Prime Minister Narendra Modi today via virtual platform dedicated to the nation the Promenade created at Shree Somnathji temple under PRASHAD Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism. Modi also inaugurated the ‘Exhibition Gallery’ created by the Government of Gujarat in the Tourism Facilitation Centre constructed under the completed project “Development of Pilgrimage Amenities” under PRASHAD Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the recently reconstructed temple precinct of Juna Somnath recently completed by Shree Somnath Trust with a total outlay of Rs 3.5 crore. Key interventions created include Ramp for Universal Accessibility, Sitting Arrangement and Courtyard, 15 Shops, 2 Halls and Lift Shaft.
On this occasion, Modi also laid the foundation stone of Shree Parvatimata Temple with a total proposed outlay of Rs 30 crore.
This auspicious event was joined by. K. Advani, Veteran Leader and Trustee Shree Somnath Trust; Amit Shah, Union Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation; Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State of Tourism and Ports, Shipping & Waterways; Vijay Rupani, Chief Minister, Gujarat; Nitinbhai Patel, Dy. Chief Minister, Gujarat; Jawahar Chawda, Minister of Tourism, Government of Gujarat and Vasan Ahir, Minister of State of Tourism, Government of Gujarat; Rajeshbhai Chudasama, Member of Parliament, Junagadh and P.K. Laheri, Trustee – Secretary, Shree Somnath Trust.
The event was conducted by Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism. During the event, a film was presented showcasing the various developmental infrastructure projects that are undertaken in Somnath.
Tourism, Travel and Hospitality has been identified as a key sector of the 5 T’s identified by the Prime Minister. While addressing the gathering virtually, Modi emphasised on the importance of tourism in the country. How our ancestors have understood the importance and role of tourism centuries ago and developed many places which were connected with our belief. He further mentioned about the ‘Development of Iconic Tourist Destinations’ Scheme of Ministry of Tourism. 19 destinations have been identified across the nation and the development of this sites will boost the tourism industry. Prime Minister spoke about the Sabka Sath Sabka Prayas and Sabka Vikas. Tourism is connecting the common man of the country. Prime Minister amplified on the idea of adjoining tourism, pilgrimage and modernity to give way to an effective development. He further highlighted the importance of such developments in helping the upcoming generations in having a better understanding of ancient culture.
Modi talked about the consistent efforts of great leader of our country Dr. Rajendra Prasad & Sardar Vallabhai Patel for realizing the dream of developing the Somnath Temple. The idea of #Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat that connect the entire nation.
He expressed his satisfaction on the significant improvement in the ranking of India in the Tourism and Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) of 2019 by World Economic Forum wherein India ranked at 34th Position owing to its advancement of tourism. Prime Minister also spoke about the development of Ramayana Circuit under Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism which relates to the life of Lord Ram. Similarly, he mentioned about Buddha Circuit which provides facilities to the devotees visiting from across the world. The importance of Spiritual Tourism in the country was talked.
Prime Minister mentioned about 40 Projects of PRASHAD wherein 15 have been totally completed. Further he emphasised on the inclusion of tourism guides as part of the tourism infrastructure to facilitate better understanding of destination to the tourists and generates employment. Granting of E-visa in various categories and reduction in the visa fees have augmented the tourism growth in the country.
The proposed Parvatimata Mandir in Shree Somnath Temple premises would be a grand structure with an area of 1650 Met2 and 71 Ft. hight using Aras Stones from Ambaji, Banaskantha. There would be 44 poles, as were there in the original temple, which would be created using Marble with an artistic way. The core Garbh Grih of the Madir contais the land of 380 Met2, and Dance Mandap spreading 1250 Met2.
New projects under pipeline for the State of Gujarat under PRASHAD Scheme are: Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Maa Ambaji Temple, Banaskantha and Development of Public Plaza / Entry Plaza at Somnath.
