India Declares Half-Day Holiday for Central Government Employees on January 22 for Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony

In a significant move, the Narendra Modi government has announced a half-day holiday for central government employees on January 22, 2024, to allow them to witness the historic Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Responding to the overwhelming sentiments expressed by employees and numerous requests, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions issued a statement today confirming the special arrangement.

“The Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya will be celebrated on 22nd January, 2024, across India. To enable employees to participate in the celebrations, it has been decided that all Central government offices, central institutions, and central industrial establishments throughout India will be closed for half a day until 2:30 pm on 22nd January, 2024,” the statement read.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a key participant in the consecration ceremony, will be one of the five individuals allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The exclusive group also includes Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, UP Governor Anandiben Patel, and two chief priests of the temple.

Notably, several state governments have already declared a full-day holiday for state government employees on January 22. These states include Assam, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Haryana (with a school holiday). Additionally, various states have declared a dry day on January 22 in honor of the momentous occasion.

The decision to grant a half-day holiday reflects the government’s acknowledgment of the cultural significance of the Ram Temple consecration and the desire to allow its employees to actively participate in the joyous event. The move is expected to be well-received by government workers and adds to the festive spirit surrounding this historic occasion.