New Delhi (Agency): On Monday, President Droupadi Murmu expressed her satisfaction with the rising trend of spiritual tourism in the Union Territory of Puducherry. Speaking at a civic reception held in her honor at JIPMER during her first visit to Puducherry, she remarked that the region is a ‘wonderful destination for spiritual tourism.’
President Murmu pointed out the rapidly emerging global trend of spiritual tourism and its benefits. She said, “spiritual tourism has the potential to boost socioeconomic development in Puducherry.” She also mentioned the central government’s efforts to encourage tourism-related activities in Puducherry under the Swadesh Darshan scheme.
During her visit, President Murmu inaugurated a Rs 17 crore advanced linear accelerator for cancer treatment at JIPMER. She noted that this new facility would minimize radio therapy exposure. The President also virtually inaugurated the Rs 10.51 crore Ayush hospital in nearby Villianoor, explaining that it was established under the National Ayush Mission. This hospital will offer affordable and holistic healthcare across three different systems of medicine: Ayurveda, Siddha, and Homeopathy.
In her address, President Murmu praised Puducherry for its multifaceted progress in literacy and education. She noted the region’s blending of different cultures, reflecting the spirit of ‘unity in diversity.’
The event also saw the presence of Lt Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and Chief Minister N Rangasamy. Soundararajan welcomed President Murmu first in Odhiya before switching to English and Tamil. Rangasamy, who addressed in English, spoke about the various welfare schemes being implemented by the territorial government to assist marginalized and needy groups.
On arrival at Puducherry airport from Chennai, the President was warmly received by the Lt Governor, Chief Minister, Ministers, legislators, and officials. This is President Murmu’s first visit to Puducherry since she assumed the Presidency and will last for two days. Her comments on spiritual tourism highlight the potential benefits this sector could bring to the region, including socioeconomic development and cultural unity.