Associated News Bureau

LG Manoj Sinha Performs Pratham Puja, Invites Devotees for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 as Administration Declares Full Preparedness

Srinagar, June 29: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday performed the traditional 'Pratham Puja' at the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji, formally marking the ceremonial commencement of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The Lieutenant Governor offered prayers to Baba Barfani, seeking peace, prosperity, good health and well-being for all. Extending a heartfelt invitation to devotees across the country, the Lieutenant Governor urged pilgrims to participate in large numbers and undertake the sacred pilgrimage to experience its spiritual significance. Addressing the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB), Army, Police, Security Forces, local community, service providers and volunteers are working in complete coordination to ensure a safe, seamless and memorable pilgrimage for all devotees. "As the Yatra commences on July 3, every stakeholder is fully committed to providing a secure, hassle-free and spiritually enriching experience to pilgrims," he said. The Lieutenant Governor further stated that the administration is fully prepared to welcome devotees with significantly upgraded infrastructure, enhanced public facilities and improved logistical arrangements, supported by the cooperation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board organises the annual Pratham Puja at the Holy Cave on the auspicious occasion of Jyeshtha Purnima, symbolising the ceremonial beginning of the pilgrimage. The 57-day Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 will formally commence on July 3 simultaneously through the twin traditional routes of Pahalgam in Anantnag district and Baltal in Ganderbal district. The pilgrimage will conclude on August 28, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. Among those present on the occasion were Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Managing Director JKPDCL and Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis Rahul Yadav, Inspector General of Police Kashmir V.K. Birdi, DIG Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakashn, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Director Information Shreya Singhal, and other senior civil and police officials. ANB