The Rajasthan government on Friday announced the renaming of three well-known towns in the state, along with a series of welfare initiatives for legislators and journalists. The declaration was made by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma during a session of the Rajasthan Assembly in Jaipur.
Mount Abu, the state’s only hill station and a major tourist destination, will now be called Aburaj. Jahazpur, known for its historical forts and temples, will be renamed Yagyapur, while Kaman will now go by Kamvan. According to the government, the changes aim to respect local sentiments and revive the historical and cultural identity of these regions. Signage, official records, and administrative documents will be updated once the renaming process is formally completed.
Welfare Measures for Legislators and Journalists
Alongside the renaming announcement, CM Sharma unveiled a set of welfare measures. State legislators will now receive annual cost-of-living adjustments similar to government employees, along with a mobile phone and tablet for official use. The government also plans a dedicated housing scheme under the Vidhayak Awas Yojana for legislators.
Senior journalists above 60 years of age will see their pensions increased to ₹18,000 per month, while widows of journalists will receive ₹9,000. Additionally, a housing scheme for journalists will be launched under the Awasan Mandal initiative.
Gau Seva Policy 2026
The Chief Minister also announced the Gau Seva Policy 2026, aimed at strengthening cow protection and welfare programs across Rajasthan. The move is part of the state government’s broader focus on cultural and heritage initiatives.
Mixed Reactions to Renaming
The announcement of renaming has sparked debate among political leaders, historians, and local residents. Supporters argue that the changes help revive cultural heritage and align the modern identity of these towns with historical traditions. Critics, however, question the timing and priorities, suggesting that development and governance issues should come first.
Mount Abu, now Aburaj, remains a key attraction for tourism and pilgrimage, and the government asserts the new name better reflects the region’s cultural roots. Similarly, Kamvan and Yagyapur are being positioned as names with deeper historical and religious significance.
Officials have indicated that the administrative process for renaming is already underway and will follow all necessary legal channels before being fully implemented.
