Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday performed the ceremonial ‘Pratham Puja’ at the Amarnath cave shrine, marking the start of preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra, set to commence on July 3.
On the occasion, Sinha also urged devotees to participate in large numbers, assuring them of enhanced facilities and foolproof security arrangements for a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
The Pratham Puja, conducted at the holy cave located at an altitude of 3,880 metres in the Himalayas, is a significant ritual signalling the formal beginning of the 38-day yatra.
“The Pratham Puja was concluded. I request the devotees to come in large numbers for the yatra, which will start on July 3 and conclude on Raksha Bandhan on August 9,” Sinha said, extending an invitation to pilgrims across the country to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani, a natural ice lingam revered as a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
So far, over 3.30 lakh pilgrims have registered themselves to perform the yatra.
Sinha highlighted significant improvements in infrastructure and services for this year’s yatra. “The Shrine Board and the administration have improved the facilities for the pilgrims this year,” he said, adding that the collective dedication of all stakeholders, including civil society and local service providers, has been instrumental in elevating the pilgrimage experience. “I have full faith that significant improvements to facilities and services will ensure this year’s pilgrimage is memorable and spiritually fulfilling for all devotees,” he noted.
Commenting on the foolproof security arrangements, LG Manoj Sinha said, “Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, CRPF and other CAPFs have made foolproof security arrangements. So, I think there is no need for anyone to think about anything, they should come and take Baba’s blessings,” he said, instilling confidence among prospective pilgrims.
Earlier in the day, Sinha conducted an on-site inspection of ongoing preparations along the Baltal axis in Ganderbal district, one of the two routes to the cave shrine, the other being Pahalgam in Anantnag district. Accompanied by officials, he reviewed the progress of infrastructure projects at the Disaster Management and Yatri Niwas Complex managed by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board. Directing officials to expedite the completion of these projects, Sinha underscored the importance of enhanced facilities to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.