LUCKNOW, July 13 -- The safety of women is at the core of security planning for this year's Kanwar Yatra, with the Uttar Pradesh government deploying over 10,000 women police personnel along the pilgrimage routes, according to a press note issued by the state's media cell on Sunday.

The deployment includes 8,541 head constables and 1,486 sub-inspectors, accounting for nearly 15% of the total force deployed to ensure a safe and smooth experience for devotees.

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath had directed the implementation of a women-centric security model in a recent high-level review meeting after he was informed that around 6 crore devotees, including an estimated 60-70 lakh women, were expected to take part in the Kanwar Yatra.

Offici...