Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said the rulers of Ayodhya have historically protected the traditions of knowledge and cow welfare, while urging people to contribute towards cow protection and social responsibility.
Addressing devotees at the Bhagwan Munisuvratanath Panchkalyanak Pratishtha Mahotsav at a Digambar Jain temple in Ayodhya, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Rishabhdev Janmabhoomi Gate and a complex housing 101 Bhagwan Jin temples.
“Ayodhya has a glorious history and its kings have always protected both the tradition of knowledge and Gau Mata,” Yogi said.
Appeal For Cow Protection
The Chief Minister called upon devotees, particularly members of the Jain community, to actively support cow welfare initiatives.
He said Indian traditions have
long emphasised compassion towards all living beings, noting that people traditionally offer the first morsel of food to a cow and the last to a dog.
Yogi urged Jain families to adopt a cowshed or contribute towards the upkeep of cows. At the very least, he suggested that every family support the expenses of one cow annually.
“If Gau Mata remains healthy, Indian culture, Jainism and Vedic Sanatan Dharma will remain secure,” he said.
Ayodhya’s Jain Heritage
Highlighting Ayodhya’s significance in Jain tradition, the Chief Minister said the city is closely associated with Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara, who is regarded as the first king of the earth.
He noted that Uttar Pradesh is linked to the largest number of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras and said five of them, including Bhagwan Rishabhdev, Bhagwan Ajitnath, Bhagwan Abhinandannath, Bhagwan Sumatinath and Bhagwan Anantnath, were associated with Ayodhya.
He also referred to the Jain heritage of Kashi, Shravasti, Hastinapur and Kushinagar.
‘Self-Discipline Essential For Leadership’
Speaking on governance and social responsibility, Yogi said self-discipline is a prerequisite for leadership.
“One who lacks discipline over oneself cannot govern others,” he said.
The Chief Minister said rulers are expected to protect society, maintain order and guide people through discipline and moral conduct.
He added that the Jain philosophy of “Live and Let Live” continues to offer valuable lessons for humanity and promotes the welfare of all living beings.
Call For Civic Responsibility
Yogi also urged people to participate in cleanliness drives, plantation campaigns and environmental conservation efforts.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on civic duties, he said citizens must remain conscious of their responsibilities towards society and the nation.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the Jain community would continue to contribute towards social harmony, ethical conduct and national development.
