Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Geology & Mining Official Caught Red-Handed Taking ₹10,000 Bribe in Ganderbal, ACB Registers Case

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Jammu and Kashmir Anti Corruption Bureau received a written complaint, alleging demand of bribe by an official namely Gh Mustafa (D.H), in-charge of the area, Geology and Mining Department Ganderbal.

According to a statement issued here, The complainant, who owns a JCB machine, stated that he had approached the concerned official for guidance regarding the legal formalities for lifting soil from a particular land. Instead of providing proper legal assistance, the said official allegedly told the complainant to avoid the lengthy formalities and demanded a bribe of ₹20,000 for granting unofficial permission to lift the soil for three days. He further demanded ₹10,000 as an advance payment.

Acting on the complaint, the ACB conducted a discreet verification through a designated officer. The verification report confirmed the allegations and substantiated that the public servant had indeed demanded illegal gratification.

On the basis of the complaint and verification report, a case FIR No. 10/2025 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended) was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar. Subsequently, a trap team was constituted, and a successful trap was laid.

During the trap operation, the accused public servant was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting ₹10,000 from the complainant. He was immediately apprehended on the spot.

Further investigation in the matter is ongoing.

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra 2024: LG Sinha felicitates officers of administration, Army, J&K Police, CAPFs, Shrine Board & volunteers

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today felicitated the officers of Administration, Jammu Kashmir Police, Army, Air force, CAPFs, Emergency & Health Services, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and Volunteers who have been part of the 52- days long Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2024.

At a felicitation ceremony held at Raj Bhawan Auditorium, the Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to the officers, service providers and all the stakeholders and lauded their efforts for hassle-free experience for the devotees and making elaborate arrangements for smooth conduct of Yatra.

“Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an eternal symbol of our spiritual heritage. It represents our quest for spiritual odyssey and teaches us the timeless values of unity in diversity and brotherhood. People’s collaborative spirit and Team J&K’s dedication to serve Yatris ensured they have hassle-free darshan,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the collective and coordinated efforts by every section of the society, officials of Administration, Shrine Board, Police, Army, Air force, CAPFs, BRO, Disaster Response Forces, religious leaders, Medical Staff, sanitation workers, service providers, volunteers, ponywalas, pithuwalas, engineers, health-care professionals, social organisations, workforce, and the media fraternity made it a memorable spiritual experience for the pilgrims.

5,12,252 yatris performed darshans at the Holy Cave during Yatra 2024. This is the highest Yatra figure in last twelve years and it is the 4th time when darshans have crossed 5 lakh.

The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for the continuous support and guidance for the successful conduct of the Yatra.

It was informed that comprehensive arrangements were put in place on both the Yatra Tracks.

77 healthcare facilities, 509 clinical bed facilities and 26 oxygen booths were set up along the yatra route. 100-bed hospitals were set up at both Chandanwari and Baltal and about 1238 doctors and nursing staff were also engaged to serve the pilgrims.

More than 32,000 ponywalas, pithuwalas and palkiwalas helped the yatris to reach the holy shrine. 7000 sanitation workers, 600 trained workers and 25 management staff were engaged 24×7 and dedicatedly performed their assigned work day and night to keep both the routes of the Yatra clean.

With Zero land fill-based approach for the disposal of solid waste, all the Swachhagrahis contributed significantly in achieving the goal of litter-free Yatra.

100% E-KYC based registration, prepaid system for availing the services easily, Grid based power illumination at Panchtarni and holy cave covering the entire Baltal route, fast response on maintenance of wider and safer roads, development of new track on Pahalgam Axis between Chandanwari and Pissu Top, availability of Heli Charter service from Srinagar Airport to Neelgrath, augmented clock room services, accommodation facilities at Yatra Niwas at Pantha Chowk also facilitated the seamless and smooth pilgrimage of the yatris.

Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sh Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, GOC 15 Corps; Dr Mandeep K Bhandari, CEO Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, senior officers of Civil, Police Administration, J&K, CAPFs, Army and Shrine Board attended the felicitation ceremony.

