KAS Officer Turns Duty into Devotion in Service of Amarnath Pilgrims
||Black and White Digital News ||
||Parvinder Singh August 15,2025 ||
JAMMU/KASHMIR: In the high-altitude terrains of Jammu and Kashmir, where the annual Amarnath Yatra draws lakhs of devotees from across the country, there are unsung heroes working tirelessly to ensure the safety, comfort, and smooth passage of pilgrims. Among them is Chand Singh, a dedicated officer of the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS), whose approach to duty goes far beyond official responsibility—driven instead by a deep sense of sewa bhaav (spirit of service).
In 2022, Chand Singh served as Additional Camp Director at Panjtarni, one of the most challenging and crucial points along the yatra route. Perched at high altitude, Panjtarni is the final staging point before the holy cave, demanding meticulous coordination to handle medical emergencies, crowd movement, and unpredictable weather. His calm, hands-on leadership ensured smooth operations despite the harsh conditions.
This year, he has taken charge as Camp Director at Chandanwari, a vital location along the Pahalgam route. Chandanwari serves as a key transit point where thousands of yatris begin their journey toward the sacred cave. From managing logistics and coordinating with multiple agencies to addressing the needs of pilgrims and service providers, Chand Singh has been leading from the front—often personally intervening to resolve challenges on the ground.
Colleagues and yatris describe him as approachable, compassionate, and deeply committed to his mission. For Chand Singh, the Amarnath Yatra is not just an administrative duty—it is an opportunity to serve humanity. Guided by the belief that “Service of mankind is the service of God”, he works tirelessly to ensure every pilgrim’s journey is safe and fulfilling.
His dedication mirrors the very spirit of the yatra, where faith, resilience, and collective effort come together in one of the country’s most revered pilgrimages. Whether braving inclement weather, overseeing medical aid, or personally assisting elderly and ailing pilgrims, Chand Singh’s service embodies the true essence of public duty.
In an era when official work is often viewed through the lens of procedure and protocol, officers like Chand Singh remind us that the heart of administration lies in empathy, compassion, and selfless service.
Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board
@Amarnath Yatra 2025