Indian Army’s counterterror winter ops to corner 30-35 terrorists in Jammu during 40-day 'Chillai Kalan'

Assessments by intelligence agencies indicate that around 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists are currently operating in the Jammu region, ANI reported (Representative image)

• Indian Army intensifies counter-terror ops in snowbound Kishtwar and Doda
• Troops use drones, thermal imaging, and joint teams for winter surveillance
• Terrorists forced into isolated high-altitude areas as local support declines.

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As winter tightens its grip over Jammu and Kashmir during the 40-day Chillai Kalan period, the Indian Army has intensified its counter-terrorism strategy, stepping up operations in the rugged districts of Kishtwar and Doda.

Defence sources told news agency ANI that instead of scaling down activity due to extreme weather, troops have expanded their reach into snowbound and high-altitude zones where terrorist elements are believed to be seeking cover.

Chillai Kalan, which runs from December 21 to January 31, is known as the harshest phase of Kashmir’s winter, often bringing heavy snowfall, closed mountain passes and sub-zero temperatures. Traditionally, these conditions have resulted in a slowdown in militant activity as well as counter-terror operations. This year, however, the pattern has changed significantly. According to sources cited by ANI, the Army has adopted a proactive winter posture aimed at denying terrorists any seasonal advantage.

Expanded reach in extreme conditions

Despite freezing winds, limited visibility and treacherous terrain, Army units are conducting regular patrols across ridgelines, dense forests and remote valleys. Temporary bases and surveillance posts have been set up deep inside snow-covered areas to maintain pressure on suspected hideouts.

Experts view this shift as a clear evolution in tactics, reflecting the Army’s determination to sustain operational momentum regardless of weather or geography.

Integrated multi-agency operations

One of the defining aspects of the current operations is the integrated approach being followed on the ground. The Indian Army is spearheading coordinated efforts alongside the Civil Administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Special Operations Group, Forest Guards and Village Defence Guards. This joint framework, sources told ANI, allows for seamless intelligence sharing and sharper execution of operations.

Intelligence inputs from multiple agencies are carefully collated to develop a precise understanding of terrorist movement patterns and potential shelters. Once verified, joint teams plan and launch operations with minimal overlap and maximum tactical impact.

The improved synergy between intelligence networks and ground forces has shortened response times, enabling action as soon as actionable information emerges.

30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists in Jammu

Assessments by intelligence agencies indicate that around 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists are currently operating in the Jammu region, ANI reported.

Over recent months, sustained counter-terror efforts have forced these groups to retreat into higher and middle mountain ranges, areas largely uninhabited during winter. The report cited sources to say that it is believed the terrorists are attempting to establish temporary winter hideouts in these remote locations to avoid direct encounters with security forces.

There are also indications that these groups have tried to intimidate or coerce local villagers for food and shelter. However, officials noted that their support base among locals and overground workers has diminished sharply.

Increased vigilance in populated belts and drying local backing have pushed these elements into isolation, making it harder for them to regroup or plan coordinated strikes.

Twofold winter focus

The Army’s winter focus, the report attributed sources to explain, is twofold: neutralising remaining terrorist pockets in known zones and ensuring that militants remain confined to inhospitable high-altitude regions. This containment approach is designed to prevent infiltration into populated areas while disrupting logistics and communication lines critical for terrorist operations.

To achieve this, concurrent operations are being carried out across valleys, mid-altitude belts and high ridges, creating overlapping layers of control. Cleared areas are not left unattended; instead, they remain under sustained watch. This operational rhythm is often described by forces as a “surveillance-sweep-surveillance” cycle, which combines aggressive action with continuous monitoring.

Operating in deep snow requires specialised skills, and the Army has deployed winter warfare-trained sub-units across key sectors. These troops are experienced in high-altitude survival, snow navigation, avalanche response and combat under extreme cold. Their presence has been crucial in maintaining effectiveness during the winter surge.

Technology as force multiplier

Technology has emerged as a major force multiplier in these operations. Drone-based reconnaissance, ground sensors and surveillance radars are being used extensively to detect movement and identify potential routes used by terrorists.

Thermal imaging devices and unmanned aerial systems have proven particularly valuable during night operations and in areas where conventional scouting poses risks. Integrated into the Army’s information network, these tools enable constant monitoring and rapid decision-making even in adverse conditions.

Dynamic planning

Another key feature of the current approach is dynamic planning. Rather than relying on static, season-bound strategies, commanders are continuously refining operational plans based on real-time intelligence, weather changes and terrain assessments.

Patrol routes, surveillance grids and troop deployments are reviewed and adjusted regularly to respond swiftly to emerging threats.

Local communities engagement

Alongside its offensive posture, the Army continues to prioritise engagement with local communities. Village Defence Guards remain active in securing village peripheries and alerting authorities to suspicious activity.

Their role as community sentinels has strengthened the security grid and ensured early warnings during operations. The visible presence of troops in remote, snowbound villages has also helped reassure residents and counter attempts by terrorist groups to intimidate locals.

Surveillance-Swift Operations-Surveillance

According to the report, the guiding principle behind this winter campaign is “Surveillance to Swift Operations and then Back to Surveillance.”

Each action, whether an area domination exercise or a targeted strike, is treated as part of a larger, continuous security framework rather than an isolated event. This ensures that gains made during winter are carried forward into the summer months, denying terrorists any opportunity to recover.

As temperatures continue to plunge in Kishtwar and Doda and snow blankets mountain passes, the Army’s expanded footprint sends a clear signal that harsh weather will no longer offer refuge to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

Through coordinated strategies, technological integration and sustained vigilance, security forces aim to ensure that every valley, ridge and snow-covered slope remains under watch, even in the depths of Chillai Kalan.