JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board has taken important decisions regarding the annual Amarnath Yatra in 2026. The Board’s 50th meeting decided that the first puja of the Yatra will be held on June 29, the full moon day of Jyeshtha. The meeting was chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
The meeting also approved doubling the accident insurance amount for pilgrims, service providers, registered workers, officials, and priests associated with the Yatra, from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh. This decision by the Board is being considered an important step towards the safety of pilgrims.
This year, a laser and sound show dedicated to Baba Barfani will also be organized during the Yatra to connect pilgrims with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. This special event will be held in both the capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar.
In the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor directed strengthening lighting, emergency rescue measures, and sanitation management along the yatra route. He directed that toilets be installed at appropriate locations and ensured regular cleaning. He also directed that shelter sheds and rain shelters be installed along the track for the convenience of pilgrims, security forces, and service providers.
It is noteworthy that Shri Amareshwar Dham, commonly known as Shri Amarnath Cave, is located at an altitude of approximately 3,888 meters above sea level in Anantnag district of South Kashmir. According to religious belief, it is in this cave that Lord Shiva narrated the story of immortality to Goddess Parvati. Held annually during the month of Shravan, this yatra attracts millions of devotees from India and abroad to visit Lord Shiva in the form of a snow-like lingam.
According to Board officials, preparations have been initiated on a war footing to ensure a safe, well-organized, and devotee-friendly yatra.
