‘Amarnath Yatra opportunity to showcase our culture of compassion, hospitality’
Srinagar, Jun 27: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday met with civil society groups, business leaders, and religious heads to discuss the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. He appealed to all sections of society to actively support and contribute to this sacred journey, which he described as a true symbol of social harmony, and urged the public to come forward to ensure a memorable spiritual experience for all pilgrims.
The Lieutenant Governor said that the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an opportunity to showcase our 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 ultimate experience and human kindness,” he said.
Sinha said that representatives of civil society, religious and business leaders, and social workers are the guardians of our 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,” he said.
The LG added, “Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has shaped our faith, culture, and identity since time immemorial, reminding us of our eternal bond with Lord Shiva, the symbol of infinite power, knowledge, and compassion. 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. 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.”
The Lieutenant Governor said that over the past few years, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other stakeholders have continuously worked to make the Yatra smoother and safer, with roads widened, communication facilities improved, and infrastructure modernised. He said the 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 Yatra, appreciating the extensive arrangements made by the administration and the Shrine Board over the past few years, and stating that significant improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, sanitation, and pilgrim facilities have greatly enhanced the overall Yatra experience.
The Lieutenant Governor also welcomed valuable suggestions shared by the civil society members and other stakeholders, assuring them that all genuine recommendations would be thoroughly examined for implementation.
The sacred journey of devotion, dedication, and faith will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28 this year. The interaction was attended by MLAs Altaf Ahmad Wani, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, and Mian Mehar Ali; DGP Nalin Prabhat; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board Dr Mandeep K Bhandari; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi; Deputy Commissioners; senior officials; and representatives of religious and social organisations, trade and business associations, and other prominent members of civil society.
