80% of active terrorists in J&K from Pak : COAS Dwivedi

Srinagar, Jan 15: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday said that Pakistan continues to be the epicenter of terrorism, with 80% of the terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir originating from Pakistan.
Addressing the annual press conference on the 77th Army Day at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, COAS said that the violence level is being orchestrated by the epicenter of terrorism that is Pakistan. “If the support is not forthcoming the way India is looking at it, this kind of terrorist infiltration will continue to be there.”
The Army Chief revealed that 15,000 additional troops were deployed in 2024, leading to a reduction in violence in the UT.
He said that they have been able to neutralize 73 terrorists out of which 60% were Pakistan terrorists. “The parliamentary elections and the state assembly elections both had nearly 60% voting which indicated the local population’s support for peace and democratic processes.
COAS said that as of today, whatever is a remnant in the Valley and Jammu area, they feel that around 80% or more are of Pakistan origin.
“On the Line of Control, the ceasefire, which is effective from February 2021 after the DGMO understanding, is holding on.” However, he warned that terror infrastructure remains intact, with infiltration attempts continuing, particularly along the International Border (IB) sector.
He said that in recent months, increased terrorist activities were seen in North Kashmir and the Doda-Kishtwar belt. “Despite these localized activities, overall violence levels in J&K remain under control.”
The Army Chief said that the theme of terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape.” He pointed to the peaceful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, which saw over five lakh pilgrims, as a positive sign of change.
He also said that the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is stable but sensitive.” He described the northern borders as sensitive, with continued engagement through meetings to maintain stability.
“In October, the situation in Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh got resolved.” Traditional patrolling and grazing activities have resumed in these areas, ensuring stability,” he added.
COAS said that there is nothing called as buffer zone.” He clarified that temporary moratoriums were established in sensitive areas to prevent potential conflicts. “After April 20, the trust between the two countries has to have a new definition.” The Army Chief called for ongoing dialogue to restore trust and prevent escalations.
He furthet said that the Indian Navy is working along with us in the Pangong Tso Lake in a big way. The collaboration includes unmanned boats and joint operations with special forces, he said.
COAS said that own deployment along LAC is balanced and robust and assured that the Indian Army is well-prepared to handle any threats along the northern borders.
COAS said that focus capability development for northern borders enabled infusion of niche technology into a war-fighting system.
“I am a strong proponent of the theme that mass media and security forces have great potential to converge towards nation-building,” he added.
“My mission statement is to ensure full-spectrum preparedness while concurrently transforming the Indian army into an Atmanirbhar future-ready force,” he added.