STATE TIMES NEWS
KATRA: To further enhance pilgrim facilities and enrich the spiritual experience of devotees, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has commenced free distribution of Prasad to all devotees paying obeisance at the Holy Shrine. The initiative began on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri following Vedic rituals and Kanya Poojan.
The initiative was formally launched by Manoj Sinha, Chairman of SMVDSB and Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, during the 76th Meeting of the Shrine Board held earlier this month.
With the launch of the initiative, the Shrine Board has introduced an improvised Pouch Prasad specially designed for free distribution among pilgrims. The pouch contains dry fruits, a sacred Mouli (Kalava), and an engraved commemorative coin depicting the Holy Pindies, symbolizing the divine blessings of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. The thoughtfully designed pouch ensures hygiene, sanctity, and ease of handling.
Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, stated that commencing the distribution on Mahashivratri holds immense religious significance.
He informed that systematic arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth distribution of Prasad to pilgrims along the exit route after darshan at the Holy Cave Shrine. He emphasized that the initiative aims to provide every devotee with a sacred token of blessings.
Reiterating its commitment to pilgrim welfare, the Shrine Board continues to provide several essential services free of cost, including accommodation, langars, cloakroom and blanket facilities, battery car services for specially-abled pilgrims, and medical facilities through dispensaries along the yatra route. Additional amenities such as water ATMs, sanitation services, waiting halls, and assistance booths have also been established.
The newly introduced free Prasad distribution reflects SMVDSB’s ongoing efforts to ensure a comfortable, safe, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience. SDM Bhawan, Pujaris, Shrine Board officials, and numerous devotees were present on the occasion.