Tral, Jammu and Kashmir — May 16, 2025:
In a major counter-terrorism offensive, Indian security forces launched Operation Nader in the Tral region of South Kashmir, targeting a suspected terror hideout linked to Pakistan-based militant groups. The joint operation, carried out by the Indian Army, Rashtriya Rifles, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF, resulted in the neutralization of at least four militants and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and explosives.
Launched in the early hours of Thursday, Operation Nader marks one of the most well-coordinated anti-terror missions in recent months, signaling a renewed push by Indian security agencies to flush out foreign-trained militants operating in the dense forest belts and rural pockets of Pulwama district.
Intelligence-Driven Operation
Sources in the Indian Army confirmed that the operation was launched based on “actionable human intelligence” and electronic surveillance that suggested the presence of high-value terrorist operatives in Nagbal-Tral — a known hotspot for terror activity in the region. The inputs were corroborated by technical surveillance, including drone reconnaissance and mobile signal interception, indicating movements of foreign militants affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
Troops from the 42 Rashtriya Rifles, in collaboration with local police units and the CRPF’s QAT (Quick Action Team), quickly cordoned off the suspected area late Wednesday night. A brief lull ensued before heavy gunfire erupted early Thursday.
Fierce Gunfight and Successful Elimination
The encounter lasted more than six hours, with terrorists reportedly taking shelter in an abandoned structure near a forested ridge. Security forces used rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), flashbangs, and thermal imaging equipment to minimize their own casualties while tightening the cordon.
By midday, all four militants had been neutralized. Among them, two were identified as Pakistani nationals, believed to have infiltrated through the Uri sector in recent months. Forensic teams were sent in to confirm their identities and affiliations.
Weapons and Propaganda Material Seized
Following the operation, a detailed search of the site yielded:
- 3 AK-47 rifles
- Multiple grenades and IED-making materials
- Night vision scopes and satellite phones
- Propaganda leaflets promoting jihad and glorifying suicide missions
The recovery of satellite communication devices has led investigators to suspect deeper cross-border coordination, with possible links to handlers operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Security Forces on High Alert Across South Kashmir
In the aftermath of Operation Nader, security forces have stepped up surveillance across South Kashmir. Additional checkposts have been established along key transit routes to prevent retaliatory attacks or escape attempts by other militants believed to be operating in the region.
Lt. General Upendra Dwivedi, Northern Army Commander, praised the troops for their “swift and surgical action,” stating:
“Operation Nader demonstrates our unwavering commitment to uproot terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir. We salute the bravery of our forces and assure the people of Kashmir that peace and progress remain our shared goal.”
Symbolic Naming: Who Was Nader?
The operation’s codename — “Nader” — is believed to be inspired by Nader Shah, the 18th-century Persian ruler known for decisive and unexpected military campaigns. Officials suggest the name reflects the operation’s strategy: surprise, precision, and elimination of high-value targets.
Political and Civilian Reactions
The Ministry of Home Affairs hailed the operation as a “strategic success,” while Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha commended the forces for ensuring zero civilian casualties.
However, local residents expressed concern over frequent internet shutdowns and search operations in the region. “While we support actions against terrorism, we also want to live peacefully without fear of raids,” said a schoolteacher from Tral who requested anonymity.
Terror Recruitment Down, But Threat Persists
Intelligence inputs suggest that local recruitment into terror groups has significantly declined due to increased surveillance and pressure on militant sympathizers. However, infiltration from across the LoC and digital radicalization remain ongoing threats.
With Operation Nader, Indian forces have struck a symbolic and operational blow to the militant network in South Kashmir, reinforcing their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.
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