Development of Jain Tourism Circuit
Why in News?
- Bihar Completion Reports: The Union Ministry of Tourirm Reported the physical completion of the major Tirthankar Circuit project in Bihar, which cost approximately ₹33.96 crore.
Related Points
- Maharashtra Expansion: The state government recently approved a ₹36.35 crore development plan for the Namokar Teerth in Nashik, preparing for a massive festival in February 2026 expected to draw up to 15 lakh devotees.
- Uttar Pradesh Strengthening: In late 2025, the UP government announced plans to strengthen key locations within its own dedicated Jain Circuit, including the redevelopment of the Shri Digambar Jain Temple in Lucknow.
- Shift to Swadesh Darshan 2.0: The government is transitioning from broad thematic circuits to a "destination-centric" approach, focusing on sustainable development at specific high-potential Jain sites like Rajgir and Vaishali.
Key Features
- Objective: To provide seamless connectivity and improved amenities for pilgrims and tourists, including better lighting, sanitation, and digital facilitation.
- Major Hubs (Bihar):
- Vaishali: Birthplace of Lord Mahavira (24th Tirthankar).
- Pawapuri: Site of Lord Mahavira’s Nirvana (salvation), famous for its Jal Mandir.
- Rajgir & Nalanda: Ancient tapobhoomis (meditation grounds) associated with multiple Tirthankars.
- Champapuri: Known for being the site of five Kalyanaks (auspicious events) of Lord Vasupujya.
- Maharashtra's Nine-Site Circuit: Launched in 2023, this includes major shrines such as Mangi Tungi (Nashik), Kumbhoj Bahubali (Kolhapur), and Godiji Parshwanath (Mumbai).
- Infrastructure Interventions:
- Connectivity: Development of roads and improved accessibility to remote hill shrines.
- Amenities: Construction of tourist facilitation centres, signages, and solar lighting.
- Heritage Preservation: Conservation of ancient Jain caves and intricate temple carvings.
- Funding Model: Projects are 100% centrally funded under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, while the PRASHAD scheme specifically targets pilgrimage rejuvenation at sites like Palitana or Shravanabelagola.
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