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In a significant step towards building religious tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, the Udhampur sector, including Katra and Reasi (a part of the erstwhile Udhampur district), would be developed as an independent tourism circuit.
According to Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and MoS PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh this transformation will be accomplished through the implementation of key development projects, including the INR 190 crore River Devika Rejuvenation project, the INR 100 crore Mantalai project, the revitalisation of Mansar Lake under the Swarajya Yojana, and the enhancement of Sudh Mahadev and Surinsar, among others.
Speaking at a review meeting with the Udhampur district administration at Mantalai on July 16, Singh underlined the importance of the religious tourism circuit in driving the development and growth of the area, as pilgrims from across India have shown interest in visiting these sacred sites.
“For the first time, religious pilgrimage sites have received attention and development, resulting in enhanced ease and experience for religious tourists across the country,” said Singh, reiterating the government’s focus on promoting religious tourism sites.
As of July 12, 1.4 lakh pilgrims have performed darshan, with 9,155 devotees visiting the sacred site on that day alone. Supported by the coordinated efforts of 30 government departments, pilgrims are provided with essential services and amenities. The global recognition of the yatra is reflected in the participation of foreign nationals, including visitors from the US and Nepal.
Among the noteworthy contributions to religious tourism, the Delhi-Katra Express Highway, which has significantly improved connectivity, as well as the introduction of the historic Kamakhya-Katra train route and the Vande Bharat Express, were acknowledged by Singh. These transportation initiatives have provided a major boost to religious tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.PRASAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive), which aims to develop and promote pilgrimage destinations in a planned and sustainable manner is also aiding this sector growth. The inclusion of Katra Vaishno Devi in this scheme exemplifies the government’s commitment to revitalising religious tourism in India, Singh shared.
During the meeting, the ongoing Mantalai project and its resurrection after three decades of neglect was also discussed. The project, originally initiated by Dhirendra Brahamchari, was revived, resulting in the establishment of a state-of-the-art Wellness Centre cum Tourist Resort. Similarly, the River Devika, which had long been neglected, received attention and approval for the first-ever river rejuvenation project in North India.
The minister further directed the district administration to expedite the ongoing work on the religious tourism sites to ensure timely completion of the projects.
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