Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council Uttarakhand
Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council Formed to Enhance Management of Chardham Yatra and Religious Events in Uttarakhand
The Uttarakhand government has established the Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council to improve the management of major religious pilgrimages and fairs, including the Chardham Yatra, Nanda Devi Rajjat Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, and Purnagiri Yatra. This decision, approved by the Uttarakhand Cabinet, aims to address the challenges faced during the 2024 Chardham Yatra due to overwhelming crowds and ensure a smoother experience for pilgrims.
Why Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council formed
The Chardham Yatra, one of the most significant pilgrimage circuits in India, attracts lakhs of devotees annually to the sacred sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. In 2024, the unprecedented influx of pilgrims led to logistical and management issues, prompting the state government to take action.
Previously, the Devasthanam Management Board oversaw the Chardham Yatra, but the newly formed Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council will take on a broader role to streamline operations for multiple religious events.
Objectives of the Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council
- Improved Crowd Management: Addressing the challenges of sudden surges in pilgrim numbers.
- Enhanced Facilities: Ensuring better infrastructure and services for pilgrims.
- Comprehensive Oversight: Managing not only the Chardham Yatra but also other significant events like the Nanda Devi Rajjat Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, and Purnagiri Yatra.
- Systematic Operations: Creating a structured framework for organizing religious fairs and pilgrimages across Uttarakhand.
Impact and Expectations
The formation of the Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council is a significant step toward addressing the logistical challenges faced during major religious events. By replacing the Devasthanam Management Board, the council aims to provide a more robust and efficient framework for managing pilgrimages. The initiative is expected to Reduce overcrowding and related issues.
The establishment of the Dharamsva Pilgrimage Council reflects the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to preserving the sanctity and smooth operation of its religious events. With a focus on better management and enhanced facilities, the council is poised to ensure that pilgrims can undertake their spiritual journeys with ease and reverence.
