Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that religion was an inspirational source for good conduct in life as religious stories centred around Lord Ram and Janaki showed the path of truth to people.
Speaking at Janakpuri in Nepal during Ram Janaki Vivah Panchami on Wednesday, Yogi said that the character of Ma Janaki was the focal point of cultural consciousness. “Janakpur Dham was the centre of knowledge in ancient times. Learned people came to Janakpur Dham for discourse and lectures. Lord Buddha and Bhagwan Mahavir also travelled to Janakpur Dham in search of eternal truth,” he said.
Highlighting how the character of Lord Ram tied both India and Nepal, the Chief Minister said that the socio-cultural relations between Ayodhya and Janakpur was steeped in ancient linkages. “Ram Katha ties the people of India and Nepal with a single thread,” he said.
Yogi said that the foundation of relations was deep rooted in our ancient bonds, shared customs and traditions. “My visit reflects the long lasting friendly relations nurtured by the people of both the countries. Because of close bonds and also lingual and cultural relations, people from India feel at home in Nepal. The open borders are the foundation of our strong bonds,” the Chief Minister said.
Speaking on the progress that Nepal has made in recent times, Yogi said that the Himalayan nation was transforming into a new era of socio-economic development based on good governance and inclusive development. “India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is consistently moving ahead towards inclusive development,” he said.
Yogi added: “It is important to increase the level of connectivity in order to enable Nepal to reap the actual benefit of India’s economic progress. Therefore, we have accorded priority to implementing projects linked to connectivity. These are not only important for socio-economic development of Nepal but reflects our committed partnership towards trade, investment and ease of transportation for the people of the two countries,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that economic development could be ensured by encouraging tourism in Janakpur. “In view of this, the linking of Ayodhya and Janakpur through Ram Janaki Marg has been initiated by Uttar Pradesh government,” Yogi said.
The Chief Minister also underlined his government’s commitment in ensuring comprehensive development of Ayodhya and how basic amenities were being provided in the temple town by setting up Ayodhya Municipal Corporation.