Jammu, July 3 -- The first batch of over 5,800 Amarnath pilgrims, flagged off from Jammu amid 'unprecedented' security arrangements early on Wednesday morning by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, received a 'traditional' warm welcome amid chanting of religious and patriotic slogans at various locations en route to the Kashmir valley.
The pilgrims reached the valley through the Navyug tunnel in Qazigund area of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, where they were welcomed by the South Kashmir Range deputy inspector general of police and Kulgam deputy commissioner.
BJP leader Ravindra Raina was also among those who welcomed the yatris with garlands, flower bouquets, sweets, and flower petals. The convoys left separately for the Baltal and Pahalg...