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Himachal Government to Propose Inclusion of Manimahesh Yatra Under PRASAD Scheme
CM expresses grief over the death of three pilgrims from Punjab; urges strict adherence to safety advisories
Shimla, Updated At : 09:58 AM Aug 26, 2025 IST
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today announced that the state government will send a proposal to the Centre seeking inclusion of the Manimahesh Yatra under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme.
Responding to a question by Bharmour BJP MLA Janak Raj during Zero Hour under Rule 62, the Chief Minister said, “The Tourism Department has received a proposal from its regional office in Chamba regarding the inclusion of Manimahesh Yatra under PRASAD. After due review, the proposal will be forwarded to the Union Government.”
Janak Raj stressed that the yatra, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most significant religious pilgrimages, draws devotees from across northern India and should be supported under PRASAD. “Beyond being a spiritual and cultural event, the yatra has also grown into a major economic activity. However, the route lacks basic facilities,” he said. The MLA added that he had met the Union Culture Minister last month, urging the Centre to extend support through PRASAD. “The Minister assured me that if the state government submits a formal proposal, the Centre could consider including it in the next budget,” Raj informed.
Expressing grief over the recent death of three pilgrims from Punjab during the yatra in Chamba district, CM Sukhu conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. He said the state government would provide all possible assistance in this hour of grief, and prayed for peace to the departed souls.
The Chief Minister further informed that the yatra has been temporarily suspended due to inclement weather conditions. He appealed to pilgrims and the public to strictly follow the advisories issued by the district administration from time to time to avoid loss of life and property.
