Jammu, Nov 20 (NationPress) The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, announced on Thursday that a significant number of ancient religious and historical sites across the union territory have undergone restoration.

“We are constructing an edifice of Aatmanirbhar J&K based on the unwavering dedication and sacrifices made by our police forces, soldiers, farmers, youth, and women. Let us pledge today not to let their hard work and sacrifices be in vain. We must commit to making their dreams a reality,” stated L-G Manoj Sinha.

This declaration was made during the foundation day of Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas, held at Purmandal in the Samba district.

He paid his respects at the ancient Shiv Temple in Purmandal and participated in the Devika Maha Aarti.

In his address to the attendees, L-G Sinha reaffirmed his dedication to transforming Purmandal-Utterbehni into a premier spiritual destination that promotes sustainable and culturally rich religious tourism.

“The Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Kshetra represents a meeting point of faith, cultural unity, and diversity in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a sacred site for self-purification and realization, bestowing blessings and nurturing love, respect, and brotherhood. Purmandal reflects the essence of our timeless culture. The sacred Umapati Mahadev Temple, located along the banks of Gupt Ganga Devika, is among the most significant spiritual pilgrimage locations in J&K,” he added.

“For centuries, Purmandal has been a symbol of social harmony, community service, and environmental stewardship, providing renewed direction and purpose for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he emphasized.

In response to the requests made by the Purmandal-Utterbenhi Teerth Seva Trust, he assured that the administration and relevant departments would adopt a collaborative approach to safeguard the religious and cultural heritage of Purmandal-Utterbenhi. He instructed the Samba district administration to locate government land for a new Ved Vidyalaya.

He mentioned that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) would finance its creation, following its support for various Ved Vidyalayas, Sanskrit pathshalas, and gaushalas.

The L-G promised financial backing from SMVDSB for establishing a Gurukul, Sanskrit Pathshala, or Ved Pathshala in the area. He also mentioned that the matter of connecting Purmandal via a 4-lane road would be discussed with the central government.

L-G Sinha pointed out that, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the profound transformation of Jammu and Kashmir is evident, focusing on both physical infrastructure and the revival of cultural and spiritual heritage. Over the past four years, nearly 62 such vital sites have been restored. Revitalizing our rich spiritual heritage and promoting spiritual tourism in the UT remains our primary goal,” he reiterated.

He praised the contributions of the Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nyas, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and other organizations in preserving and promoting J&K’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

He encouraged social organizations and all community sectors to engage actively in protecting the natural heritage.

Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament; Keshav Dutt Sharma, DDC Chairperson, Samba; Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, Member of Legislative Assembly from Ramgarh; Suresh Gupta, President, Purmandal-Utterbehni Teerth Seva Nayas; Rajesh Gupta, President Vishwa Hindu Parishad (J&K and Ladakh); leaders of various religious organizations, notable citizens, and a large number of devotees were present at the event. Anil Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba, along with senior civil and police administration officials, were also in attendance.