'Operation Snow Leopard' still online: northern army commander

Udhampur: Indian Army northern commander Lt Gen YK Joshi said that "Operation Snow Leopard" is still operational, and the troops are alert. The operation was launched after China refused to move back or restore the situation in Ladakh normal, PTI reported.

Speaking at the northern command's investiture ceremony here on Saturday, Joshi said that the army had played well with complete dedication in keeping security in the union territories of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. It has absolute dominance in both Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) as well as International Border (IB), he said. The soldiers of northern command had undermined enemy aggressions. The disengagement with the People' Liberation Army (PLA) of China has been completed peacefully in many areas, and more talks are going on for the same in other areas.

Regarding 'Operation Rakshak' implemented to counter insurgency, he said that the people of Kashmir had dismissed terrorism, separatism and gun culture. After many years the number of terrorists in the area has come down below 200, a significant achievement, he said. The ceasefire has provided relief to people who reside within the borders. But the army stays alert to counter infiltrations by terrorists.

The year 2021 was pivotal for the armed forces after they boldly stood up against aggressions on the LoC (Line of Control) and LAC. Stone pelting, protests and terrorist-related incidents have reduced in the valley, which is the fruit of tireless efforts by security forces, he said.

He congratulated local police, the CRPF etc., for their assistance in countering insurgencies.

He further said that the northern command will always be there to help the government and people in these times of pandemics.

Joshi, the General Officer-Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), presented GOC-in-C's Certificates of Appreciation for teams involved in Operation Snow Leopard. He presented GOC-inC's appreciation to 40 army units for their performance in Operation Meghdoot, Operation Rakshak, Operation Northern Borders, and other operations.