Army reassessing strategies to counter evolving threats: General Kumar

Srinagar: In response to a surge in terror attacks in Kashmir, Lieutenant General M V Suchindra Kumar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army's Northern Command, announced on Thursday that the Army is reassessing its strategies to counter the evolving threats.

While he refrained from divulging specific operational details, General Kumar emphasized the need for strategic adjustments to address new challenges, including terrorist tactics and potential external support.

“We have taken stock of the situation and are developing strategies to tackle these issues,” he said during a media briefing in Udhampur.

The General highlighted the Army's commitment to breaking the cycle of violence and dismantling the terror ecosystem by empowering local youth and women, promoting education, sports, and reviving the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

He said that efforts in both kinetic and non-kinetic operations have contributed to enhanced security in the region.

General Kumar reaffirmed the Army's commitment to nation-building through border security, counter-terrorism, humanitarian aid, and support to civil authorities. He stressed the importance of strengthening relationships between soldiers and citizens while fostering nationalist narratives among the youth.

Additionally, he discussed ongoing capability enhancements in the Northern Theatre, including infrastructure development along the northern borders and the procurement of new weaponry. He noted that existing equipment is also being upgraded to improve operational effectiveness.

General Kumar also referenced recent diplomatic engagements between Indian and Chinese officials, citing Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's comments on October 21 regarding progress on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control, which aim to resolve tensions stemming from 2020.

“And as a result of these discussions, agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas, leading to disengagement and a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020,” he added.