In a pioneering digital initiative aimed at enhancing citizen convenience and promoting e-governance, the Transport Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, has launched a WhatsApp-based chatbot service on the number 8005441222. This user-friendly service is designed to deliver transport-related services and information directly to the public, 24×7, at their fingertips.
This initiative has been undertaken under the clear direction of the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Hon’ble Minister of Transport, who have consistently emphasized that government services must be citizen-friendly, transparent, and accessible right at the doorsteps of the people. The WhatsApp chatbot is a step in that direction, using technology to bridge the gap between citizens and essential public services.
UP Transport Department
Key Features of the WhatsApp Chatbot
(a) Round-the-clock access to essential services through a widely used platform.
(b) Direct integration with Vahan and Sarthi services to offer:
(c) Vehicle registration details
(d) Driving licence services
(e) Application status tracking
(f) Instant access to challan details, including reasons, payment links, and legal provisions.
(g) Step-by-step guidance for common queries like:
(h) Renewal of driving licence
(i) Transfer of ownership
(j) Road tax payment
UP Transport Department : Benefits to Citizens
(A) Eliminates the need for physical visits to RTO offices for basic queries.
(B) Ensures real-time, authenticated information using official databases.
(C) Available in multiple languages, ensuring inclusivity and ease of use.
(D) Facilitates quick redressal of queries, reducing delays and paperwork.
Speaking on the occasion, the Transport Commissioner stated, “This WhatsApp chatbot reflects our commitment to use technology for citizen welfare. It brings the department closer to the public and is a step towards transparent, efficient, and responsive governance.”
UP Transport Department
How to Use
Simply save the number 8005441222 on your phone and send a “Hi” message on WhatsApp to begin.
This chatbot exemplifies the Uttar Pradesh government’s continued push towards digital transformation and service delivery at the doorstep, ensuring every citizen is empowered through smart governance.
Be it the Mahakumbh Mela area or the exit routes from Prayagraj, traffic must remain uninterrupted: Chief Minister
“Ensuring every devotee reaches their destination safely is our responsibility,” says CM Yogi
CM directs authorities to prevent overcrowding at Prayagraj stations, deploy more Mela Special trains and additional Transport Corporation buses
CM instructs increased patrolling on all routes leading to Prayagraj to prevent traffic congestion
CM orders proper food and drinking water arrangements in holding areas
CM directs administrations of Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mirzapur, and Chitrakoot to stay alert and strengthen security measures
To enhance Mahakumbh management, former Divisional Commissioner Ashish Goyal and former ADA VC Bhanu Goswami deployed, along with five Special Secretaries
● Following the unfortunate incident at Prayagraj Mahakumbh on Mauni Amavasya, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted a late-night video conference with senior police officers and district administration officials from multiple districts, including Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Mirzapur, Basti, Jaunpur, Chitrakoot, Banda, Ambedkarnagar, Pratapgarh, Sant Kabir Nagar, Bhadohi, Rae Bareli, and Gorakhpur. In the presence of senior government officials, he issued crucial directives, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and caution in the Mahakumbh Mela area after reviewing updates from ADG and the District Magistrate of Prayagraj.
Mahakumbh
● CM Yogi also sought updates from officials in Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mirzapur, and Chitrakoot regarding security and crowd management measures for incoming devotees. Additionally, officials from districts bordering Prayagraj were instructed to maintain continuous coordination with the Prayagraj administration to ensure seamless management and public safety.
Mahakumbh : Major guidelines given by the Chief Minister
● A large number of devotees are gathered at all railway stations in Prayagraj, preparing to return home after completing their holy bath. ADG and the District Magistrate of Prayagraj must ensure the safe and smooth departure of every devotee. It is our responsibility to facilitate their journey. To achieve this, seamless coordination with the railways must be maintained to ensure continuous train operations. Additionally, extra buses from the Transport Corporation should be deployed to accommodate the rush.
Mahakumbh
● Holding areas have been established at border points to manage crowd pressure in the fair area. Devotees should be allowed to proceed based on the prevailing situation. Arrangements for food and drinking water must be ensured at all holding areas so that no devotee faces any inconvenience. Additionally, uninterrupted electricity supply must be maintained at these locations.
● Authorities in districts bordering Prayagraj must strictly enforce the directives issued from Prayagraj. Patrolling should be increased, and traffic should flow smoothly on all major routes, including Ayodhya-Prayagraj, Kanpur-Prayagraj, Fatehpur-Prayagraj, Lucknow-Pratapgarh-Prayagraj, and Varanasi-Prayagraj. All return routes from Prayagraj should remain open and unobstructed at all times.
