Army chief reviews security preparedness of Amarnath Yatra
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the security in the Kashmir region and assessed preparedness for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the Indian Army said on Sunday. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reviews the security grid in the Kashmir region and assess preparedness for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra on Sunday. (ANI)
Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared on X that General Dwivedi was briefed about the operational preparedness. 'He was briefed on the current operational dynamics and the broader strategic landscape, including a demonstration on integration of advanced technologies in operations, leading to smarter decisions, enhanced surveillance and response mechanisms,' the post by ADGPI said.
It said that the chief also lauded all ranks of Chinar Corps for their commitment in ensuring peace and stability through decisive counter-terror operations and initiatives aimed at development of the region & upliftment of local population.
The annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas is commencing from July 3 this year. Every year lakhs of pilgrims visit the shrine which is at a height of 3,880 metre in south Kashmir Himalayas passing through treacherous mountain passes and ice fed streams.
The government this year declared the Amarnath Yatra routes as no-flying zones from July 1 to August 10, banning drones, balloons and other objects. Consequently, the Shrine Amarnath Yatra Shrine Board on June 18 announced that there will no helicopter services for pilgrims during the yatra.
All pilgrims planning to visit the shrine this year will have to trek on foot or avail the services of ponies and palkis from both Pahalgam and Baltal base camps.
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United News of India
25 minutes ago
- United News of India
J&K to prioritise movement of perishable goods on Srinagar Jammu highway during Yatra
Srinagar, July 2 (UNI) To ensure smooth movement of fruit and vegetable trucks during the Amarnath Yatra, the J&K administration has directed the Traffic Police to identify a five-kilometre stretch near the Navyug Tunnel for dedicated parking of such vehicles, enabling their priority passage along the Srinagar-Jammu highway. An advisory issued by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir said agriculture and horticulture sectors are critically important for the economy of J&K and the Union Territory administration is fully committed to facilitate the growers and extend every possible assistance in marketing the produce. The advisory said that Srinagar Jammu national highway (NH-44) being the lifeline of J&K, has an important role to play in this regard. 'Use of NH-44, by different class of users, is largely governed by the advisory issued by Traffic Police, which tries to accommodate every stakeholder. However, it has been reported that in view of the forthcoming SANJY (Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra)- 2025, onset of fresh fruit season, convey movement and the condition of NH-44, sufficient time slot is not getting allotted to this very important sector and as a result, downside movement of trucks carrying perishable goods is being hampered due to which the fruit growers/traders are facing inconvenience,' the advisory read. In order to address the concerns of fruit growers, the UT administration has decided that the vehicles or buses ferrying Yatris shall be given first preference for their hassle free movement along NH-44, followed by, vehicles carrying fruits and vegetables. 'Traffic Police should identify a stretch of about 05 Kms along NH-44, between Levdoora to Navyug Tunnel, which should be dedicated for parking of fruit/vegetable laden vehicles, so that their movement could be facilitated on priority. Other HMVs waiting to be released for their onward movement towards Jammu should be allowed to get parked only after Levdoora,' the advisory read. It added that fruit and vegetable growers are requested to load and timely park their vehicles, every morning before 9:00 AM at the designated place, so that traffic police could easily identify the vehicles and release them once SANJY related daily movement is over. The Divisional Commissioner asked the Department of Agriculture Production to frame and issue instructions to all the fruit and vegetable growers to paste plycards, hoarding or banner mentioning the item and the source of origin, so that fruit and vegetable laden vehicles are distinguished and their movement is accordingly facilitated 'Trucks carrying perishable goods will also be facilitated through Jawahar Tunnel or Mughal Road if they desire so,' the advisory said. The administration also directed that certain categories of vehicles returning to Jammu must exclusively use the Mughal Road between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM, starting July 2. The advisory applies to petrol, diesel, and LPG tankers, trucks carrying empty LPG cylinders, empty Food Corporation of India (FCI) vehicles, and all other loaded or empty vehicles up to 10 tyres. This regulation will remain in force until the conclusion of the yatra. UNI MJR SSP
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Kharchi Puja 2025: Date, history, celebration, wishes, messages, WhatsApp status to share
