Army Launches Winter Ops In J&K To Flush Out Terrorists

New Delhi: The Indian Army has launched intensified winter operations in Kishtwar and Doda districts of Jammu and Kashmir to flush out Pakistani terrorists hiding in the region.

According to the assessments of multiple intelligence agencies, around 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists are currently operating in the Jammu region. Defense sources said counter-terrorism operations over the past few months have forced these groups to retreat into the largely uninhabited high and middle mountain ranges. Terrorists are believed to seek temporary hiding places during the winter to avoid detection and avoid direct conflict with security forces
Security forces launched simultaneous operations along valleys, mid-altitude areas and high ridges to maintain control over the base and prevent any corridor movement of terrorists. Long-term surveillance follows each operation to ensure that cleaned areas remain under constant surveillance. This “surveillance-scanning-The “surveillance” cycle, which combines aggressive ground operations with constant technological monitoring, forms the basis of the Army’s winter doctrine, defense sources said.

Traditionally, the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest phase of winter in Kashmir, from December 21 to January 31 has led to a temporary lull in terrorist activities due to heavy snowfall and closed communication routes. However, this winter saw a significant shift in operational strategy; The army adopted a proactive stance by establishing temporary bases and observation posts deep in snow-covered areas to maintain uninterrupted pressure on terrorist hideouts.
Army patrols operate in sub-zero temperatures and low visibility; It regularly crosses high-altitude ridges, valleys and forest areas to avoid offering any safe haven to terrorists. Defense sources said this shift highlights the Army’s adaptability and determination to maintain operational momentum regardless of terrain or season
The army is leading a coordinated effort involving the civil administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Special Operations Group, Forest Guards and Village Defense Guards. This interagency collaboration has enabled better intelligence sharing, resource optimization and sharper operational execution.

Intelligence reports indicate that the remaining terrorist elements are trying to coerce local villagers for shelter and food. But the sharp decline in domestic support has forced terrorists into deeper isolation and limited their ability to regroup or plan attacks.

Specially trained winter warfare subunits were deployed in key sectors. Equipped for high-altitude survival, snow navigation and combat, these units are supported by advanced surveillance tools including drones, ground sensors and radars, enabling continuous monitoring and rapid response even in challenging conditions.