Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command, visited formations and units deployed in Rajouri and Kishtwar to review operational preparedness and morale of troops.
During his visit, he commended the soldiers for their resilience, professionalism, and rapid humanitarian response during the recent Chishoti cloud burst disaster, which caused widespread damage and loss of life. The swift Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations by the Indian Army once again highlighted the dual role of the force in ensuring national security as well as civilian support during crises.
Maintaining Operational Readiness Amid Challenges
Lieutenant General Sharma highlighted the troops’ unwavering commitment to maintaining high operational readiness while simultaneously providing humanitarian assistance. He stressed the importance of sustained vigilance, peace, and stability in the region, which remains sensitive due to both natural disasters and militant threats.
The Northern Command, headquartered in Udhampur and re-established in 1972, oversees strategically critical areas of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The region has witnessed multiple security challenges, including the 2023 Rajouri terror attacks, which resulted in the death of seven civilians and prompted extensive counter-insurgency operations.
Dual Role: Counter-Terror Operations and Disaster Relief
In addition to disaster relief, troops of the Northern Command have continued to conduct counter-terror operations in the hinterland. Recent encounters, including Operation Trashi in Kishtwar, in which a soldier sacrificed his life while eliminating terrorists, underline the persistent challenges posed by militancy in the region.
Army’s Commitment to Nation and People
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma’s interaction and appreciation of troops reaffirm the Indian Army’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders while extending a helping hand during natural calamities. His visit reflects the Army’s comprehensive approach to security, stability, and humanitarian service, strengthening trust between the armed forces and local communities.
