65 lakh pilgrims visit Ganga Sagar Mela says W.B. govt
The Hindu
Over 6.5 million pilgrims visit Sagar island for holy dip, as West Bengal promotes religious tourism.
About 65 lakh pilgrims from across the country have visited Sagar island to take a holy dip at the confluence of river Ganga and the Bay of Bengal during the Ganga Sagar Mela, West Bengal Minister for Power, Sports and Youth Welfare and Housing said on January 14. Only a day ago on January 13 the Minister had put the number of devotees who had visited the island for the annual pilgrimage to 45 lakh.
The Minister said that the huge rush of pilgrims is because the West Bengal government is promoting ‘religious tourism’ as a priority sector and every religious pilgrimage in the State is witnessing a rise of pilgrims and visitors.
Mr. Biswas said that the annual pilgrimage starts from January 8 and concludes on January 17. The auspicious timing for holy dip for the occasion of Makar Sankranti is from 00.13 hrs on January 15 to 00.13 hrs on January 16.
Elaborate security arrangements with 14,000 police personnel, 1150 close circuit television cameras, 12 drones for the annual Ganga Sagar Mela. The administration has built 45 watch towers and pilgrims are being ferried to Sagar Island through 36 vessels, 100 launches and six barges across 22 jetties, while 300 fog lights have been installed on Muriganga river that separates Sagar Island to the mainland.
So far two persons have died in the Ganga Sagar Mela and six persons have been airlifted by different hospitals In Kolkata. The dead has been identified as Mohan Lal Prajapati (57) a resident of Rajasthan Prahlad Singh (69) a resident of Uttar Pradesh.
For the pilgrims coming from different states the State government has made arrangements from six announcement towers in seven languages. Six Ministers of the West Bengal government have deployed to oversee arrangements of the Ganga Sagar Mela.
The Ministers lauded the arrangements at the Ganga Sagar Mela, describing it one of the best in the country and reiterated the state government’s demand for according ‘national fair’ status for Gangasagar Mela similar to the Kumbh Mela. The projected budget for the Mela this year is Rs 250 crore and according to the State government the Centre is not paying a single penny.
From traditional handicraft items from Manipur to a variety of dress materials from across state by women Self-Help group members are on display at the stalls at the National SARAS mela in Karavali Utsava ground in Mangaluru. The nine-day long mela began on Friday.
India participated as an observer at the Board of Peace meeting, reaffirming its support for a viable Palestinian state.
T.N. Deputy Chief Minister inaugurates CREDAI FAIRPRO 2026, showcasing over 500 real estate projects from 80 developers in Chennai.
Andhra Pradesh prioritizes Guntur Mirchi Yard's development with a new committee focused on quality yields and farmer support.
Navy delegates from 50 countries explore natural dyeing and local crafts at Sankalpa Art Village during the International Fleet Review.
Farmers complained about indiscriminate stone quarrying taking place in Madurai district, particularly at Kallanai in Kalligudi taluk. They urged authorities to take necessary action to stop the indiscriminate quarrying activities and protect the environment
Madras High Court dismisses Ramadoss's petitions to freeze 'mango' symbol, emphasizing resolution through civil court, not writs.
After more-than-two-year wait, the flyover at Goripalayam junction will be commissioned on Saturday. As of now, the main arm of the new flyover, named after freedom fighter Netaji Subash Chandra Bose, will help to decongest vehicular movement from Tamukkam junction till Nelpettai junction on East Veli Street.
PAC criticizes the government for poor execution and financial delays in the ₹4,455 crore SANKALP skill development scheme.
Coimbatore is emerging as a leading hub for Global Capability Centres in Tamil Nadu, driven by strong educational infrastructure and investment.
Peace talks between fishermen from Rameswaram and Karaikal aim to resolve fishing territory disputes and ensure maritime harmony.
Telangana's Food Safety Department inspects 122 establishments in a statewide drive, enforcing compliance on cereal products and safety standards.
The Greater Bengaluru Authority expands to 86 members, enhancing representation with key political figures included.