SRINAGAR : As the 38-day sacred journey to the Himalayan cave shrine of Amarnath approaches, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a comprehensive strategy session on Friday to assess all arrangements ahead of the July 3 kickoff.
The high-level meeting took place at Raj Bhawan and witnessed the participation of senior leadership from the Army, paramilitary forces, and civil administration. Among those present were Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Divisional Commissioner (Kashmir) V.K. Bidhuri, along with other senior officials from various departments.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the primary focus was on evaluating security protocols, logistical planning, and infrastructure readiness for the annual pilgrimage, which attracts lakhs of devotees from across the country.
“The Lieutenant Governor instructed all agencies to finalize arrangements well before the start of the yatra,” said a senior official, noting that officers from security and administration briefed LG Sinha on the initiatives already in motion. “Coordination among departments was emphasized to ensure an incident-free and smooth pilgrimage.”
Earlier this week, LG Sinha also performed the traditional ‘Pratham Puja’ at the revered cave shrine, symbolizing the ceremonial start of this year’s yatra season. Speaking at the occasion, he reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of pilgrims.
“The initial prayer ritual has been completed. I appeal to devotees of Baba Barfani to undertake the pilgrimage in large numbers,” he said. “This year’s yatra will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 9, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.”
He further urged the faithful to join the pilgrimage and offer prayers for peace, prosperity, and development in Jammu & Kashmir and the nation at large.
With heightened security measures and multi-agency collaboration, the administration appears set for a robust and well-managed yatra season.
