Indian Army Chief: 60% of Neutralized Terrorists in J&K are from Pakistan

New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army Chief, disclosed on Monday that 60 percent of the terrorists neutralized in Jammu and Kashmir during 2024 were of Pakistani origin.

During the annual press conference held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, General Dwivedi underscored the ongoing endeavors of the Indian Army in upholding security along the nation's sensitive borders.

He stressed the Army's commitment to achieve full-spectrum preparedness while simultaneously evolving the Indian Army into a self-reliant and future-ready force, which will serve as a critical pillar of the national security framework and contribute significantly to national development.

General Dwivedi remarked that the initiatives undertaken by the Indian Army align with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Addressing the security dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir, he pointed out that a significant number of terrorists neutralized in the area were of Pakistani background.

"In the past year, 60 percent of the terrorists eliminated were of Pakistani descent. Currently, over 80 percent of the terrorists still active in the valley and Jammu region are from Pakistan," he stated.

Highlighting the positive transformations in the area, he noted that the peaceful conduct of elections and the record arrival of 500,000 pilgrims signify a shift towards positivity.

"The concept of 'terrorism to tourism' is gradually manifesting," he emphasized.

Discussing the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Ladakh, General Dwivedi characterized the situation as sensitive but stable, acknowledging ongoing efforts for de-escalation.

He asserted that resolving the border dispute with China necessitates strong strategic patience and elaborated on the actions taken to tackle minor issues.

"During negotiations, one assesses the level of violence and strives to create distances. There is no such thing as a buffer zone while resolving the situation," he explained.

Regarding disengagement at Depsang and Demchok, he mentioned, "Since April 2020, both sides had advanced and obstructed each other's access to traditional areas previously under paramilitary control."

"In this disengagement process, both parties have consented to revert to their original positions, allowing access to traditional patrolling areas," he added, stating, "Verification patrols have been conducted twice by both sides, and both are pleased with the progress. Grazing grounds have also been mutually agreed upon."

On the situation in Manipur, General Dwivedi noted that the violence-affected region has been brought under control through coordinated efforts of security forces and proactive government initiatives.

However, he acknowledged that cyclic incidents of violence persist and assured that efforts to establish peace are ongoing.