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UP hate crime: Hindutva workers force man to kneel before calf

Barabanki: A Muslim man in Uttar Pradeshs Barabanki district was allegedly forced by self-proclaimed cow vigilantes to kneel before a calf as an act of religious devotion, after they accused him of making hateful comments against the animal. According to a video posted by Sanatan Gauraksha Dal on Saturday, July 4, a Muslim man had Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 4 Jul 2026 7:22 pm

Samajwadi Party MLA Hakim Bind, 4 others booked in Uttar Pradesh after 2 brothers die within 22 days

Prayagraj police have registered a case against SP MLA Hakim Lal Bind and four others following the mysterious deaths of two brothers within 22 days in Banpurwa village. Both brothers were found hanging, with the younger discovered on June 11 and the elder on July 3. The complaint alleges threats and orchestrated murder, with further action pending post-mortem reports and evidence.

The Economic Times 4 Jul 2026 4:24 pm

Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh Introduces 17 New-Age Academic Programs in Emerging Domains to Nurture a Futuristic Workforce

Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh Introduces 17 New-Age Academic Programs in Emerging Domains to Nurture a Futuristic Workforce

The Hindu 4 Jul 2026 3:30 pm

UP ATS arrests wanted accused in fake Indian currency smuggling case

Uttar Pradesh ATS apprehended a man with a 25,000 bounty, allegedly a key player in a cross-border fake currency network. Operating from Bangladesh via West Bengal, the syndicate supplied counterfeit notes to various Indian states. This arrest follows the earlier capture of two associates in Varanasi, who revealed the supply chain. Investigators are now working to dismantle the entire operation and identify more syndicate members.

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 3:08 pm

'Lotus will bloom again in UP': Nitin Nabin on assembly polls after arriving for 2-day visit

BJP National President Nitin Nabin expressed strong confidence in the party's victory in the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls, citing the 'double engine government's' transformation of the state. He noted the immense enthusiasm of party workers during his two-day visit to Lucknow, which included extensive meetings with senior leaders and a grand roadshow. Discussions are set to focus on poll strategies and strengthening the party's organizational structure.

The Economic Times 4 Jul 2026 3:03 pm

Agra: Wife kills husband, buries body under bathroom tiles, held

Agra: Uttar Pradesh police on Friday, July 3, arrested a 40-year-old woman for the murder of her husband after an investigation led to his body being found buried under the bathroom tiles in their house in Agra. Ruby Sharma acted like her husband, Surendra Sharma, 44, had gone missing and even filed a missing persons Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 4 Jul 2026 2:13 pm

BJP President Nitin Naveen Visits Lucknow for Organizational Tour

Lucknow, July 4: Nitin Naveen, the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has arrived in Lucknow for a two-day organizational tour. This visit is considered his first trip to Uttar Pradesh since taking office and is deemed crucial for the partys organizational efforts. The capital city has been lavishly decorated in anticipation of ... Read more BJP President Nitin Naveen Visits Lucknow for Organizational Tour

Udaipur Kiran 4 Jul 2026 11:59 am

Yogi Adityanath inaugurates new campus of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Uttar Pradesh Academy of Administration and Management

State-of-the-art campus spread across 22 acres, built at a cost of over Rs 464 crore, to become Indias leading School of Public Leadership

The Hindu 4 Jul 2026 11:47 am

Who is Kapil Dinkar? The UP cop who turned up in uniform on India's Got Latent, and walked away with 1 lakh prize

A Uttar Pradesh Police constable, Kapil Dinkar, surprised everyone on India's Got Talent Season 2 by appearing in uniform and with his weapon. Initially mistaken for a rule-breaker, Dinkar revealed he's an on-duty cop who moonlights as a singer, songwriter, and author. He captivated the judges with his original composition, winning the 1 lakh prize and proving his multifaceted talent.

