KTMF Welcomes Amarnath Yatra; Reaffirms Kashmir’s Tradition of Brotherhood and Hospitality

Srinagar, June 20: The Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), the apex body of the Valley’s business community, has extended a warm welcome to pilgrims undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra, reaffirming Kashmir’s enduring legacy of brotherhood, hospitality, and civil society support.

Speaking to the media, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan highlighted the deep cultural and historical connection between Kashmir and the Yatra. “Amarnath Yatra is among the most spiritually significant pilgrimages in India, and its roots are deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Kashmir,” he said.

Khan recalled how generations of Kashmiris have served as natural custodians of the pilgrimage, guiding pilgrims through mountainous terrain and offering food, shelter, and assistance. “The Yatra is not just a religious event; it is a reflection of our centuries-old tradition of inclusiveness and communal harmony,” he added. “We welcome it with open arms and are committed to ensuring its smooth and peaceful conduct.”

Calling the Yatra a symbol of interfaith unity, Khan remarked, “Kashmir has long been a cradle of shared spiritual heritage. The Yatra represents this unique brotherhood and coexistence of faiths. It is an opportunity to showcase the true spirit of the Kashmiri people — one of warmth, culture, and resilience.”

While acknowledging the need for security, KTMF urged authorities to ensure that arrangements do not hinder interactions between pilgrims and locals. “Pilgrims should be encouraged to walk through our markets, speak with shopkeepers, and experience our hospitality firsthand,” Khan said. “Such exchanges build trust and reinforce the idea of an open and peaceful Kashmir.”

He also advocated for modern infrastructure to make the pilgrimage more accessible, especially for the elderly and differently abled. “Helicopter services should be more frequent and affordable, and other facilities like medical aid, communication support, and eco-friendly lodging must be prioritized to ensure both safety and environmental preservation,” he said.

Khan emphasized the Federation’s longstanding role in supporting the Yatra. “KTMF and its members across the Valley — from traders to service providers — are fully prepared to assist in every possible way. In difficult times, we have gone beyond the call of duty, and we will continue to do so with compassion and commitment.”

He also addressed the need to counter polarization and negative portrayals. “In the aftermath of incidents like the Pahalgam attack, the Yatra is an opportunity to reinforce peace and interfaith dialogue. Kashmiris have always welcomed guests — and pilgrims are no exception. We urge media and policymakers to highlight this humane and peaceful reality of our region.”

Khan was joined by senior Federation members including Manoj Kumar Tandon, Bashir Ahmad Rather, Fayaz Ahmad, and Qazi Tauseef, who unanimously reiterated KTMF’s commitment to facilitating the Yatra and preserving Kashmir’s legacy of peaceful coexistence.