Two militants were today killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Uri sector of north Kashmir&#39;s Baramulla district.

The operation is still in progress.

&quot;An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed,&quot; an Army official said here.

Further details are awaited.

Two militants were today killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district.

Two militants were today killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district. The operation is still in progress. "An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed," an Army official said here. Further details are awaited.

Army foils infiltration bid, two militants killed

The Army has finalised one of its biggest procurement plans for infantry modernisation under which a large number of light machine guns, battle carbines, and assault rifles are being purchased at a cost of nearly Rs 40,000 crore to replace its aging and obsolete weapons.

The broad process to acquire around 7 lakh rifles, 44,000 light machine guns (LMGs) and nearly 44,600 carbines has been finalised and the defence ministry is on the same page with the Army in moving ahead with the procurement, official sources told PTI.

The world&#39;s second largest standing Army has been pressing for fast-tracking the procurement of various weapons systems considering the evolving security threats including along India&#39;s borders with Pakistan and China.

Apart from kick-starting the procurement process, the government has also sent a message to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to expedite its work on various small arms, particularly on an LMG.

The sources said a fresh RFI (request for information) to procure the LMGs will be issued in the next few days, months after the defence ministry scrapped the tender for the 7.62 calibre guns as there was only one vendor left after a series of field trials. The plan is to initially procure around 10,000 LMGs.

The Army has also finalised the specifications for a new 7.62 mm assault rifle and the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the defence ministry&#39;s highest decision making body on procurement, is expected to give the go-ahead for the much- needed procurement soon.

&quot;The General Service Quality Requirements (GSQR) for the new assault rifle has been finalised. The procurement plan will soon be placed before the DAC for approval,&quot; said a senior official, who is part of the acquisition process.

In June, the Army had rejected an assault rifle built by the state-run Rifle Factory, Ishapore, after the guns miserably failed the firing tests.

The procurement of assault rifles has witnessed significant delays due to a variety of reasons including the Army&#39;s failure to finalise the specifications for it. The Army needs around 7 lakh 7.62x51 mm assault guns to replace its INSAS rifles.

The Army had issued RFI for the rifles in September last year and around 20 firms responded to it. An RFI is a process whose purpose is to collect information about capabilities of various vendors.

In June, the Army had kick-started the initial process to procure around 44,600 carbines, nearly eight months after a tender for it was retracted, also due to single-vendor situation. Around half a dozen firms including a few global arms manufacturers have responded to the RFI.

Army sources said various specifications for the LMGs and battle carbines were tweaked to ensure that the problem of single vendor does not recur.

The combined cost of the LMGs, assault rifles and carbines will be in excess of Rs 40,000 crore, said an official.

On DRDO missing a number of deadlines in finalising the LMG, an official said the defence secretary has called a meeting this week of all stakeholders to discuss the project.

&quot;The infantry modernisation plan is a major initiative of the Army and it will significantly bolster the overall capability of the foot soldiers,&quot; said a senior army official.

The issue was extensively discussed at the recently- concluded Army Commanders conference which felt modernisation of the Army must be in tune with the evolving security threat facing the country.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman conveyed to the Army during the conference that modernisation of the force was a priority for the government and all its &quot;deficiencies&quot; will be addressed to strengthen its combat capability.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A large number of light machine guns, battle carbines, and assault rifles are being purchased at a cost of nearly Rs 40,000 crore to replace its aging and obsolete weapons

The Army has finalised one of its biggest procurement plans for infantry modernisation under which a large number of light machine guns, battle carbines, and assault rifles are being purchased at a cost of nearly Rs 40,000 crore to replace its aging and obsolete weapons. The broad process to acquire around 7 lakh rifles, 44,000 light machine guns (LMGs) and nearly 44,600 carbines has been finalised and the defence ministry is on the same page with the Army in moving ahead with the procurement, official sources told PTI. The world's second largest standing Army has been pressing for fast-tracking the procurement of various weapons systems considering the evolving security threats including along India's borders with Pakistan and China. Apart from kick-starting the procurement process, the government has also sent a message to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to expedite its work on various small arms, particularly on an LMG. The sources said a fresh RFI (request for information) to procure the LMGs will be issued in the next few days, months after the defence ministry scrapped the tender for the 7.62 calibre guns as there was only one vendor left after a series of field trials. The plan is to initially procure around 10,000 LMGs. The Army has also finalised the specifications for a new 7.62 mm assault rifle and the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the defence ministry's highest decision making body on procurement, is expected to give the go-ahead for the much- needed procurement soon. "The General Service Quality Requirements (GSQR) for the new assault rifle has been finalised. The procurement plan will soon be placed before the DAC for approval," said a senior official, who is part of the acquisition process. In June, the Army had rejected an assault rifle built by the state-run Rifle Factory, Ishapore, after the guns miserably failed the firing tests. The procurement of assault rifles has witnessed significant delays due to a variety of reasons including the Army's failure to finalise the specifications for it. The Army needs around 7 lakh 7.62x51 mm assault guns to replace its INSAS rifles. The Army had issued RFI for the rifles in September last year and around 20 firms responded to it. An RFI is a process whose purpose is to collect information about capabilities of various vendors. In June, the Army had kick-started the initial process to procure around 44,600 carbines, nearly eight months after a tender for it was retracted, also due to single-vendor situation. Around half a dozen firms including a few global arms manufacturers have responded to the RFI. Army sources said various specifications for the LMGs and battle carbines were tweaked to ensure that the problem of single vendor does not recur. The combined cost of the LMGs, assault rifles and carbines will be in excess of Rs 40,000 crore, said an official. On DRDO missing a number of deadlines in finalising the LMG, an official said the defence secretary has called a meeting this week of all stakeholders to discuss the project. "The infantry modernisation plan is a major initiative of the Army and it will significantly bolster the overall capability of the foot soldiers," said a senior army official. The issue was extensively discussed at the recently- concluded Army Commanders conference which felt modernisation of the Army must be in tune with the evolving security threat facing the country. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman conveyed to the Army during the conference that modernisation of the force was a priority for the government and all its "deficiencies" will be addressed to strengthen its combat capability.

