PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that the State government is working to establish Uttarakhand as the spiritual capital of the world and committed to protect its cultural and spiritual identity.
He was addressing a Sant Sammelan organized at Hari Seva Ashram in Haridwar on Monday. The CM said that the State government has taken measures such as enactment of a strict anti-conversion law, a Uniform Civil Code and land laws. He added that effective action is also being taken to free government land from encroachments and strengthen the law and order situation in the State.
Dhami said that a Centre for Hindu Studies has been established at Doon University with an aim of connecting the younger generation with Indian culture and traditions. High-level studies and research on Indian philosophy, culture and civilization will be conducted in the centre. The CM said that a Prachya Sodh Sansthan for study of the oriental culture is being established in Haridwar.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is witnessing a new era of cultural renaissance. “Works like construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath corridor, Mahakal Lok and redevelopment of Kedarnath Dham are providing new energy to the spiritual heritage of India,’’ he said.
Dhami averred that the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha is not merely a religious event, but a medium to connect humanity with spiritual consciousness, moral values and the true purpose of life. Describing the Sant Samaj as the bearer of Indian culture and national consciousness, the CM said that the saints and sages have played a significant role in nation-building.
Expressing gratitude to Swami Harichetanand Ji Maharaj, the CM urged the saint community to continue providing guidance and blessings for the bright future of the State and nation.
Former CM Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Vidhan Sabha speaker Ritu Khanduri, cabinet ministers Satpal Maharaj, Pradeep Batra and others attended the programme.
