Mathura, 2016.08.26 (Times of India): If analysis conducted by the social development arm of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) are to be believed, Janmashtami celebrations have become a Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000 crore industry for UP’s Braj region.
The analysis states that though Krishna Janmashtami festivities are celebrated across the country, for the Braj region, comprising Agra, Hathras, Mathura, Vrindavan and other nearby districts, it’s truly a money spinner as it generates business worth from Rs 2,500 crore to Rs 5,000 crore.
The analysis of Assocham’s Social Development Foundation says: “About two lakh artisans are working in over 20,000 small and medium enterprises in and around Braj Mandal and their business is growing at about 25 per cent annually owing to rapidly growing popularity. The report states the deity outfits and accessories that are prepared using various decorative items including gems and precious stones are widely available in the markets of Mathura and Vrindavan cost anywhere between Rs 250 to Rs 10 lakh and above.”
It states that the festivities also leads to significant spurt in religious tourism and pilgrimage in Braj Mandal, which sees over 50 per cent rise in footfall mostly from across northern parts of the country during this time of the year.
“Better road connectivity, improvement in infrastructure, law and order and overall administration together with proximity to Delhi-NCR are certain key factors that have led to significant growth in hospitality and tourism sector in the holy region of Braj,” said DS Rawat, secretary general of Assocham while releasing the findings of the chamber’s analysis.
Rawat however said since there has been a significant rise in number of foreigners visiting Braj, especially during Janmashtami, there is a need to deploy special police force for safety and security of tourists, further improve transport facilities, infrastructure, cleanliness and renovation/beautification of ancient religious structures.
Lauding the efforts of UP government to fast-pace the development work in Mathura-Vrindavan to preserve and restore the rich cultural heritage of the region, Assocham has suggested the state to conduct tourism fairs and festivals both domestically and globally to lure potential tourists.
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