Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], August 7 (HBTV): During his visit to Rajapur in Chitrakoot on the occasion of the 528th birth anniversary of Goswami Tulsidas, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the region's cultural and spiritual heritage. He affirmed that Chitrakoot is poised to emerge as a land of faith, security, and self-reliance.

As part of his visit, the Chief Minister offered prayers at Tulsi Janmkutir and had darshan of the manuscript of the Shri Ramcharitmanas preserved at the Manas Mandir. He also attended the Tulsi Sahitya Sammelan held at Tulsi Resort, where he met with spiritual leaders Sant Murari Bapu and Jagadguru Shri Rambhadracharya.

At the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Ganiwan, CM Yogi unveiled a statue of Goswami Tulsidas and promoted environmental awareness by planting Harishankari saplings. He also explored exhibitions organised by the Agriculture Department and interacted with children at the Parmanand Ashram Paddhati Vidyalaya, distributing chocolates and posing for photographs.

Addressing a public gathering, the Chief Minister reminded people that Lord Shri Ram spent over eleven years in Chitrakoot. He noted that this sacred land has been the karmabhoomi of figures such as Goswami Tulsidas, Maharishi Valmiki, and Nanaji Deshmukh. He detailed government initiatives including the development of the Ram Van Gaman Marg, Bundelkhand Expressway, Defence Corridor, and integrated tourism infrastructure in Chitrakoot.

He announced plans to construct a riverfront along the Yamuna to boost tourism and employment. He also highlighted the rise in crop production, particularly pulses, oilseeds, and maize, assuring continued support for farmers through soil testing and agricultural insurance.

Issuing a strong warning to Pakistan, the Chief Minister said any hostile act against India would be met with a decisive response. He emphasised the strategic importance of the Defence Corridor and said that even regions like Chitrakoot would contribute to strengthening the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities.

CM Yogi further stated that Chitrakoot today is a place free of fear and rich in spiritual energy. He also spoke of ongoing efforts to develop pilgrimage and educational sites such as Gramodaya University, Ashram Paddhati Vidyalaya, Valmiki Ashram, and Kamadgiri. He described Gramodaya University as the foundation of a self-reliant India and urged people to spread Chitrakoot's spiritual and cultural legacy.

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister-in-Charge Manohar Lal Mannu Kori, and senior officials were also present. A statue of Goswami Tulsidas was formally presented to the Chief Minister by representatives of the Deendayal Shodh Sansthan.

(ANI)