Jammu, Feb 08 ( : The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, in a meeting chaired by Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha here on Sunday, approved a comprehensive development plan aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage infrastructure, stimulating the local economy, and fostering broader regional growth.
The board resolved to elevate the shrine’s global spiritual profile by sanctioning three new projects: an international museum dedicated to the spiritual heritage of Maa Shakti, a sound-and-light spectacle on the lines of major global pilgrimage sites, and a documentary film on the shrine.
In a significant move to bolster the local economy, the board decided to prioritise procurement from self-help groups, women entrepreneurs, and young local start-ups. It mandated that all ritual offerings for the deity be sourced from local producers and suppliers, a measure intended to ensure financial circulation within the regional economy.
To address local employment, the board approved the immediate commencement of a recruitment drive to fill all vacant posts within the shrine administration. In an initiative for educational empowerment, the board gave its approval for establishing coaching centres to provide free National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) preparation for youth in the surrounding areas.
Acting upon the directives of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the board approved the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for traditional service providers on the pilgrimage track, such as ponywallas and pithuwallas.
Recognising the integral role of Katra town, the base camp for the pilgrimage, the board resolved to contribute directly to its planned transformation. The objective is to develop Katra into a cleaner, more vibrant town with modern civic infrastructure for both its residents and the millions of annual pilgrims.
Expanding its purview, the board resolved to champion sports development across the Jammu region, with an aim to nurture athletic talent and promote a sporting culture.
A committee has been constituted to assess and recommend strategies for increasing pilgrimage numbers and improving the overall pilgrim experience. Its findings will be presented to the board in due course. (KNS)
