In response to recent terrorist activities, the Indian Army has reinforced its presence in the Jammu Division, particularly in the Doda area. This move comes as part of a broader effort to address the escalating threat posed by militants operating in the region.
According to sources in the defence and security establishment, elements of the 26 Infantry Division have been redeployed to conduct search operations in the dense forests of Desa.
The Western Command, headquartered in Chandimandir, oversees the 26 Infantry Division, which is typically stationed between Kathua and the southern bank of the Chenab River. This 130-kilometer stretch of terrain is both riverine and mountainous, presenting unique challenges for military operations. To maintain operational integrity, units from other areas under the Western Command are replacing the redeployed forces in Doda.
The 26 Infantry Division, operating under the 9 Corps based in Yol near Palampur, plays a critical role in safeguarding the National Highway and the 198-kilometer International Border that Jammu and Kashmir shares with Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) is responsible for manning this border, but the Army’s increased presence aims to bolster security against infiltration.
The decision to increase troop numbers stems from the Army’s assessment that terrorists are using survival tactics, such as hiding in caves within dense forests, which complicates search and neutralization efforts. The Army’s strategy involves widening the arc of search operations to cover more ground and flush out the militants who are believed to be well-trained in evasion and ambush techniques.
The geographical features of the Jammu region, including numerous rivulets and rivers that are prone to flooding during the monsoon season, create vulnerabilities that terrorists can exploit to infiltrate from Pakistan.
At a recent security meeting in Kathua, these issues were addressed with high-ranking officials, including J&K DGP RR Swain, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, and Special Director General of BSF, Western Command, YB Khurania, discussing strategies to close these gaps.
The Army’s enhanced deployment in the Jammu Division underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure regional stability and counter the persistent threat of terrorism along the sensitive border areas.