Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun / Gairsain, 10 Mar: State Tourism, Religious Affairs, Culture, Public Works, Irrigation, Panchayati Raj, Rural Construction, and Watershed Development Minister Satpal Maharaj informed the House on the second day of the first session of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly (2026) at Bhararisain that preparations for the famous Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, often referred to as the Himalayan Kumbh, are being carried out at various levels. The yatra is organised once every 12 years.
Responding to a starred question raised by MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola, the minister stated that extensive preparations are underway for the pilgrimage.
The Religious Affairs and Culture Minister informed the House that, to ensure the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is conducted smoothly and in an organised manner, the Chief Development Officer of Chamoli district has been appointed as the Yatra Officer. The District Magistrate of Chamoli has also appointed the Divisional Forest Officer of Badrinath Forest Division in Gopeshwar, along with the Sub-Divisional Magistrates of Chamoli, Karnaprayag, and Tharali, as Zonal Magistrates. In addition, officials have been appointed for each halt along the pilgrimage route.
Satpal Maharaj further informed the House that a total amount of Rs 109.65 crore has so far been approved by various departments for 48 different works related to the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, and the departments are carrying out the works at their respective levels.
Additionally, through a letter dated October 19, 2025, the Tourism Department, Government of Uttarakhand released Rs 20 crore to the District Magistrate of Chamoli for the prompt execution of various small but essential works related to the preparations for the pilgrimage. The funds are being utilised to improve facilities for devotees and to strengthen arrangements along the Aastha Path and at various halting points of the yatra.
