Jammu, 19 November 2025:
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday visited Purmandal and attended the foundation day of the Purmandal–Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas, reiterating his resolve to transform the twin pilgrimage sites into a world-class spiritual destination rooted in sustainability and cultural richness.
Addressing the gathering, the LG said Jammu and Kashmir’s journey towards Aatma-Nirbharta rests on the dedication and sacrifices of police personnel, soldiers, farmers, youth and women. “We should take a pledge today to not let their hard work and sacrifices go waste. We must resolve to convert their dreams into reality,” he remarked.
Earlier, the Lieutenant Governor offered prayers at the ancient Shiv Temple in Purmandal and participated in the Devika Maha Aarti.
Highlighting the spiritual significance of the region, LG Sinha described Purmandal–Utterbehni as a confluence of faith, cultural unity and diversity. He noted that the sacred Umapati Mahadev Temple on the banks of the Gupt Ganga Devika stands among Jammu and Kashmir’s most revered pilgrimage sites. For centuries, he said, Purmandal has guided the region through its ethos of social harmony, community service and environmental protection.
Responding to the demands raised by the Teerth Seva Trust, the LG assured that the administration would adopt a whole-of-government approach to protect and promote the religious and cultural heritage of the area. He directed the Samba district administration to identify government land for a new Ved Vidyalaya, adding that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board would fund its establishment, as it has supported several ved vidyalayas, Sanskrit pathshalas and gaushalas across the UT.
He further announced financial assistance from the Shrine Board for the establishment of a Gurukul, Sanskrit Pathshala or Ved Pathshala in the region. On infrastructure, he said the issue of connecting Purmandal with a four-lane road would be taken up with the Government of India.
LG Sinha noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant transformation encompassing both physical infrastructure and revival of cultural and spiritual heritage. He said nearly 62 ancient religious and historical sites have been restored in the last four years, reflecting the administration’s priority to strengthen spiritual tourism in the Union Territory.
The Lieutenant Governor also appreciated the contributions of the Purmandal–Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and other organisations for their efforts in preserving the region’s spiritual and cultural legacy. He urged social organisations and citizens to join hands in safeguarding natural heritage.
The event was attended by Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, Samba DDC Chairperson Keshav Dutt Sharma, MLA Dr Devinder Kumar Manyal, religious leaders, senior government officials, and a large gathering of devotees.
