In a significant address at the 13th Rashtriya Rifles biennial conference held in Udhampur, Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, the chief of the Army’s Northern Command, underscored the vital role of the Rashtriya Rifles in counterinsurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. With a noticeable rise in terror-related activities this year, he called on the Rashtriya Rifles to continue evolving into an “agile, lean and mean, technology-enabled force” to effectively tackle current operational challenges and anticipated threats.
Recognizing the commendable efforts of the Rashtriya Rifles in fostering peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir over recent decades, Kumar praised their contributions to both inclusive development and nation-building initiatives. He stressed the importance of maintaining grassroots connections with the local populace. “As emissaries of the Indian Army in grassroots contact with the populace, the Rashtriya Rifles are well poised to contribute towards both community and nation building, and this larger aim must define all our lines of effort,” he stated during the conference.
Lieutenant General Kumar also acknowledged the valor and dedication exhibited by all ranks of the Rashtriya Rifles in their relentless counterterrorism efforts, conveying his congratulations on their steadfast commitment and personal sacrifices. The conference gathered various senior officials, including Major General Anupam Bhagi, Additional Director General of Rashtriya Rifles, and general officers commanding from across the counter-insurgency forces, emphasizing a unified approach to security operations in the region.
The current security landscape in Jammu has seen its challenges, with reports indicating that 16 security personnel, 10 civilians, and three Village Defence Guard (VDG) members have lost their lives due to separate terror attacks this year. In a notable response, security forces have successfully neutralized 13 terrorists in the region, demonstrating a concerted effort to stabilize the area and protect both military and civilian lives amid ongoing unrest.
The Lieutenant General’s remarks serve as a critical reminder of the evolving nature of conflicts in Jammu and Kashmir, and the necessity for the Rashtriya Rifles to remain adaptable and responsive to ensure lasting peace and security for the local communities they serve.
