BARMER: Rajasthan’s Parliamentary Affairs and Law Minister, Jogaram Patel, undertook a one-day visit to Barmer on Saturday, offering formal prayers at the revered Viratra Mata (Vankal Mata) Temple in Chohtan. The minister prayed for the state’s continued peace, prosperity, and well-being, and was warmly welcomed by the temple trust.
Addressing the gathering, Patel reaffirmed that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, the state government is fully committed to realizing the vision of a “Viksit Rajasthan” (Developed Rajasthan) by 2047.
Drawing parallels to national initiatives, the minister noted that Rajasthan’s sacred lands hold a unique attraction for devotees nationwide. He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in developing grand corridors for Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath, and Somnath have infused a renewed spiritual enthusiasm across the country.
Viratra to Emerge as a Major Religious Tourism Hub
In a significant announcement for western Rajasthan, Patel outlined the government’s plan to develop a ‘Thar Cultural Circuit’. This circuit will encompass Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, and Jalore, aiming to elevate the region’s rich heritage, culture, and folk art to a global stage.
Specifically for the Chohtan region, the minister confirmed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a passenger ropeway at Shri Vankal Dham Mahateerth in Viratra is actively progressing. The administration is heavily focused on transforming Viratra into a premier religious tourism destination.
Historic Infrastructure Growth in Chohtan
Reiterating the government’s focus on grassroots development, the Law Minister assured citizens that there will be no shortage of funds for Barmer’s progress. He highlighted key historic developments executed by the current government in the Chohtan assembly constituency, including:
- A newly sanctioned District Hospital.
- Establishment of a local Municipality.
- Construction of high-capacity 220 KV and 132 KV Grid Sub-Stations (GSS).
Chohtan MLA Aduram Meghwal expressed his gratitude to the Law Minister, noting that the state government has delivered historic gifts to the region across three successive budgets. Meghwal specifically praised the recent opening of an Additional District and Sessions Court in Chohtan, which has paved the way for accessible and rapid justice for citizens in the border areas.
Environmental Conservation and Jal Jeevan Mission
During his address, Minister Patel paid tribute to the ancestors who preserved the 18,000-bigha Oran (sacred forest grove) surrounding the Viratra Mata temple. Invoking the legendary conservationist ethos, “Sir santhe rookh rahe, to bhi sasto jaan” (If a tree is saved even at the cost of one’s head, it is still a small price), he announced that the state government is drafting strict new laws to protect the Khejri and other vital indigenous trees.
Adding to the region’s development milestones, Barmer MLA Dr. Priyanka Chowdhary highlighted the critical extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission. She credited CM Bhajanlal Sharma’s relentless efforts for extending the mission’s deadline to 2028, ensuring that every household in Barmer will eventually receive guaranteed tap water connectivity.
