JAMMU, June 13, 2026 : As preparations gather momentum for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra 2026, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police and the National Security Guard (NSG) successfully concluded a week-long joint training exercise titled ‘Shakti Sangam’ in Jammu, aimed at strengthening operational readiness and enhancing coordinated responses to emerging security challenges.
According to a police spokesperson, the intensive exercise was conducted from June 8 to June 13 and focused on improving inter-agency coordination, sharpening tactical skills, and enhancing the ability of security forces to respond effectively to evolving threats during major events, including the annual pilgrimage.
The exercise assumes added significance as authorities intensify security arrangements for the 57-day Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to commence on July 3, 2026.
The Yatri Niwas at Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu, serves as the principal base camp for pilgrims arriving from different parts of the country before proceeding to Kashmir for the pilgrimage to the revered 3,880-metre-high Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnath Ji.
The annual pilgrimage is conducted through two routes: the traditional 48-kilometre Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter but steeper 14-kilometre Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The first batch of pilgrims is expected to leave Bhagwati Nagar for Kashmir a day before the official commencement of the yatra.
During the joint training programme, SOG personnel and NSG commandos underwent specialized modules covering a wide range of operational aspects, including intervention tactics, hostage rescue operations, deployment of force multipliers, bomb disposal procedures, counter-drone measures, handling of advanced security equipment, use of night vision devices, and live firing drills.
The exercise also featured scenario-based simulations and real-time operational drills, enabling participants to improve decision-making abilities, situational awareness, and coordinated responses during critical incidents.
Officials stated that the programme provided a valuable platform for personnel from both agencies to exchange operational expertise, share best practices, and enhance interoperability while dealing with complex security situations.
The training placed special emphasis on precision, adaptability, seamless coordination, and rapid response mechanisms, which are considered crucial in addressing modern-day security challenges and safeguarding large public gatherings.
Senior officers supervising the exercise noted that collaborative training initiatives such as ‘Shakti Sangam’ play a vital role in maintaining a high level of preparedness among security forces and ensuring effective responses to potential threats.
“The successful completion of this joint exercise reflects the commitment of security agencies towards continuous training, capacity building, and strengthening operational capabilities to meet evolving security requirements,” the spokesperson said.
With thousands of pilgrims expected to participate in this year’s Amarnath Yatra, security agencies are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a safe, secure, and smooth pilgrimage experience.
