The government of Jammu and Kashmir has allocated over ₹17 crore for renovating and upgrading 17 temples and shrines in the twin districts of Anantnag and Pulwama in South Kashmir, Daily Excelsior reported.
The Directorate of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums, JK, recently granted administrative approval for these projects based on recommendations from the respective Deputy Commissioners.
As per the approvals, ₹1.07 crore has been sanctioned for the upgradation of the ancient Mamaleshwar temple in Pahalgam, and ₹1.60 crore for the renovation of the historic Shiva Bhagwati temple in Akingam, both in Anantnag district. Additionally, ₹77.67 lakh has been earmarked for the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, ₹92.95 lakh for the Papran Naag shrine in Salia, and ₹46.69 lakh for the Mata Raagnya Bhagwati shrine in Khiram, Anantnag.
Among other projects, ₹3.25 crore has been approved for constructing the Kheer Bhawani temple in Logripora Ashmuqam, Anantnag, and ₹69.75 lakh for developing the Karkut Nag shrine in Salia. For the Lokbhawan Larkipora shrine, which was completely destroyed during the turmoil, ₹3.21 crore has been allocated. The Neolithic site at Gufkral Tral, Pulwama, will receive ₹4.09 crore for restoration and preservation.
In Pulwama district, ₹28.34 lakh has been approved for the repair of the Shree Shideshwar temple in Drangbal Pampore, which holds significance for the annual Amarnath Yatra. Additionally, ₹38.82 lakh has been allocated for the Shiv temple in Drangbal Pampore. Other allocations include ₹12.70 lakh for constructing a temple in Middora, Awantipora, ₹17.18 lakh for the Trichal temple, and ₹19.60 lakh for temples in Tahab.
However, some community members have expressed concerns about omissions. The Ganesh Shiv Shakti Asthapan Committee in Akura, Anantnag, criticized the exclusion of their shrine despite prior recommendations. Similarly, the Swami Mirzakak Trust in Hangalgund, Anantnag, has urged the government to allocate funds for the Swami Mirzakak shrine. There are also demands for renovating additional shrines, including Kheer Bhawani in Ranipora, Chandika Devi shrines in Sagam and Kurigam, and the Prakash Ram shrine in Kulgam.
