family, the temple, a symbol of Indian philosophy and cultural consciousness, has gained national prominence.

Rakesh Shukla, popularly known as Prayagputra, described the Sri Adi Shankar Viman Mandapam as the main center of Indian philosophy and cultural consciousness within the Kumbh area.

On Tuesday, leading industrialist Gautam Adani offered prayers at the temple, where he was welcomed by 51 Vedic Brahmins who recited prayers under the guidance of the revered Swami Kashi Mani at the temple's main gate. Adani also interacted with devotees at the Aarti Sangrah Pagoda, located within the temple complex.

The temple was built by Shankaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati, the 69th Peethadheeshwar of Kanchi Kamakoti, to fulfill the wish of his guru, Chandrashekharendra Saraswati. In 1934, Guru Chandrashekharendra Saraswati performed Chaturmas in Prayag, staying at the ashram in Daraganj. 

Every day, he would walk to Sangam for bathing and noticed an empty space between two peepal trees near the dam. Through his spiritual insight, Guru Chandrashekharendra Saraswati determined that this was the site of a historic conversation between Adi Shankaracharya and Kumaril Bhatt. Inspired by this vision, he wished to build a temple at the location, a desire that was eventually realized by Shankaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati.

Yogi govt approves new Aerospace and Defense Policy to propel UP's development

Uttar Pradesh Aerospace and Defense Unit and Employment Promotion Policy to create 1 lakh jobs for youth

CM Yogi Adityanath chairs Cabinet meeting in Mahakumbh Nagar, approves 10 key proposals

CM Yogi spearheads initiative to establish UP as a leading aerospace and defense hub for national security

Aerospace Policy to boost indigenous capabilities, foster innovation, and enhance global collaboration

Cabinet nod to FDI policy reforms, granting up to 80% land subsidy for foreign firms setting up units

Major reforms introduced in UP Industrial Investment and Employment Promotion Policy by the Yogi government

In a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Prayagraj on Wednesday, the Uttar Pradesh government approved 10 key proposals aimed at accelerating the state's development. Among these, the groundbreaking Aerospace and Defense Unit and Employment Promotion Policy 2024 was introduced to position Uttar Pradesh as a leader in the sector

The policy sets an ambitious target of attracting Rs 50,000 crore in investments, with the potential to generate direct employment for 1 lakh youth across the state. The Cabinet meeting was held at the Triveni Complex in Prayagraj.

The Yogi Cabinet also approved the new FDI Policy to boost setting up of foreign industries in Uttar Pradesh in order to propel industrial and economic growth. Under this policy, the state government will offer up to 80% subsidy on land to the foreign firms investing in the state. Additionally, major reforms have been introduced in the UP Industrial Investment and Employment Promotion Policy to further boost industrial development.

The Uttar Pradesh Aerospace and Defense Unit and Employment Promotion Policy 2024 aims to position Uttar Pradesh as a leading aerospace and defense hub, accelerating indigenous capabilities, fostering innovation, and promoting global collaboration to enhance national security and economic prosperity.

The policy aims to strengthen the aerospace and defense (A&D) sector in Uttar Pradesh by creating a robust, hi-tech, and efficient A&D manufacturing ecosystem within the UP Defense Industrial Corridor (UPDIC). It also seeks to attract startups and investments for the development of state-of-the-art facilities in the sector.

A&D-based common facility centers are planned to enhance the skills and capacities of startups and MSMEs in the UPDIC. The policy further aims to attract large A&D manufacturing projects and DPSUs, while promoting research and innovation, ensuring that Uttar Pradesh becomes a pivotal contributor to India's defense and aerospace landscape.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath aims to drive the growth of companies that align with India's vision of self-reliance in the Aerospace and Defense (A&D) sector. The new policy encourages the establishment of artificial intelligence and software development centers in A&D. It targets an investment of Rs 50,000 crore over the next five years and promises employment opportunities for 1 lakh youth.

The policy offers significant incentives, including front-end subsidies for A&D units, land subsidies, stamp duty exemptions, and capital subsidies. Additionally, the Yogi government will provide benefits like exemptions on transportation charges, with special provisions for women entrepreneurs to encourage their participation in the sector.

The Ministry of Defense has set an ambitious target to double the country's A&D production to $25 billion and exports to $5 billion by 2025-26. By 2047, the A&D manufacturing sector is expected to contribute 25% to the nation's GDP. To achieve these goals, two defense industrial corridors have been established in India—in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu—positioning UP as a key player in this transformative vision.

