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News18
5 hours ago
- News18
Drones, Bomb Squads, CRPF Cover: Multi-Layer Security Across J-K For Upcoming Amarnath Yatra
Last Updated: This year's Yatra has been trimmed to 38 days, a strategic move to lessen threat exposure while retaining the pilgrimage's essence. Amarnath Yatra 2025: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has geared up to as the annual pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Amarnath is set to begin on July 3. The security agencies including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and other agencies have launched full-scale surveillance and verification operations in a bid to thwart any potential threats along the pathway. Security arrangements have been devised with precision, marshalling significant resources and strategies to counter any menace effectively. The offline registrations began on Monday for devotees who have not yet registered for the Yatra through online mode. A large number of devotees were seen at the centres set up by the administration. The first batch of pilgrims will be flagged off from the Jammu base camp on July 2, while the yatra will commence officially the next day via the Baltal and Pahalgam routes. Devotees Undeterred By Terror Threats Despite recent security threats, the spirit of the devotees remains undiminished. 'The people are enthusiastic this time. There is no fear (due to the Pahalgam attack). Arrangements are good. The administration is with us," a devotee who came to the centre for registration told news agency ANI. Multi-Layer Security The authorities have designed an elaborate security framework involving CRPF, J&K Police, and the Indian Army. A total of 581 companies from various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) alongside personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police have been deployed for the Amarnath Yatra 2025. Jammu Police has also set up several checkpoints across the city in coordination with paramilitary forces as part of daily anti-sabotage inspections. These will remain active 24×7 along highways, city outskirts, and near the base camp. Advanced tools like Facial Recognition Systems (FRS) are also being deployed at crowded areas. Police are also conducting random checks at hotels, guesthouses, and lodgment centres, targeting suspicious movement. For the first time, jammers would be installed to protect the convoys from potential threats. Satellite phones will be provided to security personnel. Pilgrims and pony riders will be monitored using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). Dedicated PCR vans from the police and CRPF will accompany the yatra. The CRPF has also rolled out a robust multi-layered security plan along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims. Jammu-Srinagar Highway is one of the vital routes for thousands of pilgrims. The CRPF has intensified surveillance, deployed K-9 (dog) squads alongside its personnel along the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a key route used by thousands of pilgrims, and strengthened highway patrols, with a special focus on sensitive stretches, such as the Udhampur sector. SSP Jammu Joginder Singh, along with senior officers and SPG, reviewed the Nagrota–Saloora stretch on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. Officers were briefed on SOPs and alerted to risks, especially in ongoing construction zones. In addition to these measures, a comprehensive deployment will include Road Opening Parties (ROPs) to secure and clear the routes, Quick Action Teams (QATs) for immediate response to threats, Bomb Disposal Squads (BDS) will detect and neutralise explosives, and K9 units (specially trained sniffer dogs) and drones will be used for aerial surveillance. Security Forces Conduct Mock Drill Security forces and the civil administration conducted intensive inspections and trial runs ahead of the pilgrimage. At Yatri Niwas, Jammu's base camp, buses were dispatched under full security cover to test logistics and response systems. In a preemptive effort to ensure safety during the upcoming Amarnath Yatra 2025, a joint mock landslide drill was conducted by the Indian Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the JKSDRF (Jammu and Kashmir State Disaster Response Force) at Samroli, Toldi Nallah, on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on Sunday. The exercise aimed to assess emergency preparedness in case of landslides or natural disasters during the pilgrimage. Jammu Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar Vaishya said the entire dry run process was being monitored closely. 