Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath engaged with boatmen to acknowledge their significant contribution to the Maha Kumbh 2025.
During this interaction at Triveni Complex, he made several significant announcements aimed at their welfare. He assured that the government would extend special benefits to boatmen, beginning with their registration. Following this, financial assistance for boats and an insurance cover of up to Rs 5 lakh would be provided.
Recognising their pivotal role in ensuring the grandeur and success of Maha Kumbh, the chief minister honoured the boatmen with certificates amid ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Ganga Maiya Ki Jai’, and ‘Har Har Gange’ chants.
Drawing a historical parallel, he remarked that just as Nishadraj had helped Lord Ram cross the Ganges in Treta Yuga, today’s boatmen continue to uphold this tradition.
He acknowledged their crucial role in enabling crores of devotees to bathe at Sangam, stating that their contribution deserved recognition and support. He also expressed pride in installing a grand statue of Lord Ram and Nishadraj in Shringverpur.
CM Yogi announced several initiatives to uplift the boatmen and the Nishad community. He emphasised that the double-engine government is committed to the welfare of those engaged in fisheries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. Boats will be provided through a dedicated scheme under the Chief Minister’s Fund, ensuring that every boatman is registered and receives security insurance.
Additionally, under the Kisan Aapda Yojana, boat operators will receive disaster assistance similar to the Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Bima Yojana, offering financial aid of Rs 5 lakh in case of an unfortunate event. Those without health insurance will be linked to the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and granted a Rs 5 lakh health cover.
Moreover, specialised training will enhance their skills and ensure they receive exclusive benefits. These measures reaffirm the government’s commitment to empowering the boatmen and Nishad community, preserving their legacy, and securing their future.
He remarked that in these 45 days, each boatman must have earned lakhs of rupees through their hard work—an unprecedented business scale. However, he emphasised that this was more than just an economic opportunity; it was a continuation of a sacred ancestral tradition.
CM Yogi also lauded the Irrigation department, noting that after many years, Sangam witnessed such a high water level on such a large scale. He praised the officials and staff for their dedication, calling it a historic milestone in making the Maha Kumbh divine and grand.
Following this, the president of the Boatmen Association expressed gratitude to the chief minister, acknowledging his crucial support in creating significant employment opportunities for boatmen. He also submitted a letter outlining key demands.
Meanwhile, Yogi also met UP Roadways drivers and commended their services during the Maha Kumbh.
Recognising their contribution, he announced an additional bonus of Rs 10,000 for drivers operating roadway buses during the event. He highlighted that 3.75 crore passengers were transported to their destinations through the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department’s buses.
For many pilgrims travelling to Maha Kumbh from areas without railway connectivity, the roadway network became their primary lifeline, he noted.
