*SASB issues detail guidelines for pilgrims
Govind Sharma
JAMMU, Apr 9: The advance registration for the annual Amarnath Yatra will begin from April 15 across 554 designated bank branches nationwide, through an Aadhaar-based real-time registration system.
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According to the detailed guidelines issued by Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), pilgrims will be registered through biometric eKYC authentication linked to Aadhaar, with permits generated online through the official portal. In case of technical glitches in biometric verification, authorities have kept a fallback option of manual data entry along with webcam-based photo capture to ensure uninterrupted registration.
The Board has made it mandatory for applicants to produce a valid Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC), issued on or after April 8, 2026, by authorized doctors or medical institutions. A comprehensive list of approved medical facilities across 37 States and Union Territories has been released to facilitate pilgrims.
In Jammu and Kashmir alone, as many as 168 doctors across various districts have been authorized to issue these certificates. Each registration will be processed upon payment of a fee of Rs 150. Additionally, around 30 selected branches of J&K Bank, Punjab National Bank (PNB), and State Bank of India (SBI) across the Union Territory have been designated to facilitate the registration of pilgrims for the Yatra, ensuring wider accessibility and a streamlined process for devotees.
Officials stated that the registration process will follow a first-come, first-served basis, with a fixed daily quota for both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes at each branch. To maintain proper crowd regulation and safety, bookings for a specific yatra date will close seven days in advance.
In addition, the Shrine Board has introduced a facility for group registration to make the process more convenient for pilgrims travelling together. This provision will allow yatris to register in groups of a minimum of five and a maximum of 30 members.
Eligibility criteria has also been clearly defined. Only individuals between the ages of 13 and 70 years will be allowed to undertake the pilgrimage. Additionally, women who are more than six weeks pregnant will not be permitted to participate, even if they possess the required health certification, keeping in view the strenuous nature of the yatra.
Designated bank branches have been tasked with verifying the authenticity of the health certificates before issuing system-generated permits. These permits will clearly mention the selected route-Baltal or Pahalgam-as well as the specific date on which pilgrims are allowed to cross access control points at Domel and Chandanwari, respectively.
To ensure smooth implementation, banks have been directed to set up dedicated help desks, train their staff adequately, and carry out awareness campaigns for applicants. The Shrine Board has also advised pilgrims to carefully provide accurate Aadhaar and mobile details during registration to avoid delays or complications.
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