Kovind prays for India's progress at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine
What's the story
President Ram Nath Kovind today visited the cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and paid obeisance at the sanctum sanctorum. Kovind prayed for the progress and prosperity of the people of the country, an official spokesman said. The President was accompanied by First Lady Savita Kovind, J&K Governor NN Vohra and Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Kumar Singh.
The visit
President views facilities and meets with pilgrims
During his visit, the President went around the Shrine complex, viewed the facilities and met with pilgrims. Vohra, chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, briefed Kovind about initiatives being taken for upgrading the infrastructure. A master plan has been prepared for the Bhawan and the extended shrine area to provide accommodation to pilgrims at Bhawan, Adhkuwari, Katra and Jammu, he said.
Initiatives
Vohra briefs Kovind on various social support initiatives
Giving details about various social support initiatives, Vohra referred to the establishment of superspeciality hospital, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and College of Nursing at Kakryal and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul at Charanpaduka. On infrastructure projects, the Governor informed the President that passenger ropeway between Bhawan and Bhairon Ghati and Material ropeway between Siar Dabri and Bhawan are nearing completion.
Details
President Kovind was received by CEO of the Shrine Board
Vohra also informed the President about the ongoing slope stabilization project and installation of shelter sheds for ensuring the safety of pilgrims against shooting stones and landslides, besides the upcoming Tarakote Marg that is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 80 crore. On his arrival at the Panchhi Helipad, the President was received by Umang Narula, the CEO of the Shrine Board.