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Mana, Uttarakhand | April 23
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Mana village on Wednesday ahead of the opening of Badrinath Dham. During his visit, he interacted with pilgrims and local residents and reviewed preparations for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra.
At the same time, he urged everyone to support a safe, clean, and environmentally sustainable pilgrimage, stressing the importance of a plastic-free green yatra.
CM Dhami Promotes Green and Safe Pilgrimage
The Chief Minister highlighted the need for responsible tourism. Therefore, he appealed to pilgrims to maintain cleanliness and protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
He emphasized:
- Avoid plastic usage
- Maintain hygiene during travel
- Support eco-friendly practices
As a result, the government aims to ensure a smooth and sustainable Char Dham Yatra this year.
Grand Welcome by Mana Village Women
Women from Mana village welcomed CM Dhami with traditional folk songs and cultural rituals. They sang a “mangal geet” and presented local products as a gesture of respect.
The Chief Minister appreciated their cultural heritage and thanked them for the warm reception. Moreover, he praised their contribution to preserving Uttarakhand’s traditions.
‘Lakhpati Didis’ Become Symbol of Empowerment
During his visit, CM Dhami met the village’s “Lakhpati Didis,” women who earn over ₹1 lakh annually. He acknowledged their achievements and called them a model of self-reliance.
Mana village has:
- 12 Self-Help Groups
- 82 active women members
- 100% Lakhpati Didi status
Therefore, it has become the first village in Uttarakhand to achieve this milestone.
Local Products Boost Economy
Women in the village produce a wide range of goods, including:
- Woollen garments
- Handicrafts and carpets
- Spices and food items
- Handmade furniture and baskets
In addition, they run homestays, food outlets, and small businesses.
CM Dhami encouraged pilgrims to buy these products. This, in turn, will strengthen the local economy and support rural livelihoods.
Focus on Border Village Development
The Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, border villages are now being recognized as “first villages” instead of “last villages.”
He also highlighted the Vibrant Village Programme, which is improving:
- Infrastructure
- Employment opportunities
- Tourism growth
As a result, villages like Mana are witnessing rapid development and better connectivity.
Review of Badrinath Yatra Preparations
CM Dhami also held a meeting with district officials to review arrangements for devotees. Authorities confirmed that all preparations are complete.
District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar assured:
- Clean and smooth travel routes
- Strong security arrangements
- Digital information systems for pilgrims
Furthermore, officials have ensured that no devotee faces inconvenience during the yatra.
Badrinath Dham Opening Details
The sacred doors of Badrinath Dham will open on April 23 at 6:15 AM. Preparations for the grand ceremony are in full swing.
The temple is being decorated with:
- Special imported flowers
- Vibrant floral arrangements
- Enhanced lighting
Therefore, the temple will offer a divine and visually stunning experience to devotees.
Devotees Express Excitement
Pilgrims from across the country have already reached the region. Many expressed excitement about the darshan of Lord Badrinath.
One devotee said,
“We are hopeful for a peaceful and blessed darshan.”
Another added,
“There is great enthusiasm among devotees visiting from across India.”
Importance of Char Dham Yatra
With the opening of Badrinath Dham, the Char Dham Yatra will officially begin. The pilgrimage holds immense spiritual significance for millions of devotees.
Moreover, it plays a key role in boosting tourism and the local economy of Uttarakhand.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami’s visit to Mana village highlights the government’s commitment to a safe, eco-friendly, and well-managed Char Dham Yatra.
With improved infrastructure, empowered local communities, and strong administrative support, the pilgrimage is set to offer a smooth and spiritually enriching experience this year.
As devotees gather for the opening of Badrinath Dham, the region is witnessing a blend of faith, culture, and development.
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