Introduction
January 22nd, 2024, marked a pivotal day for Hindus worldwide as they welcomed the return of Maryada Purushottam to his home, making it one of the most significant days of the 21st century. While the history of the Ram Mandir remains controversial, its completion promises prosperity not only for Uttar Pradesh but for India at large. Let's delve into how this monumental structure will benefit Uttar Pradesh and to what extent.
Tourism Surge: Ram Mandir's Impact
Uttar Pradesh welcomed 32 crore domestic tourists, with 2.21 crore visiting Ayodhya alone, spending approximately INR 2.2 lakh crore. With the Ram Mandir's establishment, these numbers are expected to soar to INR 4 lakh crore (1). Around 50 luxury hotels are set to open in Ayodhya, promising increased investment and employment.
Ayodhya's Renaissance: Infrastructure Boost
The government allocated Rs. 85,000 crore for Ayodhya's development by 2031 (2), focusing on accommodating the surge in daily footfall. Significant upgrades include a new airport, operational at a cost of INR 1400 crore, capable of serving 10 lakh passengers, with plans for expansion. Railway capacity has doubled, and plans for a greenfield township and better road connectivity are underway.
Temple Economy Thrives: Ram Mandir's Business Boom
The Ram Mandir's consecration has catalysed an estimated nationwide business turnover of Rs. 1.25 lakh crore, with Uttar Pradesh experiencing a surge of around Rs. 40 lakh crore (3). Companies like Vodafone, Idea, Havells, and Mirasys played crucial roles in connectivity, lighting, and security. Giants like Larsen & Toubro, Reliance Jio, and Tata Consulting Engineers contributed significantly to the project's development.
Conclusion
Despite the controversies surrounding its inception, the Ram Mandir stands poised to significantly benefit India's economy for years to come. While criticisms may persist regarding its foundation, it's crucial to acknowledge the economic growth it promises and the livelihoods it sustains. As the temple becomes a beacon of faith and a hub of cultural significance, its impact on both the local and national economies cannot be understated. Ram Mandir marks a new era of New India's vision of growth and success, as summed up perfectly by our honourable PM Narendra Modi:
“यह मंदिर मात्र एक देव मंदिर नहीं है ये भारत की दृष्टि का
भारत के दर्शन का भारत की राष्ट्रीय चेतना का मंदिर है “
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