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Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra 2024 Concludes Peacefully with Successful Final Journey

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The annual Amarnath Yatra, which began on June 29 and has seen nearly five lakh devotees pay their respects, will conclude on Monday after 52 days of peaceful proceedings. The Yatra, which is marked by high-security arrangements and the cooperation of local communities, has proceeded smoothly this year, thanks to the efforts of the police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), led by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha.

The highlight of the final leg of the Yatra is the ceremonial procession of the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (the sacred mace of Lord Shiva) carried by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri. This morning, the Chhari Mubarak began its journey from Panchtarni, the last base camp, towards the holy cave shrine located at an elevation of 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas.

Devotees and Sadhus have been accompanying the Chhari Mubarak, chanting sacred hymns and Vedic mantras. The shrine itself houses an ice stalagmite structure believed to embody the divine powers of Lord Shiva, which grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon.

The Yatra will conclude on the occasion of ‘Shravan Purnima,’ which coincides with Raksha Bandhan. On this day, traditional pujas and rituals will be performed, and prayers for global peace and the prosperity of mankind will be offered. After the ceremonies at the shrine, the Chhari Mubarak will return to Panchtarni and then proceed back to Pahalgam.

Swami Deependra Giri has praised the improved facilities and arrangements made for the pilgrims, including the widened tracks to the cave shrine. He highlighted the increase in pilgrim numbers as a positive outcome of these enhancements and noted that special prayers would be offered for the peace and prosperity of both the country and the J&K region.

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra Suspended Today due to Inclement Weather

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The Amarnath Yatra was suspended on Tuesday on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes in Jammu and Kashmir due to inclement weather following heavy rains earlier in the week.

Ashish, a pilgrim from Bihar who had arrived in Srinagar on Monday evening, expressed hope about the Yatra resuming very soon.

“We got to know that the Yatra has been shut down for some reasons. We received the input that Yatra would be resuming today. We will pay the obeisance for sure,” he told ANI.

He also hailed the security personnel for their cooperation with the pilgrims. “The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and all the local police authorities here are cooperating with the pilgrims. We are getting good treatment.”

He said that everyone should visit Kashmir (owing to improvements in the security situation). “Everyone should visit Kashmir. Now the situation has completely changed. Thanks to the Government of India.”

The annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath shrine began on June 29. This year, the 52-day-long pilgrimage would culminate on August 19.

Coming from Gujarat to pay obeisance at the Amarnath Shrine in South Kashmir, KR Patil, a pilgrim, expressed his disappointment after learning that the Yatra was suspended for two days.

“Here, we got to know it (Yatra) is shut for two days. I have been staying here. Facilities are up to mark here,” he said. ”

He expressed hope that the Yatra would be resumed today.

The Yatra, conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, is divided into two routes: One through Pahalgam, and the other through Baltal in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims.

This year, the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amidst a significant increase in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra Begins with 700 Pilgrims, Ensured by Tight Security Measures

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On Wednesday night, the first group of 700 pilgrims for the Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra reached Poonch. This significant pilgrimage, dedicated to Lord Shiva at the Budha Amarnath Temple in Rajpura village, Loran valley, commenced on Wednesday and will conclude on Sawan Purnima, which coincides with Raksha Bandhan this month.

Budha Amarnath is one of the oldest shrines in the Jammu region, attracting numerous devotees during this annual Yatra. The pilgrimage was officially flagged off by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu, Anand Jain, from Yatra Niwas in Jammu.

Balwan Singh Thakur, a pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh, expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We are happy and there is no tension among us. The people and the army are with us, providing all kinds of help.”

Nearly 700 pilgrims, primarily from Karnataka, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, are participating in the pilgrimage, which started on August 7 and will conclude on August 20. The Budha Amarnath temple, situated in the Poonch district of Jammu, remains a focal point for devotees.

Due to recent terrorist activities in the Poonch and Rajouri areas, security measures have been intensified. Despite the heightened security, pilgrims expressed excitement and confidence, noting that the forces have made excellent arrangements for their safety.

