Rajasthan: Mount Abu among three ancient cities to be renamed; CM makes BIG announcements

New Delhi: Friday became a significant day in Rajasthan's political and administrative history when Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced in the Assembly that three historic cities would be renamed. Mount Abu will now be known as Aburaj, Kaman as Kamvan, and Jahazpur as Yagyapur. The government described this as a major step towards restoring the state's cultural identity and historical identity.

What about Mount Abu?

Mount Abu, a renowned hill tourist destination in Sirohi district, will now officially be called Aburaj. Nestled in the lap of the Aravalli mountain range, this place has been Rajasthan's only hill station for years. The government says the name 'Aburaj' is linked to its ancient identity, which is now being formally recognized.

What will Kaman be called now?

Kaman, a town of religious significance in Bharatpur district, will now be known as Kamvan. According to the government, this name is associated with the ancient religious traditions of the Braj region. There had been a long-standing local demand to restore this name.

What is Jahapur's new name?

Jahapur, a historic town in Bhilwara district, will now be called Yagyapur. The government claims that the region's association with ancient yagna traditions and religious beliefs inspired the decision to change the name.

What did the Rajasthan CM say?

The Rajasthan Chief Minister stated in the Assembly that respecting the state's cultural heritage and public sentiments is the government's priority. According to him, the original names of many places had changed over time, blurring their historical identities. The new names are an attempt to revive that heritage. All government records, plaques, and signboards will be replaced in a phased manner through the issuance of a gazette notification.

What are new facilities for MLAs?

During the announcement, the Chief Minister also announced important decisions for MLAs: The benefit of cost adjustment in accordance with the annual dearness allowance  A mobile phone and a tablet will be given to each MLA. The government says this will facilitate public representatives in their constituency-related work.

What about journalists?

The state government also made several welfare announcements for senior journalists. 

- Increased pension for eligible journalists above 60 years of age to ₹18,000 per month

- Eligible widows to receive ₹9,000 per month

- Journalist Housing Scheme through the Housing Board

- These steps are being seen as fulfilling long-pending demands.

What is the 'Cow Service Policy 2026'?

The Chief Minister also announced the implementation of the 'Cow Service Policy 2026'. The objective of this policy is stated to be to promote cow protection, strengthen cow shelters, and provide a new direction to animal welfare programs in the state. The government claims that this will strengthen the rural economy and livestock farmers.

What is the reaction?

These announcements made in the Assembly have sparked widespread debate in administrative, social, and political circles. On one hand, the name changes are being linked to a cultural renaissance, while on the other hand, the welfare announcements are being seen as a relief package for various sections of society. The entire state will be watching how these cities emerge with their new names in the coming days.