Pak using narco-terrorism as new tool of proxy war: Gen Dwivedi

Srinagar, Feb 07: General-officer-Commanding in Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lt General Upendra Dwivedi said that Kashmir has witnessed a concerning rise in narco-terrorism, as Pakistan is now using this as a new tool in its proxy war.
While LAC in Eastern Ladakh is being dominated by physical patrolling and through technical means, territorial integrity is being ensured, he said.
Addressing the solemn Investiture Ceremony at BB Cantt, Srinagar, the GOC-in-C stated thatPakistan is using narco-terrorism as a new tool in its proxy war, adding that of late, a dual strategy of sending drugs as well as weapons through drones are being employed to keep the fire burning in an attempt to disrupt the social fabric.
‘’“The cross-border smuggling of narcotics provides a succour to terrorism. The security forces are alive to this trend and have already initiated counter-drone measures to curb the menace,” he said.
Lt Gen Dwivedi said the situation along the LOC has remained stable and the ceasefire Understanding continues to sustain. ‘’A strict vigil and a robust technology-enabled multi-tiered counter-infiltration grid is being maintained, to thwart any attempts at infiltration,’’ he said.
“Ceasefire violations, infiltration bids, or any other misadventure attempted by the adversary will be dealt with firmly. Numerous infiltration bids have been foiled in the last year. The highest standards of professionalism and jointness displayed by troops in all dimensions of counter-terror operations has limited kinetic threat,” he said.
Lt Gen Dwivedi said the security situation in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh poses many challenges in terrain and operational dynamics, especially from different adversaries along the Northern and Western Borders.
“We are committed to defending India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while upholding the democratic traditions of the Nation,” he said.
Lt Gen Dwivedi said they are maintaining a constant vigil, monitoring all developments, and will take all necessary steps to protect our National Interests. Indian Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future and will always work for the betterment of the people of the region, he said.
“The last two years have brought to the fore newer challenges in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370, the Galwan conflict and multiple waves of COVID-19. These challenges have only served to strengthen our resolve to be steadfast and determined in our commitment,” he said.
‘’Our focus continues to reinforce our intelligence set up by synergizing with all stakeholders and sister agencies, to usher in peace and undertake developmental activities,’’ Lt Gen Dwivedi said.
“The overall situation is progressively improving and a positive and conducive environment for accelerating the developmental initiatives of the government has been created. The dividends of peace and stability are reaching people in far-flung areas and they are participating wholeheartedly to preserve and sustain this peace,” he said.
The senior Army officer said on the LAC, our response to Chinese attempts to unilaterally change the status quo was a swift, undaunted and synergized action by the Indian Armed Forces.
“Any adverse aggressive designs or attempts will definitely be met with appropriate posturing of forces and a strong intent with complete synergy amongst the three services. Measures to resolve the LAC situation at diplomatic and operational levels are also simultaneously underway,” he said.
The GOC-in-C Northern Command assured that LAC in Eastern Ladakh is being dominated by physical patrolling and through technical means and our territorial integrity is being ensured. Restoration of peace and tranquility to enable progress in bilateral relations has been and will remain our constant endeavor, he said.
Lt Gen Dwivedi said progressive initiatives for coordination and synergy with our paramilitary forces such as the ITBP and BSF have also borne the desired results.
“Coordination training, exercises, and operational tasks are being undertaken jointly to streamline procedures and enhance our ability to robustly defend our borders. As a consequence, all patrolling along the LAC is now joint and integrated,” he added.
The GoC-in-C also presented Certificate of Appreciation and Unit Appreciation awards to the nominated battalion deployed in Northern Command for their gallant action towards protecting territorial integrity and in carrying cut counter-terror operations resulting in an overall improvement in the security situation in J&K.