Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the Maha Kumbh against opposition criticism on Tuesday, citing the impressive profits made by local boatmen during the event. Speaking during a discussion on the state budget for 2025-26, which was approved in the Assembly, he highlighted that a single family operating 130 boats earned a staggering ₹30 crore over the course of the 45-day religious congregation in Prayagraj.
In a pointed response to the Samajwadi Party’s claims of exploitation among boatmen, Adityanath shared the success story of the boatman family, asserting, “In 45 days, they earned ₹23 lakh per boat, translating to daily earnings of ₹50,000 to ₹52,000.” He praised the flawless law-and-order management during the event, noting that over 66 crore devotees and tourists visited without a single reported crime.
“Not a single case of harassment, kidnapping, robbery, or murder was reported. Those who attended were left in awe, while those who missed it felt they lost out,” he remarked, emphasizing the event’s significance.
Adityanath detailed the substantial economic impact of the Maha Kumbh, stating that ₹7,500 crore was invested, generating an astonishing ₹3 lakh crore in business across various sectors. This included ₹40,000 crore for the hotel industry, ₹33,000 crore for food and daily essentials, and ₹1.5 lakh crore for transportation, among other figures.
He asserted that the economic outcomes of the Maha Kumbh would contribute positively to India’s GDP growth, projected at 6.5% this year. Adityanath clarified that the ₹7,500 crore investment was not merely for the event itself but aimed at the sustainable development of Prayagraj.
“Through Maha Kumbh, we provided infrastructure that will benefit the city for decades. More than 200 roads were widened, alongside the construction of 14 flyovers, nine underpasses, and 12 corridors,” he informed the Assembly.
He also mentioned the installation of a statue of Lord Ram embracing Nishad Raj in Shringverpur, an area that had previously faced encroachment. “For you, this was a vote bank. For us, it is our heritage,” he stated, addressing the opposition directly.
Adityanath concluded by sharing accolades from international media, reading praises from leading global outlets that recognized the success of the Maha Kumbh.
