PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Uttarkashi
In a major decision meant to boost local economy through enhancing religious tourism, the Uttarkashi Municipal Council passed a unanimous resolution recently declaring the entire area of the town a ‘Dharma Nagari’. This resolution is an important and far-reaching step toward preserving and strengthening the town’s religious, cultural and historical identity, civic body officials said.
This important proposal was presented at the board meeting by councillor American Puri. The proposal had been discussed threadbare by the councillors, including the chairman of the municipality, the officers said, adding that the town’s religious traditions, cultural heritage, Ganga ghats, temples, and Uttarkashi’s historical identity had figured prominently. The board subsequently approved the proposal unanimously.
The civic body officers further said that after the proposal had been passed, the necessary paperwork and correspondence would soon be initiated at the government/ administration level so that further legal and formal procedures could be completed as per the rules.
Hailing the initiative, councillor Puri said that the designation of Dharma Nagari would strengthen Uttarkashi’s unique religious and cultural identity at the national level. “It will also promote religious tourism, enhance the city’s prestige and help preserve cultural consciousness for future generations,” he added.
The locals, including social activists, traders and members of Hindu organisations, are happy, too, over the initiative.
They say in unison that Uttarkashi is not just a town but a major centre of religious faith, spiritual practice and culture. “Granting the status of Dharma Nagari will further strengthen the town’s national identity and promote religious tourism, which will also benefit the local economy,” said a local.
