Mathura: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday imposed a complete ban on the sale of liquor and meat in Mathura.

The officers concerned are directed to make plans for the ban as well as for the engagement of people involved in such activities in some other trade, he said.

The chief minister was speaking at the Krishnotsava 2021 programme in Mathura.

He suggested that those engaged in liquor and meat trade may take up selling milk in order to revive the glory of Mathura, that was known for producing huge quantity of animal milk.

Adityanath also prayed to Lord Krishna to eliminate the novel coronavirus infection. "

Every effort will be made to develop Brij Bhumi and there will be no dearth of funds for this. We are looking at a blend of modern technology and the cultural and spiritual heritage for the development of the region," he said.

Cabinet ministers Laxmi Narain Chaudhary and Shrikant Sharma were also present on the occasion.

In 2017, Adityanath had already banned the sale of meat and alcohol in the Vrindavan and Barsana areas, which were declared pilgrimage sites. “Vrindavan area in Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and his elder brother Balram and is a world-famous site. Barsana is Radha's birthplace. Lakhs of tourists visit these places to pay obeisance. Keeping in mind their importance and in view of tourism, these are declared as holy pilgrimage places,” an official release then had said.

(With PTI inputs)

The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.