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19 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
4 min
Polity & GovernanceNEWS

High-Altitude CRPF Bases Established in J&K to Counter Threats

CRPF sets up temporary bases in J&K to counter foreign terrorists.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has established 43 temporary operating bases in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. This initiative follows the Pahalgam terror attack in April and is part of a new strategy to identify and flush out terrorists who have relocated to higher reaches.

Intelligence estimates suggest that around 40 foreign terrorists are active in the Jammu region and 60 in the Valley. These bases house 15 to 20 CRPF personnel who conduct search and assault operations in areas where terrorists are suspected to be moving or taking shelter.

Key Facts

1.

The CRPF has established 43 temporary operating bases in J&K.

2.

The bases are located at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet.

3.

Intelligence estimates suggest there are around 40 foreign terrorists in the Jammu region.

4.

Intelligence estimates suggest there are around 60 foreign terrorists in the Valley.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Internal Security Challenges

2.

GS Paper II: Role of Central Armed Police Forces

3.

Connects to syllabus topics on terrorism, insurgency, and border management

4.

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on internal security

In Simple Words

The CRPF, which is like a national police force, has set up temporary camps in the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. These camps are meant to find and remove terrorists hiding in those areas. It's like setting up neighborhood watch posts, but in the mountains.

India Angle

In India, this means safer communities in J&K. A shopkeeper in Srinagar can feel more secure knowing security forces are actively working to prevent attacks.

For Instance

Think of it like when your local police sets up a temporary checkpoint after a series of robberies in your area. It's a visible effort to increase security.

This matters because it directly impacts the safety and security of people living in Jammu and Kashmir. It helps ensure a peaceful environment for daily life.

More security in the mountains means more peace for the people.

More Information

Background

The establishment of CRPF bases in Jammu and Kashmir is closely linked to the ongoing efforts to counter terrorism in the region. The CRPF, as a central armed police force, plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security and assisting local police in counter-insurgency operations. The need for such measures has historically stemmed from cross-border terrorism and internal security challenges. Jammu and Kashmir has been a region affected by militancy for several decades. The security forces have been engaged in continuous operations to neutralize terrorist threats. The relocation of terrorists to higher reaches, as mentioned in the news, necessitates a strategic response involving the establishment of temporary operating bases to effectively track and engage them. This also highlights the evolving tactics of terrorist groups and the need for security forces to adapt accordingly. The Ministry of Home Affairs oversees the deployment and operations of the CRPF in Jammu and Kashmir. The legal framework for these operations is derived from the Constitution of India, which empowers the central government to deploy central armed police forces in any state for the maintenance of law and order.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on strengthening the security grid in Jammu and Kashmir. This includes enhanced coordination between various security agencies, increased use of technology for surveillance, and proactive measures to prevent infiltration. The government has also been emphasizing the rehabilitation of surrendered militants and providing them with opportunities for a dignified life. The Delimitation Commission's report, which redrew the electoral map of Jammu and Kashmir, has also had implications for the security situation in the region. The redrawing of constituencies could potentially influence the political dynamics and security landscape. Furthermore, the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 has led to significant changes in the administrative and legal framework of Jammu and Kashmir, impacting various aspects of governance and security. Looking ahead, the focus is likely to remain on maintaining peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir, while also promoting development and economic opportunities for the local population. The security forces will continue to adapt their strategies to counter evolving threats and ensure the safety and security of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the CRPF's new bases in J&K that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

The CRPF has established 43 temporary operating bases in J&K at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. These bases aim to counter foreign terrorists, with approximately 40 active in the Jammu region and 60 in the Valley. Each base houses 15 to 20 CRPF personnel.

Exam Tip

Focus on the number of bases, altitude range, and the estimated number of terrorists for prelims MCQs.

2. Why has the CRPF established these high-altitude bases in Jammu and Kashmir?

The CRPF established these bases to counter threats from terrorists who have relocated to higher reaches. This initiative follows the Pahalgam terror attack in April and is part of a strategy to identify and flush out these terrorists.

Exam Tip

Understanding the context (Pahalgam attack) and the strategic objective (countering terrorists in higher reaches) is crucial.

3. What are the implications of establishing these CRPF bases for the local population in Jammu and Kashmir?

The establishment of these bases may lead to increased security and stability in the region, potentially reducing the threat of terrorist attacks. However, it could also lead to increased scrutiny and restrictions on the movement of local populations in the area.

Exam Tip

Consider both positive (security) and negative (restrictions) impacts for a balanced answer in Mains.

4. What recent developments prompted the establishment of these CRPF bases?

The establishment of these CRPF bases was prompted by the Pahalgam terror attack in April and intelligence estimates indicating a significant presence of foreign terrorists in the Jammu and Kashmir region. The CRPF launched an intelligence-based operation from Faqir Gujri base on July 25.

Exam Tip

Remember the Pahalgam attack and the intelligence inputs as key triggers.

5. How does the establishment of these CRPF bases relate to the broader issue of internal security in India?

The CRPF bases are a part of India's efforts to maintain internal security and counter-insurgency operations, particularly in regions affected by terrorism. The deployment of central armed police forces like the CRPF highlights the Centre-State relations in managing security challenges.

Exam Tip

Connect this specific instance to the broader themes of internal security, counter-terrorism, and Centre-State coordination.

6. What is the significance of the altitude at which these CRPF bases are established?

The CRPF bases are established at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet because intelligence suggests that terrorists have relocated to these higher reaches. This allows the CRPF to conduct search and assault operations in areas where terrorists are suspected to be moving or taking shelter.

Exam Tip

The altitude is directly linked to the terrorists' relocation strategy, making it a key strategic consideration.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent establishment of CRPF bases in Jammu and Kashmir: 1. The bases are located at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. 2. This initiative was prompted by the recent terror attack in Poonch. 3. Intelligence estimates suggest that approximately 100 foreign terrorists are active in the Valley. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The CRPF bases are indeed established at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet in J&K. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The initiative was prompted by the Pahalgam terror attack in April, not the Poonch attack. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Intelligence estimates suggest that around 60 foreign terrorists are active in the Valley, not 100. Around 40 are active in the Jammu region.

2. Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)?

  • A.Primarily responsible for guarding India's international borders.
  • B.Primarily responsible for maintaining law and order and counter-insurgency operations within India.
  • C.Primarily responsible for conducting intelligence gathering operations in foreign countries.
  • D.Primarily responsible for providing security to VIPs and government officials.
Show Answer

Answer: B

The CRPF is a Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) primarily responsible for assisting state/UT governments in maintaining law and order and for counter-insurgency operations. While they may provide security to VIPs, their main role is internal security. Border guarding is primarily done by forces like BSF and ITBP.

3. Assertion (A): The CRPF has established temporary operating bases in high-altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Reason (R): Terrorist groups have been increasingly using higher reaches for shelter and movement. In the context of the above, which of the following is correct?

  • A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
  • C.A is true, but R is false
  • D.A is false, but R is true
Show Answer

Answer: A

Both the assertion and the reason are true. The CRPF has established bases in high-altitude areas (A), and this is a direct response to terrorist groups using these areas for shelter and movement (R). Therefore, R is the correct explanation for A.

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