**Drones Detected Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir Amid Rising Tensions**
In a concerning development, at least two drones were spotted near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. This incident occurred just hours after Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Pakistan regarding ceasefire violations and cross-border provocations. Sources indicate that the drones were detected in the Rajouri sector, prompting the Indian Army to initiate countermeasures, including opening fire to neutralize the aerial threats.
Reports suggest that multiple Pakistani drones were observed in the Dungala–Nabla area of the Rajouri sector, where Indian Army personnel engaged them as part of standard operating procedures. The region remains under close surveillance, with security forces maintaining a heightened state of alert. Additionally, another drone was sighted in the Thandi Kassi area of Rajouri district, leading authorities to issue a high alert and launch search operations in areas adjacent to the LoC in both Rajouri and the neighboring Poonch districts.
**Intensified Anti-Terror Operations in Kathua**
Simultaneously, anti-terror operations have been escalated in the forested regions of Billawar in Kathua district. An encounter broke out earlier on Tuesday, resulting in a brief exchange of fire between security forces and terrorists lasting approximately 15 minutes. Reinforcements were deployed to the area, and while the firing has ceased, a cordon remains in place as search operations are set to resume on Wednesday morning.
**Recent Patterns of Drone Sightings**
This latest incident follows a series of suspected Pakistani drone sightings along the International Border (IB) and the LoC in Samba, Rajouri, and Poonch districts, which had prompted security forces to heighten their alert status just two days prior. Officials reported observing at least five drone movements in forward areas, leading to extensive ground search operations to prevent potential arms or contraband drops on Indian territory. The drones were seen entering Indian airspace, hovering over sensitive locations, and then retreating back towards Pakistan.
**General Dwivedi’s Firm Stance**
Earlier on Tuesday, Army Chief General Dwivedi reiterated India’s position on the recent UAV sightings along the LoC, stating that such activities are “not acceptable.” During his annual press conference, he mentioned that discussions at the Director General of Military Operations level were held with Pakistan, where India expressed its concerns regarding the drone movements. “We have told Pakistan to rein in its drones,” he emphasized, assuring that the Army remains fully alert and prepared for any future provocations.
**Conclusion**
The situation along the western front remains tense, particularly following the recent Pahalgam attack, which has led Indian forces to recalibrate their operational posture through a swift “reset strategy.” Operation Sindoor is currently underway, executed with precision to address the evolving security challenges in the region.
**FAQ**
**What actions are being taken in response to drone sightings near the LoC?**
In response to the drone sightings, the Indian Army has initiated countermeasures, including opening fire on the drones and maintaining a heightened state of alert in the region. Security forces are also conducting search operations to ensure no contraband is dropped on Indian territory.