New Delhi: Chief minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday announced that her govt will distribute Ganga Jal-filled containers and jute bags to around 5 lakh kanwariyas. Additionally, financial assistance to kanwar service committees will be increased as part of efforts to support Shiva devotees during the ongoing yatra.Gupta, who visited kanwar camps at Punjabi Bagh (Ashok Park), Tagore Garden and Subroto Park to review the arrangements, said the move aims to promote environmental responsibility and ensure a clean and green Delhi. She shared that the distribution of the Ganga Jal containers and jute bags will begin on Monday. The chief minister said this step will encourage environmental responsibility and help keep Delhi clean and green.She said Delhi govt received suggestions to increase the funds given to kanwar committees, and this is now being implemented. “Delhi govt is fully committed to supporting kanwariyas in every possible way,” she said.During her visit, Gupta interacted with camp committee members and devotees to understand their needs. She offered prayers at the camps and took blessings from the priests. Calling the kanwar yatra not just a religious journey but a festival, the CM said welcoming kanwariyas passing through or arriving in Delhi is a way to respect their devotion.She said that this year, Delhi has seen a festive atmosphere during the holy month of Sawan “like never before,” with ministers, MLAs and govt officials ensuring that preparations in advance for the smooth operations of camps. Gupta said that 374 kanwar committees got financial assistance. Camps have been equipped with electricity, healthcare facilities, toilets, sanitation staff and welcome gates on Delhi’s borders.For the first time, 374 kanwar camps have been established across Delhi, she said. She said under the previous govt, only 170 camps were set up and many of them faced allegations of mismanagement.Minister Kapil Mishra earlier said that in Delhi, about 2.5-3 crore people participate in the kanwar yatra. Grand preparations have been made to welcome them, he said. “This time, on the instructions of the chief minister, financial aid will be directly deposited into the accounts of the kanwar committees,” he said, adding that there will also be arrangements for water and barricading.
