Northern Command Chief Assesses Security Readiness in Kashmir Amid Ceasefire Strain

Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, who commands the Northern Command of the Indian Army, conducted a comprehensive security review in North Kashmir on June 24. His assessment focused on the forward areas managed by the Chinar Corps, amid increasing tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) due to a rise in ceasefire violations earlier this year.

During the visit, Lt Gen Sharma received briefings on the operational readiness of the troops and observed a live demonstration of cutting-edge military technology. This included systems designed to enhance capabilities in cyber warfare and surveillance. These advancements align with his previous efforts as Director General of Information Warfare, where he was instrumental in modernizing the Indian Army’s strategies for psychological and electronic warfare.

Lt Gen Sharma engaged with soldiers stationed in high-altitude zones, emphasizing the need for ongoing combat readiness, swift response strategies, and continuous training to address evolving threats. His visit included an award ceremony to honor the exemplary performance of troops along the LoC, highlighting the army’s dedication to maintaining discipline, morale, and operational excellence.

The visit by Lt Gen Sharma also signifies the Indian Army’s broader transformation initiatives as outlined in the 2024 modernization roadmap. This plan entails developing 16 specialized technology clusters, focusing on areas like artificial intelligence, drone warfare, and predictive analytics for making informed decisions on the battlefield.
In an increasingly complex security scenario, the Northern Command remains dedicated to securing India’s territorial integrity and adapting to the evolving demands of modern warfare in the strategically crucial Kashmir Valley.