● Traffic must remain smooth within the Mahakumbh Mela area. Unnecessary halts should be avoided, and crowd build-up must be prevented at all locations. There should be no traffic congestion on the roads. If street vendors are occupying pathways, they should be relocated to designated open areas to ensure the continuous flow of movement. No road should face a jam at any point.
● The next Amrit Snan is scheduled for Basant Panchami on February 3. The Chief Secretary and Director General of Police should conduct a thorough review of the Mahakumbh Mela arrangements on Thursday. Every aspect related to security and public convenience must be carefully examined to ensure seamless arrangements for Basant Panchami.
CM Yogi
● To further strengthen the Mahakumbh arrangements, Ashish Goyal, who served as Divisional Commissioner of Prayagraj during Kumbh 2019, and Bhanu Goswami, former Vice Chairman of ADA, are being deployed. Additionally, five Special Secretary-level officers are being assigned to oversee operations. They will remain in Prayagraj until February 12 to assist in streamlining the arrangements. Moreover, the Superintendent of Police-level officers will also be deployed for enhanced management and security.
● Lakhs of devotees visiting Mahakumbh are also traveling to Varanasi and Ayodhya for darshan and worship, while many are heading to Chitrakoot and Mirzapur. With a significant increase in footfall expected over the next two days, heightened vigilance is essential in these key cities. Continuous monitoring and precautionary measures must be ensured. Holding areas should be created to regulate the crowd flow, allowing movement as per the situation. Barricading should be used effectively, traffic management should be improved, and adequate parking arrangements must be in place.
Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: The survey which took place by 4 members of Archaeological survey of India (ASI) on December 20,2024 unlocked several ruins of many temples, wells, Hindu god idols and etc. this report came after surveying almost 24 areas of Sambhal by ASI.
What was found in the ASI survey in sambhal?
The survey Sambhal report contains things like: –
Kalki temple.
Bhasma Shankar temple with a well and damage idol.
Shri Kartik Mahadev temple.
150-year-old stepwell.
Apart from these 19 temples and 19 wells were also founded.
The ruins of temple and idol which was found in the area, had been closed and hidden for almost a decade now. These temples have been open almost 46 years later now.
Temple found in ASI survey (Sambhal)
The Reaction of local and people on Sambhal survey.
There has been mixed reaction of the people on the Sambhal survey and current reports of the survey. Some people and the local of the area are claiming the existing of temple and Hindu community in the area long decade ago which were been push back by Muslim community and never got justice or proper statement on the crime, some are saying led the area be as it is in the current time to avoid violence and big protest like the past, were as some are claiming justice for the past and some are even provoking violence.
What happened to the temple found in Sambhal?
After the reopening of the temples in Sambhal after 46 years in ASI survey which was locked since 1978, an Aarti was performed in morning at Bhasma Shankar Temple and Hanuman temple (one of the temples found in ASI survey).
This aarti was performed by local police officer, priests and local people of the area. After this a Bandara was also organized in Kartikeya Mahadev temple.
Aarti at sambhal temple
How was survey conducted in sambhal?
There was an ASI team which was called from Lucknow to survey Kalki temple of sambhal on Friday December 20, 2024. They were given 30 minutes inside the temple and founded 20 wells, 19 temple and six other pilgrimage sites. They also took statements of local priests and other.
There was also a survey team assigned for digging some other sites and further research. There was also carbon dating of the temple. Till now 25 sites have been surveyed and still there are more sites left.
CM Yogi Adityanath statement on Sambhal and ASI report.
In his statement he stated that temple did not appear overnight and represents history and heritage of our culture. He also highlighted 46 years old tragic incidents of sambhal violence (barbaric violence).
He also highlighted and talked about temples unlocked in ASI survey in sambhal, which followed with anti-encroachment drive of local administration and other official statement.
Ayodhya: On the occasion of Deepotsav, Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is ready to set a new world record of lighting up 25 lakh diyas. It is going to be historic and grand ahead of temples first Diwali celebration.
Why is Ayodhya celebrating Diwali in a grand manner?
This is a major Hindu celebration on Amavasya tithe of Kartik month which marks the returning of Lord Rama to his home Ayodhya. Thus, it is also known as the festival of lights, victory of good over evil, lights over darkness and happiness over despair. On this Lord Rama along with Mata Sita and Lakshman return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile(Vanvas), while he was returning people light up diyas to welcome him in the dark nights of Amavasya and celebrate his return.
AYODHYA
Thus, the tradition and celebration continued till date and Ayodhya plays a major role in celebration of Diwali.
Aim of this celebration.
