Khatu Shyam Ji Yatra to be held at Akhnoor on July 16
JAMMU, Jul 13: Mahant Shri 1008 Mahant Rameshwar Das, on Monday announced that the Shri Khatu Shyam Ji Yatra will be organised on July 16, 2026, at Shri Kameshwar Das Ji Temple, Akhnoor, and invited devotees to participate in large numbers.
Addressing a press conference, Mahant Rameshwar Das highlighted the importance of the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme launched by the Central Government in 2014 for the development of religious and pilgrimage sites across the country.
He said the scheme provides financial assistance for infrastructure development, maintenance and upgradation of temples and other places of religious importance under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, he expressed concern that, according to him, the scheme has not been effectively utilised for the development of temples in the Jammu region.
Mahant Rameshwar Das stated that while several religious sites in Kashmir have reportedly benefited from the scheme through development initiatives undertaken by local representatives, temples in Jammu have not received similar attention. He appealed to the concerned authorities and public representatives to ensure that Jammu’s temples also receive the benefits of the Central Government’s initiative.
Clarifying his remarks, the Mahant said his intention was not to criticise or target any political party or public representative. “My only appeal is that the PRASAD Scheme should be implemented effectively in Jammu as well, so that temples here can also benefit from the development funds provided by the Central Government,” he said.
He also prayed for the successful and peaceful conduct of the upcoming Khatu Shyam Ji Yatra and appreciated Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for the arrangements being made for the smooth conduct of religious pilgrimages in Jammu and Kashmir.
Among those present on the occasion were Mahant Rumal Ji of Chowk Chabutra Bhairav Temple and Pt. Rajesh Kesri, Jammu and Kashmir President of Shiv Sena Hindustan, along with other devotees and prominent citizens.