Varanasi Tourism Boost: Rs 100 Crore Budget for Infrastructure and Vindhyavasini Dham

The budget for the financial year 2026-27 has included a significant proposal of Rs 100 crore dedicated to the expansion of tourism facilities and the strengthening of infrastructure in Varanasi and Vindhyavasini Devi Dham. This allocation underscores a strategic priority towards tourism, aiming to transform these revered religious sites and introduce new dimensions of economic development and employment generation across the region.

Focus on Vindhyavasini Devi Dham in Mirzapur District

Specifically, the proposed Rs 100 crore for Vindhyavasini Devi Dham, located in Mirzapur district, encompasses comprehensive provisions for expanding facilities for devotees and enhancing security management. According to Tourism Joint Director Dinesh Kumar, these funds will be utilized to upgrade various aspects of the tourism ecosystem.

Improvement of facilities around the ghats to enhance visitor experience.
Implementation of advanced traffic management systems to ease congestion.
Development of a modern signage system for better navigation.
Establishment of tourism information centers to assist travelers.
Upgradation of sanitation systems to maintain cleanliness.
Strengthened security arrangements to ensure safety for all visitors.

This initiative is expected to provide direct benefits to local handicrafts, artisans, and traders, fostering a vibrant local economy.

Broader Development Initiatives in Mirzapur District

In addition to the Rs 100 crore allocation, an arrangement of Rs 200 crore is proposed for developing key areas in Mirzapur district. This includes:

The triangular area of Mirzapur district, aimed at creating integrated tourist zones.
Circumambulation paths to facilitate pilgrimage activities.
Public facility sites at major temples such as Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, Maa Ashtabhuja Temple, and Maa Kali Khoh Temple.

These projects are designed to enhance the overall infrastructure and accessibility for devotees and tourists alike.

Formation of Kashi-Vindhya Regional Development Authority

A pivotal development in this budget is the formation of the Kashi-Vindhya Regional Development Authority. This authority will oversee the integrated planned development of multiple districts, including Jaunpur, Chandauli, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Bhadohi, and Sonbhadra. By coordinating efforts across these regions, the authority aims to create a cohesive tourism and economic growth strategy.

Economic and Employment Impacts

The increased tourist footfall anticipated at places like Varanasi and Vindhyachal is set to provide a substantial boost to various sectors. Hotels, transport services, guides, handicrafts, and local businesses are expected to see significant growth, thereby increasing the income of small traders and artisans. With the complete development of Kashi, Varanasi's identity is poised to be strengthened at an international level, attracting more global visitors.

Expert Insights and Future Prospects

Rahul Mehta, President of the Tourism Welfare Association in Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the broader implications of the budget. "With the allocation of Rs 100 crore, tourism facilities will be developed in the Varanasi and Mirzapur region. Additionally, the state government's budget includes proposals for the construction and expansion of airstrips to improve air connectivity, which will further benefit tourism," he stated.

Sandhya Singh, Director of TFG Tours and Travels in Varanasi, emphasized the regional impact. "Tourism development is occurring across the entire Purvanchal region, including Kashi, which is continuously promoting the tourism industry. Purvanchal's tourism is set to emerge rapidly on the world map once again, creating more employment opportunities for local people," she explained.

This comprehensive budget initiative marks a significant step towards revitalizing tourism in Uttar Pradesh, with Varanasi and Vindhyavasini Dham at the forefront of this transformative journey.