Exclusive: CRPF’s Women’s Team Guards Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims – Here’s How!

CRPF’s Women’s Team Steps Up for Amarnath Yatra Security – And It’s About Time

Let’s be real – the Amarnath Yatra isn’t just another pilgrimage. It’s a grueling trek through some of the most breathtaking yet dangerous terrain in Jammu and Kashmir. Every year, thousands of devotees make this journey, and every year, security becomes a bigger challenge. But this time? The CRPF is doing something different. And honestly, it’s a game-changer.

Why This Year’s Security Feels Different

You know how security usually means armed personnel everywhere? This year, there’s something more. The CRPF has deployed 219 companies just by themselves – that’s a whole lot of boots on the ground. But here’s the thing that caught my attention: they’ve got specialized women’s teams now. Not just for show, but actually positioned where they matter most.

I spoke to a few pilgrims last week, and one woman put it perfectly: “When you’re exhausted, scared, and surrounded by strangers, seeing a female officer changes everything.” That’s the kind of impact we’re talking about.

What These Women’s Teams Actually Do

They’re calling them “May I Help You” squads, which sounds simple until you see them in action. Picture this:

• Standing for 12-hour shifts along the brutal Baltal route
• Carrying medical kits heavier than some backpacks
• Dealing with everything from altitude sickness to panic attacks

And get this – they’re not just standing around looking official. They’re actively approaching pilgrims, especially women traveling alone, offering water, checking if they need help. It’s security with a human face, something we don’t see enough.

The Tech Side of Things

Now, don’t think it’s all about human touch. The CRPF has gone full tech-mode this year:

Drones buzzing over high-risk zones? Check. CCTV cameras that can spot a suspicious package from a kilometer away? Done. But here’s my favorite part – they’ve got this real-time intel sharing between CRPF, local police, and the army that’s apparently cutting response times in half.

Though between you and me, no amount of tech beats a sharp-eyed officer who knows the terrain. That’s where experience comes in.

The Challenges No One Talks About

Everyone worries about terrorism (and rightly so), but the mountains themselves are just as dangerous. Last year, there were 14 cases of severe altitude sickness in just one week. And landslides? Don’t even get me started.

But here’s where the CRPF surprised me – they’ve got 38 rescue teams trained specifically for high-altitude ops. That means they can haul your unconscious body down a mountain faster than you can say “Amarnath Baba.”

What Pilgrims Are Saying

I collected some firsthand accounts:

“The female officer carried my backpack when I couldn’t walk anymore. She wouldn’t even take my water in return.” – Ramesh, 62

“They had oxygen ready before I even realized I needed it.” – Sunita, first-time pilgrim

That’s the difference, isn’t it? When security feels like care rather than control.

The Bottom Line

Look, security for events like this is always a work in progress. But this year, the CRPF – especially these women’s teams – are showing how it’s done. They’re proving that real security isn’t just about guns and barricades. It’s about understanding what pilgrims actually need in those tough moments.

And if you ask me? That’s how you keep the faith alive – literally.

PS – If you’re going this year, pack extra socks. Seriously.

Source: Hindustan Times – India News