New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) The Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi revealed that a staggering 65 percent of the terrorists neutralized in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) during the past year were of Pakistani origin.

In total, the Indian Armed Forces eliminated 31 terrorists in 2025, including three involved in the devastating April 22 Pahalgam attack which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 innocent lives.

During the annual press conference held by the Indian Army, Gen Dwivedi stated, "In 2025, we have eliminated 31 terrorists, with 65 percent being Pakistani nationals, including the three assailants involved in the Pahalgam incident, neutralized during Operation Mahadev. Active local terrorists are now in single digits."

He went on to emphasize that terrorist recruitment has plummeted to an alarming low, with only two individuals recruited in 2025.

The Army Chief assured that the situation along the northern and northwestern borders remains "stable" and "under firm control," but highlighted the importance of maintaining "constant vigilance."

Notably, Gen Dwivedi acknowledged a remarkable transformation in J&K in 2025, stating that the "theme of terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape" in the region.

He reiterated that the situation along the Northern Front "remains stable but requires ongoing monitoring," adding that enhanced interactions and confidence-building measures are aiding in the gradual normalization of the circumstances, which have also allowed for activities such as grazing and hydrotherapy camps along the northern borders.

"Our strategic focus in this area ensures that our deployment along the Line of Actual Control remains balanced and robust. Additionally, capability development and infrastructure enhancements are progressing through a comprehensive governmental approach," he continued.

Regarding the northwestern front, Gen Dwivedi recounted India's decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attack, stating that a "clear directive to respond vigorously was established at the highest level."

He elaborated, "Operation Sindoor was conceived and executed with precision. Within 22 minutes of initiation on May 7, and continuing for 88 hours until May 10, this operation reset strategic assumptions by deeply striking and dismantling terror infrastructure, while also addressing longstanding nuclear rhetoric."

The Army effectively destroyed seven of the nine designated targets, playing a critical role in ensuring a measured response to actions from Pakistan.

Gen Dwivedi reaffirmed that Operation Sindoor remains active, with future provocations set to be met with a decisive response, describing the military action as "a prime example of tri-services synergy executed under a clear political directive, granting full autonomy to act or respond."

He recognized the "proactive involvement" of all stakeholders in the operation.

Since May 10, the situation along the northwestern front and in J&K has remained sensitive yet firmly under control, according to the Army Chief.

Pointing to the "clear indicators of positive change in J&K," he highlighted robust development activity, a resurgence in tourism, and the peaceful Shri Amarnath Yatra, which welcomed over four lakh pilgrims, surpassing the five-year average.

"The transition from terrorism to tourism is gradually becoming a reality," he concluded.