Amit Shah Reviews Preparations For Amarnath Yatra, Calls For Tech-Driven Security For Pilgrims

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday chaired a high-level security review meeting in New Delhi to assess preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to take place from July 3 to August 28.

The meeting was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Indian Army, intelligence agencies, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and the Jammu and Kashmir administration, according to a press release shared by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Multi-Layered Security Planned

During the review, Shah stressed the need for comprehensive security arrangements to ensure the safety of pilgrims undertaking the 57-day pilgrimage to the Himalayan

cave shrine. He directed all security agencies to work in close coordination and establish a robust, multi-layered security network along the yatra routes.

The Home Minister called for greater use of technology in security operations, including drones, CCTV cameras, advanced surveillance systems and real-time monitoring tools. He also instructed that senior officers from CAPFs and the Jammu and Kashmir Police remain deployed at key camp locations to oversee arrangements throughout the pilgrimage.

Focus On Pilgrim Safety

Apart from security, Shah reviewed preparations related to pilgrim registration, accommodation, healthcare services and disaster management. He emphasised that the movement of pilgrims should be regulated in line with weather forecasts and prevailing conditions to ensure their safety.

Officials informed the meeting that local workers and animal handlers associated with the yatra would be issued QR code-enabled identity cards. Special camps will also be organised to conduct health and fitness checks for animals used during the pilgrimage.

The Amarnath Yatra is one of the country’s most significant religious pilgrimages and attracts thousands of devotees each year. Pilgrims will travel through the traditional 48-km Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district.