Lieutenant General PK Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, conducted an important visit to Dharmund Garrison on Thursday to evaluate the operational readiness and the ongoing counter-terrorism initiatives in the Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir. This visit highlighted the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Chenab Valley, a region that has experienced an escalation in terror-related incidents over the last two years.
During his time at the Garrison, Lt. Gen. Mishra praised the troops for their steadfast resolve and professionalism in the ongoing battle against terrorism. He recognized their relentless efforts and emphasized the crucial role they play in ensuring the safety and security of the region. In addition to interacting with soldiers, the GOC took time to engage with ex-servicemen, acknowledging their ongoing contributions to nation-building and reinforcing community resilience.
The White Knight Corps, also referred to as XVI Corps, is strategically headquartered in Nagrota and oversees some of the most sensitive areas within Jammu and Kashmir, including notably Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, and Kishtwar. These districts have become focal points for anti-terror operations, with recent incidents underscoring the ongoing threat posed by terrorism in the area. Just months prior, in August 2024, Captain Singh of the Indian Army was killed due to injuries sustained during an operation in Doda. This incident marked the fourth encounter in the Udhampuri-Doda-Kishtwar region within a short timeframe. Adding to these challenges, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) lost his life in an anti-terror operation in Kishtwar in November 2024, further illustrating the difficulties faced by security forces in the region.
Lt Gen Mishra, who took command of the White Knight Corps on April 1, 2025, has prioritized operational excellence and the promotion of peace across the region. His recent visit to Dharmund Garrison aligns with the Indian Army’s intensified efforts to curb terrorist activities, including efforts to train Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in border areas to enhance anti-infiltration measures. The Chenab Brigade, operating under the White Knight Corps, has been actively engaged in these initiatives, including a recent training program for VDGs that began in January 2025 in the Jammu district.
The GOC’s interaction with ex-servicemen is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening community ties and leveraging local support in counter-terrorism efforts. This approach is consistent with the overarching vision of enhancing the Army’s operational capabilities while maintaining a strong connection with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, a principle frequently emphasized by Lt Gen Sachdeva during his command.
Despite these proactive efforts, the Indian Army continues to face various challenges in the region. Allegations of civilian mistreatment during operations in Kishtwar in November 2024 are currently under investigation and represent some of the complexity of the security landscape. Nonetheless, the White Knight Corps remains resolute in its mission to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of local residents.
The visit to Dharmund Garrison serves as a clear indication of the Indian Army’s proactive approach in addressing security threats while fostering peace in Jammu and Kashmir, amidst persistent external forces that continue to fuel residual terrorism in the area.
