Udhampur, Feb 11: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, visited the Basantgarh area following the successful culmination of Operation KIYA, a decisive counter-terror operation that resulted in the neutralisation of two terrorists. The visit marked a significant moment for the troops involved and reaffirmed the Indian Army’s continued resolve to maintain peace and stability in Jammu & Kashmir.Operation KIYA was executed with precision and professionalism, reflecting the high standards of operational preparedness maintained by the security forces in the region. The operation was carried out based on specific intelligence inputs and involved meticulous planning and seamless coordination among various security agencies. The swift response and calculated action by the troops ensured the successful elimination of the threat while prioritising the safety of civilians in the area.During his visit, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma conducted a detailed review of the operational aspects of the mission. He was briefed by senior officers on the ground about the sequence of events, tactical decisions, and the coordination mechanisms adopted during the operation. The Army Commander commended the formation for its prompt and well-coordinated action, emphasizing that such successful operations are a testament to the dedication, vigilance, and synergy among all stakeholders involved in counter-terror efforts.

Interacting with officers and soldiers deployed in the area, Lt Gen Sharma lauded their courage, commitment, and steadfast resolve. He appreciated the troops for maintaining a high degree of professionalism under challenging circumstances and for upholding the ethos of the Indian Army. He urged them to continue demonstrating operational excellence and remain vigilant against emerging security threats.The Army Commander reaffirmed the Indian Army’s unwavering determination to ensure a terror-free Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized that sustained counter-terror operations, supported by strong intelligence networks and close coordination with other security agencies, remain central to maintaining long-term peace and security in the Union Territory. He also highlighted the importance of winning the trust and confidence of the local population while carrying out operations with utmost sensitivity and responsibility.The visit to Basantgarh forms part of Lt Gen Pratik Sharma’s ongoing tour of various operational areas across Jammu & Kashmir. By personally visiting forward locations and interacting directly with troops, the Army Commander aims to assess the ground situation, review preparedness levels, and boost the morale of personnel deployed in sensitive areas. Such visits underscore the leadership’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness and ensuring that security forces remain fully equipped and motivated to counter any threat.
Operation KIYA stands as yet another example of the Indian Army’s proactive approach in tackling terrorism and safeguarding national security. The successful neutralisation of terrorists in Basantgarh not only reinforces the Army’s operational capabilities but also sends a strong message about its zero-tolerance stance against terror activities in the region.As the security forces continue their relentless efforts to maintain peace and stability, the visit of the Northern Command Army Commander serves as a morale booster for troops and a reassurance to the people of Jammu & Kashmir that the Indian Army remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation and uphold peace in the region.