BSF Reports 69 Active Launch Pads and 120 Militants at LoC

In a recent press conference, Inspector General of the Border Security Force (BSF) Kashmir Frontier, Ashok Yadav, revealed that there are currently 69 active launch pads along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that approximately 100 to 120 militants are positioned at these sites, preparing to infiltrate into Indian territory.

Yadav highlighted the successful efforts of the BSF and the Indian Army in managing the situation along the LoC. He noted that this year, the forces have thwarted four infiltration attempts, resulting in the deaths of eight militants. The BSF has conducted 22 joint operations with the Army, Jammu and Kashmir police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). These operations have led to the neutralisation of several terrorists in North Kashmir and the recovery of a significant cache of weapons, which includes AK-47 rifles, MP-5 rifles, pistols, hand grenades, and various types of ammunition.

The BSF has been actively monitoring and controlling the LoC, which stretches 343 kilometres in Kashmir. The intelligence wing of the BSF, known as the G Branch, has played a crucial role in tracking the movements of militant groups and their operatives. Yadav stated, "Our G unit is keeping a close watch on all the 69 active launching pads along the LoC, where around 100-120 terrorists have been waiting to infiltrate. Various training camps of terrorists are also under scrutiny of our intelligence wing."

Despite facing numerous challenges such as harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the constant threat of infiltration attempts and ceasefire violations, the BSF personnel remain dedicated to securing the LoC. Yadav commended their commitment, saying that they stand resolutely alongside the Army to protect the border.

Following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local ponywala, the BSF has deployed specially trained Counter-Insurgency/Counter-Terrorism (CI/CT) teams in the Gulmarg area. These teams are focused on ensuring the safety of tourists visiting this popular destination, working in conjunction with local police forces.

In addition to operational security measures, the BSF has implemented various initiatives to enhance the defensive capabilities and infrastructure at Forward Defended Localities (FDLs). Yadav reported that new surveillance technologies and weaponry have been introduced to improve night-time operations and adapt to emerging challenges along the LoC. He emphasised the importance of training for BSF personnel to effectively respond to potential infiltration and hostile actions.

Yadav also touched on Operation Sindoor, in which BSF units collaborated with the Army to launch fire assaults against Pakistani posts and terrorist launch pads along the LoC. He stated, "All BSF units of Kashmir Frontier, including its Artillery regiments, carried out heavy and accurate shelling on enemy posts and bunkers, causing significant casualties to Pakistani troops and damaging their forward positions."

In a notable development, women personnel of the BSF have been deployed at high-altitude FDLs and at key checkpoints along roads leading from the LoC. Their role includes intercepting female couriers and supporters of militant groups and smuggling networks, showcasing the BSF's commitment to adapting its strategies in the evolving security landscape.

As tensions continue along the LoC, the vigilance and operational readiness of the BSF remain paramount in ensuring the safety and security of the region.