JAMMU, FEBRUARY 8: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) in its meeting on Saturday approved a series of high-impact decisions aimed at transforming the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and the surrounding region into India’s leading and most vibrant spiritual destination with global recognition.
The meeting was chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chairman of the Shrine Board.
Key initiatives approved
The Board approved three major projects:
An International Shakti Museum dedicated to the spiritual heritage of Maa Shakti at Natali, Katra, in consultation with the Asian Heritage Foundation.
A state-of-the-art sound-and-light spectacle modeled on global pilgrimage sites.
A documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to showcase its spiritual and cultural significance.
Jobs, education and local economy
The Board decided to initiate recruitment to fill vacant posts in the Shrine Board.
It also approved the establishment of free NEET coaching centres for youth from surrounding areas.
In a major push for local economic empowerment, the Board resolved to prioritise purchases from self-help groups, women and young local entrepreneurs, and decided that Mata’s offerings will be sourced locally, ensuring direct financial benefits to the community.
Rehabilitation, pilgrims and governance
The Board approved the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for service providers on the Mata Vaishno Devi track, including ponywallas, in line with National Green Tribunal directives.
A committee was constituted to recommend strategies for increasing pilgrim footfall and improving the overall pilgrimage experience.
Katra’s transformation and sports push
Stating that Katra’s identity is globally linked to Mata Vaishno Devi, LG Sinha said the Board will contribute directly to the town’s transformation.
“It is the Board’s resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and millions of pilgrims,” he said.
The Board also decided to spearhead sports development across the Jammu region, aiming to nurture young talent and position J&K as a national sporting powerhouse alongside its spiritual prominence.
Pilgrim safety and infrastructure
The Board approved enhancement of pilgrim insurance cover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per person.
It reviewed progress on major projects, including:
Exit Track at Bhawan
New Vaishnavi Bhawan
Widening of Yatra track from Sanjichhat to Bhawan
Slope stabilisation works
Shri Shankaracharya Ji Temple and allied amenities at Katra
School for Divyangjan at Chaitanya Ashram, Jammu
The Board directed strict adherence to timelines with highest safety standards.
Helipad and Shiv Khori linkage
Following a revised MoU, SMVDSB will provide a one-time financial grant to Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board for pilgrim infrastructure development. The Board also approved that heli services for both shrines will operate from the same helipad at Village Hutt.
Community and green initiatives
The Board appreciated the renovation of 15 schools in Reasi and Udhampur damaged during heavy rains in 2025.
It lauded the establishment of a Sadhna Kaksh (Meditation Hall) at Bhawan and approved grants for institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including Gurukul, Hospital, Sports Complex and College of Nursing.
A comprehensive Annual Green Plan for 2026–27 was approved, with emphasis on making Katra clean and environmentally sustainable.
New facilities inaugurated
On the sidelines of the meeting, LG Sinha laid foundation stones for:
Three new temples in Reasi district
Restoration of two ancient temples in Jammu district (₹1.21 crore)
Redevelopment of Bhairon Ji Temple Complex
Construction of staff accommodation at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji
He also inaugurated newly constructed cottages at Katra and launched an improvised Pouch Prasad containing dry fruits, an engraved coin of the Holy Pindies and a sacred Mouli (Kalava), to be distributed free to pilgrims.
Board proceedings
CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya presented a detailed review of previous decisions and progress.
The meeting was attended by Board members including Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Baleshwar Rai, Dr Ashok Bhan, Sudha Murty, Gunjan Rana, Dr K.K. Talwar, Kulbhushan Ahuja, Lalit Bhasin and Suresh Kumar Sharma, along with Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the LG.
