Indian Army has launched “Operation SHIVA 2025”, deploying over 8,500 soldiers along with advanced surveillance and operational technologies to ensure a safe and seamless Amarnath Yatra.
About Operation SHIVA 2025
- Purpose: Robust security framework for Amarnath Yatra 2025, especially in view of increased threat from Pakistan-backed proxies post Operation Sindoor.
- Deployment: Over 8,500 troops along with counter-terrorism grids, corridor protection, and prophylactic deployments.
- Coordination: Joint effort between Indian Army, CAPFs, and civil administration for secure Yatra management.
Key Operational Features
- 50+ Counter-UAS (C-UAS) and Early Warning (EW) systems deployed to neutralise aerial threats (drones/UAVs).
- Live tracking of Yatra convoys using high-resolution PTZ cameras and drones.
- Daily UAV missions and real-time surveillance of Yatra routes and Holy Cave.
- Disaster management and emergency response support provided to civil authorities.
- Multi-agency coordination ensures rapid response and real-time situational awareness.
- Significance: Operation SHIVA showcases the Indian Army’s commitment to spiritual sanctity, security assurance, and national integrity during one of India’s most sacred pilgrimages.
About Amarnath Yatra 2025
- Duration: 38-day pilgrimage from July 3 to August 9.
- Route:
- Nunwan–Pahalgam route (48 km, Anantnag district) – traditional route.
- Baltal route (14 km, Ganderbal district) – steeper but shorter.
- Altitude of Shrine: 3,880 metres.
- Current Stats (2025):
- Over 1.40 lakh pilgrims have already offered prayers.
- 4 lakh+ registrations so far.
- In 2024, over 5.10 lakh devotees visited the cave shrine.
Formation of Ice Lingam
- Formed naturally from water dripping from a cleft in the cave roof.
- Stalagmite of ice forms (upward-growing), representing Lord Shiva.
- Fully formed by May, begins to melt by August.
- Stalactites hang from ceilings; stalagmites grow from the ground—both are mineral deposits, here forming as ice.
Other Prominent Pilgrimages in Jammu & Kashmir
Vaishno Devi Temple
- Located in Trikuta Hills, altitude of 5,200 ft near Katra.
- Dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi.
- Distance: 13.5 km trek from Katra; options include ponies and electric vehicles.
- Commonly visited along with Amarnath shrine.
Shankaracharya Temple
- Located on Zabarwan Mountain, Srinagar.
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Built in 371 BC, associated with Adi Shankaracharya.
- Situated 1,100 feet above Srinagar, accessible by trekking.
Raghunath Temple
- Located in Jammu, built by Maharaja Gulab Singh and Ranbir Singh.
- One of the largest temple complexes in North India.
- Consists of seven shrines, presiding deity is Lord Rama.