India, Bhutan ready for next strike on rebels

The operation saw the Bhutanese Army neutralising over 400 terrorists, while the Indian security forces accounted for nearly 500 terrorists including those captured or surrendered.

The operations commenced soon after the Bhutan government called off negotiations and started pounding insurgent camps. On the Indian side, the Army moved quickly to seal the borders and stepped up anti-terrorist operations.

Appreciating the efforts undertaken by the Bhutanese Army, India has agreed to help raise two more battalions at a cost of Rs 15 crore, said South Block sources. The Indian Military Training Team, which coordinates training for Royal Bhutanese forces, is also expected to be beefed up for raising the additional battalions.

The first phase of operations was officially closed on January 27, more than a month after the Bhutan Army went on the offensive against Indian insurgents operating out of Bhutan.