'The Divisional Commissioner, IG, and all senior officers are monitoring the entire dry run process of the drill. At the same time, all preparations have been completed here. Tokens will be distributed at Saraswati Dham. We urge the people to come in large numbers. We will provide them with all the necessary things, and no one will face any issues. We have full preparations for everything," he said while addressing reporters. The simulation involved rescuing stranded vehicles and providing immediate aid to injured pilgrims, with security and disaster response teams efficiently coordinating evacuation and medical assistance. Amarnath Yatra 2025 This year's Yatra has been trimmed to 38 days, a strategic move to lessen threat exposure while retaining the pilgrimage's essence. The Amarnath Yatra is an annual Hindu pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath Cave Shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at an altitude of about 3,888 meters in the hills of Jammu and Kashmir. The cave houses a naturally formed ice Shivling, believed to represent Lord Shiva, and draws lakhs of devotees every year. The Yatra is typically held during the Shravan month (July to August) as per the Hindu calendar, under the supervision of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) and with coordinated support from security and civil administration. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Amarnath jammu and kashmir Location : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India First Published: June 30, 2025, 12:39 IST News india Drones, Bomb Squads, CRPF Cover: Multi-Layer Security Across J-K For Upcoming Amarnath Yatra
GMA Network
23-06-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
Pilot test of unified PWD ID system begins July in 35 areas
The pilot testing of the unified persons with disabilities (PWD) ID system will be conducted in 35 areas starting this July, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) said Monday. 'Magsisimula po tayo ngayong third quarter or July (we will start this third quarter or July),' NCDA executive director Glenda Relova told PTV's Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon. Among the areas included for the pilot testing are Maguindanao Del Norte; Dagupan, San Carlos, Urdaneta, and Alaminos, Pangasinan; Solano, Nueva Vizcaya; San Rafael, San Jose del Monte, Obando, and Meycauayan, Bulacan; San Mateo, Teresa, and Antipolo, Rizal; Santa Rosa and Pila, Laguna; Carmona, Cavite; Muntinlupa City; Pasay City; Daet, Camarines Norte; Kalibo, Aklan; Candijay, Bohol; Malaybalay, Bukidnon; and Koronadal and Surallah, South Cotabato. Relova said registration for the unified PWD ID system will be done digitally. PWDs may either download the system on their mobile phones or computers or ask for assistance from their respective Persons with Disability Affairs Office. NCDA is an attached agency of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The unified PWD ID system is DSWD's move to address the proliferation of fake PWD IDs. Last December, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the government lost around P88.2 billion worth of taxes in 2023 because of fake PWD IDs. The new PWD IDs will have security features such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and it can link establishments to a webpage portal where they can verify the legitimacy of the user. There will also be a standard look to the unified PWD ID moving forward. Under Republic Act 10754, PWDs are entitled to a grant of a 20% discount and VAT exemption on the purchase of certain goods and services from all establishments for their exclusive use, enjoyment, or availment. —RF, GMA Integrated News
NDTV
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
FASTag Annual Pass Scheme: From Activation To Validity, All You Need To Know
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday introduced a FASTag-based annual pass, which is going to benefit the users. The minister said that the "transformative" step by the government will enable people to travel on a very large scale without any fuss. What is FASTag? It is a device that employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for making cashless toll payments. The device is pasted on the windscreen of the vehicle and helps the users to directly make payments from the account which is linked to the FASTag. With the help of FASTag, commuters can save fuel and time as they don't have to stop at the toll plaza. FASTag Annual Pass Scheme What is the validity, and who can apply for it? The FASTag-based annual pass will be issued from August 15 at a price of Rs3,000. It will be valid for a year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips, whichever comes first. The pass is valid only at National Highway and Expressway fee plazas. The process remains standard on toll plazas under state highways or local authorities, with the application of regular toll rates. The pass will be available for non-commercial private vehicles only, such as cars, jeeps, and vans. How to activate the FASTag-based annual pass? The pass will be activated on the exiting FASTags. There's no need to buy a new one. Mr Gadkari revealed that a dedicated link for activation and renewal will soon be made available on the Rajmarg Yatra App as well as on the official websites of NHAI and MoRTH. How will it benefit the users? The regular users could save up to Rs7,000 annually, according to the ministry, as the average toll cost drops from Rs50 to Rs15 per trip. The minister said that this policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60 km range and simplifies toll payments through a single, affordable transaction. "By reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimising disputes at toll plazas, the Annual Pass aims to deliver a faster and smoother travel experience for millions of private vehicle owners," he added.
