Vaishno Devi shrine to phase out manual counting of donations

The Vaishno Devi shrine has begun deploying cash recycler machines (CRM) to mechanise the counting and processing of donations from devotees, marking a significant shift in the temple's financial operations. Two CRM units have already been installed at the sacred site, with additional machines scheduled for installation in the coming weeks.

The automation initiative is designed to streamline donation handling and reduce reliance on manual counting processes that have traditionally been used to manage the substantial daily contributions from pilgrims visiting the hilltop shrine in the Reasi district. The cash recycler technology will enhance both efficiency and accuracy in processing monetary offerings.

Once the full rollout of machines is completed, the temple authorities expect to entirely discontinue manual counting of donations. The move reflects broader efforts among major pilgrimage sites across India to modernise their financial management systems and implement transparent, technology-driven processes for handling religious contributions.

Vaishno Devi is one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India, attracting millions of devotees annually. The temple generates substantial daily revenues from donations, making the adoption of automated counting systems a practical step toward improving operational infrastructure and financial accountability.