Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of the historic Janaki Mata Temple at Punaura Dham today in Sitamarhi, Bihar — believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita.

The ceremony saw the presence of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary. The redevelopment project aims to enhance the temple’s infrastructure and spiritual significance.

Amit Shah also announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Sitamarhi-Delhi Amrit Bharat Express to improve connectivity for pilgrims. Punaura Dham, also called Maa Janaki Janmabhoomi Temple, holds deep cultural and religious importance. 

According to Bihar Tourism, the temple complex includes attractions like a sacred lake tied to Sita’s legend and Panth Pakar, linked to her marriage. The redevelopment is expected to boost pilgrimage, tourism, and regional pride.