Raj Bhawan, Jammu – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the 74th meeting of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) at Raj Bhawan. The meeting was attended by Board Members Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Baleshwar Rai, Dr. Ashok Bhan, Dr. Neelam Sareen, K.K. Sharma, Suresh Kumar Sharma, and Raghu K. Mehta. Also present were Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, and Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB.
Key Decisions Taken at the Meeting
The Board conducted a comprehensive review of its past decisions, ratified the actions taken after the last meeting, and approved several new decisions across 20 key agenda items aimed at enhancing shrine operations and pilgrim services.
New and Ongoing Projects
- Construction of an exit track & remodelling of Manokamana area at Bhawan, as part of the Master Plan for Bhawan area.
- Development of a helipad in collaboration with Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board at Village Hutt, Katra.
- New Vaishnavi Bhawan at Bhawan.
- Cottages near Sports Stadium, Katra.
- Widening of Yatra track from Sanjichhat to Bhawan.
- Operationalization of the Medical College at Kakryal.
Redevelopment of Bhairon Ji Temple Complex
Given the substantial increase in footfall at Bhairon Ji Temple following the installation of the passenger ropeway in 2019, the Board approved a major redevelopment project. The initiative includes:
- Efficient queue management system.
- Locker facilities and additional washrooms.
- Enhanced crowd management to ensure seamless darshans.
- Completion expected within 12 months.
Environmental and Energy Sustainability
- Review of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) across shrine premises for efficiency improvements.
- Increased reliance on solar and renewable energy sources.
- Implementation of an annual Green Plan for 2025-26.
Improved Pilgrim Experience
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized a robust feedback mechanism for continuous improvement in Shrine Board services. He also inaugurated several pilgrim-centric facilities, including:
- Queue complex at Darshani Deodi and Banganga.
- Holding area at Adhkuwari to streamline crowd management.
- Launch of 50gm and 100gm silver coins featuring an inscription of Goddess Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, ensuring guaranteed purity.
Surge in Pilgrimage Numbers
The Board noted that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine has seen a consistent surge in devotees, with annual pilgrimage exceeding 90 lakh for the third consecutive year, reaching 95 lakh last year. The significant growth is attributed to key infrastructural developments, including:
- Durga Bhawan with Tripti Bhojanalya.
- Skywalk, Remodelled Parvati Bhawan, and Atka area.
- Queue Complex at Darshani Deodi and holding areas at Adhkuwari.
- Expansion of prasad kendras, free langars, and medical facilities.
- Enhanced facilities for senior citizens and divyang pilgrims.
Commitment to Development and Seamless Operations
On the sidelines of the meeting, CEO Anshul Garg presented a detailed report on the Board’s activities and the implementation status of previous decisions. Lieutenant Governor Sinha acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Board members over the last three years, emphasizing their instrumental role in advancing the Shrine’s reputation and infrastructure development.
The Board also approved an amnesty scheme to resolve long-standing litigation matters with shop licensees, providing a one-time opportunity for settlement.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to further streamline pilgrim services and improve infrastructure, ensuring a seamless spiritual experience for devotees visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
