• Says “Admin aims to transform J&K into a vibrant spiritual hub of the country”
• LG asks youth to connect with the region’s spiritual heritage, traditions
• Sound & Light show, ropeway feasibility among future plans for shrine development
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday inaugurated the infrastructure upgradation and beautification works at the holy Shiv Khori Shrine in Reasi district. The works have been carried out by JSW Group under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Sajjan Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director of JSW Group, and his team for undertaking the initiative. He described the project as a significant contribution to preserving the country’s shared spiritual heritage.
Sinha said the day marked the culmination of efforts that began with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the administration and JSW Group in 2023. “Shiv Khori’s awakening begins today. We have not only upgraded infrastructure but strengthened faith itself,” he said.
He emphasized that the infrastructure development at Shiv Khori reflects the revival of ancient spiritual centers and fulfils the long-standing aspirations of devotees and previous generations who envisioned improved facilities at the shrine.Highlighting broader efforts to strengthen religious tourism, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration’s commitment to spirituality has guided several initiatives, including the upgradation of facilities for the Amarnath Yatra and the vision of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to transform the region into a vibrant spiritual corridor. These efforts, he said, aim to establish Shiv Khori as one of the major centres of devotion in the country.
Sinha reiterated that it is his objective to develop Jammu and Kashmir into a vibrant spiritual destination of the nation. After years of sustained efforts, he said the region is witnessing a revival of spiritual, cultural and social traditions and is re-emerging as a centre of knowledge, art, music and philosophy.
Calling upon the youth to maintain balance in both inner and outer life, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to connect with the spiritual heritage of the region and draw inspiration from centuries-old traditions of devotion.
He also outlined several upcoming facilities to improve safety and convenience for pilgrims visiting the shrine. A new helipad is expected to be completed this month, while heli-services for devotees are likely to start in April. A protective track shed will also be constructed to safeguard pilgrims from adverse weather conditions and shooting stones.
To manage heavy footfall during peak seasons, an alternative track between Ram Mandir and Shiv Khori will be developed for decongestion. Repair and renovation of the Ransoo shrine building and existing tracks will also be undertaken, along with improved sanitation facilities along the route. A serai and langar facility for pilgrims will also be established at Ransoo.
The Lieutenant Governor suggested introducing a Sound and Light Show at the shrine to enrich the devotional experience of visitors. He also said the feasibility of a ropeway project could be explored in the future with consensus from stakeholders.
Sinha added that the administration is committed to creating an ecosystem that provides new opportunities for local traders, artisans, youth and women, ensuring economic benefits for the local community.
During the event, he also flagged off a garbage collection vehicle donated by J&K Bank to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board.
The works inaugurated include renovation of ShivamDwar (DarshaniDeodi), repair and renovation of Mahadev Bhawan including the Yatra Registration Counter, refurbishment of the existing ghat near ShivamDwar, construction of gazebos near the bathing ghat and Shani Mandir, development of toilet complexes, renovation of a medical kiosk near Ram Mandir, construction of a pony shed at Ransoo near DarshaniDeodi, and installation of lighting at several locations.
Among those present were Kuldeep Raj Dubey, MLA Reasi; Sajjan Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director, JSW Group; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Chairman Shiv Khori Shrine Board; Sarah Rizvi, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range; Kumar Abhishek,Deputy Commissioner Reasi, senior officials, prominent citizens and a large number of devotees.
