Army Cdr reviews security grid in Pir Panjal region, interacts with scribes

Army Cdr Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma during visit to a forward location (LoC) in Pir Panjal sector.
Army Cdr Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma during visit to a forward location (LoC) in Pir Panjal sector.

Excelsior Correspondent
RAJOURI, Nov 18: Lt General Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command (Army Cdr NC), reviewed the security grid in the south of Pir Panjal region and held an interaction with leading journalists of Rajouri during his visit to the sector, reaffirming his commitment to transparent communication and strong Army-media relations.
During his Rajouri visit, Lt Gen Sharma reviewed the overall security grid in detail, focusing particularly on border management, anti-infiltration measures, surveillance capabilities, and troop readiness in high-risk sectors. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination between intelligence and operational units to counter evolving threats. He also reaffirmed the Army’s continued commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of civilians residing in border villages, especially as winter approaches.
The Northern Army Commander highlighted the ongoing security preparedness of the troops.
During his interaction with senior journalists including Imran Kha, Avinash Jaiswal, Shakti Sharma, and Jabbar Chaudhary, Lt Gen Sharma discussed the role of responsible journalism, and the importance of accuracy in public communication. The journalists appreciated his openness and clarity, noting that his long-standing rapport with the media has always ensured a healthy and transparent flow of information.
Regarded as one of the most field-focused and people-centric Commanders in recent years, Lt Gen Sharma brings with him vast experience and a deep-rooted connection with the Pir Panjal region. Having earlier served as Commander of the 80 Brigade in 2014-15 and later as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 25 Infantry Division in 2020, he is widely respected for his professional integrity, approachable nature, and strategic foresight.
As the Army Commander Northern Command, Lt Gen Sharma is known for personally undertaking extensive tours of far-flung, high-altitude, and operationally sensitive areas across Jammu & Kashmir. Over the past months, he has visited some of the most remote posts along the Line of Control (LoC), interacted with soldiers on the ground, reviewed infrastructure, and overseen logistics and preparedness in challenging terrains. His frequent field visits reflect his belief that an effective commander must stay connected to operational realities, understand local challenges firsthand, and ensure that every unit-from the highest strategic headquarters to the last post in the mountains-feels supported, heard, and empowered.
Lt Gen Sharma’s leadership is also defined by his ability to maintain harmonious and respectful relationships with local communities, civil administration, and the media. His consistent outreach to different sections of society-whether by meeting ex-servicemen, interacting with youth, addressing welfare concerns of locals, or engaging with journalists-has strengthened trust and reaffirmed the Army’s bond with the people of Jammu & Kashmir.