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, stated, “The Budha Amarnath Yatra starts from Jammu every year. All arrangements have been made for the pilgrims. The Jammu & Kashmir police and Indian army are ensuring everything runs smoothly. Almost 700 pilgrims are participating in the Yatra.”

ADGP Jammu and Kashmir, Anand Jain, confirmed the extensive security arrangements, adding, “Tight security has been ensured for the Yatra, along with food and stay arrangements throughout the journey.”

The Yatra, a blend of spirituality and tradition, continues to draw devotees under the vigilant watch of the security forces, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience for all participants. (ANI)

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra to Continue Exclusively via Baltal Route Due to Repairs on Pahalgam Track

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Due to essential repair work on the south Kashmir Pahalgam route, authorities have announced that the Amarnath Yatra will exclusively proceed via the Baltal route until it concludes on August 19.

Officials from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) reported that recent rains have damaged the Pahalgam-Cave shrine path. As repair work is underway, pilgrims will need to use the central Kashmir Baltal-Cave shrine route for the remainder of this year’s Yatra. Since the pilgrimage commenced on June 29, around 5 lakh devotees have had ‘Darshan’ at the holy cave shrine as of Tuesday. This number surpasses last year’s total of 4.45 lakh Yatris.

Security forces, including police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), are on duty around the clock along the over 350 km route from Jammu to the two base camps, ensuring the safety of pilgrims. Additionally, security personnel are stationed in sufficient numbers at transit camps, base camps, and the cave shrine itself.

Local residents play a significant role in assisting pilgrims, providing ponies and working as porters to help devotees, especially the weak and infirm, complete the mountainous journey. The SASB, led by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, manages the Yatra with professional efficiency, contributing to a safe, smooth, and hassle-free pilgrimage through the rugged Himalayan terrain.

The cave shrine, situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas, houses an ice stalagmite that devotees believe symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims typically approach the shrine via either the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route or the north Kashmir Baltal route. The Pahalgam-Cave shrine route is 48 km long and takes 4-5 days to traverse, whereas the Baltal-Cave shrine route is 14 km long, allowing for a one-day round trip.

Helicopter services are available for pilgrims on both routes, from Baltal and Chandanwari on the south Kashmir route. This year’s Yatra, which will conclude after 52 days on August 19, coincides with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals.

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Empowering Women on the Amarnath Yatra: HUDD’s Pink Toilets Ensure Safety, Hygiene, and Dignity for Pilgrims

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The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage that holds deep spiritual value for countless devotees who brave the demanding trek to the revered Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir. Navigating the tough terrain and high altitudes presents several challenges, particularly for women. However, a new initiative by the Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD) is making a notable difference by introducing Pink Toilets along the pilgrimage route.

Meeting the Hygiene Needs of Women Pilgrims

This innovative initiative, led by Commissioner Secretary Mandeep Kaur, IAS, aims to address the specific hygiene needs of women pilgrims. The Pink Toilets, strategically located at key points in Srinagar and Jammu, are a game-changer for women on the Yatra:

  • Sanitary Pad Vending Machines: Each Pink Toilet is fitted with vending machines that provide sanitary pads, ensuring women can manage their hygiene comfortably during the journey.
  • Incinerators for Sanitary Waste: To maintain cleanliness and protect the environment, these facilities include incinerators for the proper disposal of used sanitary products, promoting a cleaner pilgrimage route.

Empowering Women in Their Spiritual Pursuit

The introduction of these facilities does more than just provide convenience:

  • Safety and Comfort: Women pilgrims have shared their appreciation for these facilities. Pooja Verma from Mumbai mentioned feeling safer and more comfortable on her journey, thanks to these amenities. Similarly, Neha Singh from Jaipur highlighted the convenience of having sanitary pads readily available.
  • Dignity and Confidence: Beyond maintaining cleanliness, these Pink Toilets represent empowerment. Ravi Kumar from Haryana pointed out the broader impact on pilgrims’ dignity and confidence. Commissioner Secretary Mandeep Kaur noted, “This initiative is about more than just comfort; it’s about ensuring that every pilgrim can undertake their spiritual journey with confidence and dignity.”

