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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Ahilyabai Holkar strengthened roots of Sanatan Dharma: Yogi Adityanath
Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday described the life and contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar as a timeless source of inspiration for Indian society, noting that she strengthened the roots of Sanatan Dharma and laid the foundation of India's cultural legacy through her broader national vision, which continues to shape New India even today. He made the remarks at two events held under the 'Punyashlok' Pujya Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Tricentenary Year Memorial Campaign-2025' at Ram Manohar Lohia Law University and GPO Park in Lucknow. Speaking at the law university, Adityanath said, 'The remarkable contributions of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar to Sanatan Dharma are a source of inspiration for all. This very inspiration motivates us to ensure that the foundation of good governance becomes a heritage.' He added that PM Narendra Modi's vision of combining heritage with development reflects the same path once laid by Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar. At a time when her kingdom was much smaller compared to modern India, she still went beyond her borders to restore temples destroyed by invaders, thereby strengthening the roots of Sanatan Dharma, he said. He further said that the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme being run in Uttar Pradesh is a true tribute to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, as it helps revive the lives of traditional artisans and craftsmen. He also mentioned that new PAC battalions have been formed in the name of women warriors like Maharani Laxmibai, Uda Devi, Jhalkari Bai, and Avanti Bai. He mentioned that reserving 20% seats for women in the Uttar Pradesh Police Force is part of the same mission started by Prime Minister Modi to empower women. The CM further said that Maharaja Suheldev, who exposed and defeated the foreign invader Salar Masud nearly a thousand years ago, was largely forgotten by Indian society. Salar Masud was the nephew of Mahmud of Ghazni and had repeatedly looted and destroyed the Somnath temple. He was also the first to attack the Shri Ram Janambhoomi. The chief minister explained that in 1033 AD, when Salar Masud returned to India with the aim of destroying temples, Maharaja Suheldev led a strong resistance and defeated him so thoroughly that no foreign invader dared to enter India for the next 150 years. 'Power-hungry individuals who submitted to foreign rule erased Suheldev's legacy from the pages of history,' he remarked. A symbol of ideal Ram Rajya: BJP MLA BJP's Sarojini Nagar MLA Dr Rajeshwar Singh welcomed the dignitaries at the event held at the law university in his assembly constituency. Besides CM Yogi, those who attended the event included BJP national general secretary (organisation) B.L. Santosh, BJP state president Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary, and deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. Dr Rajeshwar Singh expressed pride in hosting the event in his constituency, calling Devi Ahilyabai Holkar a 'symbol of ideal Ram Rajya.' He noted her extraordinary legacy—restoration of 8,527 temples across India, establishment of 39 orphanages, and her inspirational governance from 1767 to 1795. 'Ahilyabai Holkar transcended royalty to become 'Devi Ahilya' – a beacon of dignity, devotion, and courage. The overwhelming presence of women today has made this event truly divine,' he said. Meanwhile, at GPO Park, the chief minister inaugurated an exhibition which, he said, will educate the people of Uttar Pradesh about Ahilyabai Holkar's significant contributions. He emphasised that the past is not merely meant to be read about but to be reflected upon and learned from. He stated that it is our responsibility to correct historical missteps and embrace the glorious chapters of our history as ideals. Adityanath further stated that, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is currently experiencing a renaissance of its cultural heritage and ancient values. He said, 'From Kashi Vishwanath Dham to Kedarnath, from Muktinath in Nepal to Somnath, and from Mahakal to Rameswaram — efforts to reconnect with India's spiritual and cultural heritage are evident under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.' Before his address, the chief minister visited the exhibition, which showcased various themes from Ahilyabai Holkar's era, including her contributions to agriculture, women's empowerment, business, justice, administration, compassion, prosperity, and equality. She was invincible: BL Santosh BJP national general secretary (Organisation) B.L. Santosh on Thursday said Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar was truly invincible—she never lost a single battle. 'Her contributions to the revival of India's religious and cultural heritage are monumental. The very existence of the grand temples in Kashi, especially in their current form, is largely due to her efforts. Had it not been for Ahilyabai Holkar, we might not have witnessed this architectural and spiritual grandeur in Kashi,' Santosh said. He lamented that mainstream education has long overlooked such towering figures. 'It is unfortunate that we were not taught about Ahilyabai Holkar in schools and colleges. For years, leaders like Shivaji, Maharana Pratap, and Ahilyabai were excluded from our academic curriculum. Yet, 300 years ago—long before the term 'women empowerment' gained popularity—Ahilyabai had already set a remarkable example,' Santosh stated.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Sant Kabir Nagar's Tameshwarnath Dham to become grand pilgrimage