NDTV
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
FASTag Annual Pass: Price, Start Date, Benefits And How To Apply Online
New Delhi: The Centre is introducing a FASTag-based annual pass priced at Rs 3,000 for non-commercial private vehicles. Under the new policy, private vehicle owners can make 200 trips across national highways in a year for a one-time charge. The pass will be valid either for one year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips, whichever comes first. "The annual pass will enable seamless and cost-effective travel across National Highways throughout the country," Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said. What Is FASTag? FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India, operated by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll charges from a linked bank account or wallet. How Does FASTag Work? The FASTag is a small sticker affixed to the front windshield of a vehicle. When the vehicle approaches a toll plaza, sensors scan the tag and automatically deduct the applicable toll fee from the user's account. A confirmation SMS is also sent to the registered mobile number after every transaction. When Will The FASTag Annual Pass Be Issued? The new FASTag annual pass will be available starting August 15. Mr Gadkari said, "This policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60 km range and simplifies toll payments through a single, affordable transaction." He added that the initiative would help in "reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimising disputes at toll plazas." Where To Apply For The FASTag Annual Pass The government is making it simple to apply through digital platforms. A dedicated activation and renewal link will soon be available on: The Rajmarg Yatra App. The official website of NHAI. The website of MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways). How To Apply For The FASTag Annual Pass Visit one of those platforms when the feature is active. Log in using your registered FASTag credentials. Enter your vehicle registration details and mobile number. Pay Rs 3,000 via UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking. After payment, your FASTag will be auto-linked to the Annual Pass. Once activated, within about 24 hours, you will have a full-year or 200-trip validity. In the past, the government proposed a lifetime FASTag plan at Rs 30,000 for 15 years. That plan has since been shelved. There was also talk of a distance-based toll model, where users would pay a flat Rs 50 per 100 km, but no official word has been given on that model yet.
Indian Express
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Indian Express
Nitin Gadkari announces FASTag annual pass at Rs 3,000 for ‘hassle-free highway travel'
Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari Wednesday announced a FASTag-based annual pass priced at Rs 3,000 for 'hassle-free-highway travel'. He said the new system, exclusively for non-commercial private vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans, will address the 'long-standing concerns' regarding toll plazas. Gadkari said the FASTag-based passes will be effective from August 15 and valid for one year or 200 trips, whichever comes earlier. 'In a transformative step towards hassle-free highway travel, we are introducing a FASTag-based Annual Pass priced at Rs. 3,000, effective from 15th August 2025. Valid for one year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips—whichever comes first—this pass is designed exclusively for non-commercial private vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans,' said Gadkari in a post on X. Passing through one Toll Plaza will be counted as one Trip. He further said that the annual pass will enable 'seamless and cost-effective travel' across national highways throughout the country. A dedicated link for activation and renewal will soon be made available on the Rajmarg Yatra App as well as on the official websites of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), said Gadkari. Important Announcement 📢 🔹In a transformative step towards hassle-free highway travel, we are introducing a FASTag-based Annual Pass priced at ₹3,000, effective from 15th August 2025. Valid for one year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips—whichever comes… — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) June 18, 2025 'This policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60 km range and simplifies toll payments through a single, affordable transaction. By reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimizing disputes at toll plazas, the Annual Pass aims to deliver a faster and smoother travel experience for millions of private vehicle owners,' said Gadkari. FASTag is an electronic toll collection system managed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). FASTag sticker is usually pasted on the windscreen of a car. It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to communicate with scanners installed at toll plazas. Once the car crosses a toll plaza, the requisite toll amount is automatically deducted from a bank account or a prepaid wallet linked to the FASTag. Dheeraj Mishra is a Principal correspondent with The Indian Express, Business Bureau. He covers India's two key ministries- Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. He frequently uses the Right to Information (RTI) Act for his stories, which have resulted in many impactful reports. ... Read More