Army finalises mega procurement plan to replace ageing weapons

Indian Army jawans are learning Chinese.&nbsp;

That &quot;secret&quot; was let out by union home minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Singh said the jawans were learning Chinese so as to be able to communicate with their counterparts across the border.&nbsp;

&quot;If by chance there is a face-off, at least they can convey their message,&quot; ANI quoted him as saying.&nbsp;

Singh added that the Chinese language lessons were a part of basic training.&nbsp;

Indian and Chinese troops had recently faced off from each other on the Doklam plateau for 72 days.&nbsp;

The standoff had been sparked off by Chinese road-building activity in the region.&nbsp;

Doklam lies close to the trijunction where Bhutan, China, and India meet.&nbsp;

The area is held by Bhutan but China lays claim to it.&nbsp;

Bhutanese soldiers had tried to push back the Chinese troop when they noticed the road-building activity.&nbsp;

When they were unable&nbsp;to, they asked Indian troops for help -- leading to the protracted standoff.&nbsp;

The Chinese and Indian troops finally stood down a few days before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for the BRICS summit in China; the BRICS charter says the annual summit cannot go ahead should even one of the leaders of the BRICS nations -- Brazil, Russian, India, China, South Africa -- not attend.&nbsp;

The 'secret' was let out by home minister Rajnath Singh

Indian Army jawans are learning Chinese. That "secret" was let out by union home minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday. Singh said the jawans were learning Chinese so as to be able to communicate with their counterparts across the border. "If by chance there is a face-off, at least they can convey their message," ANI quoted him as saying. Singh added that the Chinese language lessons were a part of basic training. Indian and Chinese troops had recently faced off from each other on the Doklam plateau for 72 days. The standoff had been sparked off by Chinese road-building activity in the region. Doklam lies close to the trijunction where Bhutan, China, and India meet. The area is held by Bhutan but China lays claim to it. Bhutanese soldiers had tried to push back the Chinese troop when they noticed the road-building activity. When they were unable to, they asked Indian troops for help -- leading to the protracted standoff. The Chinese and Indian troops finally stood down a few days before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for the BRICS summit in China; the BRICS charter says the annual summit cannot go ahead should even one of the leaders of the BRICS nations -- Brazil, Russian, India, China, South Africa -- not attend.

Indian Army jawans learning Chinese

The government is looking into a proposal for 50 temperature-controlled posts along the India-China border for ITBP jawans who guard the Himalayan heights in sub-zero temperatures, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said in Greater Noida on Tuesday.

Addressing personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, established on this day 56 years ago to guard India&#39;s borders with China, the home minister announced a slew of other measures to boost the capabilities of the force.

These include the construction of 25 border roads in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

There are 176 border posts along the India-China border, from Karakoram Pass in Ladakh to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh.

According to Singh, the government is considering using technology to maintain a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius in the proposed new posts. These will be located in high-altitude areas where ITBP jawans have to bear the brunt of snow blizzards and sub-zero temperatures.

&quot;We are committed to enhancing your operational and infrastructure capabilities. Recently, we got a proposal to build 50 new border posts for the force and we are working on it,&quot; the home minister said.

The setting up of more posts is aimed at ensuring that they are not abandoned during extreme snow and cold.

The government is also considering special lightweight winter clothing for troops deployed above 9,000 feet and an enhanced fleet of snow scooters to patrol the high-altitude areas of the 3,488-km Sino-Indian frontier.

The force guards the border in altitudes ranging from 9,000 feet to 18,700 feet in the Western, Middle and Eastern sectors of the Indo-China Border.

Singh said he is not satisfied with housing and infrastructure facilities and is &quot;seriously&quot; working to improve these areas. The minister also said 35 old border posts in very high- altitude areas are being upgraded as &quot;composite&quot; units.

&quot;We are working to enhance road, mobile and satellite connectivity in the border areas for the ITBP,&quot; he said.

The minister asked ITBP troops to ensure and build good relations with border dwellers as they are &quot;strategic assets&quot; of the country and important stakeholders in keeping the borders safe.

Singh lauded the ITBP for introducing Mandarin during basic training of its troops. This was done so they can converse with the Chinese Army during face-offs.

He also asked ITBP officers to take the responsibility of at least one family of those killed in the line of duty.

The ministry is working to help jawans who have suffered 50 percent disability during operations through the Bharat Ke Veer benevolent fund, he said.

ITBP Director General (DG) R K Pachnanda said the force has been nominated as the &quot;nodal agency&quot; for obtaining and channelising satellite communication for all border-guarding forces in the country.

He said the home ministry has also approved the ITBP&#39;s proposal to hire helicopters for high-altitude border posts.

The paramilitary is also enhancing its intelligence set-up, Pachnanda added.

The government is looking into a proposal for 50 temperature-controlled posts along the India-China border for ITBP jawans who guard the Himalayan heights in sub-zero temperatures, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday.

