The Bihar government has given the green light to a massive project aimed at developing the Punaura Dham Janki Mandir in Sitamarhi, believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, approved a comprehensive plan with a budget of ₹882.87 crore (approximately $106 million USD) for the project.
The project aims to transform the temple into a major tourist attraction, drawing both national and international visitors. The development plan includes the construction of a grand temple and the development of tourist infrastructure in the surrounding area. The goal is to create a site comparable to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra in Ayodhya.
According to the proposal from the state Tourism Department, ₹137 crore will be allocated for the renovation of the existing Punaura Dham Janki Mandir. A significantly larger portion, ₹728 crore, will be dedicated to developing tourist infrastructure around the temple. The remaining funds will be used for the maintenance of the infrastructure for a period of ten years. This infrastructure is slated to include hotels, rest houses, restaurants and access lanes.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it is a matter of pride for the people of the country, especially for the people of Bihar. He shared the final design of the Janki Mandir on social media, emphasizing his government's commitment to completing the construction of the grand temple in Punaura Dham as quickly as possible. Kumar also noted that the comprehensive development will be carried out along the lines of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra in Ayodhya.
The foundation stone for the project is expected to be laid in August. Officials have been instructed to ensure the timely commencement of the construction.
The Bihar government has already taken steps to facilitate the project. A trust, named 'Shree Janaki Janam Bhumi Punaura Dham Mandir Nyas Samiti', has been established to expedite the redevelopment works of the Punaura Dham Janki Mandir. The state cabinet had previously approved the appointment of M/s Design Associates Inc., a Noida-based private firm, as the design consultant for the temple's development. This firm is also involved in the master planning and architectural services for the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya.
The Punaura Dham Janki Mandir holds significant religious importance as the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The temple is located approximately 5 km west of Sitamarhi and is part of the Ramayan tourist circuit, which connects Janakpur in Nepal with Ayodhya. The development of the temple is expected to boost tourism in the region and provide improved facilities for pilgrims.
