SRINAGAR: The Rashtriya Rifles (RR) Division of the Uniform Force is set to return to Jammu and Kashmir after being temporarily redeployed to Eastern Ladakh. This transition follows the establishment of the 72nd Infantry Division, which will now take charge of securing India’s northern frontiers in Ladakh.
Notably, the RR Division, known for its expertise in counter-insurgency operations, was moved to Ladakh following the June 2020 Galwan Valley clash with China. However, its absence in Jammu created a security gap that militant groups exploited, leading to an escalation in attacks. Officials believe the return of RR troops will help restore stability in the Jammu and Pir Panjal region.
The 72nd Infantry Division, originally envisioned as part of the 17 Mountain Strike Corps, was initially planned for operations in Eastern Ladakh from Pathankot. However, shifting operational priorities have placed it under the Northern Command, with its headquarters now being set up in Ladakh.
Military sources said that this redeployment does not involve an increase in manpower but is rather a strategic reallocation of resources to optimise efficiency.
Sources added that with the RR Division back in its original operational area, security forces are expected to intensify counter-militancy operations in Jammu, where recent infiltration attempts and attacks have been on the rise. (KNT)
