India, March 18 -- LUCKNOW Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the surge in the number of pilgrims visiting religious sites in Uttar Pradesh reflects both improved infrastructure and deepening public faith, even as it presents challenges for the government.

Addressing a gathering at Lok Bhavan after distributing financial assistance of Rs.1 lakh each to 555 pilgrims of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, he said earlier only a limited number of devotees could undertake such journeys due to lack of resources, but the situation has changed significantly now.

"The faith of crores of devotees witnessed in events like the Prayagraj Mahakumbh not only reflects India's cultural strength, but also gives new momentum to the state's economy. Wit...