1 2 Lucknow: Promising to develop the Tameshwarnath Dham on the scale of Ayodhya and Varanasi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that any development plan for it would be accorded swift approval by the govt. In Sant Kabir Nagar to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for 528 projects worth Rs 1,515 crore, the CM unveiled his plans for developing Baba Tameshwarnath Dham into a grand pilgrimage site. "A beautiful corridor will connect the dham, ensuring safe and convenient visit for devotees. We will ensure that nobody is displaced in the process, and the interests of local businesses and communities will be considered, in addition to their proper rehabilitation," the CM said. He added that the transformation of pilgrimage sites across UP was a testament to the strength of the double-engine govt, giving the examples of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi and Maa Vindhyavasini Dham. "Today, Varanasi can accommodate 50,000 devotees at once, while Maa Vindhyavasini Dham can host 10,000 devotees simultaneously. Baba Tameshwarnath Dham will be given a similar grand form. The administration and local community should work responsibly in this direction, and I assure you that any development plan for the dham will be swiftly approved. This step will strengthen the identity of Sanatan dharma," he said. Highlighting his govt's commitment to development, the CM said that the development projects he launched on Monday were aimed at boosting various sectors and projects like tourism, roads, drinking water, health, education, sports and municipal buildings. He said that these projects would give Sant Kabir Nagar a new identity and elevate the living standards of local residents. During the event, the CM also visited an exhibition based on the famous brass industry of Bakhira and described it as a significant employment source for local artisans. He said that Bakhira's brass utensils gained new recognition under the ODOP scheme, which has provided employment opportunities to 1.65 crore people. He also distributed certificates, keys, laptops and tablets to beneficiaries of various schemes. "Our govt is committed to delivering schemes across all 75 districts without discrimination," the CM said. He added that over the past eight years, 8 lakh people were given govt jobs and recently, more than 60,000 youth were employed in UP police. He also presented his vision of a New India and a New UP, saying that against the bleak vision of the country 10 years back when nobody would have believed that India would have world-class highways, expressways, Metros, waterways and rapid rail facilities, today, the Purvanchal Expressway's link expressway connects Sant Kabir Nagar with Ambedkar Nagar and Gorakhpur, and the country's first waterway and rapid rail are operational in UP.
India Gazette
5 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
UP CM Yogi inaugurates, lays foundation stone for 528 development projects worth Rs 1,515 crore in Sant Kabir Nagar
Sant Kabir Nagar (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 26 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 528 development projects worth Rs 1,515 crore in Sant Kabir Nagar on Monday. In his address on the occasion, the Chief Minister highlighted the government's commitment to rejuvenating Baba Tameshwarnath Dham and transforming it into a grand pilgrimage site to reinforce the region's cultural and spiritual heritage. According to an official release, CM Adityanath emphasised that Baba Tameshwarnath Dham will be developed with a well-planned and organised structure, following the models of Ayodhya and Kashi. He announced the construction of a dedicated corridor to ensure safe, seamless, and convenient darshan for devotees. Reassuring residents, he affirmed that no one will be displaced. Instead, a systematic rehabilitation plan will be implemented, with the interests of local traders and Gosains fully safeguarded. CM Yogi attributed the progress to Baba Tameshwarnath's blessings and cited successful models such as the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi, and Maa Vindhyavasini Dham, all of which have been rejuvenated under the double-engine government model. He noted that Kashi can accommodate up to 50,000 devotees at a time today, while Maa Vindhyavasini Dham can host around 10,000 devotees. A similar scale of development is envisioned for Baba Tameshwarnath Dham. Urging the administration and local stakeholders to take swift and responsible action, the Chief Minister assured that any development plan submitted for the Dham would receive prompt approval. He added that this initiative is not just about infrastructure but also about upholding the identity and values of Sanatan Dharma. 'Baba's blessings will shower prosperity upon the people of Sant Kabir Nagar,' he remarked. Speaking on the inaugurated projects, the Chief Minister said they encompass critical sectors such as tourism, roads, drinking water, healthcare, education, sports, and urban infrastructure. These projects, he said, will enhance the quality of life and provide Sant Kabir Nagar with a renewed identity. CM Yogi also visited an exhibition showcasing Bakhira's renowned brass industry, describing it as a significant source of livelihood for local artisans. He lauded the success of the ODOP (One District, One Product) scheme in giving Bakhira's bronze utensils a distinct identity. He highlighted that over 1.65 crore youth have gained employment through ODOP across the state. Citing the successful organisation of the recent Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, which witnessed over 66 crore devotees, the Chief Minister said it reflects the strength, discipline, and organisational capability of a rising New India. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
6 days ago
- Hindustan Times
UP Rural Tourism Push: 465 village women being trained in local crafts near tourist spots
