In a bustling day for Indian politics, Ayodhya prepares for the first Deepotsav since the consecration of the Ram Temple, PM Modi embarks on a two-day Gujarat visit to commemorate Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) takes a stand against the delays in paddy procurement in Punjab. Each event reflects a pivotal moment in the cultural and political landscape.
Ayodhya’s Historic Deepotsav Post-Temple Consecration
The city of Ayodhya is abuzz with preparations for the eighth Deepotsav, set to break new records with an illuminating display of 28 lakh earthen lamps. This year, the event holds special significance as the first celebration since the consecration of the Ram Temple. Under the watchful eye of Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Police, Prashant Kumar, security measures have been ramped up with the deployment of approximately 10,000 personnel, half of whom will blend into the crowd in plain clothes to ensure smooth proceedings.
Key events will include a “special aarti” on the banks of the Saryu River, graced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and 1,100 dedicated participants. Artistes from countries like Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia will enrich the event with performances, and Uttarakhand’s famed Ram Leela will be showcased to celebrate Ayodhya’s deep cultural essence. Volunteers are set to place eco-friendly lamps around the ghats, crafted specifically to minimize soot, keeping the temple environment clean. The entire event will be broadcast live via Doordarshan and across social media, allowing devotees from across the world to witness this splendid spectacle.
PM Modi in Gujarat for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Celebrations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is marking Rashtriya Ekta Diwas with a two-day visit to Gujarat, honoring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy and laying the foundation for Rs 280 crore worth of development projects. PM Modi will arrive in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, where he will inaugurate initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, accessibility, and sustainable development. On Thursday, he will pay his respects at the Statue of Unity before leading the Ekta Diwas pledge and overseeing a grand parade featuring contingents from multiple states, union territories, and police forces. His visit underscores the government’s continued investment in both unity and regional development, commemorating Patel’s role in uniting India.
AAP’s Protest Over Paddy Procurement Delays
Meanwhile, AAP activists are preparing to “gherao” the BJP office in Punjab, as they voice concerns over the alleged delays in paddy procurement by the BJP-led central government. Punjab minister Aman Arora criticized the Centre’s actions, suggesting they were retaliatory, with delays creating distress for farmers and commission agents. Despite the removal of storage space in state warehouses and the millers’ halt on milling operations, stocks remain uncollected. Arora encouraged widespread participation to highlight the urgency of the issue, pointing out the hardships faced by farmers, laborers, and traders.
As Ayodhya lights up in celebration, PM Modi champions unity in Gujarat, and Punjab’s farmers rally for timely support, today showcases the breadth of India’s political and cultural landscape, where tradition, governance, and grassroots advocacy converge.
