Maharashtra Cabinet Greenlights Shegaon Pilgrimage Development
The Maharashtra cabinet has sanctioned the establishment of a new pilgrimage site in Shegaon, Buldhana district, aimed at boosting tourism.
Approval granted for a pilgrimage site on three hectares in Shegaon.
The project includes various facilities like a memorial center and eco-tourism center.
Fifteen hectares of land will remain dedicated to tree plantation.
In a significant move to enhance religious tourism, the Maharashtra cabinet approved the development of a pilgrimage site in Shegaon, located in Buldhana district, during a meeting on Tuesday. This initiative is part of the state's broader strategy to transform religious sites into tourist attractions, which could potentially increase footfall and revenue in the region.
The proposal was put forth by the Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, which has been allocated 19 hectares of land for tree plantation. Of this, three hectares will be utilized for constructing the pilgrimage site. The development plans include a memorial center, an eco-tourism center, Shanti Kutir, a residential complex, an auditorium, an exhibition center, an open forum, a naturopathy center, an ayurvedic research center, a hospital, and facilities for rural cottage industries.
The cabinet's approval comes with specific stipulations under Section 40 of the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, 1966. A key requirement is that the remaining 15 hectares of land must be exclusively reserved for tree plantation, ensuring that environmental considerations are prioritized alongside the development of the pilgrimage site.
This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy by attracting tourists and creating job opportunities in the region. The establishment of various facilities will not only cater to pilgrims but also promote eco-tourism, which is increasingly becoming popular among travelers seeking sustainable experiences.
Looking ahead, the Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan will now proceed with the necessary preparations to begin construction, adhering to the stipulated conditions. The timeline for the project's completion and its subsequent impact on local tourism will be closely monitored by state authorities.
