The Indian Army has reinforced its presence in the Jammu region with an additional 3,000 soldiers to counter the recent surge in terrorism south of the Pir Panjal range. This significant troop increase includes deployments in Kathua, Samba, Doda, Bhaderwah, and Kishtwar, with reinforcements arriving from the Western Command.

General Upendra Dwivedi is scheduled to visit the area on Saturday to assess the operational situation first hand.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the security situation and has introduced a new strategy to neutralise terrorists. Singh announced the revival of Village Defence Guards (VDGs), which have historically been instrumental in counter-terrorism efforts.

Over the past month and a half, the region has experienced heightened militancy, resulting in the deaths of 24 individuals, including 10 security personnel, and injuring 56 others. Doda district alone has seen three terror incidents in recent days, claiming the lives of four army personnel, including a captain.

"Some incidents that took place (in Doda district) recently, the government has taken serious action (to address terrorism). The prime minister himself is regularly reviewing the situation, apart from armed forces and paramilitary forces," Singh stated during an event in Kishtwar.

Details of the new anti-terrorism strategy remain confidential. Singh, who inaugurated a sanitary napkin manufacturing unit in Kishtwar, emphasised the government's commitment to reinstating VDGs and possibly establishing new units in sensitive areas. These VDGs will be equipped with modern weapons, including self-loading rifles (SLRs). "The government is committed to this as VDGs have played a commendable role in combating terrorism in the region," Singh added.

In addition to addressing security concerns, Singh highlighted the opening of the sanitary pad manufacturing unit under a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative to promote hygiene among women and girls in remote areas. He also mentioned Kishtwar's future developments, including plans to generate 8,000 megawatts of electricity and the construction of an airstrip to enhance connectivity with the rest of the country.

Image source: PTI