Haridwar (Uttarakhand) [India], May 24 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday praised the Kshatriya Kalauta community for their contribution to social service while highlighting the state's ongoing preparations for the Char Dham Yatra and the 2027 Kumbh Mela, urging devotees to prioritise official registration to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.

The CM inaugurated the newly constructed Shri Anand Dharamshala in Haridwar and the Anand Dharamshala Trust.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the Kshatriya Kalauta community has always played a significant role in nation-building through its hard work, courage, and values. He stated that members of the community have made notable contributions in various fields, including agriculture, trade, education, social service, and national security.

The Chief Minister said that brave sons of the community are strengthening the nation's borders and internal security by serving in the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force, and other security forces. Appreciating the efforts of the Shri Anand Dharamshala Trust in promoting religious awareness, preserving culture, and serving humanity, he said that Shri Anand Dharamshala is a living symbol of service, dedication, and philanthropy.

The Chief Minister said that Haridwar is the gateway to India's spiritual consciousness and Sanatan culture, where devotees from across the country and abroad experience faith and spiritual energy in the presence of the holy River Ganga. He added that the construction of the dharamshala is a noble and commendable initiative, which will prove highly beneficial for lakhs of pilgrims during the upcoming Kumbh and Char Dham Yatra.

'Haridwar is the spiritual centre of India. People from all over the world come here believing in Maa Ganga. I would like to thank the Kshatriya Kalota community for constructing the Dharmashala at such a place. I hope that the Dharmashala serve its purpose for the people who come for the Char Dham yatra,' he stated.

He further stated that the state government, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is working towards making the Haridwar Kumbh of 2027 grand, divine, and secure. He said that work is progressing rapidly on the restoration of ghats, road infrastructure, sanitation, traffic management, and other basic facilities to ensure a smooth and safe experience for every devotee.

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's Sanatan culture has gained global recognition. Referring to projects such as the construction of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the redevelopment of Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, and Mahakal Lok.

He said that continuous efforts are also being made in Uttarakhand for the redevelopment and beautification of ancient temples in the Kedarkhand and Manaskhand regions. He added that the state government remains committed to preserving the cultural identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, Sanatan values, and social harmony.

The Chief Minister also said that the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in the state is a historic step towards ensuring equal rights and justice for all citizens. He described it as an important decision aimed at respecting women and establishing a just society.

He further stated that the state government is committed to strengthening law and order and maintaining social harmony. He said that directions have been issued to ensure that religious events are organised only at designated locations so that the general public does not face inconvenience.

Expressing confidence, the Chief Minister said that just as the sacred River Ganga provides faith, peace, and spiritual energy to millions of devotees, Shri Anand Dharamshala too will emerge as an important centre of service, support, and convenience for pilgrims, the needy, and society in the years to come.

Speaking with the media after the event, the CM reflected on the efforts made by the state government to ensure smooth conduct of the Char Dham Yatra.

'The Char Dham Yatra is in full swing, and a large number of devotees are arriving. Our effort is to ensure that all the devotees coming for the Yatra have a smooth and orderly visit, and we are constantly making efforts to ensure that the Yatra is well organised. The number of devotees is a bit high at this time; it is a bit of a challenge for us. Therefore, I would urge everyone to proceed with the Yatra only after completing their registration,' he added. (ANI)