Srinagar, Jan 13 :
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday said that despite the security situation along the Western Front and in Jammu and Kashmir remaining sensitive since May 10 last year, it is firmly under the control of security forces.
Addressing a press conference, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner (KNC), General Dwivedi said consistent and coordinated efforts by various security agencies have resulted in significant improvements on the ground, particularly in curbing local terrorist recruitment.
He said that in 2025, security forces eliminated 31 terrorists, around 65 percent of whom were of Pakistani origin. He added that the three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were neutralised during Operation Mahadev.
The Army Chief said the number of active local terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir has reduced to single digits, while fresh recruitment into terrorist ranks is “almost non-existent,” with only two cases reported during the year.
“These developments clearly point towards a positive transformation in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, referring to ongoing development activities, revival of tourism and the peaceful conduct of the annual Amarnath Yatra.
He said more than four lakh devotees participated in the yatra this year, surpassing the average turnout of the past five years. “The shift from terrorism to tourism is gradually becoming visible,” he observed.
General Dwivedi said Operation Sindoor is continuing and cautioned that any future misadventure would be responded to firmly. “Any provocation will be met with a resolute response,” he said.
Describing Operation Sindoor as a model of joint operations, the Army Chief said it reflected strong tri-service synergy under a clear political mandate and full operational freedom. He added that seven out of nine identified targets were successfully destroyed and that forces remain prepared for any ground action, if required.
The Army Chief also acknowledged the role of various stakeholders in maintaining peace and stability. He said effective coordination among the armed forces, CAPFs, intelligence agencies, civil administration and other institutions has been crucial in managing the overall security environment.
General Dwivedi said sustained coordination, backed by support from civil authorities, will remain key to ensuring lasting peace and security in the region. (KNC)