Meets Civil Society, Religious Leaders and Business Representatives; Says Pilgrimage Showcases Kashmir’s Tradition of Service, Compassion and Hospitality
Says Civil Society, Political Leaders Assure Full Support; Administration Ready for Safe, Smooth Yatra
Srinagar, June 27 Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday appealed to civil society, religious leaders, business associations and people from all walks of life to extend wholehearted support for the smooth conduct of the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, describing the annual pilgrimage as a powerful symbol of faith, social harmony and human service.
Details available with news agency JKNS, stated that, LG Sinha met with civil society groups, business leaders and religious heads to discuss the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. During the interaction, the Lieutenant Governor appealed to all sections of society to actively support and contribute to this sacred journey, which is a true symbol of social harmony. He urged the public to come forward and ensure a memorable spiritual experience for all pilgrims.
The Lieutenant Governor said that Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an opportunity to showcase the region’s culture of selfless service, compassion and hospitality to the world.
“Let us unite across all sectors to make this year’s pilgrimage a beacon of faith, unity and devotion. As pilgrims embark on the sacred journey to Baba Barfani’s cave, let us transform our devotion into compassionate action, making this Yatra a true testament to spiritual experience and human kindness,” he said.
The sacred journey of devotion and faith will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28 this year. The Lieutenant Governor said representatives of civil society, religious and business leaders, and social workers are the guardians of the nation’s moral conscience.
“Everyone present here is a custodian of spiritual traditions. Generation after generation, we have ensured that Baba Amarnath’s ancient spiritual heritage remains vibrant. As we prepare once again to welcome the devotees, I look to each of you for your guidance and cooperation. Your role is vital in ensuring that every pilgrim experiences respect, safety and a sense of belonging,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has shaped the region’s faith, culture and identity since time immemorial. He said the sacred Yatra reminds devotees of their eternal bond with Lord Shiva, the symbol of infinite power, knowledge and compassion. Each year, pilgrims come from across the country and abroad, bringing not only their prayers but also the hopes and aspirations of all humanity.
“Every year the world bears witness that the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an occasion where people of all faiths, communities and walks of life unite in the spirit of serving the pilgrims. Let us make Baba Barfani’s Yatra an exemplary model of devotion and service. Let us show the world that when devotion and service go hand in hand, the impossible becomes possible. Let us ensure that every pilgrim feels our hospitality and warmth. This is an occasion when Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and followers of all faiths in Jammu and Kashmir stand together in the cause of human service. That unity is our greatest strength,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also said that over the past few years, the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other stakeholders have continuously worked to make the Yatra smoother and safer. Roads have been widened, communication facilities improved and infrastructure modernised. He said the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is now equipped with world-class facilities.
During the interaction, members of civil society unanimously extended their support and cooperation for the successful conduct of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. They appreciated the extensive arrangements made by the administration and the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board over the past few years, stating that significant improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, sanitation and pilgrim facilities have greatly enhanced the overall Yatra experience.
The Lieutenant Governor also welcomed the valuable suggestions shared by civil society members and other stakeholders. He assured them that all genuine recommendations would be thoroughly examined for implementation.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters, Sinha, as per JKNS, said civil society representatives, religious leaders, political leaders and MLAs from various districts were invited for the annual consultation process, as has been the practice in previous years.
He said the discussions were positive, with all participants assuring their full support for the successful conduct of the Yatra, reflecting a strong spirit of unity and coordination among all stakeholders.
Sinha said the interaction has further strengthened mutual understanding and trust between the administration and stakeholders. He added that the administration, in close coordination with the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and security forces, has further enhanced arrangements related to logistics, security and the overall management of the pilgrimage.
“All necessary measures have been taken to ensure better facilities and a safe, smooth pilgrimage for devotees,” he said.
Appealing to pilgrims from across the country, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration is fully prepared and vigilant to ensure the successful conduct of the Yatra.
He also said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are ready to extend every possible support and hospitality to the visiting devotees.
The interaction was attended by Altaf Ahmad Wani, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi and Mian Mehar Ali, Members of the Legislative Assembly; Nalin Prabhat, Director General of Police; Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and CEO, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; V.K. Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Deputy Commissioners, senior officials, representatives of religious and social organisations, trade and business associations, social organisations and other prominent members of civil society. (JKNS)