The government is looking into a proposal for 50 temperature-controlled posts along the India-China border for ITBP jawans who guard the Himalayan heights in sub-zero temperatures, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said in Greater Noida on Tuesday. Addressing personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, established on this day 56 years ago to guard India's borders with China, the home minister announced a slew of other measures to boost the capabilities of the force. These include the construction of 25 border roads in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. There are 176 border posts along the India-China border, from Karakoram Pass in Ladakh to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh. According to Singh, the government is considering using technology to maintain a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius in the proposed new posts. These will be located in high-altitude areas where ITBP jawans have to bear the brunt of snow blizzards and sub-zero temperatures. "We are committed to enhancing your operational and infrastructure capabilities. Recently, we got a proposal to build 50 new border posts for the force and we are working on it," the home minister said. The setting up of more posts is aimed at ensuring that they are not abandoned during extreme snow and cold. The government is also considering special lightweight winter clothing for troops deployed above 9,000 feet and an enhanced fleet of snow scooters to patrol the high-altitude areas of the 3,488-km Sino-Indian frontier. The force guards the border in altitudes ranging from 9,000 feet to 18,700 feet in the Western, Middle and Eastern sectors of the Indo-China Border. Singh said he is not satisfied with housing and infrastructure facilities and is "seriously" working to improve these areas. The minister also said 35 old border posts in very high- altitude areas are being upgraded as "composite" units. "We are working to enhance road, mobile and satellite connectivity in the border areas for the ITBP," he said. The minister asked ITBP troops to ensure and build good relations with border dwellers as they are "strategic assets" of the country and important stakeholders in keeping the borders safe. Singh lauded the ITBP for introducing Mandarin during basic training of its troops. This was done so they can converse with the Chinese Army during face-offs. He also asked ITBP officers to take the responsibility of at least one family of those killed in the line of duty. The ministry is working to help jawans who have suffered 50 percent disability during operations through the Bharat Ke Veer benevolent fund, he said. ITBP Director General (DG) R K Pachnanda said the force has been nominated as the "nodal agency" for obtaining and channelising satellite communication for all border-guarding forces in the country. He said the home ministry has also approved the ITBP's proposal to hire helicopters for high-altitude border posts. The paramilitary is also enhancing its intelligence set-up, Pachnanda added.

Govt considering temperature-controlled posts for ITBP: Rajnath Singh

Prime Minister Modi today <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dedicates-first-all-india-institute-of-ayurveda-to-country-22531">celebrated Diwali with Indian troops at a forward military </a>post along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Gurez sector.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/diwali-wagah-border-india-pak-troops-exchange-gifts-504">&quot;I have an </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-having-best-development-ideas-not-enough-prime-minister-modi-21272">opportunity to spend the festival of Diwali with you</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/diwali-wagah-border-india-pak-troops-exchange-gifts-504">.</a> The presence of brave soldiers at the border, on this festive occasion, lights the lamp of hope, and generates new energy among crores of Indians,&quot; the prime minister wrote in the visitors&#39; book.

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Modi arrived at Gurez on Thursday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-celebrates-diwali-503">morning </a>in an unannounced visit with Chief of the Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Northern Command chief Lt General Devraj Anbu and Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen J S Sandhu present during the celebrations along the LoC.

&quot;To accomplish the dream of &#39;New India&#39;, this is a golden opportunity for all of us to work together. The Army too is a part of it,&quot; the Indian Prime Minister said.

PM Modi offered sweets and exchanged greetings with the BSF soldiers at Gurez.

The PM said each Indian citizen must cultivate a new resolve as India celebrates its 75th independence in 2022, adding that he considers the Indian Army his family.

Modi encouraged the soldiers to practise yoga and said after leaving the armed forces they can become excellent yoga trainers.

Modi said the Centre was committed to the welfare armed forces pointing towards the implementation of One Rank, One Pension.

Earlier in the day, Modi greeted the nation on Twitter as he left for the border to celebrate the occasion with the Indian troops.

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??????? ?? ???? ???? ?? ??? ?????????? ?? ??????? ??????????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyDiwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyDiwali</a> to everyone!
&mdash; Narendra Modi PM (@Narendramodi_PM) <a href="https://twitter.com/Narendramodi_PM/status/920856845425680384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Narendra Modi celebrate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> with jawans in Gurez Valley, near LoC, in J&amp;K <a href="https://t.co/gu2HxLRtq0">pic.twitter.com/gu2HxLRtq0</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/920959324733583360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi offered sweets and exchanged greetings with the BSF soldiers at Gurez.

Prime Minister Modi today celebrated Diwali with Indian troops at a forward military post along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Gurez sector. "I have an opportunity to spend the festival of Diwali with you. The presence of brave soldiers at the border, on this festive occasion, lights the lamp of hope, and generates new energy among crores of Indians," the prime minister wrote in the visitors' book. × Modi arrived at Gurez on Thursday morning in an unannounced visit with Chief of the Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Northern Command chief Lt General Devraj Anbu and Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen J S Sandhu present during the celebrations along the LoC. "To accomplish the dream of 'New India', this is a golden opportunity for all of us to work together. The Army too is a part of it," the Indian Prime Minister said. PM Modi offered sweets and exchanged greetings with the BSF soldiers at Gurez. The PM said each Indian citizen must cultivate a new resolve as India celebrates its 75th independence in 2022, adding that he considers the Indian Army his family. Modi encouraged the soldiers to practise yoga and said after leaving the armed forces they can become excellent yoga trainers. Modi said the Centre was committed to the welfare armed forces pointing towards the implementation of One Rank, One Pension. Earlier in the day, Modi greeted the nation on Twitter as he left for the border to celebrate the occasion with the Indian troops. ??????? ?? ???? ???? ?? ??? ?????????? ?? ??????? ??????????? #HappyDiwali to everyone! — Narendra Modi PM (@Narendramodi_PM) October 19, 2017 × #WATCH: PM Narendra Modi celebrate #Diwali with jawans in Gurez Valley, near LoC, in J&K pic.twitter.com/gu2HxLRtq0 — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2017 ×

Watch: Presence of brave soldiers at the border lights the lamp of hope, says PM Modi at LoC

In a move that has led to some <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-repeat-surgical-strikes-if-pakistan-continues-to-send-terrorists-indian-army-chief-20650">degree of consternation in India&#39;s defence establishment</a>, some personnel from the Army Service Corps (ASC) have said that since they are &ldquo;non-combatants&rdquo; they should not be considered for posting in field areas.

