In Pahalgam, trust now comes with a QR code

Ajay Sura & Naseer GanaiTNN
Apr 19, 2026 | 10:24 IST

A year after the attack, Pahalgam’s answer is simple: scan before you trust. A new system aims to reassure visitors and protect livelihoods.

Pahalgam: “Scan me” is the new trust phrase in this region, which still bears the scars of a terrorist massacre a year ago.

In a sweeping move, local police have introduced QRcode-based identification for the thousands who work in this scenic hill town. Pony handlers, taxi drivers, and nomadic communities moving through the surrounding hills are being digitally tagged, each issued a unique QR code that, when scanned via apps, reveals detailed personal information, including name, address, phone number, Aadhaar details, PIN code, and profession.
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