Health & Lifestyle
Somnath Aims to Become India’s First Net-Zero Temple
Historic temple blends spirituality, sustainability and technology as it celebrates ‘Somnath Amrit Parv’
The revered Somnath Temple is celebrating 75 years of its modern reconstruction journey, marking a major milestone in its transformation into a global spiritual and cultural destination.
The celebrations, titled “Somnath Amrit Parv,” are expected to be attended by Narendra Modi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Somnath Trust.
Alongside its religious importance, Somnath is increasingly being recognised for its environmental initiatives and sustainable development efforts. The temple is working towards becoming India’s first “Net-Zero” temple by reducing its carbon footprint through eco-friendly projects.
Under the government’s Mission LiFE programme, the temple trust has introduced several green measures. Floral waste generated at the shrine is being converted into compost, while plastic waste is processed into paver blocks for infrastructure use.
The trust has also implemented advanced sewage treatment systems, rainwater harvesting projects, and Miyawaki forest plantations as part of its environmental conservation strategy.
At the same time, Somnath has embraced digital transformation to improve services for devotees around the world. Pilgrims can now book pujas online and receive prasad deliveries at their homes, combining traditional faith practices with modern technology.
The temple currently attracts more than 97 lakh devotees every year. Improved infrastructure connectivity, including access through Vande Bharat Express and nearby international airports, has significantly boosted tourism and pilgrimage activity in the region.
Officials describe the current phase as a “Golden Era” for Somnath, highlighting both its spiritual revival and its emergence as a model for sustainable religious tourism in India.