The Economic Times 4 Jul 2026 11:28 am

3 injured as accidental PAC carbine firing triggers panic at UP's Kashi Vishwanath Dham

Panic erupted at Kashi Vishwanath Dham's Nanu Feria Gate checkpoint Saturday morning after a PAC carbine accidentally discharged. Two bullets hit the road, injuring three florists with concrete splinters. The injured received prompt medical attention and were discharged. Police quickly restored order in the crowded pilgrim area. This incident echoes a similar accidental firing in March 2025.

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 9:27 am

Hoax bomb threat to ISRO HQ in Bengaluru traced to UP man

Bengaluru: The Bengaluru City Police have traced the sender of a hoax bomb threat email sent to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in the city and identified the accused in Uttar Pradeshs Ghaziabad, police officials said. The Police said the individual was found to be mentally ill, and further investigation is underway. According Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 4 Jul 2026 8:50 am

Ram Temple donation theft: Police track SUV used to ferry stolen cash; accused may have concealed more cash, gold and silver, say cops

Ayodhya police are intensifying their probe into alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement, tracing an SUV linked to accused Avinash Shukla used for transporting misappropriated cash. Investigators are examining the vehicle's records and questioning Shukla, a former donation counting employee. Authorities believe more cash and valuables may be hidden, with the SUV's digital evidence crucial for tracing the stolen funds and identifying other accomplices.

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 7:59 am

Historic leap by UP under CM Yogis leadership in PM Surya Ghar Yojana

Uttar Pradesh has created a new history in the residential rooftop solar sector in Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In June 2026, the state secured the top position in the country by installing 71,888 residential rooftop solar plants. This is not only Uttar Pradeshs best-ever monthly performance, but also a new national record for the highest number of residential rooftop solar installations carried out by any state in a single month. So far, Uttar Pradesh has received 10,89,716 applications, and the installation of 6,36,745 residential rooftop solar plants has been completed. For several consecutive months, Uttar Pradesh has been recording the highest monthly installations in the country and has emerged as the fastest-growing state in Indias residential rooftop solar sector. Considering the current trends, it is estimated that by the end of July 2026, Uttar Pradesh may surpass Maharashtra in the total number of residential rooftop solar installations and become the countrys second-largest residential rooftop solar state. The states next target is to surpass Gujarat and become Indias number one state in terms of total residential rooftop solar installations. Uttar Pradeshs achievements in the residential rooftop solar sector have also been unprecedented. More than 2,148 MW of capacity has been installed in the state so far, and subsidies exceeding 5,500 crore have been transferred directly to consumers. More than 7,000 companies and vendors are working in this sector, and over 80,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities have been created. Residential rooftop solar systems in the state are generating approximately 96 lakh units of free electricity per day, with an estimated value of more than Rs 6 crore per day. In addition, this sector is generating a daily business turnover of more than 40 crore, while saving more than 9,000 acres of land, which is a significant achievement compared to large-scale land-based power projects. This success of Uttar Pradesh is the result of the collective efforts of aware consumers, solar vendors, UPNEDA, banking institutions, DISCOMs, and all stakeholders. The states rapid progress in the residential rooftop solar sector is not only promoting clean energy and energy self-reliance but is also making Uttar Pradesh the new leader of Indias residential rooftop solar revolution. After becoming the countrys number one state in monthly installations, Uttar Pradesh is now aiming to become Indias number one state in terms of total residential rooftop solar installations as well.

Greater Kashmir 4 Jul 2026 6:43 am

Pilgrims begin Yatra along traditional Pahalgam route

Anantnag, Jul 3:Chanting Bum Bum Bhole amid a light drizzle, the first batches of pilgrims on Friday began the annual Amarnath Yatra through the traditional Pahalgam route, setting out on the 48-km trek to the 3,880-metre-high Himalayan cave shrine under tight security. Hundreds of pilgrims, including women, elderly devotees and sadhus, left the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam early in the morning for Chandanwari, the first halt on the route located about 17 km away. Wrapped in raincoats and woollens, the devotees continued their journey despite intermittent rain. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amod Ashok Nagpure and other officials flagged off the first batches from the base camp. The cave shrine houses the naturally formed ice- stalagmite, revered by Hindu devotees as a symbol of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims reach the shrine either through the traditional 48-km Pahalgam route or the shorter 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. While many pilgrims chose to undertake the trek on foot, others hired horses or palanquins to navigate the steep mountain track. Mahesh Solanki, 43, a first-time pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh, said he was impressed with the arrangements at the base camp. I feel blessed to be here. Our stay at the base camp was comfortable and the facilities are excellent. I had always wanted to undertake this pilgrimage, he said. Amit Jaiswal, 45, from Madhya Pradesh, said he had been visiting the shrine for the past three years. Every year I return with greater devotion. The excitement is unmatched. I can't wait to have darshan of Baba Barfani, he said. Reena, 45, from Delhi, who is travelling with her family, said she had long dreamt of visiting the cave-shrine. We are determined to reach the holy cave this time. It is a dream come true for every believer, she said. Mahesh, 40, from Maharashtra, said he would pray for peace and harmony during the pilgrimage. The atmosphere here is divine. Everyone should undertake this journey at least once in their lifetime, he said. Kashi Sumair, a sadhu from Varanasi, said the pilgrimage held deep spiritual significance. Our association with Kashmir goes back to the times of Kashyapa and Adi Shankaracharya. This pilgrimage is sacred for devotees, he said. The first batch of 4,822 pilgrims had left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu on Thursday after being flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Officials said 2,510 pilgrims travelling in 112 vehicles proceeded to the Nunwan base camp for the Pahalgam route, while 2,312 pilgrims in 147 vehicles headed to the Baltal base camp in Ganderbal district. The 57-day pilgrimage will conclude on August 28. Thousands of devotees are expected to visit the shrine during the annual yatra. Authorities have deployed thousands of personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Army and other security agencies along the twin routes. Multi-layer security arrangements, aerial surveillance and electronic monitoring have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

Greater Kashmir 4 Jul 2026 5:53 am

KGMU study flags serious health risks from e-waste

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:46 am

Man beaten to death in revenge attack; 8 booked

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:44 am

Monsoon turns weak after arrival

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:41 am

Gonda murder accused injured in encounter, held

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:40 am

Yogi visits ailing seer Mahant Nritya Gopal Das

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:36 am

Lucknow mini-Jamtara had links with US gang: Police

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:22 am

LDA lodges FIR against pvt firm over forged NOC

The Times of India 4 Jul 2026 1:22 am

BJP Chief Nitin Nabin on 2-day visit to UP from July 4

BJP National President Nitin Nabin is set to visit Uttar Pradesh for a two-day organizational tour starting Saturday. This marks his first trip since the state unit announced its new office-bearers. Nabin will engage in crucial meetings with senior party leaders, including UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Deputy CMs, as well as MLAs, MLCs, and MPs, to strategize for the upcoming assembly polls.

The Economic Times 3 Jul 2026 11:54 pm

Amrit Sarovars to nurture Banarasi Langda heritage

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:17 pm

Soon, you can fly from Varanasi Cantt to KVT for just 50

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:17 pm

165 cr in loans disbursed to over 3k Varanasi youths

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:16 pm

Four arrested within 24 hours of youths murder

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:16 pm

Online refresher course on Education begins at BHU

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:16 pm

BHU establishes cell for corporate collaboration

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:11 pm

UPPCL limits smart meter refunds to 93,138 consumers despite overcharging claims

In a surprising move, Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited has agreed to refund excess smart meter charges to around 93,000 consumers, diverging from their own findings that indicate nearly six lakh customers were overcharged. This decision follows an instruction from the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission. To date, Rs 33.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 10:26 pm

UP Power Corporation Limited hikes sanctioned load of 46.79 lakh consumers without notice

Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. has automatically increased the electricity load for nearly 47 lakh consumers without prior notice, raising concerns about regulatory compliance. This move, coinciding with a new tariff order, aims to align sanctioned loads with actual usage and is projected to significantly boost UPPCL's fixed charge revenue. Consumer groups question the infrastructure's readiness to handle the increased demand.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 6:22 pm

