Ambedkar Circuit Tourist Train

The Indian government recently launched the Ambedkar circuit tourist train under the Dekho Apna Desh initiative, aimed at promoting domestic tourism in the country. This eight-day special tour covers eight significant places associated with Ambedkar i.e., New Delhi, Mhow, Nagpur, Sanchi, Sarnath, Gaya, Rajgir, and Nalanda. The train is a joint initiative of the Ministries of Tourism and Railways, aimed at attracting not only the wider tourist base but also the Dalit community.

The flag-off ceremony of the Bharat Gaurav Tourist train was held on April 14, 2023, at the Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi. The train was flagged off by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, G. Kishan Reddy.

Significance of Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur

One of the most significant places in the Ambedkar circuit covered by the Bharat Gaurav Tourist train is Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur. It is a sacred monument of Navayana Buddhism where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism with approximately 6 lakh of his followers, mainly scheduled caste people, on Ashoka Vijaya Dashami on October 14, 1956. Deekshabhoomi is regarded as a sacred place, a preparation for social actions against class conflicts, discrimination, and inequality, and the first pilgrimage center of Ambedkarite Buddhism in India. Millions of pilgrims visit Deekshabhoomi every year.

Facilities Available in the Tourist Train

The Bharat Gaurav Tourist train is equipped with various facilities to make the journey comfortable and memorable for tourists. It has a well-equipped pantry to cater to the dietary needs of passengers. The train also has an infotainment system that provides information about the places covered in the tour. Additionally, CCTV cameras have been installed in the train for the safety and security of passengers.

Month: Current Affairs – April, 2023

Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs