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Katra, June 5: To commemorate World Environment Day, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) organized a special drawing and sketching competition at its high-tech nursery in village Kunya, Panthal, near Katra. The event, which saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of students of various age groups, focused on the theme "Ending Plastic Pollution Globally".

The competition aimed to raise awareness about the pressing issue of plastic pollution and encourage young minds to think creatively about solutions. Students from classes 1 to 12 from various institutions in the surroundings of Katra area showcased their artistic talents, highlighting the importance of reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices. The competition was held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, providing a platform for young artists to express their thoughts and ideas on environmental conservation.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB expressed delight at the students participation and the quality of artwork displayed, saying it was heartening to see students of various age groups engaging deeply with critical environmental issues. He also highlighted the Board's commitment to environmental conservation under the directions and guidance of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), citing the Annual Green Plan of the Board, under which over 1.7 million plants have been planted so far through manual intervention with a survival rate of over 80%. These plants are meticulously reared in the Board's high-tech nursery, showcasing the organization's dedication to preserving nature and maintaining ecological balance in the region, he added.

The CEO further highlighted the Shrine Board's innovative approach to afforestation, citing the successful initiation of drone-based efforts last year, which have shown promising results. Under this initiative, the Forest Wing has covered approximately 109 hectares of degraded land in the Trikuta Hills. Additionally, the Board undertakes extensive greening efforts, planting over 1.5 lakh seedlings annually on Trikuta Hills and along the tracks leading to the shrine to promote soil and water conservation. The Board also distributes plants as souvenirs to devotees through its plant sale counter in Katra, in line with the Prime Minister's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign, promoting environmental awareness and conservation.

The CEO congratulated all the participants for their creative efforts and encouraged them to continue spreading awareness about environmental issues.

The winners of the competition were awarded prizes in their respective categories.

Also present on the occasion were Additional Chief Executive Officer, Dy. Chief Executive Officer, FA/ Chief Accounts Officer, Asstt. Chief Executive Officer, Assistant Conservator of Forest, teachers and students from various institutions surrounding Katra, along with officers and officials from the Shrine Board.

 


Kakryal, April 4: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) - Medical College of SMVDSB achieved a significant milestone with the unveiling of its state-of-the-art Skill and Simulation Lab. This cutting-edge facility is equipped with the latest technology and equipment, providing a comprehensive platform for enhancing hands-on medical training and skill development. The lab will benefit faculty members, MBBS and nursing students, as well as paramedical staff by offering immersive training experiences that foster expertise and excellence in patient care.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board inaugurated the Skill and Simulation Lab in the presence of Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Gopal Sharma, Asstt. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, SMVDIME, Associated Hospital and Principals from GMC Kathua and GMC Doda along with other SMVDIME officers and staff.

Following the inauguration, a guided tour of the lab revealed its state-of-the-art, high-fidelity training equipment which leverages cutting-edge technology to replicate real-world medical scenarios.

On the occasion, CEO, SMVDSB expressed his gratitude to the Hon'ble Chairman, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (Lt. Governor, JK-UT) for his unwavering support and guidance in approving the infrastructural plan for the Medical College. This ambitious plan, at the cost of Rs.350 crore, encompasses the development of a state-of-the-art Academic and Administrative Block for SMVDIME, accommodations for faculty and students and the expansion of the existing Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital by adding around 250 beds. The ultimate aim is to increase the Medical College's intake capacity from 50 to 100 seats, aligning with the Shrine Board's decision

The CEO commended the Executive Director and his team for their exceptional work in establishing the facility while highlighting the significance of simulation-based learning in medical education. He underscored that this cutting-edge facility will transform skill training, providing students with hands-on experience in a controlled and safe environment, besides, bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Furthermore, the CEO asserted that the facility will also train all Shrine Board employees in Basic Life Support (BLS) ensuring that pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrine receive optimal care.

Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, SMVDIME expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the successful realization of this project while stating that this state-of-the-art facility embodies SMVDIME’s unwavering commitment to excellence in medical education as it provides a dynamic learning environment where students, interns and healthcare professionals can refine their skills and ultimately enhance patient care outcomes.

Katra, December, 24: To ensure a seamless and convenient pilgrimage experience for the large influx of devotees expected during the New Year-2025, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) held a review meeting today to finalize all necessary arrangements.

The meeting convened under the directions of the Hon'ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT) was presided by Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB and attended by senior officers of the Shrine Board, representatives from Security Agencies and other key stakeholders.

The Chief Executive Officer instructed the concerned authorities to make necessary arrangements for Yatra management including security measures through RFID card regulation and crowd management strategies to ease congestion along the track particularly at the Bhawan area. To ensure a smooth experience, separate entry and exit routes will be implemented at the Bhawan and over 700 CCTV cameras will provide all-time surveillance guaranteeing a safe environment for devotees, he added.

The CEO further stressed that security agencies should only allow pilgrims with valid RFID cards to proceed for the yatra and suggested deploying additional handheld scanners and sufficient staff to prevent any lapses in this regard. Furthermore, he instructed for regular public announcements to be made aiming to decongest the crowd on the track and maintain a smooth flow of pilgrims.

While emphasizing the need for synergy among all stakeholders to achieve this objective, he emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness measures directing the concerned quarters to monitor vulnerable areas and conduct joint patrolling. Additionally, the CEO issued directives for the smooth regulation of vehicle movement, improved sanitation, drinking water supplies and enhanced lighting on the track and in the Katra area. Special attention was called to resolving traffic issues caused by unauthorized parking with plans for a special drive to tow away such vehicles.

Security agencies presented a detailed action plan including the deployment of drones and use of CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring besides deployment of additional security forces and quick response teams (QRTs). It was informed to the chair that a multi-tier security grid comprising the Police and para military forces will be in place to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the yatra. The meeting concluded with the clear instructions to ensure hassle-free pilgrimage experience for all devotees

The meeting was attended by SSP, Reasi; Jt. Chief Executive Officer & Dy. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; Sub Divisional Magistrate, Bhawan; SP, Katra; Asstt. CEOs, SMVDSB; SDPO Katra, Tehsildar & ACF, SMVDSB and officers from IB, CID, SMVDSB and other intelligence agencies.

 


Unveils Virtual Darshan of the Holy Pilgrimage

Katra, October 9: In a pursuit to enhance quality healthcare services for pilgrims, employees of Shrine Board and allied agencies deployed in Bhawan and surrounding areas, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s Chief Executive Officer, Anshul Garg, today inaugurated the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra (PMBJK) at Bhawan during the ongoing Shardiya Navratras as per the directions of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT).

The newly established PMBJK at Bhawan aligns with the Government of India's vision to provide affordable quality medicines and healthcare products. This initiative benefits lakhs of pilgrims visiting the Shrine annually and officials in the area by offering easy access to generic medicines, medical devices and essential healthcare products at affordable prices thereby making quality healthcare more accessible to all.


The Chief Executive Officer reaffirmed the Board's endeavor to enhance healthcare infrastructure along the pilgrimage route by ensuring that pilgrims experience spiritual fulfillment and receive affordable medical care when needed. He emphasized that affordable healthcare is a vital aspect of the pilgrimage and the Board is proud to offer this service at the pilgrimage destination. The PMBJK will significantly bolster the healthcare ecosystem by providing a holistic approach to pilgrims' well-being. This initiative enables pilgrims and employees to access high-quality medicines at economical rates without compromising on quality and efficacy.

CEO underscored that Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board reiterated its mission of delivering services that go beyond religious aspects by catering to the overall well-being of society. The CEO assured that the Board will continue its efforts to provide world-class facilities and extend its healthcare, education and welfare programs in the region.


Notably, to cater to the medical needs of the pilgrims, seven fully functional medical units having modern medical equipments are being run by the Board at various strategic locations along the track to attend any medical exigency round the clock. Standby ambulances are also available for immediate shifting of patients to the referred Hospital for specialized medical attention. Besides, there is a Govt. Community Hospital at Katra and about 09 Km from Katra, a 300 bedded tertiary care Hospital of the Shrine Board is also available to attend all medical needs of the pilgrims (at cost to Board). Additionally, nine cloud-enabled state-of-the-art Health ATMs along the revered pilgrimage track and one Telemedicine Studio at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital (SMVDNSH), Kakryal has also been made functional by the Board for the facilitation of the pilgrims.


Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer also unveiled the Durlabh Darshan Kendra, a collaborative initiative with TechXR Innovations Pvt. Ltd., offering pilgrims a complimentary 11-minute virtual reality experience of the entire Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage during Shardiya Navratras. Using VR headsets, devotees can immerse themselves in the sacred journey, encompassing the entire route, Aarti, and Holy Pindis darshans, fostering a profound spiritual connection without extensive time commitments. Building on last year's launch of virtual darshan through the natural cave, this innovative technology enhances the pilgrimage experience by providing a real accessible and immersive spiritual encounter for devotees.

Among those present on the occasions were Addl. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SDM, Bhawan; Director, SMVDNSH; Tehsildar, Bhawan; Medical Officers alongwith Para Medical Staff of SMVDSB; official of SMVDSB and pilgrims at large.


 KATRA, AUGUST 11: Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today paid obeisance at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and prayed for the peace, prosperity and progress of the UT of Jammu Kashmir.

During his visit to the Holy Shrine, the Lt Governor inaugurated and dedicated the new Yagyashala facility at Bhawan to the devotees.



The Yagyashala, an integral part of the religious landscape, has been meticulously designed and constructed to enhance spiritual practices at Bhawan. It will serve the religious needs of devotees and address pilgrims keen to experience and participate in the religious rituals.



The newly constructed Yagyashala, situated near the old Bathing Ghat below the Atka area at main Bhawan, comprises five Hawan Kunds spread across 1600 square feet. This expansive design enables a threefold increase in capacity, allowing 10 groups of pilgrims to perform Hawan Poojan concurrently, up from the previous limit of three groups.

Additionally, an approach gallery with a covered area of 1100 sq. ft. has been created, leading up to the Yagyashala. This gallery can accommodate more than 100 pilgrims during the Shat Chandi Mahayagya, conducted regularly during Navratras.


Dr. Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor; Sh Anshul Garg, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Sh Vishesh Paul Mahajan, Deputy Commissioner, Reasi; Ms Mohita Sharma, SSP Reasi; officials of the Shrine Board and devotees in large number were present on the occasion.

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New Atka complex to add charm to pilgrims’ journey

          Katra, October 15:  For facilitation of the pilgrims, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) started a free Langar Sewa today at Shri Bhairon Ji Temple Complex after commencement of Shatchandi Yagya on the beginning of auspicious occasion of Shardiya Navratras at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

          The Langar Sewa was inaugurated by Shri Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board as per the directions of Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT). A pooja was held at the site before the commencement of the Langar Sewa. It is the third such facility by the Board in a row. Two are already operating at Tarakote Marg and Sanjichatt and both the facilities have received wide spread appreciations from the devotees who relish meals being offered in the form of Prasad during the arduous track upto the Holy Cave.

          The Langar facility has commenced at the already existing spacious Bhojanalaya of the Board at Bhairon Ji which can cater to around 150 pilgrims at a time. The Langar kitchen has been equipped with modern kitchenware, utensils and other gadgets to provide most hygienic and wholesome food to the pilgrims.

          The Langar sewa has been started by the Shrine Board in its continuous endeavours for providing free meals to the maximum number of pilgrims visiting the Shrine.

          Among those present on the occasion were Dr Ashok Bhan; Sh.K K Sharma Members of the Board; Dr. Jagdish Mehra, Jt. CEO, other officers and employees of the Board, besides a large number of pilgrims.

          Before the commencement of Navratras, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Skywalk and remodelled Parvati Bhawan at the Holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji on October 12 in the presence of Chairman, SMVDSB (Shri Manoj Sinha Lt. Governor JK-UT). These facilities were dedicated with an aim to overcome the problem of multidirectional flow and to ensure systematic and smooth movement of yatra seeking multiple facilities in the Bhawan area which include lockers, washrooms, resting place and toilets etc. and channelize the devotees towards the Skywalk for darshan of Sanctum Sanctorum. Both these facilities were thrown open on the first Navratra thus adding to ease of convenience for the pilgrims.

          Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer attended the beginning of nine-day long Shatchandi Yagya amidst the vedic hymns, religious chants and performance of other religious ceremonies being organized during ‘Shardiya Navratras’ at the Holy Cave Shrine for peace, prosperity and health of humanity, which will conclude with Purna Ahuti on Mahanavami. The Yagya ceremony is being telecasted live on MH1 Shradha from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM daily during Navratras.

          Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has made grand decorations at Bhawan, Atka and the area surrounding it for the large number of pilgrims visiting during ongoing Navratras to pay obeisance at the Holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. The decorations are made with indigenous-foreign fruits and flowers, as well as huge reception doors and pandals have been installed in the Bhawan Area. Likewise, the illumination of the Bhawan area with attractive and colourful lights has also been done.

          Besides, aesthetically widening the Atka area by which sitting capacity at Atka Aarti has been increased from 220 to 450 is adding charm to the pilgrim’s journey to the Holy Cave.

          The Shrine Board has also made elaborate arrangements for facilitating a large number of pilgrims who are expected to pay their obeisance at the Sanctum Sanctorum during Navratras. These arrangements include round the clock water and power supply all along the tracks leading to the Shrine, sanitation, medicare and availability of special “fast related” food at the Board’s Bhojanalayas. Besides, all the routes leading to the Holy Cave Shrine are fully maintained for smooth movement of pilgrims.

          Shrine Board has also ensured smooth pilgrimage of Divyang pilgrims by facilitating them by providing free pony, battery car service and assistance in darshans as per the directions of Chairman, SMVDSB. A round the clock Call Centre with Toll Free No – 18001807212 has also been made operational by the Board to facilitate the pilgrims.

          CEO Shrine Board constantly reviewing and monitoring the regulation of Yatra along with other arrangements all along the track and in the Bhawan Area and interacting with the pilgrims enquiring about the facilities made by the Shrine Board for their facilitation.



New Atka complex to add charm to pilgrims’ journey

          Katra, October 15:  For facilitation of the pilgrims, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) started a free Langar Sewa today at Shri Bhairon Ji Temple Complex after commencement of Shatchandi Yagya on the beginning of auspicious occasion of Shardiya Navratras at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

          The Langar Sewa was inaugurated by Shri Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board as per the directions of Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT). A pooja was held at the site before the commencement of the Langar Sewa. It is the third such facility by the Board in a row. Two are already operating at Tarakote Marg and Sanjichatt and both the facilities have received wide spread appreciations from the devotees who relish meals being offered in the form of Prasad during the arduous track upto the Holy Cave.

          The Langar facility has commenced at the already existing spacious Bhojanalaya of the Board at Bhairon Ji which can cater to around 150 pilgrims at a time. The Langar kitchen has been equipped with modern kitchenware, utensils and other gadgets to provide most hygienic and wholesome food to the pilgrims.

          The Langar sewa has been started by the Shrine Board in its continuous endeavours for providing free meals to the maximum number of pilgrims visiting the Shrine.

          Among those present on the occasion were Dr Ashok Bhan; Sh.K K Sharma Members of the Board; Dr. Jagdish Mehra, Jt. CEO, other officers and employees of the Board, besides a large number of pilgrims.

          Before the commencement of Navratras, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Skywalk and remodelled Parvati Bhawan at the Holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji on October 12 in the presence of Chairman, SMVDSB (Shri Manoj Sinha Lt. Governor JK-UT). These facilities were dedicated with an aim to overcome the problem of multidirectional flow and to ensure systematic and smooth movement of yatra seeking multiple facilities in the Bhawan area which include lockers, washrooms, resting place and toilets etc. and channelize the devotees towards the Skywalk for darshan of Sanctum Sanctorum. Both these facilities were thrown open on the first Navratra thus adding to ease of convenience for the pilgrims.

          Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer attended the beginning of nine-day long Shatchandi Yagya amidst the vedic hymns, religious chants and performance of other religious ceremonies being organized during ‘Shardiya Navratras’ at the Holy Cave Shrine for peace, prosperity and health of humanity, which will conclude with Purna Ahuti on Mahanavami. The Yagya ceremony is being telecasted live on MH1 Shradha from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM daily during Navratras.

          Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has made grand decorations at Bhawan, Atka and the area surrounding it for the large number of pilgrims visiting during ongoing Navratras to pay obeisance at the Holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. The decorations are made with indigenous-foreign fruits and flowers, as well as huge reception doors and pandals have been installed in the Bhawan Area. Likewise, the illumination of the Bhawan area with attractive and colourful lights has also been done.

          Besides, aesthetically widening the Atka area by which sitting capacity at Atka Aarti has been increased from 220 to 450 is adding charm to the pilgrim's journey to the Holy Cave.

          The Shrine Board has also made elaborate arrangements for facilitating a large number of pilgrims who are expected to pay their obeisance at the Sanctum Sanctorum during Navratras. These arrangements include round the clock water and power supply all along the tracks leading to the Shrine, sanitation, medicare and availability of special “fast related” food at the Board’s Bhojanalayas. Besides, all the routes leading to the Holy Cave Shrine are fully maintained for smooth movement of pilgrims.

          Shrine Board has also ensured smooth pilgrimage of Divyang pilgrims by facilitating them by providing free pony, battery car service and assistance in darshans as per the directions of Chairman, SMVDSB. A round the clock Call Centre with Toll Free No - 18001807212 has also been made operational by the Board to facilitate the pilgrims.

