New Delhi, India, July 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his wishes to devotees undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra, describing the pilgrimage as a privilege and urging pilgrims to undertake the journey with devotion, discipline and a sense of national responsibility.
In a letter addressed to Lord Shiva devotees, the Prime Minister said that participating in the Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir is a privilege and that the opportunity to have the darshan of Baba Barfani is an unforgettable experience for lakhs of devotees. He conveyed his best wishes to all pilgrims participating in this year’s Yatra.
Describing the pilgrimage as an enduring part of India’s spiritual tradition, Modi said devotees from different regions, languages and cultural backgrounds come together every year with a common purpose of seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the role of the Indian Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, ITBP, BSF, NDRF, healthcare workers, administrative officials, sanitation workers and volunteers in ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
He said the Yatra reflects India’s unity in diversity, with devotees from across the country participating in the annual pilgrimage.
Modi urged pilgrims to observe five “Sankalps” during this year’s Yatra. He called on devotees to maintain cleanliness throughout the pilgrimage, follow directions issued by the administration, adhere to traffic and safety regulations, and remain cautious on slippery routes and during adverse weather conditions.
He also appealed to pilgrims to support the local economy by purchasing locally made products, urging them to spend at least 10 per cent of their travel expenses on local goods under the “Vocal for Local” initiative to help strengthen the livelihoods of families and youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Referring to the conclusion of the Yatra, which coincides with Raksha Bandhan, the Prime Minister encouraged devotees to gift a sapling as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign.
Concluding his message, Modi urged citizens to uphold the spirit of “Nation First” by fulfilling their responsibilities throughout the year and contributing to the goal of building a developed India.