The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps, Lieutenant General Rajan Sharawat, conducted a visit to the Bani-Machhedi Sector in Kathua district, Jammu & Kashmir. The purpose of this visit was to assess the operational readiness of troops stationed along this strategically vital segment of the international border. The visit comes amidst heightened infiltration attempts and increased security concerns in the Jammu region.
During his time at the Bani-Machhedi Sector, particularly near the Ujh River, Lieutenant General Sharawat engaged with troops on the ground. He commended their alertness, professionalism, and preparedness to address emerging threats. The Ujh River area has historically been a significant infiltration route, emphasizing the importance of vigilant oversight. This sector garnered renewed attention following a violent encounter in Rajbagh, which saw the neutralization of three militants, though tragically, it resulted in the loss of four police personnel.
The Rising Star Corps, based at Yol and established in 2005, has been pivotal in the Indian Army’s modernization efforts. Under its command, the IX Corps is at the forefront of implementing Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs). These units are designed for rapid deployment and swift response, particularly important given the tensions along the borders with Pakistan and China. This restructuring aims to reduce operational response times to less than 24 hours, enhancing overall military readiness.
The timing of this visit aligns with a broader military build-up that was reported earlier, as India has been reinforcing its positions along the border in response to increasing hostilities. This is not the first review conducted by the Rising Star Corps commander; earlier visits, including one in January 2025, highlighted the high standards of professionalism exhibited by troops in Jammu garrisons.
In the context of evolving security dynamics, security analysts have urged a strategic reevaluation of operations in the region. There have been proposals for the establishment of a ‘Border Geography and National Security Institution’ in Kathua to bolster strategic oversight and address the distinctive challenges posed by the area.
As part of its mission, the Indian Army continues its commitment to strengthen both defensive and offensive capabilities in the region. The focus remains on ensuring that military forces are well-equipped and prepared to safeguard national sovereignty in the face of evolving challenges.
