Lt Gen Pratik Sharma Reviews Security Preparedness at Rashtriya Rifles Unit in South Kashmir

Srinagar, October 4, 2026: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Northern Command, visited a Rashtriya Rifles unit in South Kashmir on October 4 to review the security situation and assess the operational readiness of troops deployed in the area.

During the visit, the Northern Army Commander received a briefing on the prevailing security environment and the measures being taken by the formation to maintain readiness. He also interacted with personnel on the ground and examined how prepared they were to respond to any emerging security challenge in their area of responsibility.

Lt Gen Sharma praised the soldiers of the Rashtriya Rifles unit for their professionalism, dedication and operational excellence. He said their conduct reflected the high standards expected while operating in the demanding security environment of South Kashmir.

Addressing the troops, he emphasised the need for constant vigilance and urged them to remain alert and ready to respond effectively to any threat. He said maintaining a strong security posture across the operational area must remain a priority.

The Army Commander also stressed the importance of synergy in security operations. According to the visit account, coordination among Army formations and other elements of the security apparatus remains essential for maintaining situational awareness, sharing intelligence and ensuring an effective response to security challenges.

He underlined that sustained vigilance and coordinated efforts are necessary to support peace and stability in the region. The interaction reflected the Northern Command’s continued focus on operational preparedness, professionalism and coordination at every level.

Rashtriya Rifles units are an important part of the Indian Army’s counter-terrorism grid in Jammu and Kashmir. Deployed extensively across the hinterland, these formations operate in coordination with other security forces and agencies to counter terrorist threats and help maintain a secure environment.

South Kashmir has long remained a key area for security forces, with the Army and other agencies maintaining a comprehensive security grid across the region. Visits by senior commanders are intended to assess operational preparedness, understand developments on the ground and ensure that troops remain ready to deal with changing challenges.

Lt Gen Sharma’s visit also gave him an opportunity to directly engage with personnel serving in the field and acknowledge their contribution to security and stability in the Kashmir Valley.

The visit concluded with the Army Commander reiterating the need for relentless vigilance, operational excellence and synergy among all stakeholders. He called on the troops to continue carrying out their duties with professionalism and determination while contributing to the broader objective of maintaining peace in the region.