Yatra to Commence on July 3, Will Last 38 Days
The annual Amarnath Yatra is set to begin on July 3, 2025, and will continue for 38 days, significantly shorter than last year’s 52-day pilgrimage. Officials have clarified that the reduced duration was decided prior to the recent Pahalgam terror attack and is based on weather conditions, not security concerns.
Three-Tier Security Cover to Guard the Yatra
In the wake of increased security concerns, a comprehensive three-level security arrangement has been put in place, involving the Jammu & Kashmir Police, CRPF, and the Indian Army. Around 581 companies of central armed forces, including CRPF, will be deployed to secure the pilgrimage route.
Advanced Surveillance and Tech-Driven Safety Measures
All pilgrimage routes have undergone thorough security audits and digital mapping. The CRPF Director General personally visited Pahalgam to review the preparations. Each pilgrim and pony rider will now be issued a digital ID card for tracking and verification.
Yatra convoys will be equipped with signal jammers to prevent IED attacks. Satellite phones will be made available to security personnel, and all vehicles will have radio frequency identification (RFID) for real-time monitoring. Dedicated response vans from CRPF and J&K Police will also be stationed along the routes.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reviews Security Preparations
On May 30, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the security and logistical preparedness for the Yatra. He directed all security agencies to ensure maximum vigilance and seamless coordination throughout the pilgrimage.
The meeting was attended by J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, armed forces, paramilitary, intelligence agencies, and civil administration.
Shah’s Statement on Social Media Platform ‘X’
Amit Shah posted on social platform X, stating: “Chaired a review meeting on Amarnath Yatra preparations. Assessed security arrangements and instructed officials to maintain high alert to ensure a peaceful and smooth pilgrimage. The Centre and J&K administration are committed to providing all necessary facilities to the pilgrims.”
Pilgrimage Dates Determined by Weather, Not Security
Officials have emphasized that the decision to shorten the Yatra was made well before the Pahalgam incident and was based entirely on seasonal weather patterns. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board consults meteorological data before finalizing the pilgrimage window each year.