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166-bed Government Combined Hospital in Balrampur to be transferred for medical education

The Cabinet has approved the transfer of the 166-bed Government Combined Hospital in Balrampur to the Medical Education Department. This move aims to establish the Autonomous State Medical College, Balrampur, by converting the Balrampur satellite center of King George Medical University (KGMU).

The establishment of this medical college is intended to provide specialized healthcare to the public and create medical education opportunities for youth. Additionally, 1,394 academic and non-academic posts have been created in line with MCI/NMC standards to facilitate the conversion and operation of the medical college.

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Subsidy payment to UPSIDA for land allotted to M/s Ashok Leyland Ltd. approved

The Yogi government has approved the subsidy payment to UPSIDA for the land allotted to M/s Ashok Leyland Ltd. under the front-ended land subsidy provision of the Incentive Policy 2023, aimed at encouraging FDI and investments from Fortune 500 companies. The Empowered Committee's recommendation from September 27 regarding this subsidy payment has been accepted.

As per the FDI Policy 2023, 75% of the land cost, amounting to Rs 106.51 crore, is payable to UPSIDA for the land provided to Ashok Leyland. The proposed project will initially establish a facility with a production capacity of 2,500 buses per year, along with a center of excellence. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 186 crore.

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HLEC recommendations approved

The Yogi Cabinet has approved the recommendations of the High-Level Authorized Committee (HLEC), chaired by the Chief Secretary, during its meetings in August and September 2024. Under the Industrial Investment and Employment Promotion Policy 2022, special facilities and concessions have been sanctioned for mega-category industrial units in the state.

As part of this initiative, Rs 250 crore has been approved as a capital subsidy for Triveni Engineering and Industries Ltd. in Moradabad, and Rs 10,749 crore as SGST reimbursement for Gallant Ispat Ltd. in Mirzapur.

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Final bid document for purchase of 25 lakh smartphones gets Cabinet nod

Under the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana, the Yogi government will procure 25 lakh smartphones for free distribution to empower the youth technologically. The Cabinet has granted approval for the final bid document, and the scheme will be applicable for five years.

A budget of Rs 4,000 crore has been allocated for the financial year 2024-25. This innovative initiative aims to provide smartphones to skilled youth enrolled in higher education, technical education, health education, skill development training, and ITI programs, ensuring they become technically empowered and future-ready.

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Tender finalized for running medical colleges in unserved districts

Cabinet has approved selection of successful bidders to operate medical colleges in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with Viability Gap Funding from the Government of India. This initiative targets unserved districts in Uttar Pradesh, including Hathras, Baghpat, and Kasganj, where no medical colleges currently exist in the government or private sector.

Following technical and financial evaluations of tenders received, Rajshree Educational Trust was selected as the lowest bidder (L-1) for Hathras and Kasganj, while Jaipal Singh Sharma Trust was chosen for Baghpat. This step aligns with the state's policy to establish medical colleges in underserved districts through PPP mode, ensuring equitable access to medical education and healthcare facilities.

Big decision on Triveni coast: Ganga Expressway to be connected to Purvanchal Expressway, to reach Kashi

Yogi govt announces 320 km Vindhya Expressway from Prayagraj to Varanasi, Mirzapur, and beyond

100 km long Vindhya-Purvanchal Link expressway to be built from Chandauli to Ghazipur

New bridge to be built between Salori & Hetapatti in Prayagraj, in-principle approval for bridge parallel to Shastri and Yamuna Signature bridges

Together we will realize the resolution of safe and prosperous Uttar Pradesh: CM Yogi 

State cabinet meeting held on Triveni coast on the auspicious occasion of Mahakumbh after 144 years, all ministers present

On the auspicious occasion of Mahakumbh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government has approved major connectivity projects in Uttar Pradesh. In a historic cabinet meeting on the Triveni coast, the government granted in-principle approval for the 320 km long Vindhya Expressway and the 100 km Vindhya-Purvanchal Link Expressway

CM Yogi emphasized that these expressways will drive the region's social and economic development, complementing the state's existing connectivity network across Paschimanchal, Madhyanchal, Purvanchal, and Bundelkhand.

As part of this vision, a new 320 km expressway will be built, linking Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Varanasi, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra. Starting from the Ganga Expressway in Prayagraj and ending at NH 39 in Sonbhadra, it will provide direct connectivity between the Ganga and Vindhya Expressways, while enhancing links to neighboring states like Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

Additionally, the proposal includes the construction of the 100 km Vindhya-Purvanchal Link Expressway, which will connect Chandauli on the Vindhya Expressway to Ghazipur, the final point of the Purvanchal Expressway.