In response, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-first-time-indian-army-to-take-in-women-soldiers-20010">the Indian Army has stated that it was never</a> in dispute that all arms and services are &ldquo;combatants&rdquo; and at no stage has the Army referred to Service Units being non-combatant units.

&ldquo;Army performs its role in war and peace as a whole and not in isolated compartments. Each Arm and Service has designated role and function,&rdquo; the Army said after the matter cropped up during the recently held Army Commanders Conference.

The roots of this controversy lie in a bitter career progression battle that has been ranging on between the various entities that function under the Combat Arms, Combat Support Arms and Services categories.

Several personnel working with Services like the Armed Service Corps, Ordnance, Electronics and Mechanical Engineers have now started complaining that their career progression is not at par with their counterparts in Combat Arms like Infantry, Armoured and Mechanized.

And to take the&nbsp;argument further, the aggrieved personnel have stated that since they are being treated as &ldquo;non-combatants&rdquo;, they should be not posted in combat duties in field postings.

The Army, on its part, has maintained that Combat Arms, Combat Support Arms and Services are &ldquo;operational entities&rdquo; of Army having &ldquo;clear and defined roles with charter of duties&rdquo;.

The Army has also maintained consistently that without diluting the role played by Services in maintaining logistic support to Combat Arms during operations, Commanding Officers of ASC, Ordnance and Electronics and Mechanical Engineers are not required to largely remain in contact with frontline forces where major combat may take place during operations.

&ldquo;Therefore, ages of Command of Services could be higher than those of arms, where COs are expected to move forward in the combat zone, where their physical efficiency becomes relevant,&rdquo; the Army has said.

The Army also says that a number of Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks from Combat Support Arms and logistic units are posted on tenure basis in infantry units dealing with counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism in a bid to boost the strength essential in &ldquo;Line of Control, Low-Intensity Conflict, Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorist environment&rdquo;.

&ldquo;This also provides much necessary operational experience to these Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks,&rdquo; the Army has stated adding that performance of personnel from Services has been &ldquo;noteworthy&rdquo;.

Army sources say that around 20 years back, the career progression of personnel working in Services was far better than those working in Combat Arms and that the cream of the personnel used to opt to Services and not Combat Arms.

&ldquo;This had led to a situation where it became difficult to keep the motivational levels high for infantry personnel who are supposed to go to the battle zone and take bullets for you,&rdquo; a source explained. &ldquo;It was then that the system realized that the handle of the axe had got converted to iron while the bladed head had become of wood. A force needs to keep the sharpness of the weapon intact. That&#39;s why policies were made to ensure that personnel who were fighting the country&#39;s battles continue to be motivated,&rdquo; the source added.

The Army maintains that in correcting an earlier anomalous situation, some new issues may have got created but Chief of Army Staff Bipin Rawat has already said that he would &ldquo;consider all arms and services at par and they would get their dues that they deserve&rdquo;.

The Army has also assured of all necessary corrections to put to rest all anguish amongst some personnel regarding discrimination in their status.

All arms and services are 'combatants', says the Indian Army as the bitter career progression battle in the Indian army comes out in the open

In a move that has led to some degree of consternation in India's defence establishment, some personnel from the Army Service Corps (ASC) have said that since they are “non-combatants” they should not be considered for posting in field areas. In response, the Indian Army has stated that it was never in dispute that all arms and services are “combatants” and at no stage has the Army referred to Service Units being non-combatant units. “Army performs its role in war and peace as a whole and not in isolated compartments. Each Arm and Service has designated role and function,” the Army said after the matter cropped up during the recently held Army Commanders Conference. The roots of this controversy lie in a bitter career progression battle that has been ranging on between the various entities that function under the Combat Arms, Combat Support Arms and Services categories. Several personnel working with Services like the Armed Service Corps, Ordnance, Electronics and Mechanical Engineers have now started complaining that their career progression is not at par with their counterparts in Combat Arms like Infantry, Armoured and Mechanized. And to take the argument further, the aggrieved personnel have stated that since they are being treated as “non-combatants”, they should be not posted in combat duties in field postings. The Army, on its part, has maintained that Combat Arms, Combat Support Arms and Services are “operational entities” of Army having “clear and defined roles with charter of duties”. The Army has also maintained consistently that without diluting the role played by Services in maintaining logistic support to Combat Arms during operations, Commanding Officers of ASC, Ordnance and Electronics and Mechanical Engineers are not required to largely remain in contact with frontline forces where major combat may take place during operations. “Therefore, ages of Command of Services could be higher than those of arms, where COs are expected to move forward in the combat zone, where their physical efficiency becomes relevant,” the Army has said. The Army also says that a number of Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks from Combat Support Arms and logistic units are posted on tenure basis in infantry units dealing with counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism in a bid to boost the strength essential in “Line of Control, Low-Intensity Conflict, Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorist environment”. “This also provides much necessary operational experience to these Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks,” the Army has stated adding that performance of personnel from Services has been “noteworthy”. Army sources say that around 20 years back, the career progression of personnel working in Services was far better than those working in Combat Arms and that the cream of the personnel used to opt to Services and not Combat Arms. “This had led to a situation where it became difficult to keep the motivational levels high for infantry personnel who are supposed to go to the battle zone and take bullets for you,” a source explained. “It was then that the system realized that the handle of the axe had got converted to iron while the bladed head had become of wood. A force needs to keep the sharpness of the weapon intact. That's why policies were made to ensure that personnel who were fighting the country's battles continue to be motivated,” the source added. The Army maintains that in correcting an earlier anomalous situation, some new issues may have got created but Chief of Army Staff Bipin Rawat has already said that he would “consider all arms and services at par and they would get their dues that they deserve”. The Army has also assured of all necessary corrections to put to rest all anguish amongst some personnel regarding discrimination in their status.

