Srinagar, June 19, 2025: In a proactive move to ensure the smooth execution of the Amarnath Yatra 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has appointed two senior IAS officers as nodal officers to oversee the annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave Shrine. The 38-day yatra, set to commence on July 3 and conclude on August 9, 2025, is expected to draw thousands of devotees to the sacred shrine located at 3,888 meters in the Himalayas.
Nodal Officers for Enhanced Coordination
Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, IAS, Secretary of the Science and Technology Department, has been designated as the nodal officer for the Baltal Axis, a key route for pilgrims. Rahul Yadav, IAS, Managing Director of J&K Power Development Corporation Limited, will supervise the Pahalgam Axis, the other primary route to the shrine. Their roles involve coordinating with the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB), security agencies, and civil administration to ensure pilgrim safety, logistics, and amenities. The officers will provide regular updates to the SASB’s Chief Executive Officer to address any challenges promptly.
Administrative Support and Camp Management
To bolster preparations, the government has deployed 57 Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers as camp directors and additional camp directors along the yatra routes. These officials will manage critical facilities, including medical aid, sanitation, and accommodation at various camps, ensuring a hassle-free experience for pilgrims. Their appointments, finalized by the SASB, will see them draw salaries from their respective departments during the yatra period.
Security and Preparations Amid Challenges
The appointments come in the wake of heightened security concerns following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, a key base for the yatra. The administration is working closely with security forces to implement robust measures, including advanced surveillance and increased deployment along the routes. Additionally, the SASB is overseeing arrangements for medical facilities, langar services, and track maintenance to ensure accessibility to the cave shrine, which houses the naturally formed ice lingam of Lord Shiva.
Pilgrim-Centric Approach
LG Sinha emphasized the administration’s commitment to a safe and spiritually fulfilling yatra. “The appointment of nodal officers and camp directors reflects our dedication to facilitating a seamless pilgrimage while prioritizing devotee safety and comfort,” he stated. The yatra, a significant religious event, is expected to see robust participation, with registrations already underway.
Key Details of Amarnath Yatra 2025
- Duration: July 3 to August 9, 2025
- Routes: Baltal and Pahalgam
- Nodal Officers: Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary (Baltal Axis), Rahul Yadav (Pahalgam Axis)
- Support Staff: 57 JKAS officers as camp directors
- Authority: Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB)
The Amarnath Yatra remains a cornerstone of spiritual tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, and with these administrative measures, the government aims to uphold its sanctity and safety.