Massive fire at Lucknow restaurant, employees feared trapped; rescue op launched

A significant fire engulfed Vijay Paradise restaurant in Lucknow's Khurram Nagar on Friday afternoon, sparking a massive rescue operation. Concerns are high for employees believed to be trapped inside. This incident follows a string of recent fires in the city, including a tragic blaze last week that claimed multiple lives and injured others. Emergency services are working diligently to manage the current situation.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 5:01 pm

UP defence corridor develops specialised manufacturing hubs across five cities

Uttar Pradesh is establishing five specialized manufacturing hubs across the state to bolster its defence industrial corridor. Each city, including Kanpur for small arms and Lucknow for missiles, will focus on distinct defence segments. This strategic development aims to create a comprehensive manufacturing network, fostering component production, testing, and final integration. The corridor's success hinges on timely operationalization of investments and robust private sector involvement.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 4:30 pm

Project Praveen: Yogi government pushes skill training for Class 912 students in government schools in UP

Uttar Pradesh's Project Praveen is revolutionizing school education by integrating vocational training for students in Classes IX-XII. This initiative, implemented by UPSDM, equips over 61,000 students with market-ready skills through hands-on courses, preparing them for jobs and entrepreneurship. With a focus on high-demand sectors and government certification, the project aims to build a skilled workforce and foster an 'Atmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh'.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 3:20 pm

Ram temple donation case: SIT orders 5-year re-audit of trust accounts

A re-audit of the Ram temple trust's accounts for the past five years is underway following preliminary findings of large-scale irregularities in donation handling. The Special Investigation Team is scrutinizing construction expenses and donated gold and silver. Key accused Avinash Shukla, involved in donation counting, has been taken into custody. Several individuals associated with the temple's finances have been questioned, with two trustees reportedly offering resignations.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 3:15 pm

UP govt accelerates PM Jan Vikas Karyakram rollout: Rs 364 crore for local schools, hospitals and training centers

Closing the gap, one district at a Time

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 3:09 pm

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra not answerable to govt: Ministry of Home Affairs

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust operates autonomously, with no accountability to the Centre or Uttar Pradesh government, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. This independent status was confirmed by the CIC, ruling the trust outside the RTI Act's purview. Ahead of a crucial July 6 meeting, the trust's governance and the future of key officials amid a donation controversy are under scrutiny.

The Economic Times 3 Jul 2026 2:25 pm

Tata Motors partners with Welspun Renewable Energy to develop 86 MW wind-solar hybrid project

Tata Motors has joined forces with Welspun Renewable Energy to develop an 86 MW wind-solar hybrid project. This initiative will power four of Tata Motors' manufacturing plants in Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka with clean electricity. The project aims to generate 200 million units of green power annually, significantly reducing carbon emissions and supporting the company's sustainability goals.

The Economic Times 3 Jul 2026 1:42 pm

When did we start treating safety as optional?

A tragic fire in Lucknow, claiming 15 young lives, exposes a disturbing trend: safety is often an afterthought in our pursuit of better education and careers. We prioritize amenities over essential fire clearances and emergency exits, treating disasters as distant events. This oversight, fueled by a flawed definition of 'good infrastructure,' demands a shift in our behavior.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:39 pm

Teen dies after falling from first floor while feeding monkeys

A tragic accident in Mathura's Vrindavan has claimed the life of a 14-year-old girl. While feeding monkeys from the first floor of her home, the teenager reportedly lost her balance and fell, sustaining critical injuries. She was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to her wounds during treatment. Her parents were away at work when the incident occurred.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:34 pm

Uttar Pradesh Emerges Top Performer in India's 100-Day TB-Free Campaign, Detects 1.85 Lakh TB Cases

Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the best-performing state in the 100-day TB-Free India Campaign, screening over 3.1 million people and identifying nearly 1.85 lakh new TB patients through advanced diagnostics.