Don't post us in field areas since we are 'non-combatants', say personnel of Indian Army's 'services'

A total of 228 ceasefire violations occurred in 2016 along the Line of Control in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, an area which is under the operational control of the Indian Army.

This year, till October 3, the number of such violations had already more than doubled to 503.

That translates roughly to around 56 violations a month on average, or almost two a day.

In fact, last year&rsquo;s total figure of 228 ceasefire violations was crossed this year in July itself, underlining the frequency with which Pakistan has engaged in&nbsp;unprovoked firing in violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding between it and India.&nbsp;

As compared to the eight casualties suffered by the Indian Army due to these ceasefire violations in 2016, the number of soldiers killed this year has already touched 14.

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Till October 3, this year the Army has killed a total 150 terrorists: Sources
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About 275 terrorists are active in Kashmir out of which over 250 are active in the north of Pir Panjal Range: Sources
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The number of infiltration attempts, too, has witnessed an upswing in Jammu and Kashmir.

While 88 infiltration attempts took place in 2016, the number of such bids had already touched 56 by the end of August this year.

As per official figures, 35 terrorists were killed in 2016 while trying to infiltrate into India. This year, till August, 42 terrorists had been killed while attempting to infiltrate into India.

It&rsquo;s not just soldiers who are bearing the brunt of the ceasefire violations.

Civilians residing in areas near the Line of Control have also suffered collateral damage.

On October 3, the Indian government summoned Pakistan&rsquo;s deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest with him over the deaths of three Indian children in an unprovoked ceasefire violation on October 2 by Pakistani forces in the Poonch sector.

India conveyed to Pakistan that&nbsp;such &ldquo;deliberate targeting of civilians was not acceptable and was against humanitarian norms and practices&rdquo;.

There have been almost two ceasefire violations a day this year

A total of 228 ceasefire violations occurred in 2016 along the Line of Control in Jammu & Kashmir, an area which is under the operational control of the Indian Army. This year, till October 3, the number of such violations had already more than doubled to 503. That translates roughly to around 56 violations a month on average, or almost two a day. In fact, last year’s total figure of 228 ceasefire violations was crossed this year in July itself, underlining the frequency with which Pakistan has engaged in unprovoked firing in violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding between it and India. As compared to the eight casualties suffered by the Indian Army due to these ceasefire violations in 2016, the number of soldiers killed this year has already touched 14. Till October 3, this year the Army has killed a total 150 terrorists: Sources — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2017 × About 275 terrorists are active in Kashmir out of which over 250 are active in the north of Pir Panjal Range: Sources — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2017 × The number of infiltration attempts, too, has witnessed an upswing in Jammu and Kashmir. While 88 infiltration attempts took place in 2016, the number of such bids had already touched 56 by the end of August this year. As per official figures, 35 terrorists were killed in 2016 while trying to infiltrate into India. This year, till August, 42 terrorists had been killed while attempting to infiltrate into India. It’s not just soldiers who are bearing the brunt of the ceasefire violations. Civilians residing in areas near the Line of Control have also suffered collateral damage. On October 3, the Indian government summoned Pakistan’s deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest with him over the deaths of three Indian children in an unprovoked ceasefire violation on October 2 by Pakistani forces in the Poonch sector. India conveyed to Pakistan that such “deliberate targeting of civilians was not acceptable and was against humanitarian norms and practices”.

Ceasefire violations in J&K already more than double last year, infiltration on upswing too

The Indian Army&nbsp;carried out an operation on the hideouts of terror group NSCN-Khaplang along the Indo-Myanmar border on Wednesday. 
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The operation was carried out early in the&nbsp;morning. 
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&ldquo;Firefight occurred along Indo-Myanmar border at 0445 hrs today. Heavy casualties reportedly inflicted on NSCN(K) cadre. No casualties suffered by Indian Security Forces,&rdquo; Indian Army&rsquo;s Eastern Command said in a tweet, giving details of the operation.

&quot;Own troops reacted swiftly and brought down heavily retaliatory fire on insurgents. The insurgents then broke contact and fled from the spot. As per inputs, a large number of casualties were suffered by the insurgents. Own troops suffered no casualties,&quot; the Eastern Command&nbsp;said.

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Detailed statement attached <a href="https://t.co/nbLYMLCqxQ">pic.twitter.com/nbLYMLCqxQ</a>
&mdash; EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) <a href="https://twitter.com/easterncomd/status/912969068784652288">September 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Sources in the government denied the operation was a &lsquo;surgical strike&rsquo;. The Eastern Command too released a statement clarifying that&nbsp;Indian troops &quot;did not cross the&nbsp;international border&quot;.

In June 2015, the Army had conducted a similar operation against banned insurgent groups following the killing of 20 soldiers in Manipur.&nbsp;

Sources in the government denied the operation was a surgical strike

The Indian Army carried out an operation on the hideouts of terror group NSCN-Khaplang along the Indo-Myanmar border on Wednesday. The operation was carried out early in the morning. “Firefight occurred along Indo-Myanmar border at 0445 hrs today. Heavy casualties reportedly inflicted on NSCN(K) cadre. No casualties suffered by Indian Security Forces,” Indian Army’s Eastern Command said in a tweet, giving details of the operation. "Own troops reacted swiftly and brought down heavily retaliatory fire on insurgents. The insurgents then broke contact and fled from the spot. As per inputs, a large number of casualties were suffered by the insurgents. Own troops suffered no casualties," the Eastern Command said. Detailed statement attached pic.twitter.com/nbLYMLCqxQ — EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) September 27, 2017 × Sources in the government denied the operation was a ‘surgical strike’. The Eastern Command too released a statement clarifying that Indian troops "did not cross the international border". In June 2015, the Army had conducted a similar operation against banned insurgent groups following the killing of 20 soldiers in Manipur.

