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Hindustan Times
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Yogi govt to restore temples of historical, religious significance
: The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a comprehensive initiative across the state for the restoration and reconstruction of temples especially those listed in the 'Janpadiya Sanrakshit Mandir' (district-protected temples) category or those that hold religious, mythological or historical importance. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath (PTI) The order, issued by principal secretary (religious affairs) Mukesh Kumar Meshram, establishes a structured approach to identify and renovate temples that are in a dilapidated condition but continue to be of public importance. 'Many temples across the state are in extremely poor condition,' he said. 'The government has been receiving numerous requests from citizens, dignitaries and public representatives for their restoration.' Under the new guidelines, priority will be given to temples that attract a larger number of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists, and those in the most deteriorated state. The initiative specifically targets temples that are protected by the state archaeological department of Uttar Pradesh. A notable aspect of the scheme is the preference given to projects where 50% of the restoration cost can be covered through donations, CSR (corporate social responsibility) funds, or other sources, creating a public-private partnership model for heritage conservation. According to Meshram, a statewide survey to find eligible temples was being conducted. 'Survey has already been completed in around 40 of 75 districts,' he said, adding 'We will also include temples that are more than 100 years old and established on government land but are still not protected by the state archeological department.' 'In U.P, there are 267 protected monuments, including around 150 small and big temples,' director, state archeological department, Renu Dwivedi said. The government has established a robust selection mechanism that involves multiple levels of scrutiny. The directorate of religious affairs will form a technical committee that must include archaeological conservation experts and temple architecture specialists to examine proposals. A high-level committee chaired by the principal secretary of religious affairs will make the final selection of temples for restoration. This committee will include representatives from the culture department, state archaeological directorate, INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), architecture experts from APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University, and retired archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India. The guidelines also provide for exceptional cases, allowing restoration work to proceed with the chief minister's approval under unavoidable circumstances. Officials have been instructed to follow a detailed format for submitting proposals, which requires information about the temple's history, religious significance, current management, ownership details, annual income, and estimated restoration costs. Modern documentation, including photographs, drone video views, and Google Earth maps, will also be required. This initiative comes as part of the state government's broader efforts to promote cultural tourism and preserve historical monuments across Uttar Pradesh, home to numerous ancient temples dating back several centuries.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
From homes to stadiums and parks to malls: Noida bends towards wellness on Yoga Day
Noida: The cities of Noida and Ghaziabad witnessed overwhelming public participation on the 11th International Yoga Day, celebrated on Friday under the theme 'One Earth for One Health'. Residents gathered in large numbers across parks, stadiums, residential societies, offices, and hospitals, embracing yoga for physical and mental well-being. In Noida, the main event was held at Noida Stadium, Sector 21A, led by minister-in-charge Brijesh Singh, principal secretary of tourism, culture and charitable works Mukesh Kumar Meshram, and district magistrate Manish Kumar Verma. Thousands joined a mass yoga session conducted by trained instructors. Brijesh Singh also planted saplings at the venue, promoting environmental awareness. Ghaziabad's central event took place at IMS Dasna, with deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya as the chief guest. Organised by the District Administration and Civil Defense, the event saw huge participation from government officials, residents, and civil society. A live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address was screened at both venues. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Brass Krishna Idols For Prosperity & Protection In Life Luxeartisanship Shop Now Undo "Yoga is not just a physical activity; it is a sadhana that strengthens the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family," he said. District magistrate Verma emphasized the widespread outreach: "Inspired by the Prime Minister and chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Yoga Day was observed across the district—from stadiums to homes. Yoga must become a part of our daily lives for a healthier nation." Residential sectors in Noida, including 28, 35, 46, 55, 62, 105, and 7X, hosted enthusiastic community sessions. In Sector 46, RWA president Vijay Kumar Rana shared, "We had a vibrant turnout. Yoga T-shirts and fruit refreshments added to the spirit." One of the largest gatherings occurred at Shivalik Park, where over 5,000 people participated in a mega session