          CEO Shrine Board constantly reviewing and monitoring the regulation of Yatra along with other arrangements all along the track and in the Bhawan Area and interacting with the pilgrims enquiring about the facilities made by the Shrine Board for their facilitation.

 


KATRA, OCTOBER 12: The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu today visited the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji and paid obeisance at the sanctum sanctorum. She prayed for the prosperity and well-being of fellow citizens.

She was accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha. This is the first visit of Smt. Droupadi Murmu as President to the Holy Shrine. On arrival at the Panchhi Helipad, the President was received by Sh. Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

The President inaugurated various state-of-the-art pilgrim-centric facilities at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. These included 250-meter long and 2.5 mtr. wide Skywalk project at an elevation of 20 feet above the existing track which has been constructed in record 14 months time at a cost of Rs 15.69 crore with an aim to overcome the problem of multidirectional flow of yatra. The Skywalk is laced with most modernized facilities like the wooden flooring as a preventive measure for devotees’ comfort in harsh weather conditions, a waiting hall, seating arrangements for about 150 pilgrims, LED screens, resting rooms and two emergency exits.

The pedestrian flyover (Skywalk) has an aesthetically designed entrance with an artistically embellished portray of Nav Durga to give an enriched experience for devotees. After its commencement, now entry and exit routes leading to the sanctum sanctorum have been separated to ensure systematic and smooth movement of yatra.

Besides, the President inaugurated Remodeled Parvati Bhawan which included 1,500 digital lockers, waiting lounge, washrooms and toilets for the devotees. The aim of consolidating multiple facilities under one roof is to curtail the crisscross movement of devotees seeking locker facilities and bathing spaces in the Bhawan area and channelize the devotees towards the Skywalk. The retrofitted Parvati Bhawan is a free-of-cost facility that shall able to facilitate around 10,000 pilgrims per day. The inaugural ceremonies commenced with hawan and pooja rituals.

The President complimented the efforts being initiated by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board under the Chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha towards facilitating the journey and holy Darshans of the pilgrims.

While on return, the President also visited the Bhairon Temple via Passenger Ropeway and paid obeisance.

Meanwhile, the Lt Governor, who is also the Chairman of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board apprised the President about the initiatives being taken by the Shrine Board for upgrading and expansion of the infrastructure to facilitate pilgrims to the Holy Shrine. These initiatives are aimed at making the yatra more convenient and memorable for pilgrims which is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Board.

 


KATRA, OCTOBER 12: The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu today visited the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji and paid obeisance at the sanctum sanctorum. She prayed for the prosperity and well-being of fellow citizens.

She was accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha. This is the first visit of Smt. Droupadi Murmu as President to the Holy Shrine. On arrival at the Panchhi Helipad, the President was received by Sh. Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

The President inaugurated various state-of-the-art pilgrim-centric facilities at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. These included 250-meter long and 2.5 mtr. wide Skywalk project at an elevation of 20 feet above the existing track which has been constructed in record 14 months time at a cost of Rs 15.69 crore with an aim to overcome the problem of multidirectional flow of yatra. The Skywalk is laced with most modernized facilities like the wooden flooring as a preventive measure for devotees' comfort in harsh weather conditions, a waiting hall, seating arrangements for about 150 pilgrims, LED screens, resting rooms and two emergency exits.

The pedestrian flyover (Skywalk) has an aesthetically designed entrance with an artistically embellished portray of Nav Durga to give an enriched experience for devotees. After its commencement, now entry and exit routes leading to the sanctum sanctorum have been separated to ensure systematic and smooth movement of yatra.

Besides, the President inaugurated Remodeled Parvati Bhawan which included 1,500 digital lockers, waiting lounge, washrooms and toilets for the devotees. The aim of consolidating multiple facilities under one roof is to curtail the crisscross movement of devotees seeking locker facilities and bathing spaces in the Bhawan area and channelize the devotees towards the Skywalk. The retrofitted Parvati Bhawan is a free-of-cost facility that shall able to facilitate around 10,000 pilgrims per day. The inaugural ceremonies commenced with hawan and pooja rituals.

The President complimented the efforts being initiated by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board under the Chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha towards facilitating the journey and holy Darshans of the pilgrims.

While on return, the President also visited the Bhairon Temple via Passenger Ropeway and paid obeisance.

Meanwhile, the Lt Governor, who is also the Chairman of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board apprised the President about the initiatives being taken by the Shrine Board for upgrading and expansion of the infrastructure to facilitate pilgrims to the Holy Shrine. These initiatives are aimed at making the yatra more convenient and memorable for pilgrims which is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Board.