Enhanced Security to Go Hand in Hand with Improved Facilities for Pilgrims in Braj
2026.01.08 (Vrindavan Today News): Security arrangements across the Braj region are set to receive a significant boost, alongside enhanced facilities for pilgrims and tourists. At several prominent religious sites where surveillance systems were absent until now, solar-powered CCTV cameras will soon be installed.
The Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad (UPBTVP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gurugram-based MSHRM Foundation to jointly work towards the development of Braj’s religious, cultural, and tourism destinations. The collaboration will also focus on strengthening local livelihoods and promoting cultural documentation.
The MoU was formalized during a meeting held on Thursday at the Parishad’s office auditorium. The meeting was attended by Parishad Vice-Chairman Shailjakant Misra, Chief Executive Officer Suraj Patel, Dr Aishwarya Mahajan (Managing Trustee and Chairperson, MSHRM Foundation), Anupama Myral (Founder and CEO), and representatives of DevConnect LLP. Amrit Abhijat, the Principal Secretary of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Culture, and Religious Affairs Department joined the meeting virtually and reviewed the project presentation.
Keeping in view Braj’s sensitive religious identity and the specific needs of its pilgrimage landscape, consensus was reached on several important initiatives. Under the MoU, solar-energy-based CCTV cameras will be installed at major religious and pilgrimage sites where electricity supply or surveillance arrangements were previously unavailable. These cameras will operate on self-sustaining solar systems and will be jointly monitored by the police and the Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad. Wherever feasible, the new systems will be integrated with existing surveillance infrastructure.
To promote Braj’s religious, historical, and cultural significance at national and global levels, a documentary film competition will also be organized. The competition will be open to students and filmmakers, encouraging creative engagement with Braj’s heritage. Additionally, the MSHRM Foundation will introduce fellowships for research related to Braj.
Speaking on the occasion, CEO Suraj Patel said that these initiatives would ensure better facilities and a safer environment for pilgrims and tourists, while also contributing to the preservation and promotion of Braj’s ancient cultural heritage.
Livelihood Pilot Project for Street Vendors
In a parallel initiative aimed at empowering local livelihoods and preserving Braj’s traditional culinary identity, a Street Vendor Livelihood Pilot Project will be launched, beginning in Vrindavan. Under this project, specially designed vending carts will be provided to street vendors, with emphasis on hygiene, aesthetic appeal, and designs aligned with Braj’s cultural heritage.
In the initial phase, 20 street vendors will be brought under the project, with plans to expand it in the future. The initiative seeks to balance economic empowerment of local communities with the preservation of Braj’s cultural image, ensuring that development remains rooted in tradition.
