Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah chaired a security review meeting in New Delhi on Friday to assess preparations for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, scheduled to be held from July 3 to August 28.
The meeting was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Union Home Secretary, the Chief of the Army Staff, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, Directors General of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Indian Army and the Union Territory Administration of Jammu and Kashmir.
Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is fully committed to ensuring robust security and a smooth pilgrimage experience for devotees undertaking the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
The Home Minister directed all security agencies to work in close coordination to establish an integrated and impregnable security cover for the Yatra. He called for strengthening the existing security framework through the extensive use of modern technologies, including drones, CCTV surveillance, advanced monitoring systems and other technological tools. He also directed the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CAPFs and other security agencies to establish a multi-layered security grid along the Yatra route.
Shah said senior officers of various CAPFs and the Jammu and Kashmir Police should remain continuously present at camp sites during the Yatra to oversee and monitor all arrangements. He also stressed the need to ensure adequate facilities for pilgrim registration, accommodation, healthcare services and disaster management.
The Home Minister directed that the movement of pilgrim batches be regulated strictly in accordance with prevailing weather conditions and forecasts. He further emphasised that strong security arrangements should be maintained not only along the Yatra route but also at other major tourist destinations so that pilgrims can undertake tourism activities safely and without inconvenience.
During the meeting, Shah was informed that arrangements have been made for the registration of local persons and animals associated with the Yatra and that QR code-enabled identity cards will be issued to them. Camps will also be organised for the health examination and fitness assessment of animals engaged in Yatra-related activities.
