SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday performed the Pratham Puja at the Holy Cave, marking the ceremonial commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Speaking at the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called on devotees of Baba Barfani to participate in large numbers and offer prayers for the progress of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation. He said that significant improvements have been made to pilgrim facilities this year.
The Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, Army, Border Roads Organisation, Central Armed Police Forces, J&K Police, and other stakeholders are working in coordination to ensure a smooth and safe Yatra beginning 3rd July.
“Foolproof security arrangements have been put in place by the J&K Police, Army, CRPF and other CAPFs,” LG Sinha said.
He acknowledged the contributions of the people of JK, civil society groups, and service providers, stating that he had full faith that this year’s pilgrimage would be both memorable and spiritually fulfilling for the devotees.
The Pratham Puja, held annually on the occasion of Jyeshtha Purnima, is organised by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board at the Holy Cave.
This year’s Yatra is scheduled to begin on July 3, simultaneously from the Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the Baltal route in Ganderbal, and will conclude on August 9, 2025, on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
Among those present at the Holy Cave were Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, GoC 15 Corps; J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat; Shrine Board Member KN Rai; CEO of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and Principal Secretary to the LG, Dr Mandeep K Bhandari; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri; IGP Kashmir VK Birdi, and other senior officials.
