Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 13: About 60 per cent of terrorists eliminated in Jammu and Kashmir last year were of Pakistani origin, said Army chief gen Upendra Dwivedi while briefing the media on the prevailing situation along the Line of Control (LoC). He added that 80 per cent of the remaining terrorists in J&K are also from Pakistan.
"The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is firmly under control. On the LoC, the ceasefire agreement, effective since February 2021, continues to hold. However, terror infrastructure across the border remains intact," said Gen Dwivedi, who has extensive operational experience on the borders with Pakistan and China.
Despite the ceasefire, infiltration attempts persist, including those from the International Border (IB) sector, alongside drone operations aimed at smuggling arms, ammunition, and narcotics.
The Army chief noted an increase in terrorist activity in North Kashmir and the Doda-Kishtwar belt in recent months but assured that the overall security situation is stable. "The violence parameters are under control," he said.
Highlighting the significant improvement in security, Gen Dwivedi stated, "This year, over five lac pilgrims participated in the Amarnath Yatra peacefully. Similarly, the smooth conduct of Lok Sabha and assembly elections demonstrates a positive transformation. The theme of 'terrorism to tourism' is steadily becoming a reality."
Addressing the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, Gen Dwivedi termed it "stable but sensitive." He informed that traditional patrolling and grazing activities have resumed in areas like Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh, following disengagement at the remaining friction points.
Focusing on enhancing border infrastructure and operational capabilities, he assured, "Our deployment is balanced and robust. The Army is fully prepared to handle any situation."
On the restoration of ties with China, he said, "India and China are cautiously moving towards mending bilateral relations, which were frozen for over four years due to the Ladakh standoff."