Amritsar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced continued efforts to develop Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, also known as Ram Tirath, into a world-class tourist destination. The state government is spending ₹17.72 crore during the 2026–27 financial year on development and beautification works at the revered site.
Mann made the remarks while attending a state-level celebration in Amritsar marking the Parkash Purab of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. He paid obeisance at the shrine and called for preserving the sage’s spiritual and cultural legacy while spreading his teachings of equality, humanity and righteousness.
What Facilities Are Being Developed at the Shrine?
The ongoing projects include renovation and beautification of the main temple, installation of a new sound system, CCTV cameras for security, and cleaning and improvement works around the sacred sarovar. The government is also undertaking sewage-related work and installing air conditioners in the temple and sarai, with ₹2.60 crore earmarked for these facilities.
The shrine’s façade lighting has also been installed to enhance its appearance after dark. In addition, a panorama depicting Maharishi Valmiki Ji’s life and teachings was dedicated to devotees in 2024 at a reported cost of ₹25 crore.
Mann said the development programme was intended not only to improve infrastructure but also to preserve the sanctity and heritage of the religious site. He added that the government would provide resources for further improvements required to make the shrine more accessible and comfortable for devotees.
Chief Minister Emphasises Equality and Social Harmony
Addressing the gathering, Mann described Maharishi Valmiki Ji as the Adi Kavi and a pioneering figure in Sanskrit literature. He highlighted the enduring influence of the Ramayana, saying its messages of truth, justice, compassion and ethical conduct remain relevant across generations.
The Chief Minister said the sage’s teachings belonged to all humanity and could help build a society based on dignity, equal opportunities and mutual respect. He also referred to the tradition associated with Maharishi Valmiki Ji imparting knowledge to Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Ram.
Mann called upon people to put these values into practice by promoting brotherhood, rejecting discrimination and strengthening communal harmony.
Religious Institutions Should Remain Free From Political Interference
The Chief Minister reiterated his view that religious institutions should be managed by people associated with the respective faiths and by learned religious personalities, rather than being subjected to unnecessary political interference.
He also referred to the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna, under which devotees are facilitated in visiting Maharishi Valmiki Tirath Sthal alongside other prominent religious sites in Amritsar.
Concluding his message, Mann urged people to draw inspiration from Maharishi Valmiki Ji’s philosophy and work towards a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
