General Upendra Dwivedi Conducts Security Evaluation in Kashmir for Shri Amarnath Yatra 2025
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, visited Kashmir today to conduct a comprehensive security review ahead of the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra in 2025. This annual pilgrimage, which will occur from July 3 to August 9, is expected to attract over 600,000 devotees, highlighting the area's strategic and operational significance.
During his visit, General Dwivedi focused on assessing the Indian Army's Chinar Corps' readiness, receiving detailed reports on current threat evaluations and strategic deployments. Part of the review featured demonstrations of enhanced surveillance systems and rapid response capabilities. These initiatives are part of the Indian Army's modernization strategy post-2022, which integrates artificial intelligence, drone surveillance, and digital command systems, projected to boost efficiency in conflict zones by 30%.
The Army Chief commended the Chinar Corps for their vigilance and successful counter-terror operations. He also emphasized the role of community engagement and development efforts as vital factors for maintaining peace in the region.
This review represents a departure from previous practices, where such evaluations were typically conducted at the corps command level. General Dwivedi's direct involvement reflects heightened security concerns, particularly following a 15% increase in terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir in 2024, according to the South Asia Terrorism Portal.
The Shri Amarnath Yatra, organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, requires a comprehensive security framework due to ongoing threats in the region. The Indian Army, working alongside paramilitary forces and local authorities, is dedicated to ensuring a safe and peaceful journey for pilgrims, adapting to the evolving challenges.
