Ministry of Home Affairs Clears ₹4.54 Crore Winter Equipment Package for CRPF Bases in J&K

The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved a special allocation of more than ₹4.54 crore to strengthen the winter preparedness of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed at high-altitude locations in Jammu and Kashmir.

The sanctioned amount will be used to procure specialised clothing and equipment for approximately 600 personnel stationed at Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) in the higher reaches of the Union Territory. The initiative is aimed at helping security personnel maintain operational effectiveness while working in areas affected by severe cold, snowfall and challenging mountainous terrain.

The equipment being procured includes a range of cold-weather and field-support items such as snow boots, gaiters, sleeping bags, gloves, protective goggles, rucksacks, tents, blankets, insulating mats, thermal insoles and rescue bags. These supplies are intended to support personnel during prolonged deployments where conventional logistical support can be difficult to maintain during winter.

An important component of the procurement is Himsuraksha extreme cold-weather clothing developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The indigenous cold-weather system is designed to provide additional protection to personnel exposed to extremely low temperatures while carrying out duties in high-altitude environments.

The CRPF has expanded its presence through Temporary Operating Bases in remote mountainous areas of Jammu and Kashmir to improve access to difficult terrain and strengthen security operations. These forward locations enable personnel to remain closer to areas that may otherwise be difficult to monitor because of their altitude, rugged landscape and limited accessibility.

The expansion of these bases gained greater importance following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, after which security forces intensified efforts to prevent militants from exploiting remote mountain areas. CRPF teams operating from the forward bases are involved in activities including area domination, reconnaissance, search operations and counter-terrorism duties.

Operating in such locations during the winter months presents a separate set of challenges. Sub-zero temperatures, snowfall and difficult movement conditions can affect both personnel and logistics. Ensuring adequate winter clothing, shelter and survival equipment is therefore considered essential for maintaining a continuous security presence.