Naga terror group's hideouts targeted by Indian Army on Myanmar border

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat said on Monday that it <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-armys-surgical-strike-across-the-line-of-control-10-key-points-6938">would repeat the surgical strikes it conducted last year</a> if Pakistan continued to send terrorists across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir.

He added that if terrorists were ready to infiltrate India, the Indian Army was also prepared to strike them down.

&quot;Surgical strike was conducted to send a message and if adversaries do not understand, it will be repeated,&quot; General Rawat said.&quot;We are ready to receive the terrorists that come this side of the LoC and will send them to their right place, their graves,&quot; the army chief said at a book launch.

Gen Rawat also said India had a range of retaliatory options available to thwart Pakistan&#39;s nefarious actions.

&quot;I said that these surgical strikes were a message that we had communicated and that if required, and if the adversary does not behave, then if we have to continue these kind of activities and events, we will continue. But there are other ways doing these things of course and they may not take the same form,&quot; he said.

The army chief&#39;s statement comes two&nbsp;days<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-4-terrorists-killed-in-uri-encounter-1-still-alive-20623"> after security forces foiled a terrorist attack on an army unit in Uri</a> in Kashmir&#39;s restive Baramulla district.

On September 18 last year, terrorists suspected to be from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad carried out a suicide attack on an army camp in Uri which claimed the lives of 19 soldiers. The attack was one of the deadliest attacks on security forces in Kashmir in two decades.&nbsp;

India responded with surgical strikes on terrorist launchpads across the LoC on September 29.

General Bipin Rawat also said India had a range of retaliatory options apart from surgical strikes to thwart Pakistan's nefarious actions

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat said on Monday that it would repeat the surgical strikes it conducted last year if Pakistan continued to send terrorists across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. He added that if terrorists were ready to infiltrate India, the Indian Army was also prepared to strike them down. "Surgical strike was conducted to send a message and if adversaries do not understand, it will be repeated," General Rawat said."We are ready to receive the terrorists that come this side of the LoC and will send them to their right place, their graves," the army chief said at a book launch. Gen Rawat also said India had a range of retaliatory options available to thwart Pakistan's nefarious actions. "I said that these surgical strikes were a message that we had communicated and that if required, and if the adversary does not behave, then if we have to continue these kind of activities and events, we will continue. But there are other ways doing these things of course and they may not take the same form," he said. The army chief's statement comes two days after security forces foiled a terrorist attack on an army unit in Uri in Kashmir's restive Baramulla district. On September 18 last year, terrorists suspected to be from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad carried out a suicide attack on an army camp in Uri which claimed the lives of 19 soldiers. The attack was one of the deadliest attacks on security forces in Kashmir in two decades. India responded with surgical strikes on terrorist launchpads across the LoC on September 29.

Will repeat surgical strikes if Pakistan continues to send terrorists: Indian Army chief

Pakistan has resorted to ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Rajouri district.

The unprovoked firing by the Pakistani side started at 10.30 am, ANi reported.

The Indian Army is retaliating to the provocation&nbsp;from the Pakistani side.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Pakistani side started targeting the Indian posts on the LoC at 10.30 am

Pakistan has resorted to ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. The unprovoked firing by the Pakistani side started at 10.30 am, ANi reported. The Indian Army is retaliating to the provocation from the Pakistani side.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Nowshera sector of Jammu and Kashmir

Amid the Doklam standoff and the recent Pangong skirmish, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat will pay a three-day visit to Ladakh, beginning on Sunday, to review the security scenario in eastern Ladakh.

During the visit, he will take stock of the security preparedness along the border with China besides, discussing key operational matters with top commanders.

The visit comes days after Indian and Chinese boat patrols clashed at the Pangong Lake in Ladakh, even as the People&#39;s Liberation Army (PLA) declined the Indian invitation to participate in ceremonial border meetings on the occasion of India&#39;s 71st Independence Day.

This was the first time since 2005 that the PLA has declined to meet with their Indian counterpart.

Indian and Chinese boat patrols clashed with each other at Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh on Tuesday, at 7:30 am near the Finger-6 part of the 135-km long lake, one-third of which is in Indian control and the rest under Chinese control.

It was earlier reported that the brief standoff led to jostling and exchange of blows between soldiers of the two armies; but, no shots were fired though.

However, during a press briefing here on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, while confirming the Pangong skirmish, said, that he does not affirm if there was stone pelting or use of rods during the incident.

The visit comes days after Indian and Chinese boat patrols clashed at the Pangong Lake in Ladakh

Amid the Doklam standoff and the recent Pangong skirmish, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat will pay a three-day visit to Ladakh, beginning on Sunday, to review the security scenario in eastern Ladakh. During the visit, he will take stock of the security preparedness along the border with China besides, discussing key operational matters with top commanders. The visit comes days after Indian and Chinese boat patrols clashed at the Pangong Lake in Ladakh, even as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) declined the Indian invitation to participate in ceremonial border meetings on the occasion of India's 71st Independence Day. This was the first time since 2005 that the PLA has declined to meet with their Indian counterpart. Indian and Chinese boat patrols clashed with each other at Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh on Tuesday, at 7:30 am near the Finger-6 part of the 135-km long lake, one-third of which is in Indian control and the rest under Chinese control. It was earlier reported that the brief standoff led to jostling and exchange of blows between soldiers of the two armies; but, no shots were fired though. However, during a press briefing here on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, while confirming the Pangong skirmish, said, that he does not affirm if there was stone pelting or use of rods during the incident.

