Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Srinagar, Oct 9: The body of one of the two missing soldiers was recovered on Thursday from the snow-covered upper reaches of Kokernag in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, days after both went missing during an ongoing anti-terror operation.

Officials confirmed that the deceased paratrooper's rucksack and service weapon were found intact, indicating he remained combat-ready until the end. The soldier had been part of a special cordon and search operation (CASO) launched earlier this week in the treacherous, high-altitude terrain, believed to have been struck by an avalanche or sudden snowstorm.

His identity has not yet been officially released. Search efforts are underway to locate the second soldier, who remains missing since the incident, as weather conditions continue to hamper visibility and movement.

Army and police teams, supported by specialised units, are continuing rescue operations despite challenging conditions. Both soldiers had reportedly lost contact with their unit following the snowstorm, prompting a large-scale response.

The operation is part of the broader push by Indian security forces to dismantle terror networks in Jammu and Kashmir. Amid these developments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security review meeting in New Delhi, reiterating the Centre’s zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism in the region.

He assured full operational freedom to security forces and called for increased vigilance and coordination to realise the vision of a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir.