Overview On December 22, 2025 , security forces expanded their search operation in the forest belt of Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir to track down hiding terrorists. The operation, initiated in the Majalta forests , underscores the persistent challenges in maintaining internal security in the region. Key Developments Initial Report: The operation began following reports that two terrorists took food from a house before escaping into the Majalta forest area . Expanded Search Area: The cordon and search operation was widened to nearly ten kilometers in the forest belt. Joint Operation: The joint search operation involves police and paramilitary forces in Chore Motu and adjoining forest villages. Intelligence Input: An intelligence input on December 20, 2025 , indicated that two unidentified terrorists visited the house of Mangtu Ram in Chore Motu village. Previous Encounter: On December 15, 2025 , a policeman was killed in an encounter with terrorists at Soan village in the Majalta area . Terrorist Group: The movement of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists was reported in the region. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to GS3 (Internal Security) , highlighting the ongoing challenges of counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir. It also touches upon the role of intelligence gathering and joint operations in maintaining internal security. Important Facts Date of Expanded Operation: December 22, 2025 Location: Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir Forest Area: Majalta forests Terrorist Group Involved: Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) Joint Forces: Police and Paramilitary Forces Previous Incident: Policeman killed on December 15, 2025 , in Soan village Exam Perspective This event can be analyzed from the perspective of internal security challenges, the effectiveness of counter-terrorism strategies, and the role of local intelligence. It also provides insights into the operational dynamics of security forces in challenging terrains.