For More Eyes In The Sky, Jammu And Kashmir Police To Get 50 Drones

The Jammu and Kashmir police are set to add to more teeth to its surveillance system with an upcoming acquisition of 50 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The biggest UAV procurements for the JK police have already been approved Union home ministry. The UAVs will help the police to keep an eye on protesters and militant movements.

Officials privy to details of the procurements told Hindustan Times that tenders have already been floated by the procurement wing of the JK police and the process could be completed by this month which would give cops more eyes in the sky. “We have already floated tenders for UAV purchase and after the completion of the process police could get UAVs,” a senior police officer said. He, however, refused to give further details about the UAVs.

The UAVs or drone system will be of category 3 which is considered the latest and equipped with the technology required by the police especially in Kashmir given its terrain and mountainous region, the official said. Besides dealing in law and order, the Jammu and Kashmir police are also involved in anti-militancy operations. The police earlier used to seek assistance from army units for using drones. Officials, however, said after the procurement of drones or UAVs, the police will become more tech-savvy, especially in the Kashmir. After the abrogation of Article 370, officials have braced for an increase in militant activities and the possibilities of small incidents triggering bigger protests.