Army identifies 42 terrorist launch pads across PoK after Pahalgam attack: Sources

Indian security forces have targeted specific terror launch sites and training facilities located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), shortly after the Pahalgam terrorist assault that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including a Nepali national, sources informed India Today.

As per intelligence reports, Indian agencies have been monitoring these facilities closely for several months. The Army provided Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with an extensive briefing that included strategic recommendations and operational options. The Army is closely observing these developments. Tactical choices, such as enhancing precision surveillance and strengthening the counter-infiltration network, are being evaluated.

Intelligence reports indicate that around 150–200 trained terrorists are presently located in different camps, ready for infiltration efforts targeting Jammu and Kashmir.

The Pakistan Army is allegedly aiding these infiltrations, with a recent effort close to the Battal sector leading to an intense firefight. Reports suggest that the 642 Mujahid Battalion experienced significant losses during this unsuccessful infiltration attempt.

Moreover, there are currently 60 foreign terrorists from Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operating in Jammu and Kashmir. There are 17 local terrorists operating in the union territory. The Pakistan Army has announced a state of high alert on its side of the Line of Control. As per Indian intelligence sources, this has been carried out in expectation of potential Indian measures.

This year, the Pakistan Army has breached the ceasefire on three occasions in Jammu and Kashmir. In this timeframe, five militants were killed in a clash with the Indian Army.

Intelligence reports indicate that there are 42 operational terrorist launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir close to the LoC. Approximately 130 militants are believed to be located in these launch sites. More than 70 terrorists operate in the Kashmir Valley and about 60 to 65 in Jammu, Rajouri, and Poonch. Approximately 115 of these individuals are citizens of Pakistan.