Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary visited Gaya on September 25 to participate in the Pitru Paksha Mela, a significant event for devotees. He began his visit by offering prayers at the Vishnupad Temple, then inspected the arrangements at Dev Ghat. According to the Bihar Chief Minister’s Office, this visit aimed to evaluate the facilities available to visitors from various parts of the country and abroad.

During his visit, Choudhary prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the state. He also took the opportunity to inaugurate a tent city specifically for devotees attending the Pitru Paksha Mela. The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that visitors receive better services and facilities during their stay.

Choudhary emphasised the importance of providing a positive experience, stating that it is essential for the government to prioritise the comfort of devotees, allowing them to return with fond memories of their visit.

Efforts to Enhance Visitor Experience

The Chief Minister highlighted the tradition of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, which means ‘the guest is God’, emphasising the need to treat every visitor with due respect and honour. He instructed officials to enhance arrangements at ghats, accommodation facilities, drinking water supply, cleanliness, and security to ensure a seamless experience for the attendees.

In his address at the tent city’s inauguration, Choudhary remarked that the Pitru Paksha Mela symbolises faith, respect, and gratitude towards ancestors in Sanatan culture. He also mentioned that many devotees come to Gaya specifically for pind daan and tarpan rituals and assured that the state government is committed to improving their facilities.

To further assist visitors, the government plans to use technology and mobile applications to provide necessary information in various languages, catering to individuals arriving from different states. This initiative aims to better serve the increasing number of devotees attending the event.

Infrastructure and Development Initiatives in Bihar

Choudhary informed that a significant project, the Vishnupad Corridor, is underway with a total expenditure of Rs 3,500 crore slated for development by both the Centre and state governments. Out of this, Rs 2,500 crore is earmarked specifically for the corridor development, marking it as one of the largest initiatives aimed at temple development in Bihar.

Moreover, he spoke about the introduction of an Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) in Bodh Gaya, expected to draw around Rs 20,000 crore in industrial investments starting from October. This initiative is anticipated to create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.

In addition to these projects, efforts are being made on a Rs 1,000 crore initiative to improve irrigation and water availability by connecting the Son river to the Falgu river. This project is aimed at enhancing water resources in Gaya and its surrounding areas.

The Chief Minister also mentioned advancements in air connectivity, stating that Gaya Airport is among Bihar’s major airports. Plans are in place to establish connections with international destinations such as Indonesia, Bangkok, and Gulf countries to enhance tourism and economic activities.

In his remarks about educational initiatives, Choudhary noted the implementation of model schools, online classes, and the ‘Vidyarthi Saathi App’. He highlighted the state government’s goal of creating one crore Lakhpati Didis through Jeevika, with 43 lakh women already having attained this status.

Choudhary urged the residents of Gaya to extend a warm welcome to visitors during the Pitru Paksha Mela, encouraging them to showcase Bihar’s rich culture, traditions, and hospitality. During the event, he also unveiled a special postal cover issued for the occasion and launched several community initiatives.

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