Kharchi Puja 2025: It is one of the most important and sacred festivals celebrated in Tripura. This important Hindu festival is known for its unique rituals and week-long celebrations. In 2025, Kharchi Puja will be celebrated on July 3rd, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists to the Fourteen Gods temple known as the 'Chaturdasha Devata in Old Agartala. In this article, we explore the history, meaning, significance, rituals, and wishes of Kharchi Puja 2025. You'll also find WhatsApp messages, wishes and status ideas to share the festive spirit with your friends and family. What is Kharchi Puja? Understanding the Meaning and Significance The word 'Kharchi' comes from the Tripuri word 'Khya', which means Earth. Kharchi Puja is a festival that pays respect to Mother Earth and the Fourteen Gods worshipped by the people of Tripura. It symbolises the cleansing of the Earth after the sacred time known as 'Ama Pechi' – believed to be the menstruation period of the Mother Goddess. The main purpose of Kharchi Puja is to wash away sins, restore purity to the Earth, and bring peace, prosperity, and well-being to everyone. Kharchi Puja 2025 Date and Location Date: July 3, 2025 Main Location: Old Agartala, Tripura, India Duration: 7 days of grand celebration The festival starts 15 days after Ama Pechi and takes place on Shukla Ashtami, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. History of Kharchi Puja: A Glimpse into Tripuri Traditions The history of Kharchi Puja goes back centuries and is deeply rooted in the tribal customs of Tripura. It is believed that the rituals were started by the royal family of Tripura and continue to be followed with devotion. According to Tripuri legends, after Ama Pechi, the Earth becomes impure. Since menstruation is seen as a sacred yet unclean period, Kharchi Puja is performed to cleanse the Earth. The rituals are believed to bring spiritual and environmental balance. Kharchi Puja significance The festival, which honours the traditional tribal gods, is held during June or July in Old Agartala, Tripura. The idols used in the rituals only include the heads of the deities, and each is given a name based on Hindu beliefs, such as Hara, Uma, Hari, Maa, Bani, Kumar, Ganesh, Brahma, Pritthi, Ganga, Abdi, Kamesh, and Himadri. These head-shaped idols have also been accepted and worshipped by Hindus in Tripura. Many old stories and legends about these Fourteen Gods are well-known throughout the state. The religious rituals begin one day before the main festival starts. Items used in the worship include buffaloes, he-goats, eggs, bamboo poles and pipes, umbrellas, clay pots, ducks, pigeons, bamboo sticks, thread, cotton, turmeric, vermilion, wine, banana leaves, and rice. The head priest, known as the Chantai, recites sacred mantras, while his assistant performs the animal sacrifices. A vibrant and grand fair is also organised during this time, which continues for seven days. What makes this festival truly special is its message of peace, unity, and togetherness. People from all communities, regardless of caste, religion, or background, come together to joyfully celebrate this traditional event. Rituals and Celebrations During Kharchi Puja Kharchi Puja is full of colourful and traditional rituals that last for seven days. Each day has its own importance and draws massive gatherings. Key Rituals of Kharchi Puja: Fourteen Gods are taken from the temple and carried to the Saidra river. The deities are bathed in the holy river by priests known as Chantai. After purification, the idols are brought back to the temple premises. Flowers, vermilion, sweets, and animal sacrifices (like goats and pigeons) are offered. The entire community, both tribal and non-tribal, participates in the rituals. Cultural events, traditional dances, and a grand fair are held every evening. This festival is more than just a religious event – it's a celebration of unity, heritage, and devotion. Why is Kharchi Puja Important? Kharchi Puja holds immense importance for the people of Tripura and followers of traditional Hindu customs. As the world becomes more aware of environmental consciousness, Kharchi Puja reminds us of the sacred connection between humans and nature, especially Mother Earth. With more people sharing festive content online, this year's celebration is expected to reach a wider audience through WhatsApp messages, social media status updates, and digital greetings. Wishes and Messages for Kharchi Puja 2025 Here are some beautiful Kharchi Puja wishes and messages to share with your loved ones: May the sacred waters of Saidra wash away all your worries and purify your soul this Kharchi Puja 2025. Let the blessings of the Fourteen Gods guide your path and fill your life with joy, peace, and endless prosperity. On the auspicious occasion of Kharchi Puja, let us take a moment to thank Mother Earth for everything she gives us. May your home be blessed with harmony, love, and divine energy throughout the year. As the idols of the Fourteen Deities return to the temple after being purified in the holy river, may your life also be filled with renewed hope, strength, and spiritual clarity. Happy Kharchi Puja 2025 to you and your loved ones. Wishing you a spiritually uplifting Kharchi Puja. May this sacred festival bring healing to your heart, peace to your home, and unity to your community. Celebrate with gratitude and prayer in your heart. Let us embrace the traditions of Kharchi Puja with reverence and joy. May the divine rituals bring light to your life, remove all negativity, and bring prosperity in every aspect of your journey. Kharchi Puja reminds us of our sacred bond with Mother Earth. On this day, may your soul be touched by the pure energy of nature, and may your home overflow with