Uncategorized
Local Terrorist Numbers in J&K Down to Single Digits, Recruitment Nearly Nil: Army Chief
Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday said that terrorist recruitment in Jammu and Kashmir has become almost non-existent, while the number of active local terrorists has dropped to single digits, reflecting a significant improvement in the security situation in the Union Territory.
Addressing his first press conference of 2026, General Dwivedi said that although the situation along the Western Front and in J&K remains sensitive, it is firmly under control. He noted that 31 terrorists were neutralised in 2025, around 65 per cent of whom were of Pakistani origin, including the three perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack killed during Operation Mahadev.
“Active local terrorists are now in single digits. Terrorist recruitment is nearly zero, with only two cases reported in 2025,” the Army Chief said, adding that indicators of positive change include accelerated development activities, revival of tourism, and the successful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, which witnessed participation of over four lakh pilgrims—exceeding the five-year average.
He said the transition from “terrorism to tourism” is gradually becoming a reality in the region. General Dwivedi also stated that Operation Sindoor is still underway and warned that any future misadventure would be met with a firm response.
Acknowledging inter-agency cooperation, he said Operation Sindoor demonstrated strong tri-service synergy under clear political direction and full operational freedom. The Army Chief added that seven out of nine identified targets were successfully destroyed and that the forces remain prepared for any ground offensive, if required. (KNO)