Web Dunia 3 Jul 2026 1:16 pm

U.P. pushes policy reforms, cluster-based development approach to transform the poultry ecosystem

The poultry sector in Uttar Pradesh has witnessed significant growth over the last decade, resulting in a substantial improvement in egg availability for consumers

The Hindu 3 Jul 2026 11:40 am

Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft: First photo shows accused inside temple counting room

A photograph has emerged showing two accused in the Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case inside the temple's counting room. Investigators have recovered significant cash amounts from multiple individuals. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is continuing its probe with an extended deadline. The controversy began after allegations of misappropriated donations, leading to an FIR and subsequent arrests. Trust officials have resigned taking moral responsibility.

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 11:40 am

Temple Theft: SIT Reaches Ayodhya, Gets 15-Day Extension for Probe

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday intensified its probe in the Ram Mandir alleged donation embezzlement case and is currently questioning accused Avinash Shukla at the Special Operations Group (SOG) office in Ayodhya

Deccan Chronicle 3 Jul 2026 11:36 am

Indian expat injured in Saudi projectile incident returns home

Riyadh: A 27-year-old Indian expat worker from Uttar Pradesh has returned home after recovering from serious injuries sustained when a military projectile fell on a residential compound in Saudi Arabias Al-Kharj, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh announced on Friday, July 3. Mohammad Azam, a resident of Jafraabad village in Moradabad district, was injured in the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 3 Jul 2026 11:25 am

UP TET Exam Day Two Under Tight Security

Prayagraj, July 3: The Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UP TET) is being conducted from July 2 to 4 across 60 districts in the state. Candidates are appearing for the exam in two shifts each day. To prevent paper leaks, stringent security measures have been implemented. On the second day, candidates are taking the exam ... Read more UP TET Exam Day Two Under Tight Security

Udaipur Kiran 3 Jul 2026 9:59 am

Never knew Kashmir was so beautiful: First-time Yatris

Praise Valleys hospitality, beauty, spirit of brotherhood Srinagar, Jul 02: Yatri Niwas Pantha Chowk in Srinagar came alive with chants of Bam Bam Bhole, prayers and emotional scenes on Thursday as hundreds of first-time Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims arrived in the Valley, many of them overwhelmed by Kashmirs breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality. From elderly devotees to youngsters, the atmosphere at the Yatri Niwas reflected a unique blend of spirituality, excitement and relief as pilgrims prepared to proceed towards the holy cave shrine through the Baltal and Pahalgam routes. For many first-time yatris, the journeyturned intofar more than a religious pilgrimage. Alongside faith and devotion, pilgrims said they were deeply touched by the kindness, compassion and brotherhood shown by the people of Kashmir. We never knew Kashmir was so beautiful and peaceful, said Meena Sharma, a pilgrim from Delhi, while admiring the mist-covered mountains surrounding the city. We had heard many things before coming here, but after arriving, all our fears disappeared. The people here welcomed us warmly and guided us at every step. We are taking back beautiful memories from Kashmir. The arrival of pilgrims filled the Yatri Niwas with energy and devotion as volunteers, officials and security personnel assisted devotees with directions, registration and accommodation. Pushpa Devi, a first-time yatri from Madhya Pradesh, said the Valleys natural beauty and hospitality made the spiritual journey even more memorable. The mountains, cool breeze and peaceful atmosphere make this place feel heavenly, she said. But what touched us most was the behaviour of the people. Shopkeepers, volunteers and even strangers were helping pilgrims selflessly. We feel respected and cared for here. Several women pilgrims said they felt safe and comfortable during their stay in Kashmir and appreciated the support extended by locals and security personnel. As women travellers, safety is always a concern during long journeys, but here we felt completely comfortable, said Rekha Joshi, who arrived with a group from Gujarat. Locals offered us water, directions and help whenever needed. The police and volunteers are guiding everyone patiently. Another woman pilgrim from Maharashtra said the atmosphere in Kashmir had changed her perception of the Valley. We used to see Kashmir only in photographs and on television, but seeing it in person is a completely different feeling, she said. The greenery, rivers and mountains are mesmerising, and the warmth of people makes the experience even more special. Elderly yatris, too, shared emotional accounts of the assistance they received from residents and volunteers. At this age, travelling and climbing are not easy, said 70-year-old Om Prakash from Haryana. But young boys here helped elderly pilgrims with luggage and guided us patiently. Their humanity and respect touched my heart. Another elderly pilgrim from Rajasthan, Shanti Lal Sharma, said his perception of Kashmir had changed completely after visiting the Valley. We came here with devotion for Baba Amarnath, but we are also taking back love and affection from Kashmir, he said. People here welcomed us like family members. This journey will remain in our hearts forever. Pilgrims also praised the administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security agencies for maintaining smooth arrangements and ensuring a secure atmosphere. The arrangements are excellent, said Rajesh Tiwari from Uttar Pradesh. From Jammu to Srinagar, everything has been systematic. Security personnel are present everywhere and are helping devotees with patience and humility. However, many pilgrims urged authorities to simplify the registration process and increase the number of registration counters, particularly for senior citizens and first-time visitors unfamiliar with procedures. Registration should be easier and quicker, said a group of pilgrims from Punjab. Long queues become exhausting, especially for elderly people and women travelling with families. More counters and help desks would make the experience smoother. Some yatris also demanded separate assistance facilities for women and elderly devotees at registration and transit points. Despite minor inconveniences, pilgrims said the warmth of Kashmirs people and the spiritual atmosphere overshadowed every hardship. For us, this is no longer just a pilgrimage, said one elderly devotee while preparing for the onward journey. It has become a lesson in humanity, brotherhood and peace. The majority of the pilgrims urged the LG Manoj Sinha-led administration to set up additional registration counters so that every pilgrim can undertake a hassle-free journey. There should be more counters for registration, andcompletion offormalities should be donein a very speedy manner.After performing darshan at the holy cave shrine, we would like to visit tourist places and take a shikara ride in Dal Lake as well, a group of enthusiastic pilgrims said.

