The Indian Army has initiated Operation Sarvashakti in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, spanning security forces on both flanks of the Pir Panjal range. The primary objective is to eradicate terrorists who recently attacked Indian troops in Rajouri and Poonch.
Context and Urgency
In recent years, seven soldiers fell victim to ambushes in Kashmir, and an additional 20 lost their lives in assaults within the Rajouri-Poonch belt. Authorities suspect that the terrorists responsible for the 2023 attacks are hiding in these remote areas. Intelligence sources among security forces suggest that a significant number of active terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir are of foreign origin.
Significance of Pir Panjal Range
The Pir Panjal Range, a mountainous expanse in the Lower Himalayas within the Western Himalayas, plays a crucial role in this operation. Extending southeast to northwest, it separates the Beas and Neelam/Kishanganga rivers, straddling Indian territories of Himachal Pradesh and disputed Jammu and Kashmir. This range, the largest in the Lesser Himalayas, gradually ascends towards the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. It acts as a geographical barrier, dividing the Kashmir Valley from the Jammu region.
Unified Effort and Objective
Troops from the 15 Corps and 16 Corps are collaboratively engaged in this multi-agency operation. Various other agencies and paramilitary forces are actively participating. The overarching goal is to eliminate terrorists sponsored by Pakistan.
Intelligence-Led Strategy
At the core of Operation Sarvashakti is the collection and swift action upon intelligence inputs at all levels. Additional reserve troops have been deployed to the Rajouri-Poonch area, reinforcing the mission.
Operation Sarpvinash (2003)
Operation Sarvashakti draws inspiration from the successful 2003 Operation Sarpvinash in the southern Pir Panjal region. Executed by the Indian Army and the Rashtriya Rifles, that three-month operation resulted in the elimination of nearly 100 terrorists and ushered in a period of peace until 2017-2018.
This strategic endeavor aims not only to address immediate threats but also to ensure long-term stability in the region.
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