In a significant move for Prayagraj, the Chief Minister announced plans for a new bridge connecting Salori to Hetapatti. Additionally, in-principle approval was given for the construction of a new bridge parallel to the Shastri Bridge and Yamuna Signature Bridge. He also said that these bridges will play a key role in realizing the vision of a Smart Prayagraj.

During the meeting, the entire government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, reaffirmed its commitment to the creation of a 'safe and prosperous Uttar Pradesh.'

The ministers gathered at the holy confluence of the Ganga, Kurmavahini Yamuna, and the underground Saraswati rivers to take decisions aimed at benefiting the poor, youth, farmers, and women of the state.

All Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and Ministers of State were present, along with the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Ministers, at the Triveni Complex on the banks of the Ganga.

Devotees flock to Ayodhya on the first anniversary of Shri Ramlala's enshrinement

'Jai Shri Ram' chants resonate Ramnagari to mark 1st anniversary as per English calendar 

Yogi government directs enhanced cleanliness and security measures for devotees 

Ramnagari witnesses massive influx of devotees amid robust security arrangements 

Maths-temples come alive with activities; 41-day rituals commence at Mani Ram Das Chhawani

Ramnagari witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees on Wednesday, the first anniversary of Shri Ramlala's enshrinement as per English calendar, as thousands braved dense fog and biting cold to offer their prayers and seek blessings.

The sacred chants of "Jai Shri Ram" filled the air, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Treta Yuga. Devotees thronged the Janmbhoomi path till late evening for the darshan of Shri Ram Chandra, while robust security arrangements ensured a smooth and safe spiritual experience for all.

Shri Ramlala was enthroned in the grand Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024. On Wednesday, a massive crowd of devotees gathered to offer prayers. Earlier, astrologers had determined January 11 as the auspicious date for the anniversary, and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirtha Kshetra Trust celebrating the occasion with three days of grand events. During that time as well, lakhs of devotees visited Ayodhya for Ramlala's darshan.

For the January 22 celebration, a significant number of devotees arrived, prompting the Yogi government to instruct robust cleanliness and security arrangements for visitors. The district administration worked diligently to ensure a seamless experience.

At Hanumangarhi, devotees lined up for darshan in queues stretching over a kilometer, with similar crowds at Dashrath Mahal, Kanak Bhawan, and other temples. Meanwhile, at Maniramdas Chhawani, a Rath Yatra was taken out in the morning, marking the beginning of a 41-day ritual. This includes chanting over 1.25 lakh 'Shri Ram Rakshasrot' as part of the religious observance.

A large number of devotees flocked to Ayodhya to have darshan of Shri Ramlala, with many returning to relive the moment they experienced on January 22 last year.

Anticipating the heavy turnout, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirtha Kshetra Trust had made meticulous arrangements. From the early hours of Brahma Muhurta, the area around the Ram Mandir resonated with devotional chants. Hotels and dharamshalas were fully booked in advance by eager pilgrims.

Ramlala's chief priest, Satyendra Das, noted that while the first anniversary was celebrated according to the Hindi calendar on January 11 (Dwadashi), many devotees arrived on January 22 as per the English calendar. Crowds began gathering from early morning.

SSP Rajkaran Nair shared that extensive security arrangements had been implemented, with Ayodhya divided into six zones and 17 sectors for effective management. Gazetted officers were stationed in the zones and CO-level officers in the sectors to ensure safety.

Vijayalakshmi, a devotee from Rajasthan, expressed her joy, saying, “With the blessings of Balaji there and Ramlala here, we had a wonderful darshan.” She added that her group of 17 people entered Ram Mandir while reciting the Hanuman Chalisa. "After 500 years, Ayodhya has regained its glory. Everyone should visit for darshan," she refused.

Two new development regions modeled after SCR to be established for Prayagraj-Chitrakoot and Varanasi 

CM Yogi Adityanath interacts with journalists post-cabinet meeting in Mahakumbh Nagar 

'Masterplan' approved to accelerate development between Chitrakoot and Gorakhpur

Cabinet clears construction of two new link expressways and two major bridges on Ganga and Yamuna 

New link expressway to connect Ganga and Purvanchal Expressway; Varanasi to Sonbhadra link expressway announced

In a historic Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday along the Triveni banks during Mahakumbh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government approved transformative projects to boost development in Uttar Pradesh. These include development of two new regions modeled after the State Capital Region, along with two new expressways and major bridges over the Ganga and Yamuna to improve connectivity and infrastructure.

Addressing the media after the meeting, CM Yogi Adityanath, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak as well as other ministers, shared details of the key decisions.

The Chief Minister highlighted the approval of several projects aimed at strengthening infrastructure and boosting economic development in districts such as Chitrakoot, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Varanasi, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra.

