Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, conducted a crucial review of security protocols and troop readiness in both North and South Kashmir on Wednesday. This assessment is part of the ongoing Operation SHIVA, aimed at fortifying security during the Amarnath Yatra and enhancing the Army’s preparedness amid evolving regional threats.
Launched to protect the 38-day-long Amarnath Yatra that commenced on July 3, Operation SHIVA involves the deployment of over 42,000 personnel. This collaborative effort includes the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Jammu & Kashmir Police. Given that the annual pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees to the 3,888-meter-high Amarnath cave shrine, it necessitates extensive security measures. These measures include advanced Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tracking, improved medical facilities, and efficient transport logistics to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
During his visit, Lt Gen Sharma engaged with troops stationed in the area, commending their morale, discipline, and combat training. He recognized their vital role in maintaining peace and security in the region, presenting commendation cards and medals in a gesture that harks back to traditions of troop cohesion and leadership during historical challenges in the Valley.
Lt Gen Sharma, who was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion of the Madras Regiment in 1987, is widely recognized for his contributions to modernizing the Army’s information warfare capabilities. His previous role as Director General of Information Warfare showcased his commitment to integrating cyber operations and psychological strategies into India’s military framework. His proactive presence on the ground underscores a dynamic approach to leadership in conflict-affected areas.
This review comes in the aftermath of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including tourists, heightening tensions in the region. Additionally, it follows a brief yet intense India–Pakistan conflict in May that led to Operation Sindoor and increased alertness across various forward positions. Although a ceasefire has been in effect since May 10, the Army remains vigilant and prepared.
The Northern Command’s ongoing efforts to reassure security in the region are aligned with India’s broader strategic interests in Jammu & Kashmir, a territory historically plagued by cross-border terrorism, internal strife, and unresolved territorial disputes. As Operation SHIVA progresses, the Army is dedicated to ensuring that the Amarnath Yatra proceeds without interruption, while remaining adaptable to the complexities of modern warfare and the shifting dynamics of regional security.
