Unity in Diversity: PM Modi’s 5-Point Pledge for Amarnath Devotees
Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra to uphold cleanliness, safety and environmental responsibility, while also supporting local livelihoods in Jammu and Kashmir, describing the annual pilgrimage as a powerful symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and national unity.
In a special message distributed among pilgrims at the Nunwan and Baltal base camps by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, PM Modi said the pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine is “a matter of great fortune” and represents a deeply spiritual journey undertaken by devotees from across the country with unwavering faith in Baba Barfani.
PM Modi said the Yatra, which begins with the first worship on Guru Purnima, has over the years evolved into a living expression of India’s “unity in diversity”, bringing together pilgrims from different regions, languages and traditions in collective devotion to Lord Shiva.
Calling upon devotees to make the pilgrimage a model of responsible citizenship, PM Modi laid out five pledges for this year’s Yatra.
First, PM Modi urged pilgrims to maintain cleanliness and actively contribute towards keeping the route free of litter. Second, he stressed strict adherence to safety advisories issued by authorities, including precautions related to weather, traffic and difficult terrain.
Third, invoking the Centre’s Vocal for Local campaign, PM Modi appealed to devotees to spend at least 10 per cent of their pilgrimage budget on locally made products to strengthen the livelihoods of families and youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Fourth, PM Modi linked the Yatra to environmental conservation, asking pilgrims to participate in the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign by gifting a sapling to siblings on Raksha Bandhan, which coincides with the concluding day of the pilgrimage.
Finally, PM Modi urged devotees to carry the spirit of “Nation First” beyond the pilgrimage by performing their duties sincerely and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
PM Modi also praised the efforts of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Jammu and Kashmir administration, security agencies and healthcare workers for ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
He specifically acknowledged the role of the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, disaster response teams, sanitation workers and volunteers, as well as local residents running langars and service camps for pilgri
Describing such service as a reflection of India’s civilisational values, PM Modi said the Yatra embodies faith, service and national unity, and expressed hope that this year’s pilgrimage would inspire renewed devotion and commitment towards nation-building.
