Amarnath Yatra 2025 security: How 50k CRPF troops, J&K Police, drones, bomb squads will guard yatri convoys

Amarnath Yatra

Security forces, including the Indian Army, CRPF and Jammu & Kashmir police, have launched ‘Operation Shiva’ to ensure that the 2025 Amarnath Yatra is safe and smooth. The annual pilgrimage will be held from July 3 to August 9, lasting 38 days, which is shorter than last year’s 52-day schedule, NDTV reported.

This year’s yatra comes after the deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 innocents were killed. That incident led to strong military action by India, including Operation Sindoor, which involved precision strikes on terror bases in Pakistan.

Drones, bomb squads, sniffer dog teams

As part of the heightened security, drones, bomb squads, and sniffer dog teams will monitor the two routes taken by pilgrims. The government is ensuring the largest-ever deployment of CRPF personnel for this yatra.

Nearly 50,000 CRPF jawans, along with Jammu & Kashmir Police, will be on duty. They will carry out road opening operations to check for hidden explosives and IEDs. Quick action teams will also be placed at key locations to respond quickly if there is any threat, according to a report by The Times of India.

Home Minister Amit Shah has directed the security forces to maintain high alert during the Yatra. Top administrative, police, and paramilitary officials have already taken stock of the Yatri Niwas.

Three-layer security system

Pilgrims will be strictly monitored. A three-layer security system will include body scanners, CCTV cameras, and 24-hour surveillance. All pilgrims will receive RFID (radio frequency identification) tags that allow real-time tracking of their movement. These tags will help security forces respond quickly in case of emergencies.

Convoys carrying pilgrims will be escorted by armed CRPF units with satellite phones and signal jammers to prevent remote-controlled attacks. All approach roads to the highway will be blocked when convoys are on the move.

The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board has announced that people below 13 years or above 70 years of age will not be allowed to take part in the yatra, even if they have a medical certificate. Pregnant women will also not be permitted for safety reasons, Mint reported.