Securing Amarnath Yatra: Government issues food advisory to CRPF
In a bid to plug security loopholes during the Amarnath Yatra, the government issued an advisory to CRPF personnel to stay off piping hot yummy food being served in community kitchens along the way. This has been done to ensure that they don't get lethargic, get their stomachs upset or let their guards down while on duty, after consuming heavy food including sweets.
Vigilance cannot be compromised for food
"There are obvious health concerns... Eating at langars can also lead to the men letting their guard down while on security duty. They need to be on their toes and vigilant at all times. They cannot be complacent at any time," stated a CRPF official.
Amarnath Yatra: A pilgrimage under the shadow of terror
Amarnath Yatra, scheduled for this year between June 29-August 7 is being conducted under a shadow of terrorist threat, given the ongoing unrest in Kashmir, with concerns magnifying over the pilgrimage coinciding with Hizbul commander Burhan Wani's death anniversary. Security on the Pahalgam and Baltal routes was further tightened after a recent terror strike on a bus carrying pilgrims resulted in eight casualties.
Increase in security deployments
Compared to 115 companies who were deployed for ensuring security during the Amarnath Yatra last year, 214 paramilitary companies have been deployed this year. This includes over 21,000 personnel from paramilitary forces including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
Why has the food advisory been issued?
Official sources note that while each person is allotted Rs. 100 as food allowance, the food prepared for them would go to waste if the men eat outside. Officials further note that this was done to prevent the forces from falling sick. "The food cooked in our camps is healthy and nutritious and is best suited for security duties," notes a CRPF official.
