Pulwama Attack 7th Anniversary: High Alert in Kashmir, Tributes Paid to Martyrs

India is observing the 7th anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack today, February 14, 2026. Seven years ago, on this day, 40 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were martyred in one of the deadliest suicide attacks in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. The nation marks this day as 'Black Day' to honor the supreme sacrifice of the bravehearts. According to officials, security has been Importantly beefed up across the Kashmir Valley, with additional deployments in sensitive zones to maintain law and order.

Chronology of the 2019 Pulwama Terror Attack

On February 14, 2019, a large convoy of the CRPF consisting of 78 vehicles carrying over 2500 personnel was traveling on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Around 3:15 PM, an explosive-laden SUV driven by a suicide bomber rammed into one of the buses in the convoy near Awantipora. The resulting blast was so powerful that it claimed the lives of 40 soldiers instantly and left many others critically injured. The Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack, identifying the bomber as Adil Ahmad Dar, a local youth from Pulwama.

Heightened Security Measures and High Alert in the Valley

In view of the 7th anniversary, the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security agencies have intensified vigil across the region. According to official reports, surprise checks and frisking operations are being conducted in Srinagar and other major towns, while security forces have increased patrolling on the national highways, and drones are being utilized for aerial surveillance. Intelligence coordination has been enhanced to monitor any suspicious movements, and security cordons around vital installations have been strengthened to prevent any untoward incidents during the commemorative events.

India's Strategic Response: The Balakot Airstrikes

The Pulwama attack led to a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, while in a decisive military response, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted airstrikes on February 26, 2019, targeting JeM terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan. According to government statements, the operation successfully neutralized a large number of terrorists and trainers. This move signaled a shift in India's counter-terrorism strategy, emphasizing a proactive approach against cross-border terror infrastructure. The subsequent aerial skirmish also saw the capture and eventual release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Modernization of Security Forces Post-Pulwama

Since the 2019 attack, there has been a massive overhaul in the equipment and operational protocols of security forces stationed in Jammu and Kashmir. Official sources indicate that forces have been equipped with high-tech weaponry, advanced bulletproof jackets, and Mine-Protected Vehicles (MPVs). The movement of security convoys is now managed with stricter traffic regulations to minimize vulnerability, while On top of that, the integration of technology, including high-definition CCTV networks and improved signal intelligence, has been prioritized to enhance the safety of personnel on duty.

Commemorative Ceremonies at Lethpora and Across India

A special tribute ceremony is being held today at the CRPF memorial in Lethpora, Pulwama, which was built at the site of the attack. Senior officers of the CRPF, Indian Army, and J&K Police are laying wreaths to pay homage to the 40 martyrs. Similar memorial services are being organized across various CRPF units and public squares nationwide. Citizens and social organizations are participating in candle marches and silent prayers to remember the fallen soldiers. The government has also reiterated its commitment to the welfare of the families of the Pulwama martyrs through various ongoing support programs.