JKAACL invites applications for Somnath Swabhiman Yatra-2026
21/06/2026
Jammu/Srinagar, June 21 (KIP)-The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL), Department of Culture, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, in pursuance of directions conveyed by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has invited applications from residents of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir for participation in the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra–2026. The six-day yatra is scheduled to commence from Jammu on June 29, 2026.
The pilgrimage, being organised for the first time in this format, aims to facilitate devotees from Jammu & Kashmir to undertake the journey to Somnath Temple. This year, the Government has earmarked 140 seats for yatris from the Union Territory.
The Academy has requested all Deputy Commissioners across Jammu & Kashmir to identify and recommend eligible participants from their respective districts for the yatra. Applications shall be accepted exclusively through the offices of the Deputy Commissioners concerned, and every application must be duly verified and forwarded by the Deputy Commissioner concerned. Applications submitted directly to the Academy shall not be entertained.
The application form has been uploaded on the official website of the Department of Culture, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, from where it may be downloaded. Printed forms are also available at the offices of the Deputy Commissioners concerned across the Union Territory. Applicants may obtain the form from their respective Deputy Commissioner's office, complete the required formalities and submit it through the same channel for onward processing.
Selection of yatris shall be made strictly on a first-come, first-served basis from among applications received through the Deputy Commissioners. Incomplete applications, those lacking required documents, or applications received after all seats have been filled shall not be considered.
Applicants are required to submit, by or before June 25, 2026, a copy of their Aadhaar card or any other valid government-issued photo identity card, a recent passport-size photograph, complete contact details including mobile number and residential address, and any other document required by the forwarding authority.
The Academy has advised interested devotees to submit their applications through the Deputy Commissioners concerned at the earliest, as the registration process shall close automatically once all seats are filled.