Rashtriya Rifles to Return to J&K as Infantry Division Takes Charge in Ladakh
Redeployment aims to restore security in Jammu amid rising Terror activities
Srinagar, Apr 3: The Rashtriya Rifles (RR) Division of the Uniform Force is set to return to Jammu and Kashmir after being temporarily deployed to Eastern Ladakh during border skirmish with China.
The RR is returning after 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 left a security gap that terrorist 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 72 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.
Official Sources told Kashmir Convener that this redeployment does not involve an increase in manpower but is rather a strategic reallocation of resources to optimize 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.
