Patna
The Bihar government has approved a development plan worth over ₹882 crore for Punaura Dham Janki Mandir in Sitamarhi, believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
Sharing the update on X, the CM expressed happiness over the approval, stating that the project includes building a grand temple and related infrastructure. As per the Tourism Department’s proposal, ₹137 crore will be used to renovate the existing temple, while ₹728 crore will go toward developing tourism facilities. The remaining amount will be allocated for maintenance over the next ten years.
The foundation stone for the project is expected to be laid in August. The CM said the development will follow the model of Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra and added that the temple will be a symbol of pride for Bihar and the entire nation.
The state had earlier appointed M/s Design Associates Inc, a Noida-based firm, as the design consultant. This firm is also involved in the Ayodhya temple’s master planning.
Punaura Dham, located 5 km from Sitamarhi town, attracts thousands of pilgrims from India and abroad. The new plan includes developing sites like Sita Vatika and Luv-Kush Vatika, a parikrama path, display kiosks, children’s play areas, a cafeteria, and improved roads, gates, and parking facilities around the temple.
