Jammu: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) on Sunday approved a series of high-impact measures to transform the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and its surrounding region into a world-class spiritual destination.
The meeting, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Board’s chairman, cleared key initiatives including the development of an international museum on Maa Shakti’s spiritual heritage, a state-of-the-art sound-and-light show, and a documentary on the shrine.
In a major step for pilgrim safety, the Board doubled the insurance cover for pilgrims from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per person.
The Board also approved filling vacant posts, launching free NEET coaching centres for local youth, and preparing a phased rehabilitation plan for service providers such as ponywallas in line with National Green Tribunal directives. A committee has been formed to recommend ways to increase pilgrim footfall and enhance the pilgrimage experience.
To boost the local economy, the Board resolved to prioritise procurement from self-help groups, women and young entrepreneurs, and to source offerings locally. It also pledged support for Katra’s transformation, with the Lt Governor stressing the goal of making the town clean, vibrant and equipped with modern infrastructure.
The Board further decided to promote sports development across the जम्मू region and introduce specialised training for pujaris.
Infrastructure projects reviewed included the exit track and new Vaishnavi Bhawan at the shrine, widening of the Sanjichhat–Bhawan track, slope stabilisation works, a Shankaracharya temple at Katra, and a school for दिव्यांगजन at Chaitanya Ashram, Jammu. Officials were directed to maintain strict timelines and quality standards.
Regarding the new helipad at Hutt village, the Board approved a one-time financial grant to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board and decided that helicopter services for both shrines would operate from the same facility.
The Board appreciated community initiatives such as the renovation of 15 rain-damaged schools in Reasi and Udhampur, and approved grants for institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including a hospital, nursing college and sports complex. A Sadhna Kaksh (meditation hall) at Bhawan was also lauded.
A comprehensive Green Plan for 2026–27 was approved, with directions to focus on a clean and green Katra.
On the sidelines, the Lt Governor laid foundation stones for three temples in Reasi, restoration of two ancient temples in Jammu, redevelopment of the Bhairon Ji complex, and staff accommodation at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji. He also inaugurated new cottages at Katra and launched an improved ‘Pouch Prasad’ for free distribution among pilgrims.
The meeting was attended by Board members and senior officials, including Principal Secretary to the Lt Governor Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari and SMVDSB CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya.
