Rajaram Jain Karmayogi, a Social Worker, Seeks Creation of Separate Ministry for Funeral and Cremation Services in India

Kota, Rajaram Jain Karmayogi, who has assisted in the cremation of over 1.25 lakh deceased individuals, including around 13,000 unclaimed bodies, over the past two decades in Kota, has been a steadfast advocate for the establishment of a separate Ministry for Funeral and Cremation Services. He believes that such a ministry would streamline processes and offer relief to the families of the deceased, alleviating the difficulties they face during the grieving process.

Karmayogi, who has been working tirelessly to help organize cremations for unclaimed bodies and the poor, argues that the Indian government, both at the state and central levels, should set up a dedicated ministry. This would not only ensure that funeral services are organized more efficiently but also provide solace and support to grieving families by facilitating the last rites in accordance with their religious customs.

He highlighted that while society pays attention to the living, there is a lack of focus on providing structured and supportive funeral services for the deceased. Karmayogi has been advocating for this cause for years and has continuously approached both the central and state governments for the creation of this ministry. His work has made a significant impact in Kota, where his Karmayogi Seva Sansthan has assisted in the last rites of thousands of unclaimed bodies and marginalized individuals.

Karmayogi, who is well-known for his community-driven work, emphasizes that the Ministry would not only address practical challenges but also offer a sense of dignity to the deceased. He has been instrumental in organizing collective rituals for the souls of the departed and providing necessary funeral materials for those who are financially unable to do so. His organization owns a fleet of vehicles, including funeral trucks and motorcycles, which are used by people of all faiths.

Through his efforts, Karmayogi has become a well-known figure in Kota, where his association with the "Ram Naam Satya Hai" chant during the funeral processions has earned him a reputation as a compassionate social worker. He also advocates for the inclusion of "Shri Bharat" in official documents, arguing that the addition of the honorific "Shri" before the name of the country would elevate India's international standing and recognition.

Karmayogi's journey into social work began after a personal experience during his childhood when he faced difficulties in arranging funeral services for his family. This event left a lasting impression on him and inspired him to devote himself to ensuring that the deceased receive the dignity they deserve.

For over 20 years, Rajaram Jain Karmayogi has been helping organize funerals and last rites, often at no cost to the families involved. His services extend beyond the rituals to include providing food and water for the needy, distributing sweets to sacrificial animals before Bakra Eid, and even arranging free transportation for people to visit cremation grounds.

Despite his long-standing service, Karmayogi continues to call for systemic changes, including the establishment of a Ministry of Funeral Services, which he believes would significantly improve the way the country handles the last rites for both claimed and unclaimed deceased persons. His request for a Ministry dedicated to funeral services is based on the understanding that this would bring about a structured approach to handling end-of-life issues, ensuring that the deceased are honored according to their traditions and in a dignified manner.

Rajaram Jain Karmayogi’s efforts reflect his deep-rooted belief in the value of humanity and social harmony, with an unwavering commitment to public service, regardless of political or religious affiliations. He has continued to advocate for these changes, not just in Kota but across Rajasthan, and remains a steadfast voice for improving the quality of life and death for all people.