• Source:JND
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Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board announced the provision of free essential facilities to assist specially abled pilgrims at the shrine complex in Katra. These free services include transportation services such as horses, stooges and palanquins up to the Ardhkuwari temple area, followed by complimentary battery car services to facilitate easier access to darshan areas.

The initiative comes on the first day of Chaitra Navratri when the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra is adorned with vibrant lights and flowers to welcome the devotees. Additionally, security measures have been enhanced, with the deployment of CRPF, police personnel and officers to monitor the situation. Drones and CCTV cameras have also been placed at several locations for surveillance activity.  

Special control rooms have been established in Bhawan and Katra, dividing the area into six sectors, each overseen by an officer from the Shrine Board and DSP-level police officers.

Meanwhile, the grand Chandi Mahayagya is set to be conducted in the Yagyashala near the ancient cave, led by the Prakand Pandit, Padmashree Dr Vishwa Murthy Shastri. This event will allow 150 to 200 devotees to participate at a time, offering them the opportunity to partake in the Mahayagya.

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Significance Of First Day Of Chaitra Navratri

On the first day of the Navratri, devotees worship Mata Shailputri, which means "daughter of the mountain" in Hindu folklore. In accordance with a story that claims Maa Durgas was born at Parvat Raj Himalaya's (the King of the Himalayas) residence, her incarnation was given the name Shailputri. Additionally, she is also known as Hemavati.