With an aim to expand rural tourism in Uttar Pradesh, villages near popular tourist destinations are being developed as rural tourism hubs by the UP tourism department under its rural tourism project. As part of this initiative, local stakeholders are being trained in various skills, officials said. Local women and youth in selected villages are being trained in manufacturing and providing tourism-related products and services to help them become self-reliant. Regional tourism officer of Prayagraj, Aparajita Singh, said that ODOP (One District One Product) items and local crafts have been chosen for the initiative. A total of 465 women have been selected from the Prayagraj division, including 185 from the Prayagraj district, she added. These women are being trained in villages like Gadha Katra, Ghoorpur, Shringverpur, and Uparhar. The training includes skills for homestay owners, local boatmen, and tourist guides. Trainers from the Manyavar Kanshi Ram Tourism Management Institute in Lucknow are being engaged for this purpose, she said. Training aligned with local identity The Academy of Management Studies, Lucknow, is the implementing agency providing training in different crafts. Its head, Anand Sagar Tiwari, said that 11 crafts and services have been selected for training across rural areas in Prayagraj. The selected crafts include jute and handbag making, moonj craft, pearl garland making, plaster of Paris statue crafting, cow dung products, amla-based items, and embroidery. Skilled trainers have been deployed in villages for hands-on sessions. Trainer coordinator Vandana Rathore said that priority is being given to crafts that use raw materials readily available locally. Items made from cow dung, temple flowers, moonj, and jute are being promoted. In religious tourism zones, products like Swastikas made from cow dung, bandhanwars, and decorative door hangings are also being developed. While selecting crafts, care is being taken to ensure that products are closely linked to local tourist sites. This approach encourages visiting tourists to purchase these items, generating income and economic activity for the villagers, officials added.
Hindustan Times
23-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
India-US trade pact will be finalised soon: Jitin Prasada
A trade agreement between India and the United States will be finalised soon, Union minister of state for commerce and industry Jitin Prasada said on Friday in a reference to the ongoing discussion between the two nations on tariffs. Prasada was in the state capital to attend a conference on 'Rising UP, 8 years of successful governance' organised by the Indo -American Chamber of Commerce. Deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak, who was also present along with minister of state (Independent charge) for horticulture, agricultural marketing Dinesh Singh, said improvement in law and order has brought about a significant change in the state. For his part, Prasada said Uttar Pradesh is now becoming an infrastructure hub and aims to be the number one state in the country. He stressed that it is everyone's responsibility to make Uttar Pradesh a developed state. He highlighted the state's significant progress in the last eight years, surpassing all benchmarks. He mentioned Operation Sindoor, emphasising that terrorist incidents affect the economy. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the dream of a self-reliant India is being realized despite various challenges, he said. He emphasised that India's 140 crore population is not just a number but a strength, enabling the country to face every situation with confidence. Prasada noted that several countries depend on India, and the country now negotiates on an equal footing with other nations. The government has made significant progress in infrastructure development, including roads, expressways, transportation, and law and order, the Union minister said The BrahMos missiles manufactured in Lucknow will enhance the military's strength, and a tiger reserve is being established in Pilibhit, the minister said. Deputy chief minister said Brajesh Pathak highlighted that the government has provided over eight lakh jobs to youth in the last eight years and that more than two crore youth are engaged in self-employment through the MSME sector. 'Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leader in the MSME sector, with over 96 lakh MSME units. The state's exports have increased from ₹86,000 crore to over ₹2 lakh crore,' Pathak said. 'The One District, One Product (ODOP) initiative has given Uttar Pradesh global recognition of products like Pilibhit's bamboo flutes, Amroha's dholaks and Bhadohi's carpets,' the deputy CM said. Pathak added that eight years ago, Uttar Pradesh was facing significant challenges, including farmer suicides, insecurity for youth and women, and economic instability due to riots and anarchy. The state has 17 airports operating at full capacity, and the government is working on enhancing railway infrastructure. The number of MBBS seats has tripled, and the government has improved education and healthcare infrastructure, said Pathak. Minister of state (independent charge) for horticulture and agricultural marketing Dinesh Singh said food processing units will enhance the value of farmers' produce. The minister urged industrial units to collaborate with farmers by establishing food processing units, which can help in value addition and provide better prices to farmers for their produce. Mukesh Singh, chairman of the UP-State Coordination Committee and Executive Council member, IACC, was convenor of the seminar.. Principal secretary, department of animal husbandry, K Ravindra Naik; secretary, MSME Pranjal Yadav, former DGP OP Singh and former IAS Manoj Singh, among others, also addressed the gathering. Former DGP, poet, others honoured Lifetime achievement awards were given to former DGP OP Singh, lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir, comedian Annu Awasthi, educationist Pyush Singh Chauhan, renowned artist Anil Rastogi, IAS K Ravindra Naik, former IAS Manoj Singh, Dr Mayank Somani, Dr Lokendra Gupta, Prof Shalini Singh and Dr Neelam Vinay.
