Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar on Thursday for his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack and the cessation of hostilities agreement between India and Pakistan. He was accompanied by J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
“Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has reached Srinagar this morning. He will interact with troops,” the Office of the Defence Minister posted on X.
Singh is expected to engage directly with Army personnel, recognizing their role in maintaining national security and executing Operation Sindoor, India’s large-scale response to the April attack in which 26 civilians were killed. The operation, launched on May 7, involved precision strikes across the Line of Control, eliminating over 100 terrorists in Pakistan and PoJK.
Following the success of Operation Sindoor and the India-Pakistan de-escalation, signs of normalcy are emerging in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Directorate of School Education, Jammu, announced the reopening of schools in multiple border zones starting May 15, offering relief to students and families after a period of closure due to security concerns.
Schools will reopen in:
- Jammu: Chowki Choura, Bhalwal, Dansal, Gandhi Nagar, and Jammu zones
- Samba: Vijaypur
- Kathua: Barnoti, Lakhanpur, Sallan, and Ghagwal
- Rajouri: Peeri, Kalakote, Thanamandi, Moghla, Kotranka, Khawas, Lower Hathal, and Darhal
- Poonch: Surankote and Buffliaz
Additionally, helicopter services between Katra and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine resumed on Wednesday after a week-long suspension due to regional tensions.
Despite signs of peace, the Indian Army remains on high alert. Security forces have intensified operations across the Valley to prevent further attacks. The Defence Minister’s visit is seen as both a morale boost for the armed forces and a message of national resolve.
Rajnath Singh’s trip underscores the Centre’s commitment to maintaining peace, supporting its armed forces, and ensuring the safety and normalcy of life for civilians in the region.
