Maharashtra: Jyotiba Temple To Undergo Rs 259 Crore Revamp; Fadnavis Says State Government Fully Behind Implementation Of Development Plan

The Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reaffirmed his commitment to the comprehensive development of the Shri Kshetra Jyotiba Temple in Kolhapur on Thursday (5 June), Times of India reported.

The initiative, which has received administrative approval for a budget of Rs 259 crore, aims to enhance religious infrastructure, conserve heritage, and promote environmental sustainability at the revered pilgrimage site.

The development plan is set for completion by 31 March 2027.

Major components include restoration of the Jyotiba and Yamai temples, beautification of foot trails, conservation of the hill’s natural surroundings, construction of new facilities for devotees, and the creation of new gardens and lakes.

The project also features the planting of 10,000 indigenous trees in a dedicated “Dakkhan Kedaranya” on Wadi Ratnagiri hill.

At the inauguration of the tree plantation drive, Fadnavis emphasised the importance of integrating nature with cultural and religious heritage.

"The development plan of the Deccan Raja Shri Jotiba Temple, the ancestral deity of Maharashtra, begins with tree plantation, and the government is fully behind the implementation of the development plan," the CM said.

He assured that necessary amendments and funding would be provided to ensure the project’s timely completion, and proposed the formation of a dedicated authority for effective execution.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasised the significance of aligning ethics, economics, ecology, and the environment for the smooth functioning of society.

He stated that eco-friendly initiatives play a crucial role in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a carbon-neutral nation by 2070.

The Jyotiba Temple development is part of a larger initiative, with over Rs 5,500 crore allocated for the upgrade of major pilgrimage sites across Maharashtra.

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