Srinagar:Lt Gen Devendra Pratap Pandey handed over the command of the strategic Kashmir based 15 Corps to Lt Gen Amardeep Singh Aujla at headquarter 15 Corps on Monday, Srinagar based defence spokesman said. Lt Gen Pandey commanded the Corps in a “critical” phase of 2021, where in Kashmir was confronted with the “twin challenges of terrorism and second wave of COVID-19 pandemic.” “The tenure has been defined by an improved security environment prevailing at the Line of Control, as well as in hinterland. With the Civil Administration and security forces synergizing their efforts to bring normalcy back to Kashmir, terrorism is on decline with assessed residual terrorist numbers reduced to an all-time low,” the spokesman said. A dynamic deployment along the LoC integrated by technical intelligence and robust anti-infiltration grid ensured drastically reduced infiltration, he said. The opportunity afforded by the Ceasefire agreement resulted in renewed attempts to bring succour to the local population residing along the LoC “The conflict entrepreneurs were targeted, while simultaneously engaging youth through various initiatives, extending myriad platforms to showcase their talent, ranging from sports to cultural arenas. The efforts have borne fruits, with the terrorists’ number dwindling to an all-time low of 150,” he said. “In the hinterland, all elements of Security Forces were synergized to break the cycle of violence. Relentless operations, in tandem with Jammu & Kashmir Police and other CAPFs (Central Armed Police Forces), based on hard intelligence were carried out to neutralise terrorists, with minimum collateral damage and zero civilian fatalities. The approach also included outreach to families, including those of active terrorists to minimise recruitment and induce surrenders amongst local terrorists,” he added. The spokesman said various programmes were incorporated to stymie the radicalisation and incitement being carried out by “white collar terrorists” to misguide and force the youth of Kashmir onto the path of violence. Lt Gen Pandey ensured an improved soldier-citizen connect. Lt Gen Pandey’s contribution to peace and stability in Kashmir were recognised by him bagging the award of the prestigious ‘Uttam Yudh Seva Medal’ (UYSM) by President of India, Ram Nath Kovind on January 26, 2022, the spokesman said. In his farewell message, Lt Gen Pandey complimented all ranks of Chinar Corps for their dedication and hard work. He appreciated JKP, CAPFs, Civil administration and the community members for their relentless support in the joint effort towards peace and prosperity in J&K. He conveyed his greetings and best wishes to the citizens of Kashmir and the entire Chinar Corps fraternity. UNI MJR SY 1413