RisingKashmir 3 Jul 2026 2:18 am

Amarnath Yatris receive grand welcome in Kashmir

First batch of 4,822 pilgrims greeted with garlands, sweets Devotees praise LG admin, police, locals for seamless arrangements Srinagar, Jul 02: Amid tight security arrangements, spiritual fervour and scenes of warmth and celebration, the 57-day annual Shri Amarnath Yatra formally commenced on Thursday with the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims in Kashmir, where devotees were accorded a grand welcome by civil administration, police officers, political representatives and locals. The first batch of 4,822 yatris was flagged off from Jammu by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in the early hours before proceedingtowardsthe holy cave shrine through the twin routes of Baltal in Ganderbal district and Chandanwari-Pahalgam in south Kashmirs Anantnag district. As the convoy reached Srinagars Yatri Niwas Pantha Chowk, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo and Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar Dr G V Sundeep Chakravorty welcomed the pilgrims with flower garlands and distributed sweets among them. The atmosphere reverberated with chants of Har Har Mahadev and Bam Bam Bhole as pilgrims stepped into the Valley with visible excitement and devotion. In south Kashmirs Anantnag district, National Conference MLA Altaf Kaloo and SSP Anantnag Amod Nagpure also received the yatris warmly, garlanding devotees and interacting with them as they proceededtowardsthe Pahalgam route.The pilgrims were received warmly at both base campsBaltal in Ganderbal district and Chandwari at Pahalgam, where officials from the administration, police and locals presented bouquets to them and also distributed sweets among the pilgrimsas a mark of Kashmirs age-old hospitality and communal harmony traditions. The beginning of the annual pilgrimage transformed parts of Kashmir into a scene of celebration and spirituality, with officials, volunteers and residents extending greetings and assistance to the devotees. Many pilgrims, especially first-time visitors, said the hospitality and arrangementshadexceeded their expectations. We had heard so much about Kashmir and the Amarnath Yatra, but the welcome we received here touched our hearts, said Neha Sharma, a pilgrim from Delhi travelling with her family.Theadministration has made excellent arrangements, and local people are treating us with kindness and respect. An elderly pilgrim from Gujarat, Mahesh Patel, said the arrangements from Jammu to Srinagar were smooth and highly organised. At this age, travelling long distances is difficult, but everything has been properly managed. Security forces are present everywhere, and medical teams are also available. We feel safe and comfortable, he said. Women pilgrims also praised the support extended by police personnel and volunteers.As women travellers, safety and facilities are our biggest concerns during such journeys, said Rekha Joshi from Maharashtra. But here, the police and officials are constantly guiding and helping us. Even the residents welcomed us warmly. It feels spiritually uplifting. Several yatris appreciated the efforts of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the administration for ensuringthesmooth conduct of the pilgrimage. The LG administration deserves appreciation for making such elaborate arrangements for lakhs of pilgrims, said Ramesh Kumar from Uttar Pradesh. Accommodation, transport, sanitation and security arrangements are all up to the mark. Pilgrims particularly lauded the role of Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF and other security agencies for maintaining a strong yet pilgrim-friendly atmosphere. The police personnel are not just providing security, they are also helping elderly pilgrims with directions, luggage and medical assistance, said a devotee from Rajasthan. Their behaviour has been very humble and cooperative. Another yatri from Punjab said the spiritual atmosphere in Kashmir made the journey even more memorable. The mountains, fresh air and devotion all around create a divine feeling. The warmth shown by Kashmiris has removed all fear and hesitation from our minds, he said. Officials said elaborate multi-layer security arrangements have been put in place for the 57-day pilgrimage, including surveillance, area domination, checkpoints, disaster response teams, medical camps and traffic management alongbothBaltal and Pahalgam routes. The annual Shri Amarnath Yatra, one of the countrys most significant Hindu pilgrimages, attracts lakhs of devotees every year who undertake the arduous journey to pay obeisance at the holy cave shrine housing the naturally formed ice Shivlingam. As the first batch of pilgrims moved towards Baltal and Pahalgam amid chants and prayers, the beginning of the yatra once again reflected Kashmirs enduring tradition of hospitality, communal harmony and spiritual coexistence.

