Mata Vaishno Devi shrine to be posted as leading spiritual destination
SMVDSB to source Mata’s offerings locally, channeling funds directly into community growth
Katra city to be brought on the global map, board has decided to contribute directly for city’s transformation
Jammu: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board on Sunday approved a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the revered pilgrimage site and the surrounding region into one of India’s most prominent spiritual destinations, an official spokesman said.
A committee has also been constituted to assess strategies for increasing pilgrim footfall and expanding facilities for devotees to enhance the pilgrimage experience, he said, adding that the panel has been asked to present its recommendations to the board.
The initiatives were cleared during a board meeting chaired by Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, the spokesman said.
“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,” the spokesman said.
Giving details, he said the shrine board has approved three initiatives including an international museum dedicated to the spiritual heritage of ‘Maa Shakti’, a light-and-sound spectacle, and a documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
The proposed Shakti Museum will be the first of its kind and would serve as a religious, educational and cultural center. Additionally, the state-of-the-art light & sound shows will bring mythology to life through a fusion of tradition and innovation. The Lieutenant Governor requested the Board to provide concrete suggestions, enabling the project to be initiated in the coming months and completed within a two-year timeframe.
Progress of major infrastructure projects was reviewed including construction of the Exit Track at Bhawan, New Vaishnavi Bhawan, widening of the Yatra track from Sanjichhat to Bhawan, slope stabilization works, construction of Shri Shankaracharya Ji Temple and allied amenities at Katra and School for Divyangjan at Chaitanya Ashram, Jammu. The Board directed strict adherence to timelines while ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
Regarding the newly developed helipad at Village Hutt, the Board approved that following execution of a revised MoU, SMVDSB will provide a one-time financial grant to Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board under the Shrine Act for development and upgradation of pilgrim infrastructure. It was also approved that heli services for both Shrines will operate from the same helipad for the convenience of pilgrims.
The Board appreciated the community welfare initiatives of renovating 15 schools in Reasi and Udhampur districts damaged during the heavy rains of August-September 2025 within just five months.
The Board lauded the initiative of establishing a Sadhna Kaksh (Meditation Hall) at Bhawan; terming it a significant step towards enriching the spiritual well-being of pilgrims. Approval was also accorded for grant-in-aid to institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including Gurukul, Hospital, Sports Complex, College of Nursing.
The Board expressed appreciation for the greening initiatives undertaken by SMVDSB and approved a comprehensive Annual Green Plan for 2026–27. The Lieutenant Governor directed the CEO to reaffirm the commitment to environmental sustainability with particular emphasis on promoting a clean and green Katra Town and its surrounding areas.
Formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for service providers along the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route, like ponywallas and ‘pithu’ operators, has been approved, in line with the directives of the National Green Tribunal.
The shrine board has resolved to prioritise purchases from local self-help groups, women, and young entrepreneurs to boost the regional economy, the spokesperson said, adding that the board plans to source Mata’s offerings locally, channelling funds into community growth.
The board has also approved establishment of coaching centres offering free NEET preparation to youth from surrounding areas.
He said since the revered shrine puts the city of Katra — the base camp for the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage — on the global map, the board has decided to contribute to the city’s development.
“It is Board’s resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant, and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and the millions who arrive as pilgrims,” he said.
In another important initiative, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has decided to fill vacant positions, with recruitment process set to begin shortly.
In yet another significant move, a committee has been constituted to assess strategies for expanding pilgrimage numbers, enhancing pilgrimage experience and present recommendations to the board.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has 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.
The Board also emphasised on specialised training for religious practitioners (Pujaris).
The Board reviewed and ratified actions taken since the previous meeting and took key decisions on 25 important agenda items aimed at strengthening the Board’s functioning and improving pilgrim services.
Emphasizing pilgrim safety, the Board approved enhancement of insurance cover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per pilgrim. Besides, endorsed the preliminary concept for constructing an International Museum with the consultation of Asian Heritage Foundation dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi Ji at Natali, Katra.
On the sidelines of the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor laid foundation stones for several pilgrim-centric facilities aimed at enhancing infrastructure and spiritual experience.
These included construction of three new temples in Reasi district, restoration of two ancient temples in Jammu district at an estimated cost ₹1.21 Cr, redevelopment of the Bhairon Ji Temple Complex and construction of staff accommodation at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji. The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated newly constructed cottages at Katra and launched an improvised 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 achieved in implementation of decisions taken during previous meetings.
The meeting was attended by all Board Members including Mahamandleshwar Shri Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Shri Baleshwar Rai, Dr. Ashok Bhan, Sudha Murty, Gunjan Rana, Dr. K.K. Talwar, Kulbhushan Ahuja, Lalit Bhasin and Suresh Kumar Sharma.
Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB also attended the meeting.
