Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently addressed critical security issues concerning India’s northern borders and the situation in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). General Dwivedi addressed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), stating that the security remains sensitive but stable. He highlighted significant progress made in Eastern Ladakh. General Dwivedi revealed that last year, 60% of terrorists eliminated were of Pakistan origin
60% of Terrorists Eliminated in 2024 Linked to Pakistan
Turning to Jammu & Kashmir, General Dwivedi spoke on the significant progress made in counter-terrorism operations. “Last year, 60% of terrorists eliminated were of Pakistan origin. As of today, whatever is a remnant in the Valley and Jammu area, we feel that around 80% or more are of Pakistan origin” he said.
Despite the ongoing infiltration attempts along the Line of Control (LoC), the situation in J&K is firmly under control, with the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, effective since February 2021, holding steady. “On Line of Control, ceasefire which is effective from February 2021 after the DGMO understanding is holding on. However, the terror infrastructure remains intact. Infiltration attempts continue including from the IB sector… In recent months, increased terrorist activities were seen in North Kashmir and Doda-Kishtwar belt. Overall violence parameters are under control” he said.
“We witnessed more than 5 lakh pilgrims during Amarnath Yatra this time and the peaceful conduct of elections are indicator of a positive change…The theme of terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape” General Dwivedi added.
Stability on Northern Borders
In his statement, General Dwivedi noted that the Indian Army has resolved the tense situation in Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh. General Dwivedi stated, “In October situation in Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh got resolved. The patrolling to traditional areas in these two sub-sectors has commenced. Similarly, traditional grazing has also commenced in these two areas.” He emphasized that he had authorized his co-commanders to manage these matters on the ground to avoid escalation
The Army Chief assured that India’s deployment along the LAC remains balanced, robust, and well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise. Additionally, a focused capability development strategy for the northern borders has allowed the integration of niche technology into India’s war-fighting systems. “Own deployment along LAC is balanced and robust. We are well poised to deal with any situation. A focus capability development for northern borders enabled infusion of niche technology into a war-fighting system…” he said.
Shift from Terrorism to Tourism
The Army Chief underscored the gradual shift from terrorism to tourism in J&K. He noted that this shift signals a positive transformation in the region’s security landscape and economy. This shift marks a key milestone in the ongoing efforts to bring peace and stability to the area.
