Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 18 May: Satpal Maharaj, the State Tourism, Religious Affairs and Culture Minister, visited the Kedarnath and Badrinath Temples on Monday to offer prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the country and the state, and to review the arrangements for the Char Dham Yatra.
During his visit, the minister prayed for peace, prosperity, happiness, and progress in the country and Uttarakhand. He also prayed for relief from ongoing global crises and for peace and harmony across humanity.
He inspected the reconstruction and development works underway in the temple premises. Officials of the temple committee welcomed him in a traditional manner. Special prayers were also offered for the smooth conduct of the Char Dham Yatra and the safety of pilgrims.
Addressing the media after the visit, Satpal Maharaj said that this year’s Char Dham Yatra is witnessing record numbers of pilgrims. He stated that the state government is continuously working to ensure the convenience and safety of devotees. He added that the spiritual power of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand spreads positive energy across the world.
The minister announced that pilgrims visiting the Char Dham Yatra have been provided accident insurance coverage worth Rs 10 crore through his organisation, Manav Utthan Sewa Samiti. A cheque of Rs 3,67,995, including the insurance premium, has been handed over through the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee to uiic.co.in.
Under the policy, each shrine has accident insurance coverage of Rs 2.5 crore.
In cases of stampede, natural calamities, or terrorism-related incidents within the temple premises, affected pilgrims will receive compensation of Rs 1 lakh each.
The minister also appealed to pilgrims to consult doctors before beginning the journey; prepare according to their health condition; carry necessary medicines and medical equipment because high-altitude areas may cause oxygen-related health issues; keep identity documents and travel permits with them.
Also, to follow government guidelines and cooperate with local administration to ensure a safe and successful pilgrimage.
His daughters-in-law, Aradhya Rawat and Mohina Rawat, were also present during the visit.
