Yogi Adityanath Highlights Growth of Religious Tourism and Economic Progress in Uttar Pradesh

By A Staff Reporter

PRAYAGRAJ: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday celebrated the significant growth in religious tourism and economic development in the state, specifically highlighting the rise in the number of devotees visiting holy sites like Prayagraj, Kashi, and Ayodhya.

“Prayagraj, Kashi, and Ayodhya have shown India’s potential. Our economics are better than those who oppose the Maha Kumbh,” Adityanath remarked, citing the global recognition of India’s spiritual and economic strength. He also pointed out the increasing number of devotees who have flocked to these sacred destinations, noting that over 53 crore devotees have taken a holy dip at the ongoing Kumbh.

Comparing the past with the present, Adityanath recalled that in 2016-17, when there was no BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, only 2.35 lakh devotees visited Ayodhya. In 2024, however, the number had risen to over 14-15 crore. “This reflects the respect for faith and the growing faith tourism sector,” he said.

In addition to the growth of religious tourism, Adityanath stressed the economic progress in the state, with a shift towards local products. “For the first time under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the faith of the country got respect,” Adityanath asserted, adding that festivals now see the gifting of One District One Product (ODOP) items, rather than Chinese goods.