One Soldier Found Dead, Search Continues for Comrade in South Kashmir Forests

Srinagar, October 10, 2025: One of the two soldiers who went missing in the dense forests of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district has been found dead, while the search continues for his fellow paratrooper. The body of the soldier was recovered from the thick woods of Gadole in Kokernag on Thursday. Preliminary investigations indicate that he may have succumbed to hypothermia, as the region experienced a sudden drop in temperature following heavy snowfall. The two elite para commandos had lost contact with the Army on Monday while conducting a combing operation in the forested area. Army teams launched extensive search operations immediately after communication was lost, navigating through rugged terrain, dense undergrowth, and snow-laden trails. The discovery of one soldier’s body has been confirmed by military sources, who stated that rescue and recovery efforts for the second soldier are ongoing. Gadole forests are notorious for both treacherous weather conditions and past militant activity. In 2023, the area witnessed a deadly encounter in which Army Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Donchak, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Muzamil lost their lives. The terrain’s combination of dense vegetation, high altitudes, and chilling temperatures makes operations extremely challenging, even for trained special forces. Army officials have not disclosed the identities of the missing soldiers, citing operational security. However, family members have been informed, and measures are being taken to support them during this difficult time. The loss underscores the hazards faced by military personnel deployed in extreme and volatile environments, where natural elements can be as dangerous as any adversary. The search operation is ongoing, with specialized teams equipped for cold-weather survival and navigation leading the efforts. Helicopters and ground teams are coordinating to locate the second soldier, ensuring swift extraction and medical aid if he is found alive. Authorities have also issued advisories to locals and tourists to avoid venturing into the forests due to unpredictable conditions and ongoing military operations. This incident comes amid heightened security vigilance in South Kashmir, where the military conducts regular patrols and combing operations to counter insurgent presence. The Army has reiterated its commitment to the safety and welfare of its personnel while maintaining operational readiness to protect civilians and strategic areas. The recovery of one soldier’s body has prompted reflection on the risks inherent in military service in challenging terrains. Officials stress the importance of preparedness, situational awareness, and the necessity for timely weather assessments during field operations. As the search continues, both the military and local authorities remain on high alert, hoping to locate the second soldier safely. The tragic event is a stark reminder of the dual threats soldiers face in conflict zones—hostile elements and harsh environmental conditions. Families, colleagues, and the broader community are closely following developments, offering support and solidarity as the Army works tirelessly to bring both missing soldiers home. One Soldier Found Dead in South Kashmir, Search Continues for Comrade One of two soldiers missing in South Kashmir’s dense Kokernag forests has been found dead, while search operations continue for the second paratrooper. The recovered soldier likely died of hypothermia after heavy snowfall caused temperatures to plummet. The two elite commandos had lost contact with the Army on Monday during a combing operation. Gadole forests, where the body was found, are known for challenging terrain and past militant activity. Army teams are using ground and aerial support to locate the second soldier, emphasizing safety and urgency amid harsh conditions and ongoing security operations.