Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday virtually inaugurated the Mata Sharda Devi temple near the Line of Control (LoC) in Karnah sector of Jammu and Kashmir, saying the abrogation of Article 370 is taking the Union Territory back to its old traditions, culture and the “Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb”.

Shah said the opening of the temple was the beginning of the new dawn and quest for reviving the Sharda culture.

"The Mata Sharda Mandir is open for devotees on the auspicious occasion of our new year. This is a good omen for devotees across the country. Mata Sharda’s blessing will now remain over the whole country for the centuries to come," he said, adding that Sharda Peeth was once considered a centre of education in the Indian subcontinent.

"Jammu & Kashmir has taken initiatives in all sectors towards social and economic change, under which renovation work is going on at 123 selected places of religious significance," Shah said.

Furthermore, Shah said that many temples and Sufi places, including Ziyarat Shareef Reshimala, Ram Mandir, Safakadal temple, Haloti Gompa temple, and Jagannath temple, are being renovated.

A budget of Rs 65 crore has been allotted and 35 places will be renovated and revived in the first phase. 

"75 religious places and Sufi shrines were identified and 31 mega cultural events were organised and 20 cultural ‘utsavs’ were also organised in every district. It has led to a rebirth of our old heritage," he added.

Image courtesy: PIB