Principal Secretary Culture, Suresh Kumar Gupta, conducted an extensive tour of shrines and monuments in Anantnag and reviewed the progress of ongoing works being carried out under “Revival, Restoration, and Maintenance of Heritage” scheme. He was accompanied by senior officials, including Sheikh Arshad Ayub, Director Libraries J&K, Kuldeep Krishan Siddha, Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums J&K; Sanjeev Rana, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Mustaq Ahmad, Deputy Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; and other officers and officials from PWD (R&B).
During the visit, the Principal Secretary inspected the ongoing works at Ziyarat Sharief Resh Moul Sahib (RA), Devibal Temple, and Ziyarat Sharief Zain-ud-din Wali (RA), significant heritage sites being developed under the scheme. He was informed that work on the Devibal Temple has been completed, while progress is ongoing at the other shrines.
Furthermore, the Principal Secretary visited the District Library, Anantnag, where he interacted with the staff and visitors, patiently listening to their concerns and demands. During his tour, Principal Secretary also visited Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected monuments, Awantishisvara, Awantiswami, Martand Sun Temple, and Bamzuv Cave Temple where he interacted with the staff and reviewed the conservation efforts.
His visit culminated at the Mamleshwar Temple in Pahalgam, a Union Territory-protected monument, where he emphasized the importance of continued conservation efforts. During his visit, he emphasized the vital importance of preserving Jammu and Kashmir's rich cultural and historical heritage.
He urged for the timely completion of restoration projects while maintaining the highest standards of conservation. The Principal Secretary also highlighted the need for collaboration between departments and agencies to safeguard these culturally and historically significant sites.
He noted that efforts to restore these heritage landmarks would contribute in maintaining the cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir.