Vaishno Devi shrine board doubles pilgrim insurance cover to Rs10 lakh

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), at its meeting held on Sunday, took a series of decisions aimed at further developing the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and its surrounding region as a leading spiritual destination in the country.

The meeting was chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. With a focus on pilgrim safety, the Board approved enhancement of insurance cover from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per pilgrim.

The Board approved three key initiatives - establishment of an international museum dedicated to the spiritual heritage of Maa Shakti, a sound-and-light show modelled on global pilgrimage sites and the production of a documentary on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

In another important decision, the Board approved filling vacant posts, with the recruitment process set to begin shortly. The SMVDSB also approved the establishment of coaching centres offering free NEET preparation to students from surrounding areas.

The Board approved the formulation and phased implementation of a rehabilitation plan for service providers on the Mata Vaishno Devi track, including pony operators, in line with the directives of the National Green Tribunal.

In a significant move, a committee has been constituted to assess strategies for increasing pilgrim footfall, enhancing the pilgrimage experience and submitting recommendations to the Board.

The Shrine Board resolved to prioritise procurement from self-help groups, women and young local entrepreneurs to support the regional economy. It was also decided that offerings associated with the Shrine would increasingly be sourced locally to promote community development.

Emphasising the importance of Katra as a major pilgrimage centre, the Board decided to contribute towards the town's development. "It is the Board's resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and the millions who arrive as pilgrims," the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Board also decided to promote sports development across the Jammu region with the objective of encouraging youth participation and strengthening sports infrastructure. Specialised training for religious practitioners (pujaris) was also emphasised.

The Board reviewed and ratified actions taken since the previous meeting and deliberated on 25 agenda items aimed at strengthening institutional functioning and improving pilgrim services.

It also endorsed the preliminary concept for construction of an international museum, in consultation with the Asian Heritage Foundation, at Natali, Katra. The proposed Shakti Museum is envisaged as a religious, educational and cultural centre. The proposed light-and-sound show will seek to present mythology through a blend of tradition and modern technology. The Lieutenant Governor asked the Board to provide concrete suggestions so that the project can be initiated in the coming months and completed within two years.

Progress of major infrastructure projects was also reviewed, including construction of the Exit Track at Bhawan, the New Vaishnavi Bhawan, widening of the Yatra track from Sanjichhat to Bhawan, slope stabilisation works, construction of the Shri Shankaracharya Ji Temple and allied amenities at Katra and the School for Divyangjan at Chaitanya Ashram, Jammu. The Board directed strict adherence to timelines while ensuring high standards of quality and safety.

Regarding the newly developed helipad at village Hutt, the Board approved that, following execution of a revised Memorandum of Understanding, the SMVDSB will provide a one-time financial grant to the 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 community welfare initiatives undertaken by the Shrine Board, including renovation of 15 schools in Reasi and Udhampur districts damaged during heavy rains in August-September 2025, completed within five months.

The Board also lauded the establishment of a Sadhna Kaksh (Meditation Hall) at Bhawan, terming it a significant step towards enhancing the spiritual well-being of pilgrims. Approval was accorded for grant-in-aid to institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including the Gurukul, Hospital, Sports Complex and College of Nursing.