The annual Amarnath Yatra has commenced on July 3, 2025, amidst heightened security measures and unwavering devotion from pilgrims. The 38-day pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave, a revered Hindu shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, will continue until August 9, 2025. Despite the looming threat of terrorism, devotees have gathered in large numbers, demonstrating their resilience and faith.

Security Measures

In light of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra 2025 have been significantly enhanced. The government has mobilized approximately 600 additional companies of paramilitary forces, marking the highest-ever deployment for the Yatra's security.

The security grid includes:

• Round-the-clock monitoring: The pilgrimage is monitored 24/7 via the Integrated Command and Control Centre at Raj Bhawan and the Police Control Room.
• RFID tracking: An RFID-based tracking system has been implemented to monitor pilgrim movement and ensure safety throughout the journey.
• CCTV surveillance: Enhanced CCTV surveillance is in place to monitor movement along the Yatra route.
• Facial recognition systems: Facial recognition systems (FRS) have been installed along the Pahalgam route to identify and deter potential threats, with real-time alerts for blacklisted individuals.
• Traffic restrictions: Traffic restrictions have been imposed on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway from July 2 to August 9, with daily traffic advisories and fixed cut-off timings for each route segment.
• Anti-drone measures: Unauthorized drone activity is strictly prohibited along the route, with violators facing legal action.
• Jammer-mounted convoys: Each convoy of devotees will have a jammer, and CRPF personnel will be equipped with satellite phones.

Devotees' Undeterred Spirit

Despite the security concerns, the spirit of the pilgrims remains unbroken. Over 3.3 lakh devotees have already registered for the Yatra, demonstrating their unwavering faith and determination to undertake the sacred journey. Many pilgrims have expressed that they are undeterred by the threat of terrorism and have full confidence in the security arrangements.

Yatra Routes and Facilities

The Amarnath Yatra 2025 will proceed via two traditional routes: the 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter, 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. A limit of 15,000 pilgrims per day has been set for safety and crowd management.

To facilitate the pilgrimage, the government and Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) have made several arrangements, including:

• Medical facilities: ONGC has constructed 100-bed hospitals at both the Chandanwari and Baltal base camps.
• Yatri Niwas: A new Yatri Niwas and board office have been inaugurated in Srinagar, with another facility to be opened in Baltal.
• Registration: Registration can be completed online via the official SASB website or offline at authorized bank branches across India. A Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) is required for all participants.

Inauguration and Flag-Off

The first batch of 5,892 pilgrims, including 1,115 women, 31 children, and 16 transgenders, was flagged off from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on July 2, 2025. The Lieutenant Governor performed pooja and expressed his wishes for a safe and comfortable journey for all the pilgrims.

The Amarnath Yatra holds immense significance for Hindus, as the cave shrine houses a naturally formed ice Shivling, believed to represent Lord Shiva. The annual pilgrimage is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of devotees, who undertake the challenging journey amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.