Jul 16: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given in-principle approval to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to raise 20 new battalions comprising over 20,000 personnel for deployment in Jammu and Kashmir. Initially, the CRPF had sought approval for 35 battalions, but the Ministry sanctioned 20 as an immediate measure following the April 22 Pahalgam militant attack and subsequent Operation Sindoor.
The Finance Ministry has already cleared the proposal, and formal approval from the Union Cabinet is expected soon. Reports suggest these new battalions will be equipped with enhanced operational capabilities tailored to the terrain and security needs of Jammu and Kashmir. With this deployment, the government is aiming to bolster counter-terror operations and intensify its security grid in the region.
The move indicates a strategic shift from Naxal-affected areas to counter-militancy efforts in J&K, highlighting the Centre’s focus on strengthening internal security. Senior officials confirmed that additional CRPF companies will soon be deployed across Jammu and Kashmir to support local police in law and order maintenance, counter-terror operations, and anti-militancy drives. This large-scale induction is expected to significantly improve the security framework and operational effectiveness in the Union Territory.
