Kashmir, November 20, 2025 – In a significant boost to Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural revival, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced that 62 key heritage and religious sites have been meticulously restored over the past four years, underscoring the administration’s unwavering commitment to preserving cultural heritage and fostering religious tourism in the region.Speaking at the foundation day celebrations of the Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas in Samba district, Sinha highlighted the transformative journey under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “The remarkable transformation of Jammu & Kashmir is both tangible and intangible, focusing on physical infrastructure as well as the revival of cultural and spiritual heritage,” he stated.
He emphasized that numerous ancient religious and historical sites have been reconstructed, with nearly 62 important sites brought back to life in the last four years alone.The event, held at the sacred Umapati Mahadev Temple along the banks of Gupt Ganga Devika, drew a large gathering of devotees, community leaders, and officials. Sinha paid obeisance at the ancient Shiv Temple and participated in the Devika Maha Aarti, reaffirming his vision to elevate Purmandal-Utterbehni into a world-class spiritual destination.
This corridor, revered for centuries as a beacon of social harmony, community service, and environmental stewardship, is poised to become a hub for sustainable and culturally enriched religious tourism.Commitment to Community-Led PreservationSinha commended the pivotal role of organizations like the Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas and Vishwa Hindu Parishad in safeguarding J&K’s rich spiritual legacy. “Their efforts in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage are invaluable,” he said, urging social groups and citizens to actively participate in protecting the region’s natural and historical treasures.In response to key demands from the Teerth Seva Trust, the Lieutenant Governor directed the Samba district administration to identify suitable land for establishing a new Ved Vidyalaya.
He assured funding from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), signaling a coordinated “whole-of-government” approach to bolster spiritual infrastructure. Additionally, Sinha committed to advocating for a 4-lane road connecting Purmandal, enhancing accessibility for pilgrims and tourists.Broader Vision for Aatma-Nirbhar J&KThe LG’s address also touched on the foundational sacrifices of police personnel, soldiers, farmers, youth, and women in building an Aatma-Nirbhar J&K. “We must resolve to convert their dreams into reality and not let their hard work go to waste,” he urged, calling for collective pledges to sustain this momentum.Prominent attendees included Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, DDC Chairperson Samba Keshav Dutt Sharma, MLA Ramgarh Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, Nyas President Suresh Gupta, and VHP President (J&K and Ladakh) Rajesh Gupta, alongside heads of religious bodies and a multitude of devotees.This initiative aligns with ongoing broader efforts, including the planned revival of over 400 additional heritage and religious sites in upcoming phases, as outlined by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums. By intertwining preservation with economic growth, J&K is not only reclaiming its storied past but also paving a vibrant path for future generations.
