J-K: Indian Army's Romeo force intensifies search operations in Pir Panjal Ranges of Pooch amid heavy snowfall
Poonch, January 1
The Romeo Force of the Indian Army has intensified search and surveillance operations in the Pir Panjal ranges of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir amid heavy snowfall in the region.
Operations are being conducted at altitudes above 13,000 feet despite heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and challenging terrain.
Army personnel are conducting coordinated exercises, moving through snow-covered mountains as part of a safety measure along the border. From the visuals, troops are seen equipped with specialised winter gear and are communicating extensively to monitor suspected areas.
Meanwhile, the Indian Army have also intensified counterterrorism operations in the Kishtwar and Doda districts. On December 31, 2025, the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police were also conducting operations in the frozen forests and hidden mountain caves of Doda to root out potential threats before winter fully sets in.
Undeterred by freezing temperatures, treacherous terrain, and heavy snowfall, Army units expanded their operational reach into higher and snowbound areas to pursue and neutralise Pakistani terrorists attempting to exploit the harsh season for concealment.
Traditionally, the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest phase of Kashmir's winter, spanning from December 21 to January 31, ushers in a temporary lull in terrorist activities, as communication routes close and heavy snowfall isolates mountain regions.
However, this winter has marked a decisive shift in the operational approach of the Indian Army and other security forces. Instead of reducing activities, sources have said the Army has adopted a proactive winter posture, establishing temporary bases and surveillance posts deep within snow-covered areas to maintain continuous pressure on potential terrorist hideouts.
All these anti-terror operations are going forward to ensure the safety of civilians living in the border area and to weed out potential terror attacks. The operation came as the search for hidden terrorists along the LoC (Line of Control) was heightened. The Army remains on high alert to prevent any attempts to disrupt peace and security in the region.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This proactive approach is a welcome change. For too long, winters were seen as a downtime. By maintaining pressure even during Chillai Kalan, we deny terrorists any safe period. A strong message is being sent.
While I fully support our army's efforts, I hope the government is also focusing on long-term peace and development in J&K. Military action is necessary, but so is winning hearts and minds through employment and infrastructure.
The conditions must be brutal. Hats off to the Romeo Force and all units involved. It's high time the other side stops sending terrorists across the LoC. Our soldiers shouldn't have to risk their lives in frozen forests because of this.
As someone from outside India, the resilience shown here is incredible. The coordination between army and police in such terrain is a massive logistical feat. The safety of civilians being the priority is commendable.
Temporary bases in snow-covered areas? That's some next-level strategy. It shows we are not just reacting, but anticipating and dominating the battlefield, even in the worst weather. Proud of our forces!
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