Colonel Vikrant Panwar assumed command of 13 Task Force (TF) under Project Yojak on 7 August 2026, taking over from Colonel Yogendra Singh Tomar. The change of command marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of the Border Roads Organisation’s key formations responsible for developing strategic infrastructure in the high-altitude region of Ladakh.
The 13 Task Force has been entrusted with the construction and maintenance of the strategically significant Nimmu–Padam–Darcha (N-P-D) Road, a vital infrastructure project that aims to strengthen connectivity across the Zanskar Valley while enhancing military logistics and operational readiness in the region.
The Nimmu–Padam–Darcha Road is regarded as one of India’s most important strategic road projects in the western Himalayas. Once fully operational, the route will provide an alternate all-weather axis connecting Ladakh with the rest of the country, reducing dependence on existing supply routes and significantly improving the movement of troops, equipment and essential supplies to forward areas.
The project also holds immense importance for the socio-economic development of the Zanskar Valley by improving year-round connectivity for remote communities, facilitating trade, tourism, healthcare access and emergency response in one of the country’s most challenging geographical regions.
During the change of command ceremony, Colonel Vikrant Panwar reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening the Border Roads Organisation’s mission of delivering high-quality infrastructure under demanding operational conditions. He emphasised the importance of timely execution, engineering excellence and sustained efforts to ensure seamless connectivity in strategically sensitive areas.
Guided by the Border Roads Organisation’s motto, “श्रमेण सर्वं साध्यम्” (Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam), meaning “Everything is achievable through hard work,” Colonel Panwar expressed his resolve to continue the organisation’s tradition of overcoming extreme terrain and climatic challenges through dedication, professionalism and innovation.
The outgoing commander, Colonel Yogendra Singh Tomar, handed over the responsibilities after overseeing important phases of the Task Force’s infrastructure development activities. Under his leadership, the formation contributed significantly to the progress of strategic road construction and maintenance in the region, supporting both national security objectives and regional development.
The Border Roads Organisation continues to play a critical role in building strategic road networks, bridges and tunnels across India’s border regions, enabling faster military mobilisation while improving connectivity for civilian populations. Projects such as the Nimmu–Padam–Darcha Road form an integral part of India’s long-term strategy to strengthen border infrastructure and ensure all-weather access to remote frontier areas.
The assumption of command by Colonel Vikrant Panwar reinforces the BRO’s continued commitment to accelerating strategic infrastructure development in Ladakh and enhancing operational mobility, logistics support and national preparedness in one of India’s most strategically significant theatres.
