As Ayodhya eagerly prepares for the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple, the town is not only witnessing a significant spiritual event but also emerging as an economic powerhouse. The 2023 Global Investor Summit in Uttar Pradesh saw Ayodhya attract an impressive investment commitment of Rs 49,000 crore, marking the beginning of a new era of economic prosperity for the region.
Government sources reveal that Ayodhya experienced a remarkable 131 per cent surge in exports during 2022-23, amounting to Rs 254 crore across diverse sectors—an increase from Rs 110 crore in the previous fiscal year. Based on data from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the city is anticipated to maintain its upward trajectory with a close to 150 per cent surge in exports in the current financial year.
Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner Gaurav Dayal expressed satisfaction with the city's outstanding export performance, emphasizing the seamless alignment of economic success with comprehensive development. Notably, the district achieved significant progress across nine distinct sectors, surpassing previous export records.
Leading the export items is coal, with bituminous coal valued at Rs 90.61 crore and steam coal at Rs 3.81 crore. Other contributors to the export figures include craft paper and paperboard (Rs 44.56 crore), Ayurvedic medicines (Rs 3.18 crore), parboiled rice (Rs 2.76 crore), wood pulp boards (Rs 3.12 crore), and bakery machinery (Rs 3.24 crore).
Ayodhya's success story reflects its commitment to economic diversification and sustained growth. The district's achievements underscore the potential for spiritual and economic coexistence, setting a benchmark for holistic development. This economic journey aligns with Ayodhya's vision to be a model of sustainable development and prosperity, resonating with the global investor community.
In addition to its economic strides, Ayodhya is set to become Uttar Pradesh's first Solar City, symbolizing a harmonious blend of spirituality and sustainable energy initiatives. Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Department (UPNEDA), this ambitious project includes the development of solar parks, solar-powered boats, street lights, and widespread adoption of solar energy in public transport.
The electrification of government buildings using solar power stands as a testament to Ayodhya's commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and around 11,000 guests prepare to witness the 'Pran Pratishtha' consecration ceremony, Ayodhya's transformation into a Solar City will captivate the nation.
The 40 MW solar power plant, covering 165 acres of identified land, is progressing well, with a 10 MW plant already commissioned and the full 40 MW capacity expected to be operational by March 2024. Ayodhya, under Uttar Pradesh's Solar Energy Policy 2022, is set to pioneer solar innovation, serving as a model for 17 municipal corporations, including Noida.
The solar initiative extends beyond infrastructure to include public spaces, with solar-powered mobile phone charging setups and solar energy integration in public transport. Ayodhya's commitment to solar energy for domestic and household purposes is evident in the installation of a 50-kilowatt off-grid solar power plant in the Bhairo Singh Gaushala.
Solar-powered water kiosks have been set up to ensure access to clean and sustainable water sources, while rooftop solar power plants with a total capacity of 1073 kilowatt have been established on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Uttar Pradesh's accomplishments in harnessing solar energy across various domains showcase its commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation.
(With Agency Inputs)
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