Photo: ANI
NEW DELHI: Battling heavy snowfall and biting cold, the Romeo Force of the Indian Army has stepped up search and surveillance operations in the Pir Panjal ranges of Poonch district. Troops are operating at heights above 13,000 feet, braving extreme cold, deep snow and rugged terrain. Despite the harsh conditions, soldiers have been seen moving methodically across snow-covered ridgelines, carrying out coordinated patrols as a precautionary measure along the border. Visuals from the area show personnel equipped with specialised winter gear, staying in constant communication while closely monitoring suspected pockets.
At the same time, counterterrorism operations have also been intensified in Kishtwar and Doda districts. On December 31, 2025, joint teams of the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police pushed into frozen forests and hidden mountain caves in Doda to flush out potential threats before winter conditions worsen further. Unfazed by freezing temperatures and treacherous terrain, Army units have expanded their reach into higher and snowbound areas, targeting Pakistani terrorists who often try to use the harsh winter months for cover and movement. Traditionally, the peak winter period brings a slowdown in terrorist activity as heavy snowfall cuts off routes and isolates mountain regions. This year, however, security forces have changed tack. Instead of scaling back, the Army has adopted a proactive winter posture, setting up temporary bases and surveillance posts deep inside snow-covered zones to keep sustained pressure on terror hideouts. These intensified operations are aimed at protecting civilians living in border areas and preventing any attempts to carry out terror attacks. With searches along the Line of Control further stepped up, the Army remains on high alert to safeguard peace and security in the region.
