Operation Shiva 2025: Indian Army’s Massive Security Drive for Shri Amarnath Yatra

The Indian Army has launched Operation Shiva 2025, a comprehensive security operation aimed at ensuring the safe and peaceful conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir. This high-profile annual pilgrimage attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees from across the country, and the security measures reflect the importance of safeguarding this spiritually significant journey amid rising security challenges in the region.

What is Operation Shiva 2025?

Operation Shiva 2025 is a large-scale, multi-tiered security mission initiated by the Indian Army to provide robust protection along both the northern (Nunwan-Pahalgam) and southern (Baltal) routes of the Amarnath Yatra. The operation also ensures smooth logistics, medical aid, and disaster management for pilgrims.

The operation was launched due to increased threats from Pakistan-backed proxy terror groups, especially in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, which targeted militant hideouts in the Kashmir valley.

Key Highlights of Operation Shiva 2025

1. Massive Troop Deployment

• Over 8,500 Indian Army troops have been deployed across the pilgrimage routes.

• Joint coordination with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and local civil administration.

• Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are stationed strategically for immediate emergency response.

2. Advanced Surveillance & Technology

• Deployment of more than 50 Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) to counter drone threats.

• Continuous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) surveillance and live drone feeds monitor the Yatra routes and the holy cave.

• Use of high-resolution Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras for live convoy tracking.

• Electronic Warfare (EW) systems installed to neutralize aerial threats.

3. Medical Preparedness

• Over 150 doctors and medical personnel were deployed.

• Two advanced dressing stations and nine medical aid posts were set up along the route.

• A 100-bed hospital was established near the Yatra.

• 26 oxygen booths with a supply of 2 lakh litres of oxygen for emergency medical care.

• Emergency evacuation helicopters are on standby.

4. Infrastructure and Logistics Support

• Engineer task forces are actively working on bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

• Provision of emergency food rations for 25,000 pilgrims.

• Establishment of tent cities, water points, and deployment of bulldozers and excavators for disaster relief.

• Signal companies ensure seamless communication across the Yatra corridor.

• Bomb detection and disposal squads are active to counter any explosive threats.

About the Shri Amarnath Yatra

• The pilgrimage is a 38-day event concluding on Raksha Bandhan (August 9, 2025).

• The Yatra covers two main routes:

  • Nunwan-Pahalgam route (48 km) through the Anantnag district.

  • Baltal route (14 km), steeper but shorter, in the Ganderbal district.

• The destination is the sacred Amarnath cave shrine, situated at an altitude of 3,880 meters, famous for its naturally formed ice lingam representing Lord Shiva.

• Over 1.40 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance this year, with more than 4 lakh registered online.

• In 2024, over 5.10 lakh pilgrims completed the Yatra.

Why is Operation Shiva Crucial in 2025?

The security environment in Jammu and Kashmir remains sensitive with increased cross-border terrorism threats. The launch of Operation Shiva comes after the success of Operation Sindoor, aiming to further dismantle terrorist infrastructure.

The Indian Army’s commitment through Operation Shiva ensures that pilgrims can undertake the Yatra without fear, supported by real-time surveillance and rapid response mechanisms.

Real-Time Security Management

The Indian Army is using cutting-edge technology for live tracking of pilgrimage convoys between Jammu and the holy cave. The use of drones, PTZ cameras, and a multi-agency coordination framework ensures early detection and swift neutralization of any security threats.

Conclusion

Operation Shiva 2025 demonstrates the Indian Army’s unwavering dedication to preserving the sanctity and safety of one of India’s most revered pilgrimages. With thousands of troops, advanced technology, and comprehensive medical and logistical support, the Yatra is safeguarded to provide a peaceful and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees.

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