organised by the Vishwa Jain Organisation. Corporate and medical institutions also joined the celebrations. DLF Mall of India, Noida Child PGI, and GIMS hosted sessions for employees and students. At GIMS, director Dr Rakesh Gupta noted the distribution of tablets under the Swami Vivekanand Digishakti Scheme and basic life support training for staff. To complement the yoga activities, Arogya India Wellness Center organized a free health check-up camp at Noida Stadium, reinforcing the day's message of holistic health and wellness. Meanwhile in Delhi, over 2,000 yoga enthusiasts gathered at Kartavya Path, their voices rising in unison with the chant of 'Om'. International Yoga Day 2025 unfolded as a vibrant display of unity and mindfulness, organised by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). The morning began with a live telecast of the Prime Minister's address from Visakhapatnam, which set the tone for the 11th edition of the celebration. In the presence of Union health minister JP Nadda and NDMC vice-chairman, Kuljeet Singh Chahal, the session was led by Acharya Pragya Sagar in collaboration with the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga. Addressing the crowd, Nadda said, "People around the world are doing yoga to stay healthy, and more and more people have started practising yoga in the past ten years." NDMC made seamless arrangements across eight locations, including mobile toilets, healthcare services, and drinking water. Additionally, yoga protocol events were organised at NDMC Old Age Home and Working Women's Hostel, among other venues.
Time of India
13-06-2025
- Time of India
UP govt announces Rs 1L for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims
L Tired of too many ads? go ad free now ucknow: The Uttar Pradesh govt on Friday announced financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for native residents of the state undertaking the sacred pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar. "This support is available to those who are confirmed permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh at the time of their journey," principal secretary of the department of religious affairs Mukesh Kumar Meshram said. The assistance will be available to pilgrims participating through the Government of India's official programme as well as individuals who complete the pilgrimage via private travel agencies or personal arrangements. "Applicants must submit their forms within 90 days of completing the pilgrimage through the department's website ( along with scanned copies of their latest photograph, Aadhaar and PAN cards, domicile certificate, passport, visa, bank account details, proof of completing the journey, and other required documents. Physical submission of applications will not be accepted," he said. The uploaded documents will be verified by the directorate of religious affairs, Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow. Upon successful verification, the grant will be transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account. If any discrepancies or forged documents are found, the application will be rejected, and the applicant will be informed via registered mobile number or email. The grant can be availed only once in a lifetime. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In the event of a pilgrim's death, the spouse or dependent may apply for the grant, subject to review. All assistance will be disbursed from the budget allocation of the financial year in which the application is made. Applications will not be considered in the next financial year. The official further said any misuse or concealment of facts to obtain the grant will result in recovery of the funds and legal action. Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh govt on Friday announced financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for native residents of the state undertaking the sacred pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar. "This support is available to those who are confirmed permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh at the time of their journey," principal secretary of the department of religious affairs Mukesh Kumar Meshram said. The assistance will be available to pilgrims participating through the Government of India's official Kailash Mansarovar Yatra programme as well as individuals who complete the pilgrimage via private travel agencies or personal arrangements. "Applicants must submit their forms within 90 days of completing the pilgrimage through the department's website ( along with scanned copies of their latest photograph, Aadhaar and PAN cards, domicile certificate, passport, visa, bank account details, proof of completing the journey, and other required documents. Physical submission of applications will not be accepted," he said. The uploaded documents will be verified by the directorate of religious affairs, Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow. Upon successful verification, the grant will be transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account. If any discrepancies or forged documents are found, the application will be rejected, and the applicant will be informed via registered mobile number or email. The grant can be availed only once in a lifetime. In the event of a pilgrim's death, the spouse or dependent may apply for the grant, subject to review. All assistance will be disbursed from the budget allocation of the financial year in which the application is made. Applications will not be considered in the next financial year. The official further said any misuse or concealment of facts to obtain the grant will result in recovery of the funds and legal action.