The celebration is set to make two new Guinness world record first to light up 25 lakh diyas and featuring about 1,100 participants during the aarti.
However, the previous record for lighting up most diyas was also set by Ayodhya, where 22 lakh diyas were light up. This year aim is to surpass last year’s record.
Moreover, it not just about numbers of diyas its about Ayodhya been central hub of Diwali celebration.
AYODHYA
Nischal Barot on this celebration.
The Guinness World Records official Nischal Barot said that, “we need over 25 lakh diyas to create a world record this time. The goal is not about numbers, it’s about symbolising the light of hope and unity that Diwali represents.
Who is organising and how are they preparing this?
This is organized by Uttar Pradesh government. The event will contain variety of activities which includes; thematic processions depicting scenes from Ramayana, traditional dance performances, and at last aerial drone show.
Cm yogi Adityanath and UP government has launched this initiative for unity among the population and mark a memorable celebration for ram mandirs first Diwali celebration.
CM Yogi Adityanath: Inaugurates Silk Expo; honours 16 farmers, entrepreneurs, institutions, and designers with the prestigious Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Resham Ratna Award.
UP the first state in the country to come up with a policy for traditional products, says CM
Lucknow, October 22
CM Yogi Adityanath, on Tuesday, said that Uttar Pradesh and India at large, have both the potential and resources to compete with the major global players in readymade garments.
CM Yogi Adityanath also releases the latest edition of ‘Resham Mitra’ magazine; expo to conclude on October 28
Inaugurating the Silk Expo at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, which runs from October 22 to 28, the Chief Minister said, “Small nations worldwide have established a strong presence in the readymade garment industry, even with limited resources and opportunities. We, on the other hand, have both the potential and resources.”
He added: “If a significant portion of the workforce, especially women, is engaged in silk production, processing, readymade garments, designing, marketing, and packaging, Uttar Pradesh and India can emerge as global leaders in the garment industry.”
He urged stakeholders to leverage the initiatives taken by the state government to realize this vision.
The CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted a remarkable achievement in silk production, which has increased 84-fold under the current administration. “A day will come when Uttar Pradesh will be recognized among the top states in the country for silk production,” he added.
CM Yogi Adityanath Resham Mitra’ magazine;
Farmers and entrepreneurs had to suffer due to the misdeeds of previous governments: CM Yogi Adityanath
He also released the ‘Resham Mitra’ magazine and honored 16 farmers, entrepreneurs, institutions, and designers with the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Resham Ratna Samman. Following the ceremony, he toured the exhibition.
CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted that since the BJP government came to power in 2017, Uttar Pradesh has taken significant steps to promote traditional products. The state became the first in India to implement a dedicated policy for traditional crafts, identifying a unique product for each of its 75 districts under the “One District, One Product” (ODOP) initiative.
By linking ODOP with market access, design, and packaging, the initiative has not only created employment, but also boosted the export of traditional goods. Today, all 75 districts have distinct GI-tagged products recognized across the country, he pointed out.
The Chief Minister emphasized the potential for further growth, particularly through the famous sarees of Varanasi, Bhadohi, and Mubarakpur. He encouraged efforts to make the Silk Expo a platform for advancing Uttar Pradesh’s prospects in this sector.
Referring to the age-old slogan of “roti, kapda aur makaan” (food, clothing, and shelter), CM Yogi stressed that while air and water are essential for life, the need for food, clothing, and shelter is equally fundamental.
He noted that clothing not only meets a basic need but also serves as a vital means to boost farmers’ income and generate employment. Uttar Pradesh, with its population of 25 crores, has a vast potential in silk production, and while progress has been made in recent years, much more remains to be achieved to match the state’s immense possibilities.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged people to explore the vast potential for development within Uttar Pradesh. He pointed out that places like Varanasi, Bhadohi, and Azamgarh, known for their silk sarees such as those from Mubarakpur, hold significant promise.
“The central and state governments are making concerted efforts to develop silk clusters in these regions. Varanasi silk sarees, a popular choice for auspicious occasions nationwide, have seen increased demand following the expansion of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which has attracted more devotees and tourists. The establishment of a Trade Facilitation Center at the Varanasi Expo Mart has further boosted this traditional industry”, CM Yogi asserted.
He highlighted the progress of entrepreneurs associated with the saree industry in Mubarakpur and the silk clusters in Mirzapur, Varanasi, and Bhadohi, indicating that the sector has considerable growth potential.
The upcoming PM Mitra Park, a large textile hub on the Lucknow-Hardoi border, will cover 1,000 acres and host various textile-related industries, showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s potential in this field, he noted.
However, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for local raw material production to support these initiatives. He encouraged farmers to participate, noting that the central government offers several schemes for their benefit.
Furthermore, he called on the relevant departments to organize symposiums, seminars, and outreach programs in every district to inform progressive farmers about these schemes and connect them with training and processing programs.
This initiative aims to enhance opportunities, not just in the Gorakhpur division but also in Varanasi, Mirzapur, Lucknow, Devipatan, Basti, and Azamgarh.
CM Yogi Adityanath: Resham Mitra
CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted that Uttar Pradesh, with its nine climatic zones, offers a unique opportunity to develop and promote diverse agricultural products across different regions. The state has immense potential, especially in areas like Varanasi and Azamgarh, which have been hubs for the silk industry since ancient times.
He emphasized the importance of locally linking silk production and processing with the textile industry to ensure affordable raw materials, which would naturally lower costs and make products more accessible to meet market demand. The government, he assured, will support training initiatives, and assist in raw material procurement, processing, marketing, and design.
The CM Yogi Adityanath pointed out that farmers and entrepreneurs in Uttar Pradesh have long been connected to traditional crafts, but faced setbacks due to the neglect of previous governments, which failed to provide proper incentives, design support, and packaging for their products. This challenge extended beyond silk to all traditional industries.
Today, the state showcases a variety of unique products: Bhadohi’s carpets, Gorakhpur’s terracotta, Varanasi’s numerous GI-tagged items, leather goods from Agra and Kanpur, Moradabad’s brassware, Firozabad’s glass, and sports equipment from Meerut.
These products represent Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage and provide a platform for youth and entrepreneurs to advance through traditional industries, he pointed out.
The Chief Minister called for a rapid expansion of silk clusters in regions with the potential, urging the relevant departments to collaborate with farmers who could act as “silk friends,” helping to realize this potential and position Uttar Pradesh as a strong competitor among other states.
He stressed the importance of timely incentives to better showcase the state’s capabilities to the world. The upcoming PM Mitra Textiles Park in Lucknow is poised to play a key role in furthering these opportunities.
CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized that silk garments are rooted in indigenous technology, and there is a need to continuously upgrade and adapt this technology. He pointed out the evolution from the traditional hand-operated spinning wheel for khadi, to electric-powered versions, which increased efficiency five to ten times with the rise in electricity use. To further reduce energy costs, solar-powered spinning wheels have now been introduced.
Similarly, silk production must integrate modern processing techniques and align with updated spinning programs, the CM emphasized. He highlighted that alongside daily activities, these initiatives can promote women’s self-reliance at the local level. Such efforts are progressing in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for women’s empowerment under the Mission Shakti initiative.
On this occasion, MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan, Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, Agriculture Production Commissioner Monica S. Garg, Member Secretary Central Silk Board New Delhi P. Shivkumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Silk) BL Meena, Director (Silk) Sunil Kumar Verma etc. were present.
The Chief Minister awarded the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Silk Ratna Award to 16 farmers, entrepreneurs, institutions, and designers. They were honored with the first prize of Rs 50,000 and the second prize of Rs 25,000, along with a memento, and a citation.
1- Cocoon Production Award: Jagram (Bahraich) got the first prize, whereas Mala Devi from Kushinagar got the second.
2- Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. NV Chaudhary, Director, Central Tasar Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Ranchi (Jharkhand) got the first prize, while Haseen Ahmed Ansari M/s Qasim Silk Emporium Varanasi got the second prize.
3- The first prize in the best-designed silk-made garment was given to Angika Kushwaha of Ramnagar Varanasi and the second to Sarvesh Kumar Srivastava (Varanasi). Ranjana Srivastava received the award on Sarvesh’s behalf.
4- Best designing in other silk-made products: Mukhtar Ahmed (Bhadohi) got the first prize and Iftikhar Ahmed (Azamgarh) got the second.
5- Innovation in silk finished product textile: First prize was given to Aditi Jaggi Rastogi of Hazratganj, Lucknow, and second to Mrs. Sangeeta Basant, Kanya Mahavidyalaya, Varanasi.
6- Top Cocoon Seller – First Prize in Yarn Sales – First prize went to Shashi Shukla of Pilibhit and the Second to Rajnath Verma of Sonbhadra.
7- Top Textile Seller – Silk Finished Product – First Prize was bagged by Viresh Shah (Varanasi), and the Second Prize by Pankaj Shah (Varanasi).
8- Innovation in Cocoon Production – First prize to went to P. Shivkumar IFS, Member Secretary Central Silk Board and the Second Prize to Dasharathi Behera, Deputy Secretary Technical, Central Silk Board, New Delhi.
