Kolkata, 19 February (H.S.)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday paid her respectful tributes to Yugavatar Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Dev on his birth anniversary through a post on social media platform X. She said that the land of Bengal has been blessed by his advent and that his immortal teachings and ideals of harmony among all religions continue to guide humanity as a beacon of light.

Referring to the eternal message of as many opinions, as many paths, the Chief Minister said that service to humanity is service to God—a teaching she has embraced throughout her life and will continue to serve the people with this inspiration.

In the post, Mamata Banerjee stated that the state government has undertaken extensive work to develop the pilgrimage sites associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa. To transform the Dakshineswar Kali Temple complex into an international religious and tourist destination, the Rani Rashmoni Skywalk, the temple complex's attractive lighting, beautification, renovation, and a new jetty have been constructed. She also mentioned that while serving as Railway Minister, she had decorated the Dakshineswar Railway Station on the lines of the Kali Temple.

The Chief Minister stated that special attention has been paid to the development of Kamarpukur, the birthplace of Sri Ramakrishna, and Jayrambati, the birthplace of Mother Sarada. To this end, the Jayrambati-Kamarpukur Development Board was formed, and financial assistance of ₹10 crore has been provided to the Board so far. More than ₹80 crore has already been spent on infrastructure development at these sacred pilgrimage sites.

He stated that road connectivity has been improved at a cost of approximately ₹25 crore, and tourism infrastructure has been developed at a cost of ₹5.87 crore. Prioritizing healthcare, the Kamarpukur Block Primary Health Center has been upgraded and a dedicated health unit has been established at the rural hospital. A modern bus stand and an eco-tourism park have also been constructed at a cost of approximately ₹2.5 crore for the convenience of travelers and tourists.

In addition, initiatives have been initiated to construct a hostel building at the Kamarpukur Mission and renovate the Mother Temple at Jayrambati. At the request of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, a five-story guest house and a prasad distribution center are being constructed for the convenience of devotees. Additionally, a large open parking zone is being developed, with the government spending approximately ₹5.77 crore.

The Chief Minister also informed that pipelines and tube wells had already been installed to address the drinking water problem at the Ramakrishna Math and Mission complex in Kamarpukur. Now, to further strengthen the system, construction of a new deep tube well and a pump house has been completed.

In her message, Mamata Banerjee stated that the state government is continuously committed to the overall development of these sacred sites associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Mother Sarada, ensuring better facilities for devotees and tourists from India and abroad.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey