Jammu, Sep 20: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that active efforts to preserve heritage will bear the fruits of cultural self-confidence, moral strength and social harmony for generations to come, and that in the journey towards a developed India, preserving cultural identity is as important as building highways, digital networks and industrial corridors.
He said physical development gives momentum to a region, while cultural heritage gives society direction and soul. He also said such efforts will protect the younger generation from becoming disconnected from its roots and foster a natural reverence for composite culture and ancient values of life.
The Lieutenant Governor made these remarks after laying the foundation stones for projects aimed at the renovation, restoration and revival of the ancient heritage of Purmandal, worth Rs 7.15 crore, and for renovation, restoration and related development works at the sacred Uttervehini site, worth Rs 6.85 crore.
Addressing the gathering, the LG said the initiative was not merely about repairing bricks and stones, but about reconnecting the nation’s glorious past with a radiant future. Referring to India’s cultural ethos, he noted that the preservation of history, sacred knowledge and values rooted in Dharma serves as the lifeline of a nation.
“A nation that forgets its heritage loses its foundation. But a nation that respects, preserves and revives its roots ensures that its future generations stand with confidence, resilience, self-belief and a strong sense of identity,” he said.
Sinha observed that Purmandal, blessed by the sacred Devika River, has for centuries been a site visited by saints, sages and spiritual seekers, and that its ancient temples, stone carvings, sacred ponds and historical structures reflect outstanding architectural and artistic achievement, much of which had diminished by time and neglect.
He stated that the old Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the old Shiva Temple, the old Ram Temple at Purmandal, and the historic temple complexes at Uttervehini would be restored using a blend of modern conservation techniques and traditional architectural aesthetics.
The restoration work, the LG said, would help establish Jammu Kashmir as a leading destination for spiritual and cultural tourism, with improved infrastructure, pathways and lighting creating convenient linkages for pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, Shiv Khori, the Raghunath Temple and Baba Amarnath Ji, while also enabling easier access to the spiritual tranquillity of ‘Chhoti Kashi.’
Highlighting the economic dimension of heritage tourism, the Lieutenant Governor said it will act as a powerful multiplier for local handicrafts, hospitality, homestays, transport and food establishments, generating livelihood opportunities for youth and new markets for artisans and small entrepreneurs.
“By improving access to these sacred places and enhancing their grandeur and dignity, we are opening the doors to the divine spiritual experience of Purmandal and Uttervehini for spiritual seekers arriving from different parts of the country and the world. Every restored brick, every pathway constructed and every tourist who visits this place will contribute directly to the economic prosperity of the people of the region,” he said.
Sinha reiterated his commitment to strengthen and improve road connectivity to Purmandal and Uttervehini. He also appreciated the efforts of the District Administration Samba in providing land for the establishment of the Mata Devika Ved Pathshala in Purmandal, stating that funds for its construction will soon be sanctioned through the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also launched GCC Gurha Slathia magazine.
Chander Prakash Ganga, Member of Legislative Assembly from Vijaypur; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Tejinder Singh, IGP, Jammu; Shridhar Patil, DIG, JSK Range; Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba; K.K. Sidha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; Rajesh Gupta, President, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, J&K; Dr P.S. Pathania, President, Dharmarth Trust; senior officials, religious heads, prominent citizens, youth and devotees attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.
