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LG Manoj Sinha Unveils Plan to Transform Vaishno Devi into Premier Spiritual Hub

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has chaired a high-level meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, finalising a comprehensive roadmap for the shrine's transformation. Key approved projects include an international museum dedicated to Maa Shakti, a global-standard sound-and-light show, and a documentary film. The board also plans to boost the local economy by prioritising purchases from self-help groups and local entrepreneurs, and will contribute directly to modernising Katra's infrastructure. Additionally, initiatives like free NEET coaching centres and a regional sports development drive aim to empower local youth.

Key Points: Vaishno Devi Transformation Plan Unveiled by LG Manoj Sinha

  • International Shakti heritage museum
  • Sound-and-light spectacle for pilgrims
  • Free NEET coaching for local youth
  • Rehabilitation plan for track service providers
2 min read

LG Manoj Sinha unveils vision to transform Vaishno Devi shrine into India's premier spiritual destination

LG Manoj Sinha chairs shrine board meeting, approving an international museum, light show, and local economic initiatives to elevate the pilgrimage experience.

"to completely transform the shrine... into India's leading and most vibrant spiritual destination - Manoj Sinha"

Katra, February 8

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday chaired a high-level meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, finalising a roadmap to overhaul the pilgrimage site and its surrounding regions into a vibrant spiritual hub.

The Lieutenant Governor in a post on X said, "Chaired Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board meeting today. A series of high-impact decisions have been finalised to completely transform the shrine and its surrounding region into India's leading and most vibrant spiritual destination-earning worldwide acclaim."

In the post, the LG mentioned three initiatives approved by the board: an international museum dedicated to Maa Shakti's spiritual heritage, a sound-and-light spectacle modelled on global pilgrimage sites, and a documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

He further stated that the Board has decided to fill the vacant positions, with recruitment to begin shortly. The board has also greenlit the establishment of coaching centres offering free NEET preparation to youth from surrounding areas.

The board also approved the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for the service providers on the Mata Vaishno Devi track, like ponywallas, etc., in line with the directives of the National Green Tribunal. A committee has been established to assess strategies to increase pilgrimage numbers and the pilgrimage experience and to present recommendations to the Board.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also mentioned that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has resolved to prioritise purchases from self-help groups, women and young local entrepreneurs to supercharge the regional economy. Board would source Mata's offerings locally, channelling funds directly into community growth.

Manoj Sinha explained, since Mata's abode puts Katra city on the global map, the Board has decided to contribute directly for city's transformation. It's the Board's resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant, and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and the millions of pilgrims who visit.

The LG informed that Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has also decided to spearhead sports development across the Jammu region- cultivating future champions, safeguarding youth health, and transforming Jammu & Kashmir UT into a national sporting powerhouse alongside its spiritual eminence.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While development is good, I hope they don't commercialise the sacred atmosphere too much. The peace and simplicity of the yatra is its core strength. The free NEET coaching and sports development for Jammu youth, however, is a brilliant and much-needed initiative.
A
Aman W
Sourcing offerings locally and buying from self-help groups is a game-changer for the region's economy. Directly funding Katra's infrastructure is also the right step. This holistic approach of spiritual growth + community development is what we need more of.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited last year, the facilities were good but could be better. A clean and modern Katra will greatly improve the pilgrim experience. The rehabilitation plan for service providers shows they are considering everyone's welfare.
V
Vikram M
Transforming Jammu into a sporting powerhouse alongside a spiritual hub is a visionary idea. It provides positive avenues for youth. Hope the execution matches the vision. The board seems to be thinking long-term for the entire UT.
K
Karthik V
Good steps overall. My only request: please ensure the new developments are accessible for elderly pilgrims and those with disabilities. The climb is challenging enough. The focus should remain on devotion and ease of darshan.

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