Army assesses winter readiness on LoC; surveillance, tech integration reviewed
Srinagar, Nov 18: With winter settling over Kashmir’s higher reaches, the Indian Army has stepped up vigilance along the Line of Control, prompting Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma to undertake a key review of the anti-infiltration grid in North Kashmir.
The visit focused on assessing the readiness of frontline formations guarding some of the most sensitive stretches of the LoC as early snow begins to alter ground conditions.
Lt Gen Sharma interacted with soldiers deployed in forward posts, praising their combat fitness, resilience and year-round operational performance in demanding terrain. He acknowledged the challenges posed by sub-zero temperatures and difficult mobility but commended the troops for maintaining a firm defensive posture even as hostile elements looked to exploit weather-induced vulnerabilities.
Early winter, officials noted, is a period when infiltration attempts—though reduced in number—often become more determined as snowfall gradually restricts movement across higher passes. This year’s advancing winter cycle has required enhanced synergy between surveillance teams, infantry units and intelligence networks.
The Army Commander received detailed briefings on modern surveillance systems, upgraded night-vision capabilities, all-weather drones and ground sensors now integrated into the counter-infiltration grid. He also reviewed contingency measures for heavy snowfall, which typically disrupts logistics, hampers communication lines, and increases avalanche risk for personnel stationed at high-altitude posts.
Addressing the troops, Lt Gen Sharma urged them to continue intensive training and adopt technological advancements to stay ahead of emerging threats. He emphasised the need to maintain a “Future Ready Force” capable of operating effectively in both conventional and tech-enabled combat scenarios.
He also underlined the strong coordination between the Army, local communities and other security agencies, which he said has been vital in sustaining calm along the LoC as winter approaches. Northern Command, he reiterated, remains committed to countering any infiltration attempt swiftly and decisively.
In a post on X, Northern Command said: “Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC, visited North Kashmir to review the anti-infiltration grid and operational readiness of formations along the Line of Control. He interacted with troops, appreciating their readiness, spirit and consistent performance. He encouraged them to keep training and innovating to absorb new technology as a #FutureReady force. #AlwaysInCombat #NationFirst #IndianArmy @adgpi @ChinarcorpsIA.”
