SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday laid the foundation stones for heritage restoration and development projects worth over Rs 14 crore at Purmandal and Uttervehini in Samba district.
The projects include renovation, restoration and revival of the ancient heritage of Purmandal at a cost of Rs 7.15 crore and development works at the sacred Uttervehini site estimated at Rs 6.85 crore.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha said heritage conservation was not merely about restoring old structures but about preserving the region’s cultural identity and connecting the younger generation with its roots.
“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 said Purmandal, situated along the Devika River, had for centuries attracted saints, sages and spiritual seekers. Its ancient temples, stone carvings, sacred ponds and other historical structures, he said, reflected the region’s architectural and cultural legacy, much of which had suffered due to time and neglect.
Under the projects, the old Lakshmi Narayan Temple, old Shiva Temple and old Ram Temple at Purmandal, besides historic temple complexes at Uttervehini, will be restored using modern conservation techniques while retaining traditional architectural aesthetics.
The LG said the restoration would also strengthen Jammu Kashmir’s potential as a spiritual and cultural tourism destination. Improved infrastructure, pathways and lighting would facilitate access for pilgrims visiting Purmandal and Uttervehini, while creating better linkages with other major religious destinations including Mata Vaishno Devi, Shiv Khori, Raghunath Temple and Baba Amarnath.
He said heritage tourism could generate livelihood opportunities through local handicrafts, hospitality, homestays, transport and food businesses.
“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,” Sinha said.
Emphasising the inter-generational importance of the initiative, he said restoration of centuries-old heritage would help young people develop a stronger connection with the region’s history and culture.
“In the journey towards a developed India, preserving our cultural identity is as important as building highways, digital networks and industrial corridors. Physical development gives momentum to the region and cultural heritage gives society direction and soul,” he said.
Sinha reiterated his commitment to improving road connectivity to Purmandal and Uttervehini.
He also appreciated the Samba district administration for providing land for the Mata Devika Ved Pathshala at Purmandal. He said funds for construction of the Ved Pathshala would soon be sanctioned through the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
The LG also launched the GCC Gurha Slathia magazine on the occasion.
MLA Vijaypur Chander Prakash Ganga, Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Tejinder Singh, DIG JSK Range Shridhar Patil, Deputy Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan and senior officials attended the event, besides religious heads, prominent citizens, youth and devotees.
