The first batch of over 4,000 pilgrims for this year’s Amarnath Yatra has been flagged off from Jammu today.

Amid tight security arrangements, the Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Nirmal Singh flagged off the yatra from Bhagwati Nagar base camp this morning.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Singh said that full proof security arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of yatra.

Over 2.30 lakh pilgrims have registered for the yatra. The government has mobilised a heavy security blanket of over 35,000 to 40,000 troops including the police, the Army, the BSF and the CRPF.

Special DG CRPF S N Srivastva yesterday said that satellites and drones would monitor this year’s Yatra. The special DG was interacting with media persons in Jammu while taking stock of arrangements for the yatra.

He appealed to the people to come in large numbers and participate in annual pilgrimage without any fear.