Jammu: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) on Saturday approved a wide range of initiatives aimed at transforming the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and its surrounding region into a leading global spiritual destination, while strengthening pilgrim facilities, community welfare and regional development.
The meeting was chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
The Board approved three key initiatives — an international museum dedicated to Maa Shakti’s spiritual heritage, a sound-and-light spectacle modelled on global pilgrimage destinations, and production of a documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
In another important decision, the Shrine Board resolved to fill vacant positions, with the recruitment process set to begin shortly. The Board also approved the establishment of coaching centres offering free NEET preparation to youth from surrounding areas.
In compliance with the directives of the National Green Tribunal, the SMVDSB approved the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for service providers on the Mata Vaishno Devi track, including pony operators and other traditional workers.
A committee has also been constituted to assess strategies for expanding pilgrimage numbers, enhancing the pilgrimage experience and presenting recommendations to the Board.
The Shrine Board further resolved to prioritise procurement from self-help groups, women and young local entrepreneurs in order to strengthen the regional economy. It also decided to source Mata’s offerings locally so that funds are channelled directly into community growth.
Since the shrine attracts pilgrims from across the world and places Katra town on the global map, the Board decided to contribute directly towards the city’s transformation.
“It is the Board’s resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and the millions of pilgrims who arrive,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Board also decided to spearhead sports development across the Jammu region, aimed at promoting youth health and nurturing future talent, and emphasised specialised training for religious practitioners (pujaris).
The Board reviewed and ratified actions taken since the previous meeting and approved decisions on 25 agenda items to strengthen its functioning and improve pilgrim services.
For pilgrim safety, the Board approved enhancement of insurance cover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per pilgrim. It also endorsed the preliminary concept for construction of an International Museum dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi Ji at Natali, Katra, in consultation with the Asian Heritage Foundation. The proposed Shakti Museum is envisioned as a religious, educational and cultural centre, while the proposed light-and-sound shows will depict mythology through a fusion of tradition and modern technology. The Lieutenant Governor asked the Board to provide concrete suggestions so that work on the project can begin in the coming months and be completed within two years
The Board reviewed the progress of major infrastructure projects, including construction of the exit track at Bhawan, New Vaishnavi Bhawan, widening of the yatra track from Sanjichhat to Bhawan, slope stabilisation works, construction of Shri Shankaracharya Ji Temple and allied amenities at Katra, and a school for Divyangjan at Chaitanya Ashram, Jammu. Officials were directed to adhere strictly to timelines while ensuring quality and safety standards.
Regarding the newly developed helipad at village Hutt, the Board approved that after execution of a revised MoU, SMVDSB will provide a one-time financial grant to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board for the development and upgradation of pilgrim infrastructure. Helicopter services for both shrines will operate from the same helipad for the convenience of pilgrims.
The Board appreciated community welfare initiatives, including renovation of 15 schools in Reasi and Udhampur districts damaged during the heavy rains of August–September 2025 within five months.
It also lauded establishment of a Sadhna Kaksh (meditation hall) at Bhawan and approved grant-in-aid to institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including the Gurukul, hospital, sports complex and college of nursing.
A comprehensive Annual Green Plan for 2026–27 was also approved, with emphasis on environmental sustainability and promotion of a clean and green Katra town and surrounding areas.
On the sidelines of the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor laid foundation stones for several pilgrim-centric facilities, including construction of three new temples in Reasi district, restoration of two ancient temples in Jammu district at an estimated cost of ₹1.21 crore, redevelopment of the Bhairon Ji temple complex and construction of staff accommodation at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji. He also inaugurated newly constructed cottages at Katra and launched an improved pouch prasad containing dry fruits, an engraved coin depicting the holy pindies and a sacred mouli (kalava) for free distribution among pilgrims.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, presented a detailed overview of the Board’s activities and progress in the implementation of decisions taken during previous meetings.
The meeting was attended by Board members 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. Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, and Chief Executive Officer SMVDSB, Sachin Kumar Vaishya were also present.
