On the occasion of Janmashtami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a Rs 300 billion master plan for the holistic development of the Braj region and launched 118 development projects worth Rs 6.46 billion for Mathura-Vrindavan.

Addressing a gathering at the Panchjanya Auditorium in Mathura, the Chief Minister described Braj as sacred land where “Lord Krishna lives in every particle.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the purity and uninterrupted flow of the Yamuna, adding that the world increasingly looks to India’s spiritual wisdom for lasting peace.

The master plan will connect pilgrimage sites such as Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana and Gokul with spiritual and cultural heritage from the Dwapar Yuga. The projects inaugurated include the beautification of Parikrama paths, new entrance gates, restoration of kunds, facilities for devotees, improved connectivity, water conservation and environmental initiatives.

Of the 118 projects, 80 worth Rs 2.73 billion were inaugurated, while 38 worth Rs 3.73 billion had their foundations laid. Yogi Adityanath also highlighted the recently completed ropeway in Barsana, which provides relief to elderly pilgrims, and cited similar transformative works in Kashi, Ayodhya and Vindhyavasini Dham.

He noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Ganga has become suitable for rituals and bathing, with 670 million devotees participating in the 2019 Prayagraj Kumbh. He said the “double-engine government” is equally committed to the Yamuna.

The Chief Minister stressed that the inspiration of Lord Krishna’s selfless actions strengthens society and ensures resilience. Marking 78 years of independence, he underlined the vision of making Uttar Pradesh prosperous by 2047, in line with the centenary goals for India.

The event also featured devotional performances of bhajans, kirtans and Krishna lilas, alongside the screening of a documentary on the Govardhan Parikrama. Yogi Adityanath greeted children dressed as Krishna, lifted them in his arms, and performed annaprashan by feeding them kheer.