Srinagar, Aug 17: The Food Safety Department has recorded zero non-conforming food samples during the 2026 Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra at the Baltal base camp, with officials testing 576 samples as part of the SANJAY-2026 food safety exercise.
According to the department’s consolidated figures, all 576 samples tested during the Yatra were found to be conforming to prescribed food safety standards, with no non-conforming sample detected.
The department conducted an intensive surveillance and inspection drive covering langars and food establishments catering to pilgrims. A total of 354 langar inspections were carried out, including repeated inspections of the same langars to ensure continued compliance with food safety and hygiene norms.
The department also focused on awareness and capacity-building among food handlers and other stakeholders. 142 awareness programmes were conducted, benefiting 1,225 participants, while 103 training programmes were organised for 858 participants.
As part of the regulatory exercise, the department also issued 67 registrations to food-related establishments/operators associated with the Yatra.
The extensive exercise was aimed at ensuring that pilgrims visiting the Baltal base camp were provided safe and hygienic food during the pilgrimage. Officials monitored food preparation, handling and serving practices through regular inspections and sampling.
The department’s approach combined enforcement with preventive measures, including repeated inspections, awareness programmes and training sessions for those directly involved in food preparation and distribution.
With thousands of pilgrims relying on langars and other food facilities during the Yatra, maintaining food safety at the base camp remains a critical component of the overall pilgrimage arrangements.
The 2026 figures highlight the scale of the operation undertaken by the department—576 samples tested with zero non-conforming results, 354 langars inspected, 142 awareness programmes conducted, 1,225 participants covered, 103 training programmes organised, 858 participants trained and 60 registrations issued.
