NEW DELHI, Jan 13: Pakistan remains the “epicentre” of terrorism, with the cycle of violence in Jammu and Kashmir being “orchestrated” from across the border, said Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday. Speaking ahead of Army Day, Gen Dwivedi highlighted that the situation in the Union Territory is “firmly under control,” with the narrative shifting from “terrorism to tourism.”
Addressing a press conference, the Army Chief emphasized that the 2021 ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan is holding steady along the Line of Control (LoC), though infiltration attempts persist. “The terror infrastructure on the Pakistani side remains intact, and infiltration attempts are ongoing,” he said.
The ceasefire, announced jointly by the Indian and Pakistani armies on February 25, 2021, was a significant step in de-escalating tensions along the LoC. Despite this, General Dwivedi stated that Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a series of terror attacks in recent months.
“Last year, 60% of the terrorists eliminated in operations were of Pakistani origin. As of today, we estimate that over 80% of the remaining terrorists in the Valley and Jammu regions are also from Pakistan,” he revealed.
The Army has been granted approval for emergency procurement to bolster counter-terrorism operations, which has aided in maintaining control over the situation, he added.
‘Terrorism to Tourism’: Signs of Positive Change
Highlighting the gradual transformation in Jammu and Kashmir, General Dwivedi pointed to key indicators of improving stability. “We witnessed more than five lakh pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra this year, and the peaceful conduct of elections underscores a shift towards normalcy,” he said.
The participation in parliamentary and state assembly elections, with nearly 60% voter turnout, reflects growing trust among the local population, the Army Chief noted. “The theme of terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape,” he reiterated.
Increased Troop Deployment and Counter-Terror Operations
The Army has inducted 15,000 additional troops in Jammu and Kashmir, which has contributed to reducing violence levels. While North Kashmir and the Doda-Kishtwar belt have seen a surge in terrorist activities, the overall parameters of violence remain under control, Gen Dwivedi assured.
“The situation in the Union Territory is firmly under control. Our focus remains on ensuring peace and facilitating development,” he concluded.
The Army Chief’s remarks come against the backdrop of a sustained push to curb terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring India’s commitment to stability in the region despite continued provocations from Pakistan.
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