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat to begin three-day visit to Ladakh on Sunday

The Indian Army foiled an attempt by Chinese soldiers to enter India&#39;s territory in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (August 15).

Soldiers on both sides were injured in stone pelting during the confrontation which took place on banks of the famous Pangong Lake in Ladakh.

Soldiers of the People&#39;s Liberation Army (PLA) tried to enter the Indian side in two areas - Finger Four and Finger Five - twice between 6 am and 9 am, officials said.

The Indian troops&nbsp;thwarted the attempts on both occasions, the officials added.

After Chinese troopers found their path blocked by Indian soldiers who had formed a human chain, they began hurling stones, prompting a swift retaliation by the Indian border guards.

China had constructed a road up to Finger Four which falls under Siri Jap area and is five km across the Line of Actual Control, the border that divides India from China.

Officials said that during negotiations in the late Nineties, the Chinese army constructed a metal-top road and insisted it was part of Aksai Chin, controlled by China.

The&nbsp;area is claimed by both India and China.

The situation along the banks of the lake - 45 km of which lies on the Indian side while 90 km&nbsp;lies on the Chinese side - has always remained volatile. Chinese troops have been intercepted by Indian Army patrol several times since a stand-off in 2013.

The armies of the two countries are&nbsp;involved in a stand-off in the Doklam plateau near Sikkim since the past two months.

Earlier, on the occasion of India&#39;s Independence Day, troops from both countries informally exchanged sweets at the strategic Nathu La border in Sikkim, barely 25 kms from Doklam.

The Indian Army also celebrated the occasion by distributing sweets to the local people.

Beijing wants to construct a road through the disputed Doklam plateau which is claimed by both Bhutan and China.

India has objected to the construction of the road and has deployed its troops in the region.

China has asked the Indian Army to withdraw from the region.

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Soldiers on both sides were injured in stone pelting during the confrontation, official sources told PTI

The Indian Army foiled an attempt by Chinese soldiers to enter India's territory in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (August 15). Soldiers on both sides were injured in stone pelting during the confrontation which took place on banks of the famous Pangong Lake in Ladakh. Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) tried to enter the Indian side in two areas - Finger Four and Finger Five - twice between 6 am and 9 am, officials said. The Indian troops thwarted the attempts on both occasions, the officials added. After Chinese troopers found their path blocked by Indian soldiers who had formed a human chain, they began hurling stones, prompting a swift retaliation by the Indian border guards. China had constructed a road up to Finger Four which falls under Siri Jap area and is five km across the Line of Actual Control, the border that divides India from China. Officials said that during negotiations in the late Nineties, the Chinese army constructed a metal-top road and insisted it was part of Aksai Chin, controlled by China. The area is claimed by both India and China. The situation along the banks of the lake - 45 km of which lies on the Indian side while 90 km lies on the Chinese side - has always remained volatile. Chinese troops have been intercepted by Indian Army patrol several times since a stand-off in 2013. The armies of the two countries are involved in a stand-off in the Doklam plateau near Sikkim since the past two months. Earlier, on the occasion of India's Independence Day, troops from both countries informally exchanged sweets at the strategic Nathu La border in Sikkim, barely 25 kms from Doklam. The Indian Army also celebrated the occasion by distributing sweets to the local people. Beijing wants to construct a road through the disputed Doklam plateau which is claimed by both Bhutan and China. India has objected to the construction of the road and has deployed its troops in the region. China has asked the Indian Army to withdraw from the region.

Indian Army foils incursion bid by Chinese soldiers in Ladakh

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch Sector of Jammu and Kashmir early on Wednesday, media reports said.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army reportedly initiated unprovoked firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 05.34 am.&nbsp;

The Indian Army is retaliating.&nbsp;

This comes a day after Pakistani troops&nbsp;violated ceasefire in Baaz and Nambla regions of Uri in Baramulla on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week, an Indian soldier and a woman were killed in separate cases of ceasefire violation in Poonch.&nbsp;

The firing started at 5.34 am on Wednesday

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch Sector of Jammu and Kashmir early on Wednesday, media reports said. The Pakistan Army reportedly initiated unprovoked firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 05.34 am. The Indian Army is retaliating. This comes a day after Pakistani troops violated ceasefire in Baaz and Nambla regions of Uri in Baramulla on Tuesday. Last week, an Indian soldier and a woman were killed in separate cases of ceasefire violation in Poonch.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Poonch, Indian Army retaliates

The Indian Army has said that it is in a &#39;no war, no peace&#39; mode against the Chinese military in Dokalam and status quo remains in the region.

The no war, no peace mode refers to a confrontation or face-off position with enemies.&nbsp;

Official sources told PTI that there has been no particular movement of troops and weapons from the Indian Army&#39;s side in the region. The sources said whatever &quot;movement&quot;&nbsp;is taking place is for maintenance purposes.&nbsp;

We are in no war no peace mode in Dokalam, the sources said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doklam-stand-off-after-chinas-veiled-threat-india-says-coordinating-with-bhutan-18610" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;After China&#39;s veiled threat, India says coordinating with Bhutan</a>

The sources told PTI that there has been no enhancement of troops on the India-Bhutan-China trijunction.&nbsp;

India and China have been in a stand-off in Dokalam for the last 50 days after Indian Army stopped Chinese troops from building a road in the region.&nbsp;

China claims that it was building the road within its territory and has been demanding a pull-out of the Indian Army from Dokalam. Bhutan and China both lay claim on Dokalam,&nbsp;

