KTMF welcomes Amarnath yatra; reaffirms Kashmir’s age old tradition of hospitality & civil society support

Srinagar: Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), the apex body representing the Valley’s business community, wholeheartedly welcomes the commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra and extends warm greetings to all pilgrims arriving from across the country.

In an address to the media here, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan stated, “Amarnath Yatra is one of the oldest and most spiritually significant pilgrimages in India and its roots are deeply interwoven with the culture and history of Kashmir. It is important to recognize that the holy cave and route of the Yatra were discovered centuries ago and it is the people of Kashmir who have served as its natural custodians and caretakers for generations. From guiding pilgrims through the mountainous terrain to offering food, shelter and support Kashmiris have always stood as protectors of this sacred journey reflecting a time honoured spirit of communal harmony. The Amarnath Yatra is not merely a religious event but it is a reflection of our centuries old tradition of hospitality, inclusiveness and communal harmony. We are proud to be part of this legacy. KTMF and the entire Kashmiri business community welcome the Yatra with open arms, and we are committed to doing everything possible to ensure its smooth, peaceful and successful completion.”

Terming it as a symbol of interfaith brotherhood Khan said, “Kashmir has for centuries been a cradle of shared spiritual heritage where Hindus and Muslims have lived and celebrated together with mutual respect. The Amarnath Yatra is not just a religious pilgrimage but it is a reflection of this unique brotherhood and a symbol of how faiths can coexist peacefully and meaningfully. We at KTMF firmly believe that the Yatra is not only a religious obligation for many but also a bridge between communities and an opportunity to showcase the true spirit of the Kashmiri people. It is our earnest appeal to all yatris to come without fear or hesitation and to see Kashmir for what it truly is a land of warmth, hospitality, culture and resilience.”

“While expressing support for necessary security arrangements we urge the authorities to allow yatris the freedom to interact with the local population. Security must not come at the cost of disconnecting the pilgrimage from its social and cultural surroundings. Pilgrims should be encouraged to walk through our markets talk to our shopkeepers, taste our food and experience Kashmiri hospitality firsthand. Such interactions will only build trust but reinforce the idea that Kashmir is open, welcoming and peaceful. Just like in other parts of India and the world where pilgrimage tourism is facilitated with dignity and respect the Amarnath Yatra too must be conducted in a manner that prioritizes both the safety and the spiritual experience of the pilgrims. Kashmir’s civil society has always stood in solidarity with such efforts and will continue to do so.

Advocating for modern facilities in line with the needs of a modern pilgrimage, Khan called upon the government to ensure that modern infrastructure is made available to yatris, particularly for the elderly and differently abled. Aerial facilities such as helicopter services must be made more accessible, affordable and frequent so that every devotee regardless of age or physical ability can undertake this sacred journey with dignity and comfort. Additional facilities like medical aid centers, communication assistance, and eco friendly lodging should also be prioritized not just for the safety of the yatris but also for the preservation of the fragile Himalayan environment through which the Yatra passes.

Highlighting KTMF’s role as Kashmir’s premier business and civil society organization, Khan said KTMF has always played a vital role in facilitating smooth, peaceful and uninterrupted conduct of the Yatra. Our members across Valley from trade to retail and services are fully prepared to assist in every possible way. In times of difficulty we have often gone beyond the call of duty to support pilgrims and we shall continue to do so with the same sense of compassion and commitment.

“At a time when polarization was being fueled in some sections of media post Pahalgam heinous attack the Amarnath Yatra offers an opportunity to reinforce peace, understanding and interfaith dialogue. Kashmiris have always welcomed guests and yatris are no exception. We appeal to media, civil society and policymakers to project and protect this reality to present the true, humane face of Kashmir, “ Khan observed.

Khan was flanked by senior members of the Federation, who include Manoj Kumar Tandon, Bashir Ahmad Rather, Fayaz Ahmad & Qazi Tauseef who unanimously reiterated the KTMF’s commitment to supporting the Yatra and upholding Kashmir’s legacy of peaceful coexistence.