Jammu, December 18, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir BJP Media Incharge Dr Pardeep Mahotra on Wednesday said that India’s defence capabilities have entered a new phase of strength, speed and strategic preparedness under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with a special emphasis on infrastructure-led security enhancement.
Highlighting the significance of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, Dr Mahotra said the railway corridor has emerged as a critical backbone for both civil connectivity and defence logistics in the region. He stated that improved road networks, four-laning of highways, construction of bridges and tunnels, along with the USBRL project, have added a new dimension to India’s military preparedness along sensitive northern borders.
Referring to a recent development, Dr Mahotra said the movement of tanks and artillery into the Kashmir Valley through a military special train, which crossed the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab river, marks a historic milestone in defence logistics. He said this development reflects the enhanced reach, mobility and operational readiness of the country’s defence forces.
Dr Mahotra observed that rail transport provides a faster, safer and more efficient means for moving heavy military equipment such as tanks and artillery. He said road-based transportation has inherent limitations due to restricted speed, terrain challenges and vulnerability to weather conditions, whereas dedicated military trains enable swift and uninterrupted movement of critical defence assets.
Recalling the situation prior to the completion of rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley, Dr Mahotra said logistical support to the region largely depended on road convoys, which were frequently disrupted by snowfall, landslides and adverse weather, leading to operational delays. He said the government’s focus on strategic infrastructure in difficult terrain has addressed these long-standing challenges.
Dr Mahotra said the strengthening of defence infrastructure and logistics reflects the government’s firm approach towards national security. He added that initiatives ranging from defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ programme to improved border infrastructure and faster mobilisation are aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the armed forces.
He further stated that improved logistics and connectivity not only enable rapid deployment of forces but also serve as a strong deterrent against potential threats. Dr Mahotra asserted that people of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the rest of the country, have confidence that India’s security interests will continue to remain a top priority under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