RisingKashmir 3 Jul 2026 2:17 am

LU health card for students well-being

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:26 am

Amid tight security, city logs over 71% attendance in UPTET 2026 day 1

UDATED STORY at 7.27 pm

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:25 am

Bizman dies after jumping from 9th floor

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:24 am

Faulty infra, poor AC upkeep behind fires

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:23 am

Booth-first strategy to drive UP Cong plan for 2027 polls

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:17 am

Why Nov, hold UP polls in Sept itself: Akhilesh

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:15 am

Monsoon covers entire UP, more showers likely

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:15 am

Cops bust fake US call centre, arrest 119

650 words

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:14 am

UP sets July 10 deadline for tourism project tenders

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:06 am

Admin takes stock of prep for kanwar yatra in Kashi

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 1:00 am

DDUGU ties up with Malaysian college for dual MBA programme

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

Cops bus major fake permit racket

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

Ghazipur Police Arrest Rewarded Criminal

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

BHU inks MoUs with 18 pvt hospitals of Varanasi

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

4 held for duping Sonbhadra cops of Rs 25 lakh

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

IIT-BHU collabs with pvt firm to launch UG Research Avenue

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:29 am

South Korean company MD visits BLW

The Times of India 3 Jul 2026 12:27 am

LDA nod to affordable housing plan in Anant Nagar

The Times of India 2 Jul 2026 10:57 pm

Yogi Government Accused of Shielding Big Names in Ram Temple Donation Theft: Ravidas Mehrotra

Lucknow, July 2: Samajwadi Party MLA Ravidas Mehrotra has launched a sharp attack on both the central and Uttar Pradesh governments regarding the Ram Temple donation scandal, protests by the Ayodhya Bar Association, the ongoing SIT investigation, and the nationwide implementation of the VB-G Ram-G scheme. He alleged that efforts are being made to protect ... Read more Yogi Government Accused of Shielding Big Names in Ram Temple Donation Theft: Ravidas Mehrotra

Morningstar 2 Jul 2026 10:51 pm