In a tragic incident on April 22, 2025, the Pahalgam terror attack resulted in the loss of 26 lives of tourists in Baisaran Valley near Srinagar, making it one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in recent times. This attack not only deeply impacted the nation but also led to a significant change in India’s approach to combating terrorism.
Following the attack, India initiated “Operation Sindoor,” which involved strategic strikes on terror infrastructure located in Pakistan. This operation marked a shift towards a more stringent stance, with the authorities adopting a “zero tolerance” policy towards terrorism, influencing security operations thereafter.
Fast forward almost a year later, the security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a notable transformation. Security forces, operating under a unified command, have intensified their efforts against terrorist networks, while tourist spots have seen a substantial enhancement in security measures.
Numerous tourist destinations that were temporarily closed post-attack have now reopened with upgraded security protocols. Others are undergoing phased restoration, including improved access routes and fortified road networks.
The subsequent months post-attack witnessed a transition towards intelligence-driven operations, with agencies enhancing control over both hinterland and border regions. There has been a significant surge in counter-terror operations not only in Jammu and Kashmir but also in various other parts of the country.
“Operation Sindoor” laid the groundwork for what officials term as the “Prahaar Doctrine,” a comprehensive security strategy emphasizing the dismantling of the terror ecosystem using advanced technologies like AI-driven intelligence, drone warfare, and monitoring of terror financing, including via the dark web.
On the Line of Control (LoC), there has been a reinforcement of deployments with upgraded artillery, air defense systems, drones, and troop readiness. Additionally, the Border Security Force has been granted authorization to raise 16 new battalions, comprising around 17,000 personnel, and set up additional forward headquarters to bolster border security.
Collaborative operations involving the NIA, Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, CAPFs, and intelligence agencies have intensified, targeting both active terrorists and their support networks. In the Valley, security forces are actively engaged in search-and-destroy missions against sleeper cells, supported by aerial surveillance and advanced equipment.
Security measures at tourist destinations, particularly in high-altitude and remote areas, have been revamped over the past year. Surveillance has been expanded through drones and increased patrolling, with the CISF deployed for specialized static security at crucial sites.
The government has integrated advanced defense systems, including drone capabilities, air defense platforms like Akash, and electronic warfare tools, to counter evolving threats. Continued operations have led to the identification and elimination of perpetrators involved in the Pahalgam attack under “Operation Mahadev.”
Multiple tourist spots across Jammu and Kashmir have been reopened, such as Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Peer Ki Gali, Thajwas Glacier, Wullar, and the tulip garden in Srinagar. However, Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam remains closed.
Recent intelligence suggests that Pakistan-based terror groups are attempting to regroup post setbacks from Operation Sindoor. There are indications of evolving tactics, including potential aerial assaults using kamikaze drones targeting convoys, military installations, and critical infrastructure.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has cautioned about potential provocations from Pakistan, warning of a forceful response to any such actions.
Over the past year, the government has expanded its counter-terror framework, focusing on intelligence integration, inter-agency coordination, and technological advancements. Measures include extending connectivity under the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) to the district level for improved intelligence sharing, upgrading the MAC–SMAC network with enhanced hardware and AI tools, and employing digital technologies for coordinated operations by central agencies like the NIA, IB, NATGRID, and state ATS units.
Efforts to combat online radicalization have resulted in increased arrests, charge sheets, and convictions. Initiatives like NATGRID’s “Gandiva” and the upcoming Organized Crime Network Database (OCND) are enhancing intelligence analysis. Additionally, capacity-building programs, joint exercises, and forensic advancements have bolstered operational readiness.
The National Security Guard (NSG) has expanded coordination with states, conducted multi-city counter-terror drills, and trained personnel for diverse scenarios, including hijack and hostage rescue operations.