Unyielding Grit on Display as Indian Army Hosts Rare Media Visit at LoC Sunderbani

Convener News Desk

Sunderbani, August 13, 2025 — In a rare and closely coordinated media outreach, the Indian Army on Tuesday opened its doors to journalists for an on-ground glimpse into life and duty along one of the country’s most sensitive frontiers — the Line of Control (LoC) in the remote Sunderbani sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

Defence Spokesperson in Jammu Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the visit offered an overview of of the Army’s grit and operational preparedness amid the harsh realities of a border posting. Against the backdrop of rugged hills, dense forests and steep gorges, soldiers stationed in this strategically significant sector demonstrated a combination of endurance, tactical readiness, and human warmth that belied the unforgiving nature of their surroundings.

From the moment journalists arrived, the physical and psychological demands of LoC deployment were clear. Soldiers operate in extreme weather — from searing summer heat to bone-chilling winters — while also grappling with geographic isolation and the constant necessity of high-alert vigilance. Yet, the atmosphere at forward posts was far from grim.

With steady eyes and disarming smiles, troops spoke openly about their daily routines, the sacrifices involved, and the unwavering sense of duty that motivates them to serve. Their narratives revealed a shared ethos: that beyond the camouflage and weapons, each soldier carries a profound personal commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

Despite the operational pressures, soldiers adhere to a rigorous training schedule designed to maintain peak combat readiness. Demonstrations during the visit underscored the Army’s doctrine of constant evolution — adapting tactics, updating procedures, and integrating new technologies to match emerging threats. Officers emphasized that readiness is not a static achievement but an ongoing process demanding discipline, innovation, and teamwork.

A key highlight of the visit was the Army’s showcase of advanced technology aimed at strengthening border security. The Smart Fence System — a high-tech surveillance and intrusion detection network — was demonstrated to journalists as a critical tool in detecting and deterring infiltration attempts.

Alongside, the Army displayed newly inducted equipment: Quadcopters for aerial reconnaissance, advanced surveillance optics, bulletproof and all-terrain vehicles for rapid mobility, state-of-the-art night vision sights, and modern infantry weapons. This arsenal, officials said, is not just about deterrence but also about enabling troops to respond faster, safer, and more effectively to threats.

Beyond combat duties, Army personnel in Sunderbani play a pivotal role in outreach to local communities. Officers stressed that fostering trust and cooperation with civilians is integral to long-term stability in the border belt. Initiatives include assistance in emergencies, participation in community events, and support for local development projects — all aimed at ensuring that the benefits of peace and progress reach even the remotest hamlets.

The visit closed with a sobering reminder: the men and women of the Indian Army along the LoC put their lives on the line every day. Their sacrifices, often unseen and unheralded, form the first and most crucial shield against external threats.

Army officials and visiting journalists alike emphasized that honouring these sacrifices is not only a matter of ceremonial respect but a national responsibility — through public support, policy focus, and ensuring that the needs of service personnel and their families are met without delay.

Defence Spokesperson said in Sunderbani, the unity, discipline, and resolve of the soldiers stood out as a living testament to the Army’s core values of honour, duty, and sacrifice. Their collective purpose, forged in the demanding conditions of the LoC, continues to inspire citizens across the country — a reminder that the safety and stability of the nation rests, quite literally, on the shoulders of those willing to serve at its edge.