In a major boost to Ayodhya's development as a global spiritual and cultural hub, the Uttar Pradesh government has significantly expanded the scale of a planned world-class museum. The state cabinet, in a meeting held on Tuesday, approved the allocation of over 52 acres of land for the upcoming Temple Museum, more than doubling the initial allocation.
Land for Ayodhya Museum Doubled on Tata Group's Request
The government has signed a new lease document granting 52.102 acres of land in Manjha Jamtara village, Ayodhya, for the project. This decision came after the construction agency, the Tata Group, conveyed that the originally allotted 25 acres would be insufficient for the envisioned world-class facility. Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna confirmed the development, stating the enhanced allocation was made to adequately accommodate the museum's comprehensive design.
The museum, being developed by the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, aims to be a premier cultural destination. It will showcase the design, history, and evolution of temple architecture not just from India, but from across the world. Officials highlighted that the museum will serve as a deep dive into Sanatan culture, ancient construction sciences, sculptural traditions, and archival heritage.
A Cultural Beacon and Administrative Overhaul
With Ayodhya already experiencing a sharp surge in domestic and international visitors, the museum is expected to become a key attraction. The facility will feature curated galleries, landscaped precincts, and digital interpretation spaces designed to make traditional knowledge accessible and engaging for a modern audience.
Parallelly, the UP cabinet took significant steps to streamline the state's tourism administration. It approved the "Uttar Pradesh Adheenasth Paryatan Seva Niyamawali 2025," a set of new recruitment rules that clearly define qualifications and roles for crucial posts like Publication Officers, District Tourism Officers, and Tourism Information Officers. Recruitments for officer-level positions will be overseen by the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC), while the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC) will handle field and support-level selections.
International Yoga Centre and Support for Sportspersons
Another landmark decision was the approval to establish an International Yoga and Wellness Centre. This expansive centre will come up on 70 hectares of land in Hariya Kheda village, Baghpat district. The centre's focus will be on promoting yoga, naturopathy, and holistic well-being practices, aligning with the global push for traditional wellness.
In a move supporting athletes, the cabinet also streamlined the process for award-winning sportspersons in government jobs. Previously, they had to apply for leave to participate in international events and training. The new proposal provides a clear framework for granting permission, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles for competing athletes.
Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that these initiatives reinforce the government's vision of positioning Ayodhya as a global centre for culture, spirituality, and heritage. He emphasized that the improved administrative systems and new tourism infrastructure will significantly enhance service delivery and the overall visitor experience in Uttar Pradesh.
