📷 Image Credits: India Today
In a significant move, the newly sworn-in BJP government in Odisha has fulfilled one of its key poll promises by reopening all four gates of the historic Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The decision was made during the government’s first Cabinet meeting, signaling a positive start to the administration’s tenure. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed the government’s commitment to the temple’s development and announced plans for a dedicated fund in the upcoming state budget.
The reopening of all four gates of the Jagannath Temple marks a momentous occasion for devotees who have long awaited this move. Under the previous administration led by former CM Naveen Patnaik, the temple gates were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing inconvenience to pilgrims and devotees. The decision to open the gates has been met with enthusiasm and approval from the public, as it allows for smoother darshan of the Holy Trinity.
Chief Minister Majhi, along with his MLAs and other dignitaries, participated in the ‘Mangala aarti’ at the temple, symbolizing the government’s commitment to religious harmony and cultural preservation. Additionally, the Cabinet has allocated a substantial corpus fund for the conservation and maintenance of the temple, reflecting the government’s holistic approach towards heritage preservation.
Furthermore, the government has introduced several landmark policies in its initial Cabinet meetings, including the fulfillment of promises related to increasing the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy farmers and the implementation of the ‘Samrudhha Krushak policy’ to address agricultural challenges. These policy initiatives aim to support farmers and empower them economically, in line with the government’s vision for inclusive growth and welfare.
In conclusion, the BJP government’s proactive steps at the Jagannath Temple underscore its commitment to governance with a focus on public welfare and cultural heritage. The reopening of the temple gates and the announcement of key policy measures signal a positive trajectory for Odisha’s development under the new administration. As the state embarks on a new chapter, these initiatives set the tone for progressive governance and holistic development in the region.