Lieutenant General P. K. Mishra, the General Officer Commanding of the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps (XVI Corps), recently conducted a detailed review of operational preparedness during his visit to several forward brigades along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. This marked his first extensive visit to the forward areas since assuming the mantle of Corps Commander on April 1, 2025.
During the visit, Lt Gen Mishra was accompanied by senior commanders from the Ace of Spades and Crossed Swords Divisions. Together, they meticulously assessed the ground situation, receiving comprehensive briefings on the current threat landscape, response mechanisms, and the status of troop deployments. The review aimed to ensure continued military dominance over the operational environment and fortify combat readiness across critical sectors.
The White Knight Corps, with its headquarters in Nagrota, is tasked with defending a vital stretch of the LoC that extends from Akhnoor to Poonch. This region, known for its enduring instability, necessitates heightened vigilance given the ongoing threats related to infiltration and cross-border hostilities.
During his interactions with the troops at various ranks, Lt Gen Mishra praised their professionalism while urging them to maintain high morale and combat efficiency in the face of evolving challenges. His visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to bolstering its defensive posture in one of the nation’s most strategically significant areas.
Military analysts highlight that such high-level operational reviews are consistent with modern military doctrines. A recent study by the RAND Corporation emphasized the necessity of routine assessments in contested zones to ensure effective deterrence and control.
Additionally, there is an ongoing debate among defense observers regarding the operational camouflage of soldiers, particularly focusing on the distinctive red collar tabs worn on Army uniforms in high-visibility terrains. A 2021 article in the Journal of Defense Studies suggested a reevaluation of such insignias to improve concealment in forested and mountainous regions, notably those along the LoC.
The role of the White Knight Corps remains vital in maintaining peace and stability along the border, overseeing key counter-insurgency units like the Delta Force and Romeo Force of the Rashtriya Rifles.
