Patna Chief Minister Directs Creation of Educational Tour Circuit for Schoolchildren
In a significant move to boost educational tourism, Patna Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has issued directives to officials to develop a comprehensive educational tour circuit specifically designed for schoolchildren. This circuit will link some of Patna's most iconic landmarks, including the Bapu Tower, Bihar Museum, Patna Museum, and Science City.
Focus on Bapu Tower and Gandhi's Legacy
The directive was announced during CM Choudhary's visit to the six-storey Bapu Tower located in the Gardanibagh area of the state capital. While touring the various floors of the tower, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of this initiative in helping people, especially the younger generation, gain a comprehensive understanding of the works, thoughts, and ideals associated with Mahatma Gandhi.
"The younger generation as well as visitors from other parts of the country would be able to gain a deeper understanding of Gandhi's life, ideals, and philosophy through the tower," stated CM Choudhary. He highlighted that the tower effectively presents historical events from Gandhi's life, his role in the freedom struggle, his connection with Bihar, and his enduring ideals.
Architectural Marvel and Visitor Experience
Bapu Tower, which stands at 120 feet, is a unique architectural structure comprising two interconnected buildings: a circular six-storey tower and a rectangular five-storey structure. Officials noted that it is the first of its kind in India with a copper-clad exterior, using approximately 40 to 42 tonnes of copper. Over time, natural oxidation gives the copper surface varying rainbow shades, adding to its visual appeal.
The campus spans seven acres, with a built-up area of about 10,503 square meters. During his visit, CM Choudhary praised the construction, stating that the tower had been built well and was both visually appealing and useful for the public. He described it as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's enduring legacy.
Coordination and Enhancements
To ensure maximum footfall and improved facilities, CM Choudhary instructed Building Construction Department Secretary Kumar Ravi to coordinate closely with the tourism department and the art and culture department. He also directed tower officials, including Director Vinay Kumar, to increase greenery in and around the premises to enhance the visitor experience.
During his tour, the Chief Minister visited the ground floor and the first to fifth floors, examining exhibits in different galleries and gathering detailed information about the arrangements. He was welcomed with bouquets and a memento upon arrival by Kumar Ravi and Vinay Kumar.
Cultural and Digital Initiatives
As part of his visit, CM Choudhary paid floral tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and watched a film on Gandhi's biography, ideals, and works, along with highlights of Bihar's glory. He also released the journal "Satyagrah - Bapu Tower Ka Prakashan" and recommended that it be digitized for wider public access, ensuring that Gandhi's message reaches a broader audience.
Broader Context and Personal Engagements
Earlier in the day, CM Choudhary met with public representatives, party workers, and dignitaries at the Chief Minister's Secretariat on Deshratna Marg. Following his visit to Bapu Tower, he traveled to Deoghar in Jharkhand, where he offered prayers at the Baba Baidyanath Dham temple for Bihar's happiness, peace, and prosperity.
This educational tour circuit initiative underscores the government's commitment to leveraging Patna's rich cultural and historical assets for educational purposes, fostering a deeper connection with India's heritage among schoolchildren and visitors alike.