Future Prospects

HUDD plans to further expand the availability of Pink Toilets, ensuring that more women pilgrims can benefit from these essential facilities. As the Amarnath Yatra continues, these Pink Toilets stand as a symbol of progress, inclusivity, and respect for all.

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Under Tight Security Another Batch of Pilgrims leave for Amarnath Yatra

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Another batch of pilgrims left for the Amarnath yatra from the Panthachowk Srinagar base camp under tight security measures on Thursday morning.

The pilgrims set out for the holy shrine, heading towards the base camps of the Baltal and Pahalgam Yatras to connect with their faith and seek blessings.The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal.

Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Vikas Kumar, a pilgrim, spoke to ANI ahead of the yatra and said, “There are very good arrangements for the yatra.The security has been deployed well and there are good arrangements for food and lodging.”

This year, the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amid a significant increase in the number of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.On July 15, a brief exchange of fire occurred between security forces and terrorists late at night in the Bhatta area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district.

Four soldiers lost their lives in the encounter that broke out in the Desa Forest area.Another encounter between security forces and terrorists took place in the Kastigarh area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, police said on Thursday.The Jammu and Kashmir police and the army have been working together to search for terrorists in those areas.

This year, the yatra started on June 29 and will end on August 19, lasting 52 days.Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave located in the Kashmir Himalayas. (ANI)

Amarnath Yatra 2024

New Batch of Pilgrims left for the Amarnath yatra

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A fresh batch of pilgrims left for the Amarnath yatra with great enthusiasm from the Panthachowk Srinagar base camp under tight security measures on Saturday.The pilgrims left for the Baltal and Pahalgam yatra base camps.

“I have come from Amarnath Yatra from Mumbai. We are going from the Baltal route. The arrangements are good and we are being taken safely. Our journey so far has been smooth. Food, stay, water – we are getting all the facilities after coming so far. It is very appreciable. Though the journey is tough, our spirits are high and we will come back after darshan. The ambience is nice,” Monika Agarwal, one of the pilgrims, said speaking to ANI.

Another pilgrim, Hemanta, who completed his Amarnath yatra, appreciated the food arrangements made by the security forces for the yatris.

“I have come from Nashik. We landed here on July 13. The BSF camp made good arrangements. We went to Pahalgam and then got to Baltal. The Jammu and Kashmir Police has also made good arrangements and supported us. Arrangements for food are at their best. You cannot see a larger bhandara like this. We went on foot. We felt good after darshan. Everyone should come to Amarnath at least once,” Hemanta said speaking to ANI.

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Almost all the pilgrims visiting the holy shrine said that they were satisfied with the services provided for the journey.

This year, the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amid a significant increase in the number of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Amarnath Yatra: Unprecedented Security Measures, including Electronic Surveillance and Access Control, have been put in place

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Another batch of pilgrims left for their journey to the Amarnath Yatra from Pantha Chowk on Wednesday.The pilgrims set out for the holy shrine from the Pantha Chowk Srinagar base camp towards Baltal and Pahalgam Yatra base camp under heightened security measures.

Madhu, a pilgrim from Haryana, said, “We have come here to take the blessings of Baba. Our base camp is in Baltal and we are going there. The arrangements here are really nice. Everyone should come here once.”

Another pilgrim from Bir said, “The weather this year is really nice and all the arrangements made are good. The crowd is however less this year. I am very excited. Everyone should come to visit.”Earlier, on July 15, a batch of pilgrims had left for their journey to Amaranth under heightened security measures.

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal.Baltal is also the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

This year’s Amarnath Yatra has been taking place amid a significant increase in the number of terror attacks in the state. The attacks come against the backdrop of the recent terror attacks in Jammu, the army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur.

Unprecedented security measures, including electronic surveillance and access control, have been put in place.Further, to ensure safe movements of pilgrims, the state traffic police issued an advisory on July 6 on National Highway 44, with cut-off timings and clear instructions for convoy and non-convoy movements.

The Amarnath yatra, which started on June 29 will end on August 19, lasting 52 days. The devotees of Lord Shiva undertake the arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave, located in the Kashmir Himalayas.