Indian Army Intensifies Winter Counter-Terrorism Efforts in Jammu and Kashmir
The Indian Army has intensified its counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly focusing on the Kishtwar and Doda districts. This move aims to neutralize Pakistani terrorists who might use harsh winter conditions to their advantage by seeking concealment, according to defense sources on Saturday.
Typically, the Chillai Kalan period—from December 21 to January 31, marking the coldest 40 days in Kashmir—sees a decrease in terrorist activities due to heavy snowfall, closed mountain passes, and limited movement. However, officials have noted a significant shift in strategy this winter.
Instead of reducing operations, the Army has adopted a "proactive winter posture," setting up temporary bases and surveillance posts in snow-covered and high-altitude areas. This strategy aims to maintain pressure on terrorist hideouts and prevent them from finding refuge during winter.
Army patrols are actively navigating sub-zero temperatures, poor visibility, and challenging terrains, covering high ridges, dense forests, and isolated valleys to stop terrorists from regrouping or entering populated areas.
Intelligence assessments suggest that approximately 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists remain active in the Jammu region. These groups have reportedly been forced into higher and middle mountain regions, which are largely deserted in winter, due to sustained counter-terrorism pressure.
With dwindling local support, terrorists are allegedly trying to coerce villagers for shelter and resources, though such attempts are increasingly futile due to heightened security measures and community vigilance.
This winter's operations are characterized by strong inter-agency coordination. The Army is leading efforts in partnership with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Operations Group (SOG), civil administration, forest guards, and Village Defence Guards (VDGs).
This collaborative approach ensures efficient intelligence sharing, precise planning, and quick execution of joint operations based on verified intelligence.
Advanced surveillance technology, including drones, ground sensors, thermal imaging devices, and surveillance radars, is being utilized extensively to monitor movement, detect heat signatures, and identify infiltration routes, even in snow-covered areas.
The Army has also deployed specialized winter warfare sub-units skilled in high-altitude survival, snow navigation, avalanche response, and combat in snowy conditions, enabling continuous operations despite extreme weather challenges.
The security forces are implementing a "surveillance–sweep–surveillance" cycle to ensure that areas cleared of terrorist threats remain under constant observation. This approach aims to contain and disrupt terrorist logistics and communications, preventing them from exploiting seasonal weaknesses.
Even during the peak of Chillai Kalan, when most mountain activities typically slow down, the Army remains determined. The stepped-up winter operations highlight the Army's adaptability, technological prowess, and commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorist factions and ensuring security across Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of weather or terrain conditions.
