Nalagarh: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri declared that 100 new bus routes proposed to be launched from various locations in Himachal to outside religious destinations in India under the Darshan Seva Yojana will go a long way in promoting religious tourism in the state.
Under this initiative, new bus services connecting places like Nalagarh to Ayodhya, Nalagarh to Vrindavan, and Baddi to Amritsar will be initiated.
A cultural evening was inaugurated by Mukesh Agnihotri at the Lohri fair in Kirpalpur, a village in the Nalagarh sub-division of Solan district.
Addressing the gathered crowd, he highlighted the pivotal role the Darshan Seva Yojana plays in boosting religious tourism, aiming to bring people face-to-face with the rich cultural and religious heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
Agnihotri announced that nearly 100 new bus routes would be introduced, connecting religious sites within Himachal Pradesh and those in other states.
The routes will facilitate better transportation for pilgrims and tourists. Notable routes mentioned included Nalagarh to Ayodhya, Nalagarh to Vrindavan, and Baddi to Amritsar.
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage, stating that our culture is our identity.
He affirmed that the state government is committed to ensuring the protection of this heritage and educating the younger generation about their culture and traditions.
Commenting on the Lohri fair, Agnihotri its historical significance, dating back almost 300 years.
He urged everyone to cherish and preserve their cultural heritage.
He also extended his best wishes for the success of the fair, highlighting the historical importance of fairs and festivals as crucial elements of entertainment and community bonding in ancient times.
Touching upon various developmental initiatives, Agnihotri mentioned that the state government is focused on balanced and inclusive development.
He informed the audience about relief measures for truck operators, such as waiving penalties and interest on goods tax.
Highlighting the government's efforts to increase revenue, Agnihotri mentioned that the Transport Department alone has benefited from new schemes, contributing around 800 crore rupees to the state's income.
He emphasized the importance of providing water to every field and ensuring access to safe drinking water, expressing the government's commitment to these goals.
Agnihotri concluded by pledging financial support of 51,000 rupees to the fair committee and assured efforts to elevate the fair to the district level.
The event saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Chief Secretary Ram Kumar, MLA K.L. Thakur, and Pradesh Congress Committee Secretary Hardeep Singh Bawa, among others.
