The Northern Army Commander, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, stated on Sunday that the army has initiated actions against militants in the Rajouri-Poonch belt, with a special emphasis on enhancing synergy between various security agencies.
Addressing reporters during a function in Srinagar, the Northern Army Commander remarked, “In the last few years, the Rajouri-Poonch area has experienced prosperity, marked by increased investment and employment. Our neighbouring country has struggled to accept peace and prosperity, leading to the promotion of terrorism in the area. We have taken strong actions in response, and you will observe control over it in the coming days.”
He highlighted the sensitivity of the northern border area, declaring 2023 as a zero-infiltration year, signifying no infiltration from the Line of Control during that period.
“Among the terrorists killed, only 21 were locals, whereas 55 were foreign terrorists,” added the Northern Army Commander.
It is pertinent to mention that the army suffered 20 casualties last year in a series of attacks in the Rajouri-Poonch belt.
Regarding youth involvement, he noted that in 2022, 122 individuals took up arms, whereas in 2023, only 19 joined terrorism. “We will persist in ensuring the prevention of local terrorist recruitment, actively working to strengthen synergy among various security agencies,” he affirmed. (KNO)