Jammu, July 13 -- Indian Army has launched "Operation Shiva" and has deployed over 8,500 soldiers armed with sophisticated weapons and supported by a wide array of technological and operational resources to ensure smooth and hassle-free Amarnath pilgrimage.

The ongoing pilgrimage will concluded on August 9 on the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

The army has been working in close coordination with the civil administration and central armed police forces (CAPFs) to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, said defence spokesperson Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, adding that as part of this year's enhanced security framework, over 8,500 troops have been deployed, supported by a wide array of technological and operational resources. ...