The Report

Amit Shah directs multi-layered security grid, drones, CCTV deployment for Amarnath Yatra

Chairs high-level meet in Delhi, Says pilgrim safety top priority of PM Modi-led govt; Asks officials to ensure seamless coordination, strict weather monitoring

KNO Special Correspondent

Srinagar, Jun 12 (KNO): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting in the national capital to review security preparedness for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, with a strong focus on ensuring a safe and smooth pilgrimage for devotees.

An official told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that during the meeting Shah stressed that the safety of pilgrims remains the top priority of the PM Modi-led government.

Shah directed officials to put in place a comprehensive, multi-layered security grid along the Yatra routes through close coordination between Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other security agencies.

The meeting was attended by the National Security Advisor (NSA), Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army Chief, Director General of CRPF, and other senior officials.

During the meeting, he said emphasis was laid on integrating modern technology with traditional security mechanisms. Officials were asked to ensure extensive deployment of drones, CCTV surveillance, and advanced monitoring systems to further strengthen situational awareness and threat response capabilities.

The Home Minister also instructed that senior officers from CAPFs and the Jammu and Kashmir Police be deployed at key camp locations to maintain continuous oversight of arrangements on the ground throughout the duration of the Yatra.

Reviewing logistical preparedness, the Home Minister underlined the need for robust arrangements for registration of pilgrims, accommodation, healthcare services, and disaster management. He called for seamless coordination among departments to ensure that essential services are delivered efficiently.

In a move to streamline management and enhance accountability, Shah directed that all individuals associated with the Yatra, including local service providers, be properly registered.

He also called for the issuance of QR code-based identity cards and the setting up of veterinary camps for health checks of animals used during the pilgrimage.

The meeting also stressed that the movement of pilgrim batches should be strictly regulated in accordance with weather forecasts to minimise risks along the route.

Apart from the Yatra routes, Shah asked officials to ensure enhanced security arrangements at other major tourist locations across Jammu and Kashmir so that visiting pilgrims can travel safely and without disruption.

The annual Amarnath Yatra, which draws thousands of devotees each year to the Himalayan shrine, is set to commence on July 3, with authorities working to ensure tight security and smooth management amid challenging terrain and weather conditions—(KNO)

GMC Baramulla to organize Blood Donation Camp on 14 June; MS appeals for Public Participation
BARAMULLA, JUNE 12: Medical Superintendent, Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, Dr. Parvaiz Masoodi, has appealed to volunteers, youth, social organizations, and the general public to come forward and donate blood for patients in need on the occasion of World Blood Donor Day, being observed on June 14.
Dr. Masoodi said that GMC Baramulla will organize a special blood donation camp on June 14 to mark the occasion and augment blood stocks for emergency, surgical, and critical care patients.
Describing blood donation as a noble humanitarian act, he said a single unit of donated blood can save multiple lives and provide a lifeline to patients facing medical emergencies. He urged healthy individuals to participate wholeheartedly in the camp and contribute to this noble cause.
“Blood donation is one of the greatest gifts one can give. Every donation has the potential to save lives and bring hope to families in distress. I appeal to all eligible donors to participate in this humanitarian initiative and help ensure adequate blood availability for needy patients,” Dr. Masoodi said.
He added that all necessary arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the camp and invited people from all walks of life to join the initiative and make it a success.
The administration of GMC Baramulla expressed confidence that volunteers and donors will respond enthusiastically to the call and reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely and quality healthcare services to the people of the region.

Pulwama continues NMBA through Community Awareness, Youth Engagement Activities
PULWAMA, JUNE 12: The ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan (NMBA) continues across Pulwama district with a series of awareness programmes, community outreach initiatives and youth-centric activities aimed at promoting a drug-free and healthy society.
As part of the campaign, awareness events were conducted at Midoora Tral, Dadoora Pulwama, Herpora Awantipora, Khaigam Achegoza, Hari Awantipora, Chandrigam Dadsara, Gulbugh Kakapora, Konibal Pampore and Hawal Shadimarg. During these programmes, participants were educated about the adverse consequences of substance abuse and encouraged to play an active role in preventing drug addiction within their communities. Awareness sessions, counselling interactions, pledge ceremonies and community mobilisation activities formed the core of the outreach programmes.
Meanwhile, Self Help Group (SHG) members organised awareness and counselling sessions at Lurow Aripal, emphasising the importance of community participation and family support in addressing the challenge of drug abuse and promoting healthy behavioural choices among youth.
The Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Pulwama, continued its sustained efforts under NMBA by organising a range of sports, recreational and awareness activities across various educational institutions. Students participated enthusiastically in these programmes, which seek to channelise energy towards constructive pursuits while spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
District-level Hockey competitions are presently underway at Hockey Turf Pulwama under the campaign. In addition, awareness walks and related activities were organised at Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Pulwama, Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) Pulwama, Higher Secondary School Karimabad, High School Rathsuna Tral, Government Middle School Tral Bala, Pinglish Tral, Higher Secondary School Arihal Tahab and High School Naina Tahab.
The programmes highlighted the significance of adopting healthy lifestyles and remaining vigilant against the dangers posed by substance abuse.