Rajouri, Nov 18: Lt General Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command (Army Cdr NC), held an important interaction with leading journalists of Rajouri during his recent visit to the district, reaffirming his commitment to transparent communication and strong Army–media relations. The meeting also highlighted the ongoing security preparedness and the dynamic leadership approach that Lt Gen Sharma continues to demonstrate across Jammu & Kashmir.

Regarded as one of the most field-focused and people-centric commanders in recent years, Lt Gen Sharma brings with him vast experience and a deep-rooted connection with the Pir Panjal region. Having earlier served as Commander of the 80 Brigade in 2014–15 and later as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 25 Infantry Division in 2020, he is widely respected for his professional integrity, approachable nature, and strategic foresight. His leadership style—marked by humility, clarity in communication, and genuine concern for troops and civilians alike—has earned him admiration across all ranks and sections of society.
As the Army Commander Northern Command, Lt Gen Sharma is known for personally undertaking extensive tours of far-flung, high-altitude, and operationally sensitive areas across Jammu & Kashmir. Over the past months, he has visited some of the most remote posts along the Line of Control (LoC), interacted with soldiers on the ground, reviewed infrastructure, and overseen logistics and preparedness in challenging terrains. His frequent field visits reflect his belief that an effective commander must stay connected to operational realities, understand local challenges firsthand, and ensure that every unit—from the highest strategic headquarters to the last post in the mountains—feels supported, heard, and empowered.
During his Rajouri visit, Lt Gen Sharma reviewed the overall security grid in detail, focusing particularly on border management, anti-infiltration measures, surveillance capabilities, and troop readiness in high-risk sectors. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination between intelligence and operational units to counter evolving threats. He also reaffirmed the Army’s continued commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of civilians residing in border villages, especially as winter approaches.
Lt Gen Sharma’s leadership is also defined by his ability to maintain harmonious and respectful relationships with local communities, civil administration, and the media. His consistent outreach to different sections of society—whether by meeting ex-servicemen, interacting with youth, addressing welfare concerns of locals, or engaging with journalists—has strengthened trust and reaffirmed the Army’s bond with the people of Jammu & Kashmir. His calm demeanour, inclusive approach, and readiness to listen make him a leader who is respected not only for his military acumen but also for his humanity.
During his interaction with senior journalists including Imran Khan, Avinash Jaiswal, Shakti Sharma, and Jabbar Chaudhary, Lt Gen Sharma discussed the role of responsible journalism, and the importance of accuracy in public communication. The journalists appreciated his openness and clarity, noting that his long-standing rapport with the media has always ensured a healthy and transparent flow of information.
Imran Khan praised Lt Gen Sharma for his unwavering commitment to maintaining cordial relations with the media, recalling how the General has always shown respect and dignity toward journalists throughout his various tenures. He noted that Lt Gen Sharma’s deep understanding of Rajouri’s terrain and people, combined with his compassionate leadership, has consistently brought the region closer to the Army’s senior leadership.
Avinash Jaiswal observed that Lt Gen Sharma’s direct engagement with ground realities reflects the Army’s confidence in credible journalism. Shakti Sharma highlighted the General’s exceptional grasp of the region’s complex security environment, calling it a major strength in ensuring stability. Jabbar Chaudhary added that the General’s humility and people-friendly nature make him one of the most admired leaders to have commanded in the Pir Panjal region.
The interaction once again underlined the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to fostering trust, cooperation, and mutual respect with the people and media of Jammu & Kashmir. Under the leadership of Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, the Northern Command continues to set high standards of professionalism, transparency, and field-driven leadership across the region.