In a strategic initiative to bolster India’s defensive capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Army is initiating the establishment of a new division-level formation, the 72 Infantry Division. This division will be permanently stationed in the region and will operate under the Leh-based 14 Corps, known as the Fire and Fury Corps, tasked with securing some of the country’s most challenging and strategically significant frontiers.
The Fire and Fury Corps, which was established in the aftermath of the Kargil War in September 1999, has played a crucial role in defending India’s northern borders. The introduction of the 72 Infantry Division is anticipated to significantly enhance the Army’s defensive posture, complementing the existing 3 Infantry Division to improve both operational strength and readiness in the region.
This decision comes as part of a broader restructuring of the Order of Battle (ORBAT) aimed at reorganizing and redeploying troops to effectively respond to the evolving security landscape. Initially approved in 2017 as part of the 17 Mountain Strike Corps and planned to be based in Pathankot, plans shifted following the violent clash in Galwan Valley in 2020. Consequently, the decision was made to relocate the division to Eastern Ladakh to reinforce India’s frontline defenses along the LAC.
A senior defense official elaborated, “The 72 Division was originally meant to be part of the Mountain Strike Corps and based in Pathankot for operations in Eastern Ladakh, while the 59 Division was designated to cover areas under the Eastern Command.” This reallocation reflects a recognition of the growing security challenges in the region.
Once fully operational, the 72 Infantry Division will take over the responsibilities of the currently deployed Uniform Force, which is expected to return to its base in the Reasi sector of Jammu. The division is set to play a critical role in enhancing readiness and response capabilities for any potential escalation along the LAC.
Typically, an army division comprises approximately 10,000 to 15,000 combat troops, further supported by about 8,000 personnel in logistical and operational roles. Commanded by a Major General, a standard division includes three to four brigades, each overseen by Brigade Commanders managing 3,500 to 4,000 troops.
As part of its implementation, the new division’s headquarters is already under establishment, with one brigade headquarters operational in Eastern Ladakh. Meanwhile, other elements of the formation are engaged in specialized training in western regions of the country to ensure effective integration of personnel and equipment tailored for the division’s operational needs and the unique challenges posed by the terrain.
This specialized training is essential for preparing the 72 Infantry Division to undertake high-altitude warfare, equipping it to counter any emerging threats along the sensitive LAC effectively.
The formal raising of the 72 Infantry Division comes amidst escalating border tensions and aims to significantly enhance India’s strategic depth and preparedness in the region. The division’s permanent stationing in Eastern Ladakh will facilitate improved operational readiness and rapid response capabilities in light of the evolving security dynamics.
This initiative reaffirms India’s dedication to protecting its territorial integrity while augmenting its military capabilities to address potential challenges along its northern borders. The establishment of the 72 Infantry Division within the Fire and Fury Corps exemplifies the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining a robust and proactive defense strategy along its critical frontiers.
