Elite squad trained to neutralize terror threats in high altitude zones, handle sub-zero warfare, avalanche response
Waris Fayaz
Srinagar, Feb 25 :
The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday unveiled its newly formed elite “Snow Leopard” squad, a specialized high-altitude unit created to strengthen security and carryout anti-terror operations in mountainous and snow bound regions across the Union Territory.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the squad has been deployed for the first time during the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg, where it is responsible for securing athletes, officials and visitors at elevations reaching nearly 14,000 feet.
A top Police official told KNO that the deployment marks the operational debut of the unit, designed specifically for mountain security operations and extreme terrain challenges.
“The Snow Leopard squad has been raised to respond to emerging terror threats in high altitude zones, where terrorists attempt to exploit difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions. The unit consists primarily of personnel drawn from the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group and functions as a dedicated wing for snow and mountain warfare,” the official added.
“The squad personnel underwent over six months of intensive specialized training, conducted alongside elite formations including the Army’s Para Commandos and the Greyhounds Special Forces to enhance combat readiness and operational coordination. The squad has been trained to operate in sub zero temperatures reaching minus 20 degrees Celsius, low oxygen environments, dense forests and avalanche prone areas,” he said, adding, “ Apart from combat roles, the unit has also received disaster response training to handle avalanches, landslides, and other natural emergencies common in mountainous areas.”
The unit currently comprises more than 100 trained personnel, the Snow Leopard squad can be deployed anywhere across Jammu and Kashmir where high altitude operations are required, the official said—(KNO)