JAMMU, June 13: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday directed security agencies to extensively deploy modern technologies, including drones, CCTV surveillance systems, and advanced monitoring tools, to ensure foolproof security for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, scheduled from July 3 to August 28.
Chairing a high-level review meeting in New Delhi, Shah emphasized the need for an integrated and impregnable security framework along the pilgrimage route. He instructed the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces, and other security agencies to establish a multi-layered security grid to safeguard pilgrims throughout the 57-day yatra.
The meeting was attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi, Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Army, CAPFs and the Union Territory administration.
Shah stressed that the movement of pilgrim convoys must be regulated in accordance with prevailing weather conditions and forecasts. He also called for strengthened security arrangements at major tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure the safety and convenience of visiting pilgrims.
The Home Minister directed senior officers of security forces to remain stationed at key camp sites throughout the pilgrimage period to closely monitor arrangements. He further reviewed preparations related to pilgrim registration, accommodation, healthcare services, disaster management, and emergency response mechanisms.
Officials informed the meeting that local service providers and animal handlers associated with the yatra would be issued QR code-enabled identity cards. Special camps will also be organized for health checks and fitness certification of animals engaged in pilgrimage-related activities.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the annual pilgrimage, Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, every effort would be made to ensure robust security and a smooth pilgrimage experience for devotees.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has already sanctioned the deployment of 670 companies of paramilitary forces for the yatra. Alongside the paramilitary forces, the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army will play a key role in securing the pilgrimage routes, base camps, transit facilities, and the holy cave shrine.
Authorities expect a significant turnout of pilgrims this year amid growing tourist arrivals in Jammu and Kashmir and strong demand for yatra registration. Preparations are expected to be finalized about a week before the commencement of the pilgrimage.