Hindustan Times
13-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
UP govt announces ₹1 lakh assistance for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial assistance of ₹1 lakh for the natives of the state undertaking the sacred pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar. This support is available to those who are confirmed permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh at the time of their journey. Principal secretary, Department of Religious Affairs, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, shared the information on Friday. The assistance will not be confined to pilgrims participating through the Government of India's official Kailash Mansarovar Yatra programme. Infact, even individuals who complete the pilgrimage via private travel agencies or personal arrangements will also be eligible. Applicants must submit their forms within 90 days of completing the pilgrimage through the department's website along with scanned copies of their latest photograph, Aadhaar card, PAN card, domicile certificate, passport, visa, bank account details, proof of completing the journey, and other required documents. Physical submission of applications will not be accepted. The uploaded documents will be verified by the Directorate of Religious Affairs, Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow. Upon successful verification, the grant will be transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account. If any discrepancies or forged documents are found, the application will be rejected, and the applicant will be informed via registered mobile number or email. The grant can be availed only once in a lifetime. In the event of a pilgrim's death, the spouse or dependent may apply for the grant, subject to review. All assistance will be disbursed from the budget allocation of the financial year in which the application is made. Applications will not be considered in the next financial year. The principal secretary further stated that any misuse or concealment of facts to obtain the grant will result in recovery of the funds and legal action as per the rules.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
‘Create visible changes to boost tourism in 2 months'
Varanasi: Secretary of the ministry of tourism, govt of India, V Vidyavathi, has given two months time to the officials to create visible changes in Varanasi offering a unique tourism experience. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The secretary held a meeting at the Commissioner's auditorium on Friday to discuss the ways to develop Varanasi as a world-class tourist destination and promote local economic growth while preserving the city's cultural, religious, and historical importance. She said that the initial changes should focus on 16 to 20 key locations, including major temples, connectivity points, ghats, and Sarnath and stressed that the changes should be sustainable and long-term. The meeting discussed infrastructure development, including beautification and cleaning of ghats, improved roads, electricity, and water supply, and transportation facilities. The secretary said that spiritual tourism can be promoted by developing major temples and other religious sites of the city while promoting local trades and crafts including Banarasi sarees and wooden toys can boost tourism. She also stressed on training and improved facilities for local artists, craftsmen, and guides. She also mentioned the need to promote cultural events, fairs, and festivals to showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Involving local people in tourism-related businesses can strengthen the local economy. Promoting Varanasi through online platforms can attract more tourists, she said. The secretary directed the development authority and municipal corporation to run continuous campaigns for beautification by removing hoardings, flexes, and organising mesh of cable wires spread across the city. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Instructions were also given to install signage to provide information to tourists and promoting the city through online platforms. Principal secretary of tourism Mukesh Kumar Meshram issued directives for promotion of yoga centres, wellness centres, naturopathy, and Ayurveda in Kashi, assuring financial assistance from the govt. He suggested connecting tourists visiting Kashi with eco-tourism sites in the neighbouring district of Chandauli, tourist spots in the Vindhya region, the Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, Chunar Fort which is one of India's oldest forts, and ancient fossil parks in Sonbhadra district to enhance their stay duration in Kashi. Earlier, divisional commissioner S Rajalingam presented key information regarding the meeting, discussing all possible efforts to develop Kashi as a global tourist destination. District magistrate Satyendra Kumar suggested recording the ancient significance of the ghats in digital audio files to provide complete information to tourists during boat rides and emphasised standardising food outlets to maintain hygiene. He also proposed creating cultural evenings. The meeting was attended by municipal commissioner Akshat Verma,CDO Himanshu Nagpal, station director Arpit Gupta, DFO Varanasi Swati Singh, CEO Kashi Vishwanath Temple Vishwabhushan Mishra, secretary development authority Ved Prakash Mishra, and officials from the Public Works, Smart City, Culture, Archaeology, and Tourism departments at both the Central and the state levels.
