The Indian Army on Friday launched “Operation SHIVA 2025,” an annual high-intensity security operation, to ensure a secure and coordinated Shri Amarnath Yatra. This year’s security intensified as the threat level from Pakistan-sponsored proxy groups in Operation SHIV SHAKTI, which identified the presence and operations of anti-Jammu and Kashmir terrorist groups.
The objective of Operation SHIVA 2025 is to create a security framework for the Yatra along both the northern and southern routes in close cooperation with the Civil Administration and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
To actualise the increased security arrangement for 2025, over 8,500 troops have been deployed within a broad ambit of technical and operational support. A multi-layered counter-terrorism grid, deployment of preventive security, and enhancement of a corridor for protection of the Yatra. Furthermore, the Army is similarly providing significant support to civil authorities in disaster response and emergency relief.
As per the Army, the major deployments and capabilities consist of a dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) arrangement, with more than 50 C-UAS and electronic warfare systems, to neutralise possible drone threats.
Engineer task forces have been deployed to do bridge work, track widening, and disaster reduction work. The Army said on Friday that from a medical support standpoint, these preparations included more than 150 doctors and medical staff, an advanced dressing station, nine medical aid posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths all utilising 2,00,000 litres of oxygen. There are also signal companies for continuous communications, electronics and mechanical engineers detachments for engineering issues, and a bomb detection and disposal crew to neutralize threats.
Besides providing emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams identified and established tent cities, and water points. Essential equipment has been delivered to the site: bulldozers, excavators and so on. Indian Army helicopters are on standby to immediately respond to contingencies.
The Army is also using many reconnaissance applications, such as high-resolution Pan-tilt-zoom cameras and live drone feeds to identify Yatra convoy movements along the route between Jammu and the holy Amarnath cave.
As stated by the Army, ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’ represents the Indian Army’s unfaltering support of the sacred pilgrimage, so devotees have a safe, smooth, and spiritual journey.