The Chief Minister said that the Cabinet has approved the development of the 'Prayagraj-Chitrakoot Development Region' on the lines of the State Capital Region (SCR). This region, significant from religious, cultural, and tourism perspectives, is expected to generate new employment opportunities and drive growth.

He further stated that the proposal to prioritize the development of the 'Varanasi-Vindhya Development Region' has also been approved. "Special schemes will be formulated to transform this area into a hub for religious tourism, cultural heritage, and economic activities," the Chief Minister noted. These initiatives aim to strengthen infrastructure and elevate economic, social, and cultural development across the state.

Highlighting major connectivity projects, CM Yogi announced the extension of the Ganga Expressway from Prayagraj to Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Varanasi, Chandauli, and Ghazipur. This extended route will connect to the Purvanchal Expressway, enhancing regional connectivity. Additionally, a new link expressway will be developed to connect Varanasi, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra. Both projects will be collectively named the 'Prayagraj-Vindhya-Kashi Expressway,' symbolizing integrated progress across the region.

CM Yogi announced the approval of a proposal to construct a new six-lane bridge parallel to the Signature Bridge over the Yamuna River. Additionally, a four-lane bridge has been approved to connect Salori-Hetapatti-Jhunsi, enhancing connectivity between Prayagraj and Mirzapur, Jaunpur, Varanasi, Azamgarh, and Gorakhpur. The cabinet also approved the proposal to link the Bundelkhand Expressway with the Ganga Expressway and the action plan for connectivity to the Rewa National Highway.

CM Yogi and his Cabinet take the holy dip at Sangam praying for public welfare

Govt sends the message of taking the holy dip in the biggest festival of religion, culture, and faith

Mahakumbh is a symbol of divinity and universality of Indian culture: Chief Minister

CM calls it "a sacred call for public welfare and self-purification beyond religious rituals

Triveni Madhavansom Bharadwaj Cha Vasukim

VandeSakshayavatam Shesham Prayag Tirthanayakam

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his Cabinet took the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Wednesday, praying for global welfare. Highlighting the significance of the ritual, the Chief Minister described the Sangam bath as a profound symbol of Indian culture and Sanatan Dharma, embodied spiritual peace, religious devotion, and social welfare. He said, "Bathing in the sacred confluence is not just a personal act of purification but a collective call for the welfare of all."

He added, "As part of the grand Mahakumbh 2025, millions of devotees are visiting the Sangam to take this holy dip, which is a powerful message of religion, culture, and faith."

The Chief Minister reiterated that the Mahakumbh reflects the divinity and universality of Indian traditions, with the Sangam bath inspiring purity and prosperity through the strength of religion and culture.

The Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers meet, is revered as a spiritual center for salvation and soul purification. Scriptures regard the Sangam bath as a path to liberation from sins and spiritual elevation.

In a solemn sequence, the Chief Minister and his cabinet first performed a traditional puja at the Triveni complex in Arail. They then proceeded to the Sangam by motorboat, completing the ritual with mantra recitations and a havan.

Along with the Chief Minister, both Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya, Brajesh Pathak, Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna, Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Industrial Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta Nandi, Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh , Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Dharampal and Anil Rajbhar, all 21 ministers and rest of the independent charge and state ministers duly took bath and performed puja at Sangam.

Yatra Ganga cha Yamuna, Saraswati cha Punyada

Snaanen tatra tirthe, mokshah syat sukhamatmanah

Where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati converge, the sacred bath at the Triveni Sangam is believed to bring salvation and peace to the soul. With this profound spiritual experience, the entire cabinet of Uttar Pradesh conveyed a powerful message to the world.

The ritual symbolized deep faith and belief and served as an opportunity to inspire and energize the people spiritually. This event reinforced the core values​​of Sanatan Dharma while also promoting peace, prosperity, and dedication in society. Beyond the religious tradition, it conveyed public welfare and world peace.

This marks the second time during the Yogi Adityanath government that the entire cabinet has come together for a holy dip at the Sangam during the Kumbh festival.

In 2019, during the Kumbh held in Teerthraj Prayagraj, the Chief Minister, along with his entire cabinet, took part in the sacred ritual at the Sangam, accompanied by Akhara Parishad President Narendra Giri and other saints.

In addition, the Yogi government previously held a cabinet meeting during the Mahakumbh, inviting all 54 ministers of the Uttar Pradesh government. The meeting occurred at the Triveni Complex in Arail, a venue chosen to ensure the convenience of devotees coming for the holy dip.

 Initially planned for the Mela Authority auditorium, the meeting's location was changed to avoid any inconvenience to the pilgrims due to VIP security concerns.