Even as four months have passed to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, security forces are still on alert in the Jammu and Kashmir region. In another move that speaks volumes of its readiness and proactiveness, the Centra has sanctioned the deployment of 3 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) battalions in Jammu to reinforce the counter-terrorism security grid.

Now, the Centre has directed that 3 CRPF battalions be deployed in Jammu, of which, each unit will comprise roughly 800 personnel. These troops will replace Rashtriya Rifles (RR) contingents currently stationed in Udhampur and Kathua districts. The Army troops will be reassigned to new operational roles.

The 3 CRPF battalions will have a greater focus on guarding the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Why CRPF battalions are being moved to Jammu?

The move is part of a wider security strategy under which responsibilities in the hinterland are gradually being transferred from the Army to central paramilitary forces operating under the Union Home Ministry, news agency PTI reported, citing officials. Eventually, the Centre plans to extend this model to more areas, including the Kashmir Valley, once the redeployment in Udhampur and Kathua is complete.

The government has been working on the plan since 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370 and subsequent improvement in the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said the three CRPF battalions earmarked for Jammu include personnel with extensive experience in counter-insurgency operations. They are being equipped with modern weapons, advanced communications systems, and armoured vehicles to ensure smooth transition and operational readiness. The units will also utilise the infrastructure and logistics left by the Army in the region.

Security in Jammu has gained renewed importance in recent years due to a rise in militant activities in its forested belts. Of the 2,289-km India–Pakistan International Border, nearly 485 km lies in Jammu, in addition to a section of the LoC. Officials said the fresh deployment is aimed at preventing infiltration attempts and tackling terror-related incidents in the region.