NEW DELHI: Chairing a meeting here to assess preparedness and security arrangements for the annual Amarnath Yatra, home minister Amit Shah on Friday directed the J&K police, central forces and other agencies to form an impregnable, multi-layered security grid along the yatra route, while also securing all major tourist destinations in the Union territory.At the meeting attended by J&K LG Manoj Sinha, national security adviser Ajit Doval and the Army, Central paramilitary forces, J&K police and intelligence brass, Shah emphasized that robust security arrangements at major tourist destinations be put in place so that the pilgrims can also enjoy tourism activities “safely and without inconvenience”.Reiterating the govt’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and secure pilgrimage experience for the devotees, Shah directed that the traditional security framework should be further strengthened through the extensive use of modern technologies such as drones, CCTV surveillance, advanced monitoring systems, and other technological tools.The Amarnath yatra had last year taken place in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Many tourist destinations were closed at the time for a security review, and have since been opened to the public. However, the Baisaran meadow — site of the Pahalgam attack — is still not open to the public.The upcoming Amarnath Yatra will span 57 days, starting on July 3 and concluding on August 28. The 2025 edition lasted just 38 days.Shah on Friday told senior officers of various CAPFs and the J&K police to remain present at camp sites during the yatra, to oversee and monitor all arrangements. He emphasized that adequate arrangements be ensured for all essential services, including pilgrim registration, accommodation, healthcare facilities, and disaster management.The home minister directed that the movement of pilgrim batches should be regulated strictly, with an eye on the prevailing weather conditions and forecasts. He was informed that arrangements have been made for the registration of local persons, including guides, and animals (mules) associated with the yatra, and that QR code-enabled identity cards will be issued to them. In addition, camps will be organized for the health examination and fitness assessment of the animals engaged in Yatra-related activities.
