Operation Shiva:
The Indian Army recently launched Operation Shiva as part of a multi-tier security setup to secure the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.
- It was launched by the Indian Army to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the Amarnath Yatra.
- The Amarnath Yatra is an annual Hindu pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath Cave in Jammu & Kashmir (elevation ~3,888 m), where a naturally formed ice Shivling – believed to symbolize Lord Shiva – emerges.
- Operation Shiva is being carried out in close coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
- This annual high-tempo operation aims to provide robust security architecture along both the Northern and Southern Yatra routes, particularly in light of the heightened threat from Pakistan-backed proxies in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.
- Over 8,500 troops have been deployed, supported by a wide array of technological and operational resources.
- The operation involves “a dynamic counter-terrorism grid, prophylactic security deployment, and corridor protection measures.
- Comprehensive assistance to civil authorities is also being provided, particularly in disaster management and emergency response.
- A Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) grid with more than 50 C-UAS and Electronic Warfare (EW) systems each to neutralise drone threats has been set up.
- Signal companies for seamless communication, EME (Electronics and Mechanical Engineers) detachments for technical support, and Bomb Detection & Disposal Squads have been deployed.
- The Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are being deployed on regular missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the Holy Cave.
- Engineer task forces have also been deployed for bridge construction, track widening, and disaster mitigation, with more than 150 doctors and medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine medical aid posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2,00,000 litres of oxygen.\
- By implementing live tracking of yatra convoys between Jammu and the holy cave, the Army is maintaining constant situational awareness through high-resolution PTZ camera and drone feeds.