blessings and peace. As the Fourteen Gods are adorned with flowers and vermillion, may your life too be decorated with happiness, good health, and abundance. Sending you my warmest wishes on Kharchi Puja 2025. On this holy day, may the energy of the Earth and the blessings of the gods bring clarity to your thoughts, strength to your actions, and love to your relationships. Wishing you a divine Kharchi Puja. Let the week-long celebrations of Kharchi Puja fill your life with colour, culture, and contentment. May every ritual performed bring you closer to inner peace and universal harmony. As the sacred rituals of Kharchi Puja purify the Earth, may your life be free from past burdens and filled with new beginnings. Wishing you and your family a blessed and joyful Kharchi Puja 2025. May the divine blessings of the Fourteen Gods bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to your home. Happy Kharchi Puja 2025! On this sacred occasion, let's pray for a clean Earth and a pure heart. Wishing you and your family a blessed Kharchi Puja! Let the spirit of Kharchi Puja purify your life just like the Saidra river cleanses the deities. Jai Maa Earth! Celebrate the beauty of our traditions with Kharchi Puja 2025. May this festival bring new beginnings! Let's join hands in prayer, music, and celebration. Wishing you love and light this Kharchi Puja! WhatsApp Status Ideas for Kharchi Puja 2025 Celebrating purity, prayer, and Mother Earth – Happy Kharchi Puja 2025! 🙏✨ The blessings of the Fourteen Gods are upon us. Let the healing begin! 🌿 #KharchiPuja2025 Holy water, pure prayers, and sacred Earth – it's Kharchi Puja time! 🙌💫 From Ama Pechi to Kharchi – honouring Mother Earth and tradition. 🌍❤️ May this Kharchi Puja cleanse our souls and unite our hearts. 💫🙏 Traditions that touch the Earth and the soul. Happy Kharchi Puja to all! 🎉🌱 Light, devotion, and divine rituals – that's the spirit of Kharchi Puja. 🌼 May the gods shower their blessings this Kharchi Puja! Let the celebrations begin. 💐✨ A week of devotion. A lifetime of blessings. #KharchiPuja #TripuraTradition 🔱 Fourteen Gods. One Earth. Infinite Blessings. Wishing peace and positivity this Kharchi Puja! 🌸🙏 🌸 Kharchi Puja vibes only! 🌼 #KharchiPuja2025 🌊 Fourteen Gods, one love – Happy Kharchi Puja! 🌿 Respect Earth. Celebrate Kharchi Puja. 🕉️ Blessings, prayers, and pure energy this Kharchi Puja! 🐐 Tradition. Culture. Devotion. #Tripura #KharchiPuja Kharchi Puja 2025 is not just a religious ritual but a powerful tribute to Mother Earth, cultural heritage, and spiritual purity. The festival connects communities, preserves age-old traditions, and inspires everyone to live in harmony with nature. Don't forget to celebrate this sacred event by sending Kharchi Puja wishes, sharing festive messages, and updating your WhatsApp status to spread positivity and joy. Tags: Kharchi Puja, Kharchi Puja 2025, Kharchi Puja date, Kharchi Puja history, Kharchi Puja meaning, Tripura festivals 2025, Hindu festivals in July 2025, Kharchi Puja rituals, Kharchi Puja celebration, Mother Earth worship, Ama Pechi, Fourteen Gods Tripura, Kharchi Puja messages, Kharchi Puja wishes, Kharchi Puja WhatsApp status (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Hindustan Times
3 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
CRPF deploys special women's team for Amarnath Yatra pilgrims on Baltal Route
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has deployed a special 'May I Help You' women personnel team to assist Amarnath Yatra pilgrims who take the Baltal route to reach the cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday. Pilgrims in a jubilant mood as they arrive at Baltal Base Camp to embark on their journey of Shri Amarnath Yatra 2025, in Ganderbal.(ANI) The paramilitary force has pooled in the highest number of troops for the annual pilgrimage that was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha from Jammu on Wednesday. Of 581 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) companies deployed for the yatra, 219 are from the CRPF, while the rest are from forces like the BSF, ITBP, CISF, and SSB. The pilgrimage to the 3,880-metre high shrine will commence on July 3 from the Kashmir valley via two tracks — the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the 14-km shorter but steeper Baltal route in the Ganderbal district. The CRPF has deployed a team of its women personnel wearing 'May I Help You' embossed orange vests along the Baltal route to help female pilgrims along the route from the base camp and the entry point at 'Domail'. These teams will be stationed at vital locations, officials said. "The force is committed to conducting a safe Amarnath Yatra for the pilgrims in coordination with all stakeholders. All our teams are tasked to render timely assistance to the pilgrims and also provide a strong security cover," CRPF deputy inspector general and joint nodal officer for the Yatra, Sudhir Kumar, said. Kumar, who supervised the yatra last year too, said all security arrangements are in place for the event, taking place against the backdrop of the April 22 gunning down of 26 men in Pahalgam in a terrorist attack. The CRPF has also deployed a team comprising 30 personnel as part of its mountain rescue teams (MRTs) along the two journey tracks. They will help in rescuing pilgrims in case of medical complications, which usually occur due to high altitude, and respond to any natural or man-made disaster, a senior officer said. The yatra will conclude on August 9. More than 3.31 lakh devotees have registered so far for this year's pilgrimage.
