Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Katra. File
| Photo Credit: ANI
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board on Sunday (February 8, 2026) approved the establishment of an international museum and a sound-and-light spectacle modelled on global pilgrimage sites.
“The proposed Shakti Museum will be the first of its kind and will serve as a religious, educational and cultural centre. Additionally, the state-of-the-art light and sound shows will bring mythology to life through a fusion of tradition and innovation,” the Board spokesman said.
The decisions were taken in a meeting chaired by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
Complete transformation
A spokesman of the Board said the series of high-impact decisions was aimed at “completely transforming the Shrine and its surrounding region into India’s leading and most vibrant spiritual destination-earning worldwide acclaim”.
The Board also decided to fill vacant positions and the establishment of coaching centers offering free NEET preparation to youth from surrounding areas, the spokesman said.
The Board resolved to prioritize purchases from self-help groups, women and young local entrepreneurs to boost regional economy.
“The Board would source Mata’s offerings locally, channeling funds directly into community growth,” the spokesman said.
Mr. Sinha said it’s Board’s resolve to make Katra clean, vibrant, and equipped with modern infrastructure for residents and the millions, who arrive as pilgrims.
The Board has decided to spearhead sports development across the Jammu region – cultivating future champions, safeguarding youth health, and transforming Jammu & Kashmir into a national sporting powerhouse alongside its spiritual eminence.
Emphasising pilgrim safety, the Board approved enhancement of insurance cover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per pilgrim.
The Board lauded the initiative of establishing a Sadhna Kaksh (Meditation Hall) at Bhawan and termed it a significant step towards enriching the spiritual well-being of pilgrims.
“Approval was also accorded for grant-in-aid to institutions under the SMVD Charitable Society, including Gurukul, Hospital, Sports Complex, College of Nursing,” the spokesman said. On the sidelines of the meeting, the Lieutenant-Governor laid foundation stones for several pilgrim-centric facilities aimed at enhancing infrastructure and spiritual experience of the devotees. These initiatives include the construction of three new temples in Reasi district, the restoration of two ancient temples in Jammu district at an estimated cost of ₹1.21 crore, redevelopment of the Bhairon Ji Temple Complex, along with the construction of staff accommodation at Bhawan and Bhairon Ji.
The Lieutenant-Governor also inaugurated newly constructed cottages at Katra and launched an improvised Pouch Prasad containing dry fruits, an engraved coin depicting the Holy Pindies and a sacred Mouli (Kalava) for free distribution among pilgrims.
Published – February 08, 2026 10:05 pm IST
