Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, visited Poonch on Wednesday to commend Indian Army troops for their remarkable success in Operation Shiv Shakti. Conducted on July 30, 2025, the operation neutralized two terrorists and resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of war-like stores along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Degwar sector.
The success of this mission comes close on the heels of Operation Sindoor, further underscoring the Army’s sharp counter-terrorism capabilities and high level of preparedness in one of the most sensitive regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
During his address, Lt Gen Sharma praised the troops for their unwavering commitment, operational readiness, and resilience under hostile terrain and weather conditions. He emphasized that sustained vigilance along the LoC remains crucial in maintaining peace and thwarting Pakistan-sponsored infiltration attempts.
The joint operation with the Jammu and Kashmir Police targeted the Maldivalan area, known as a vulnerable infiltration route. The arms and ammunition recovered are expected to provide valuable intelligence in pre-empting future cross-border threats.
To honor the troops’ dedication, the Northern Army Commander presented commendation awards during a ceremonial interaction. He also stressed the importance of maintaining high morale and preparedness, calling the troops the “backbone of India’s counter-infiltration grid.”
Historically, Poonch has remained a critical flashpoint, dating back to the 1948 siege and its relief under Operation Easy. The Army’s continuous focus on this sector highlights its enduring importance to national security.
As per operational security protocols, photographs released by the Army had blurred faces of soldiers—an established global practice in counter-terror operations to ensure personnel safety.
The visit reaffirmed the Indian Army’s determination to ensure stability in Jammu and Kashmir and send a strong message across the LoC: India will respond firmly and decisively to any attempts to disrupt peace in the region.
