- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Devotees visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi will soon get enhanced facilities, as the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has approved several major initiatives aimed at strengthening pilgrimage infrastructure and improving the overall experience at the shrine.
At a meeting chaired by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Shrine Board gave approval for the establishment of a global spiritual museum dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi at the base camp in Katra.
The proposed international-level Shakti Museum, to be developed in the Natali area, will be the first of its kind and will serve as a religious, educational and cultural centre. It will also feature a state-of-the-art light and sound show to bring mythological stories to life through a blend of tradition and modern technology. The project is expected to begin in the coming months and be completed within two years.
The Board described the decisions taken at the meeting as far-reaching and high-impact, aimed at developing Mata Vaishno Devi Dham and its surrounding areas into a world-renowned spiritual destination.
Among the three major new initiatives approved are the international Shakti Museum, a modern light and sound show modelled on global pilgrimage sites, and the production of a documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
In a significant move for youth welfare, the Shrine Board also approved the establishment of a free NEET coaching centre for students from surrounding areas and decided to fill vacant posts by initiating the recruitment process soon.
To improve livelihoods along the yatra route, the Board cleared the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for service providers such as pony-riders, in line with the directions of the National Green Tribunal. A committee has also been constituted to suggest measures to increase pilgrim numbers and further enhance travel convenience.
The Shrine Board decided to prioritise procurement from self-help groups, women and local youth entrepreneurs, including sourcing Mata’s Prasad locally, to ensure that funds directly benefit the regional economy. Recognising Katra’s global identity due to the shrine, the Board also committed to contributing directly to the town’s development, with a focus on cleanliness, vibrancy and modern infrastructure.
For pilgrim safety, the insurance cover has been enhanced from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per devotee. The Board also emphasised specialised training for priests to improve the quality of religious services, alongside a strong focus on infrastructure development and environmental protection.
The meeting reviewed the progress of several key projects, including the exit road from Bhawan, New Vaishnavi Bhawan, widening of the yatra route from Sanjichhat to Bhawan, slope stabilisation works, the Shri Shankaracharya Temple in Katra, and a school for Divyangjan at Chaitanya Ashram in Jammu. All projects were directed to be completed on time with strict adherence to quality and safety standards.
The Board approved the Annual Green Plan for 2026–27, with special emphasis on environmental conservation and maintaining a clean and green Katra. It also decided to provide one-time financial assistance to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board for upgrading pilgrimage infrastructure, following a revised Memorandum of Understanding, and approved operating heli services for both pilgrimage sites from a single helipad for greater convenience.
The Shrine Board also lauded its community welfare efforts, including the renovation of 15 rain-damaged schools in Reasi and Udhampur districts within five months, and approved grants for institutions run by the SMVD Charitable Society, including a Gurukul, hospital, sports complex and nursing college.
During the visit, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid the foundation stones for several projects to enhance pilgrim facilities, including the construction of three new temples in Reasi district, the renovation of two ancient temples in Jammu district at Rs 1.21 crore, the redevelopment of the Bhairon Ji temple complex, and the construction of staff quarters at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji. He also inaugurated newly built cottages at Katra and launched a new pouch Prasad for free distribution to devotees.