Srinagar, October 4, 2026: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Northern Command, visited a Rashtriya Rifles unit in South Kashmir, where he reviewed the prevailing security situation and assessed the operational preparedness of troops deployed in the region.
During the visit, Lt Gen Sharma was briefed on the current security environment and the measures being undertaken by the formation to maintain operational readiness. The Army Commander interacted with troops and reviewed their preparedness to respond to emerging security challenges in their area of responsibility.
Lt Gen Sharma commended the personnel of the Rashtriya Rifles unit for their professionalism, dedication and operational excellence. He appreciated the troops for maintaining high standards while carrying out their responsibilities in the challenging operational environment of South Kashmir.
Addressing the troops, the Northern Army Commander emphasised the need for relentless vigilance. He urged personnel to remain alert and prepared to respond effectively to any emerging threat while continuing to maintain a strong security posture across their operational area.
Lt Gen Sharma also stressed the importance of synergy in security operations. Coordination among Army formations and other elements of the security apparatus remains crucial for maintaining situational awareness, sharing intelligence and ensuring an effective response to security challenges.
The Army Commander underlined that sustained vigilance and coordinated efforts are essential for upholding the commitment to peace and stability in the region. His interaction with the troops reflected the Northern Command’s continued emphasis on operational preparedness, professionalism and close coordination at all levels.
Rashtriya Rifles units form an important part of the Indian Army’s counter-terrorism grid in Jammu and Kashmir. Deployed extensively across the hinterland, the formations operate in coordination with other security forces and agencies to counter terrorist threats and contribute to maintaining a secure environment.
South Kashmir has traditionally remained an important area for the security forces, with Army and other security agencies maintaining a comprehensive security grid across the region. Regular reviews by senior commanders are aimed at assessing operational preparedness, understanding developments on the ground and ensuring that troops remain ready to deal with evolving challenges.
Lt Gen Sharma’s visit also provided an opportunity for the Northern Army Commander to directly interact with personnel serving on the ground and appreciate their contribution towards maintaining security and stability in the Kashmir Valley.
The visit concluded with the Army Commander reiterating the importance of maintaining relentless vigilance, operational excellence and synergy among all stakeholders. He called upon the troops to continue performing their duties with professionalism and determination while contributing towards the broader objective of maintaining peace in the region.
