CM Yogi Adityanath Draws Parallels Between Ram-Nishadraj Bond and BJP-Nishad Party Alliance; Launches Development Projects in Prayagraj

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing a gathering in Prayagraj on the occasion of Nishadraj Jayanti, invoked the legendary friendship between Lord Ram and Nishadraj Guha, drawing a symbolic comparison to the present-day political alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Nishad Party. Emphasizing the enduring relevance of this ancient bond, the Chief Minister remarked that the alliance reflects a continuity of values and mutual respect, echoing the harmony between Ram and his devoted ally Nishadraj Guha.

Marking the celebration of Nishadraj’s birth anniversary, the Chief Minister inaugurated a specially curated exhibition based on narratives surrounding the life and contributions of Nishadraj, particularly focusing on his unwavering support for Lord Ram during his exile. The exhibition, meant to showcase cultural heritage and values, was launched in tandem with the state government’s flagship ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) initiative. This initiative aims to promote local entrepreneurship and boost the visibility of region-specific products and crafts.

Accompanying the Chief Minister at the event were key members of the state Cabinet, including Nand Gopal Gupta and Sanjay Nishad, reflecting the significance of the occasion and the active involvement of the state leadership in cultural and developmental pursuits.

Speaking on the occasion, Adityanath stated, “The exceptional friendship between Lord Ram and Nishadraj is now manifesting itself again in modern times through the alliance between the BJP and the Nishad Party. This alliance is not merely political; it is rooted in shared values, mutual trust, and a common vision for the upliftment of the marginalized sections of society.”

As part of the day’s events, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for as many as 181 development projects, collectively valued at ₹579 crore. These projects span a wide array of sectors, including infrastructure, tourism, public amenities, and cultural revitalization. They are expected to significantly contribute to the growth and modernization of Prayagraj, a city deeply interwoven with India’s spiritual and historical fabric.

In anticipation of the grand ‘Maha Kumbh 2025’ to be hosted in Prayagraj, the Chief Minister also honored individuals who have been actively involved in preparing the city to welcome millions of pilgrims from around the world. Trained local guides, boatmen, and homestay operators were felicitated with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their efforts in enhancing the tourist experience and upholding the city’s reputation as a center of spirituality and hospitality.

In a major push towards rural and fisheries development, the state government disbursed a financial assistance package of ₹20 crore to 1,400 fish farmers under the Mukhyamantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. This initiative is aimed at supporting sustainable aquaculture practices, boosting local economies, and providing livelihood opportunities to those engaged in fisheries.

Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to reviving and preserving the spiritual and cultural legacy of Prayagraj, Adityanath said, “Prayagraj is not just the renamed Allahabad. It is the confluence of timeless traditions, the sacred meeting point of culture, spirituality, and civilization. Unfortunately, previous governments, driven by vote-bank politics, attempted to erase this glorious identity.”

He further emphasized the importance of honoring one’s roots and cultural ancestry, stating, “It is easy to live for oneself. But those who preserve and carry forward the legacy of their ancestors are the ones who achieve true immortality. They become eternal through their service to tradition.”

Reflecting on the recent edition of the Maha Kumbh, the Chief Minister proudly noted that the event had earned global admiration and had set a precedent in terms of scale, management, and spiritual significance. “Such a massive gathering, carried out with unparalleled organization, is not possible in any other faith tradition. Only the devotees of Lord Ram possess the dedication and discipline to organize such an event. This kind of commitment stems from a deep devotion to the nation and its spiritual values. Those lacking such conviction can never manage an event of this grandeur,” he asserted.

Taking a pointed dig at previous regimes, Adityanath accused former state governments of failing to uphold the cultural and historical integrity of Uttar Pradesh. “The identity and sanctity that Prayagraj has today were once under serious threat. Previous governments not only neglected this city but handed over the entire state to mafias and allowed criminals to flourish unchecked in every district,” he said.

He concluded by underlining the achievements of the current ‘double-engine government’ — a term used to describe the alignment between the central and state governments led by the BJP. “Today, our government is working tirelessly to restore the rich heritage and proud legacy of our ancestors. Through developmental projects, cultural initiatives, and people-centric policies, we are bringing back the glory that Uttar Pradesh truly deserves,” he said.

The event in Prayagraj served not only as a celebration of cultural heritage and political unity but also as a showcase of the government’s multi-pronged development agenda — blending tradition with progress in the run-up to Maha Kumbh 2025.