Prime Minister Narendra Modi Visits Somnath Temple; Offers Prayers For Well-Being of Countrymen

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the revered Somnath Jyotirlinga temple in Gujarat, where he offered prayers to Lord Shiva. The special puja was dedicated to the well-being of the people of India, coming closely after the month-long Maha Kumbh celebrations in Prayagraj.

In his recent blog, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming participation of 140 crore Indians in the “Ekta Ka Maha Kumbh,” highlighting the event as a global occasion that united the country. He shared his intention to visit Somnath Jyotirlinga, the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, to offer prayers and celebrate the collective efforts of the Indian people.

“The way 140 crore Indians turned the ‘Ekta Ka Maha Kumbh’ into a global occasion is truly wonderful. Moved by the dedication, devotion, and efforts of our people, I will soon visit Shri Somnath, the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, to offer the fruits of these collective national efforts to Him and to pray for every Indian,” PM Modi wrote in his blog.

Somnath Temple: A Revered Pilgrimage Site

The Somnath Mandir, known as one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. As the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas across India, it attracts millions of visitors each year.

PM Modi is currently on a three-day visit to Gujarat. On Monday, he will visit Sasangir in Junagarh district to mark World Wildlife Day. During his visit, he will participate in a jungle safari in Sasangir, the last remaining habitat for Asiatic lions.

Conservation Efforts Under Modi’s Leadership

PM Modi has been actively involved in the conservation of Asiatic lions since his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. His government’s efforts to rejuvenate the lion population at Gir National Park brought global attention to the sanctuary. After a poaching incident in 2007, Modi’s administration established the Greater Gir Wildlife Protection Task Force to address wildlife crimes and enhance conservation strategies.

The Greater Gir Conservation Model, introduced during his tenure, expanded protection efforts beyond Gir National Park, covering an area of 30,000 square kilometers and ensuring a safer habitat for the lions. Additionally, the recruitment of 111 women as beat guards in Gir was a historic move, strengthening the park’s protection efforts.

Sustainable Tourism And Local Community Involvement

Under Modi’s leadership, the Gujarat State Lion Conservation Society (GSLCS) formed and channeled eco-tourism revenue to fund conservation initiatives. The ‘Vanya Prani Mitra’ scheme also played a key role in involving local communities in wildlife protection efforts.

The state’s ‘Khushbu Gujarat Ki’ campaign helped bring Gir National Park into the global tourism spotlight, attracting over 33 lakh visitors in the past five years.

PM Modi’s visit to Somnath and his ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation reflect his continued focus on both spiritual and environmental development in Gujarat.