Operation Akhal enters day 9: Two soldierskilled in J&K's Kulgam; encounter still underway

Operation Akhal in Jammu and Kashmir: A Detailed UPSC Analysis

Context:

Operation Akhal is an ongoing counter-terrorism operation initiated on August 1, 2025, in the Akhal forest area of Kulgam district, South Kashmir. The operation was launched following actionable intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the region. It has now entered its ninth day with active engagement between security forces and terrorists.

Key Developments:

• Two soldiers, Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, have been killed in the line of duty during the operation, underscoring the risks faced by Indian security personnel.
• Two terrorists have been neutralized, though their identities and group affiliations remain unconfirmed.
• The security forces employed a cordon-and-search strategy, tightening the perimeter over the days with reinforcements to prevent terrorist escape.
• Advanced technology such as drones, helicopters, and para commandos are actively used for surveillance, tracking, and neutralizing terrorists in the dense forest terrain.
• Senior officials, including J&K Police Chief Nalin Prabhat and Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, are closely monitoring the operation.
• The operation demonstrates the blend of traditional ground forces’ efforts with technological tools to maximize effectiveness in counter-terrorism.

Significance:

• Internal Security: Operation Akhal exemplifies the persistent challenge of militancy and insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, a sensitive region that continues to affect India’s internal security environment.
• Technology in Counter-terrorism: The deployment of drones and helicopters marks an evolution in Indian counter-insurgency tactics, facilitating better surveillance and minimizing risks to ground troops. However, the indispensability of ground forces remains evident given the terrain and complex nature of the operation.
• Coordination among Forces: The operation shows synergy between Army, Police, and specialized units (para commandos), reflecting integrated approaches for counter-terrorism in conflict zones.
• Public Morale and Security Forces’ Sacrifice: Honoring the fallen soldiers reflects the sacrifice of the armed forces and reinforces public confidence in their role as protectors of sovereignty.
• Impact on Civilian Life: Long-drawn operations can impact normal life and necessitate careful balancing between security imperatives and civil rights.

Debates and Issues:

• The poll on whether drones are more important than ground forces highlights the ongoing debate on the future of warfare and security tactics. Both are complementary, as technology supports but cannot replace boots on the ground.
• The prolonged nature of such operations calls for discussions on the human cost, psychological impact on soldiers, and rehabilitation of affected civilians.

Conclusion:

Operation Akhal underscores India’s commitment to countering terrorism through combined use of intelligence, technology, and ground action. It illustrates the continuing complexities in Jammu and Kashmir’s security landscape and the critical role of armed forces in preserving national integrity.

Updated: August 9, 2025, 12:07 IST
Source: The Times of India