Jammu and Kashmir Government Ensures Security for Upcoming Religious Events

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has assured the public of the government's commitment to ensuring the safe conduct of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. With extensive civil and security arrangements in place, preparations are already underway for these significant religious events. Abdullah also addressed the challenges faced by the tourism sector, indicating that plans for revival will be discussed after the Yatra concludes. The Nunwan Base Camp is actively verifying service providers to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 20:10 IST

Commitment to Safe Pilgrimages

Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has pledged that the government is dedicated to facilitating the safe and smooth execution of the upcoming Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. This commitment was made during his visit to the revered Mata temple situated in Tulmula Ganderbal, in central Kashmir.

In discussions with the media, Abdullah emphasized that comprehensive civil and security measures are being implemented for both events. The Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela is set for June 3, while the Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to begin on July 3, with pilgrims expected to use the Sonamarg-Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

He stated, “We are fully prepared regarding civil arrangements and are taking necessary steps to ensure security.” Abdullah reiterated the government's commitment to successfully organizing the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela and assured that safety measures are in place for the Amarnath Yatra participants.

Addressing the impact on the tourism sector, which has faced significant challenges in the Valley, Abdullah acknowledged the difficulties but mentioned that plans for immediate revival would be deferred until after the Yatra concludes peacefully. He remarked, “Tourism has been affected, but we are not taking any action for now. Once the situation normalizes, we will collaborate with stakeholders to rejuvenate our tourism industry.”

Preparations for the Amarnath Yatra are already in progress, especially at crucial points along the Pahalgam route. The Nunwan Base Camp, which serves as the primary transit and registration center, is currently undergoing a large-scale verification process for ponies and service providers essential for the pilgrimage. A collaborative team from the Labour and Animal Husbandry Departments is managing this vital operation at security checkpoints.

Officials are diligently verifying the identities and background documents of pony owners and service personnel, while veterinary doctors are conducting health assessments to ensure the ponies' well-being before they are registered.