Ayodhya Ram Mandir: In light of the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, the Central Government has announced a half-day holiday on January 22.
As per the official memorandum released by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, the decision to grant a half-day off until 2:30 PM on January 22, 2024, for all central government offices, central institutions, and central industrial establishments has been made in consideration of the sentiments and significant requests of the employees.
Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State for Personnel, highlighted that this decision was made in response to the overwhelming enthusiasm of the people. He stated, "There was considerable demand from the public regarding this. The decision to close Central Government offices for half a day on January 22 has been taken in view of public sentiments."
With the upcoming consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on January 22, a celebration that will be observed nationwide, several states including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh had already declared holidays on this occasion.
The Central Government has now announced a half-day holiday for all its offices and institutions in line with the festivities.
Prime Minister Modi has sought feedback from all ministers regarding the Ram Mandir (Temple). It has been instructed to ministers that on January 22, they should light lamps at their homes and provide meals to the needy, celebrating the occasion similar to Diwali.
Post January 22, ministers have also been directed to arrange for trains to transport people from their respective parliamentary constituencies to Ayodhya.