Half-Day Closure For Financial Institutions On 22 Jan For Ram Temple Consecration
In light of the upcoming consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on 22 January, the Ministry of Finance has issued an order declaring a half-day closure for public sector banks, insurance companies, financial institutions, and regional rural banks.
The order, effective until 2:30 PM, aims to allow employees to participate in the 'Pran Pratishtha' celebration, as mentioned in the Department of Personnel and Training's (DOPT) directive earlier in the day.
The DOPT order, applicable to Central Government offices, Central Institutions, and Central Industrial Establishments nationwide, has been extended to encompass public sector financial institutions and regional rural banks, facilitating their employees' involvement in the significant event.
The notification from the finance ministry on Thursday stated, "This is…to inform that DoPT's (Department of Personnel and Training) order in respect of Central Institutions and Central Industrial Establishments shall also apply to all Public Sector Banks/ Public Sector Insurance Companies/ Public Sector Financial Institutions and Regional Rural Banks to enable employees to participate in the Ram Lalla 'Pran Pratishtha' celebrations."
Government officials revealed that the decision was prompted by widespread requests from employees across the country seeking a day off to partake in the ceremony. Various organisations and groups have planned activities in India and abroad to coincide with the historic event.
The 'Pran-Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple is scheduled for 12:30 PM on 22 January, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various dignitaries in attendance. The ceremonies have been ongoing at the Ayodhya temple complex since 16 January, spanning seven days in preparation for the significant event, with specific rituals conducted each day.
To ensure broader access, arrangements have been made for live screenings of the ceremony on large screens at public places across India and abroad. The half-day closure underscores the cultural and historic significance of the Ram temple consecration, allowing employees nationwide to participate in this momentous occasion.
