Jammu and Kashmir: Villagers in Doda district receive guerrilla warfare training from the Army; a new protective shield against terrorism Army Training

Jammu, January 1, 2026:  Considering the increasing threat of terrorist activities in the sensitive border areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army has started providing weapons training and guerrilla warfare tactics to villagers. This campaign is being implemented in villages of Doda district, and military officials believe that it will enhance the self-defense capabilities of the locals.
It is said that this training has been initiated reminiscent of the turbulent times of the 1990s. During that period, there was a large-scale exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley, while minority Hindus also left their homes in the Chenab Valley and Doda region. At that time, the Army had established Village Defence Committees, providing locals with 7-8 days of training and .303 rifles. However, the situation has changed now, and villagers are being provided with automatic weapons.
Two to three trustworthy individuals out of every 50 citizens are being given automatic weapons, while the rest are receiving traditional .303 rifles. These weapons can be taken home by the citizens, enabling an immediate response. This scheme is being implemented in the remote mountainous areas of Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, and Doda districts.
Increased vigilance due to recent incidents
Recently, a drone attempted to attack a village in the Samba area, but a local citizen shot it down. The Army immediately reached the spot and brought the terrorist activities under control. Such incidents have made the villagers understand the importance of weapons.
Anti-terrorism operations are in full swing in the Gandoh area of ??Doda district, and the joint efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army are strengthening the security cover at the village level. This includes training in guerrilla warfare, weapons handling, and self-defense. However, according to some experts, arms distribution could increase the risk of crime, which is why recipients are thoroughly vetted.
Local leaders say this step will be a milestone in the fight against terrorism. Thanks to the training provided by the army, the villagers are now prepared to defend themselves.