ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Dec 27: In a bid to promote one of the largest religious congregations in the world - Kumbh Mela, Minister for Rural Development, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Mahendra Singh on Thursday called upon the people of the state, irrespective of caste, community or religion to visit the Maha Kumbh  slated to be held from January 15 to March 4 at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Singh was in the state to invite Governor and Chief Minister on the direction of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Interacting with press persons, Singh reiterated UP government's commitment 'sabka saath sabka vikas" and clarified that the Kumbh is a "pan-India religious gathering".
According to Singh, massive preparations are underway for the Mela which has been recognised by the UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
He also elaborated upon UP's government initiated facilities such as security management, accommodation, drinking water supply, rejuvenated electric supply including Ganga management projects, etc.
Other new preparations include the establishment of new venues,  special pandal to house about 10,000 pilgrims at various locations,  artificial bridges, upgraded transportation facilities and roadways, etc.
"To ensure its grand success the UP government has prepared a budget of  Rs. 4200 crore which is three times the budget that was spent on the Kumbh Mela held in 2013 at Allahabad," he informed.
Singh  also underscored that Mela is not just a ritual of taking a dip in the river, but a celebration of unity and cultural confluence which also showcases the richness and diversity of the country's rich age-old culture.
" As a host, I request  the people of the Land of Rising Sun to come and witness the grandest religious celebration in the world and take holy bath in the confluence of the sacred rivers to wash away all sins " he appealed.
The ‘Maha Kumbh’ is being celebrated every six years on a rotational basis in the four riverside towns of Haridwar, Allahabad, Nasik, and Ujjain. This year UP government is expecting around 20 crore pilgrims to attend the Kumbh.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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