Sources told PTI that there has been no enhancement of troops on the India-Bhutan-China trijunction

The Indian Army has said that it is in a 'no war, no peace' mode against the Chinese military in Dokalam and status quo remains in the region. The no war, no peace mode refers to a confrontation or face-off position with enemies. Official sources told PTI that there has been no particular movement of troops and weapons from the Indian Army's side in the region. The sources said whatever "movement" is taking place is for maintenance purposes. We are in no war no peace mode in Dokalam, the sources said. Also read: After China's veiled threat, India says coordinating with Bhutan The sources told PTI that there has been no enhancement of troops on the India-Bhutan-China trijunction. India and China have been in a stand-off in Dokalam for the last 50 days after Indian Army stopped Chinese troops from building a road in the region. China claims that it was building the road within its territory and has been demanding a pull-out of the Indian Army from Dokalam. Bhutan and China both lay claim on Dokalam,

Dokalam stand-off: Indian army in 'no war, no peace' mode against China

An Indian Army soldier was killed in Pakistani firing from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today. The Indian troops retaliated &quot;strongly and effectively&quot; to the Pakistani firing, an Army officer said. 
 
&quot;Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked firing on Indian Army posts in Krishnagati sector at around 14:50 hours today,&quot; the officer said. 
 
In the firing, Sepoy Pawan Singh Sugra was grievously injured and succumbed to his injuries, the officer said. 
 
Sugra, aged 21, belonged to Sugri village of Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand. He leaves behind his parents. 
 
&quot;Sepoy Pawan Singh Sugra was a brave and sincere soldier. The nation will always remain indebted to him for the supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty,&quot; the Army said. 
 
Yesterday, an Army jawan was injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in the Uri sector of Baramulla district. 
| 
On August 7, the Pakistani Army had violated the ceasefire by firing at Indian posts along the LoC in?Baba Khori belt of Naushera sector of Rajouri district. 
 
Till August 1, there had been 285 such violations by the Pakistan Army while in 2016, the number was significantly less at 228 for the entire year, according to figures of the Indian Army.

Sepoy Pawan Singh Sugra was grievously injured and succumbed to his injuries, the Indian Army said

An Indian Army soldier was killed in Pakistani firing from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today. The Indian troops retaliated "strongly and effectively" to the Pakistani firing, an Army officer said. "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked firing on Indian Army posts in Krishnagati sector at around 14:50 hours today," the officer said. In the firing, Sepoy Pawan Singh Sugra was grievously injured and succumbed to his injuries, the officer said. Sugra, aged 21, belonged to Sugri village of Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand. He leaves behind his parents. "Sepoy Pawan Singh Sugra was a brave and sincere soldier. The nation will always remain indebted to him for the supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," the Army said. Yesterday, an Army jawan was injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in the Uri sector of Baramulla district. | On August 7, the Pakistani Army had violated the ceasefire by firing at Indian posts along the LoC in?Baba Khori belt of Naushera sector of Rajouri district. Till August 1, there had been 285 such violations by the Pakistan Army while in 2016, the number was significantly less at 228 for the entire year, according to figures of the Indian Army.

J&K: Indian Army soldier killed in Pakistan firing across LoC

With delays in import of critical equipment severely affecting its combat readiness, the Army has decided to fast-track indigenisation of key components and spares for battle tanks and other military systems.

The Ordnance Factory Board, an umbrella body of 41 ordnance factories, has decided to bring down the&nbsp;import of spares and components from current 60 per cent annually to 30 per cent in the next three years, a senior Army official said.

The Master General of the Ordnance (MGO), responsible for artillery and other key military supplies to frontline bases, has also started extensive talks with leading Indian defence firms to evolve a strategy for indigenisation of key spares and components of tanks and other weapons systems.

The MGO and OFB procure spares worth over Rs 10,000 crore annually, the official said.

It has been a long-standing grievance of armed forces that supply of critical spares and equipment from Russia takes a long-time, affecting maintenance of military systems procured from that country. Russia has been a major supplier of military platforms to India.

The decision to go for indigenisation of spares is part of the government&#39;s overall approach to enhance battle readiness of the 1.3 million strong Army after a thorough review found &quot;gaps&quot; in its operational preparedness.

The official said the Army plans to involve micro, small and medium enterprises to produce smaller parts of the weapons systems. Extensive discussions were already held with around 80 MSMEs. A policy document finalising the roadmap is likely to be issued in the next couple of weeks.

The initiative to go for indigenous production of spares is in sync with defence ministry&#39;s policy to cut import bill on defence and promote the domestic industry.

Earlier this month, the government had empowered the Vice Chief of Army to directly procure ammunition and spares to maintain readiness for short duration &quot;intense wars&quot;.

The full financial powers was given to the Army after an internal review found that optimum level of &quot;war stores&quot; were not being maintained.

The Army has been pressing the government for ensuring speedy procurement of key military platforms citing evolving security challenges.

In April, top Army Commanders had brain-stormed over the prevailing security scenario as well as external threats facing the country and decided to enhance combat effectiveness.

The Indian Army has decided to fast-track indigenisation of key components and spares for battle tanks and other military systems

With delays in import of critical equipment severely affecting its combat readiness, the Army has decided to fast-track indigenisation of key components and spares for battle tanks and other military systems. The Ordnance Factory Board, an umbrella body of 41 ordnance factories, has decided to bring down the import of spares and components from current 60 per cent annually to 30 per cent in the next three years, a senior Army official said. The Master General of the Ordnance (MGO), responsible for artillery and other key military supplies to frontline bases, has also started extensive talks with leading Indian defence firms to evolve a strategy for indigenisation of key spares and components of tanks and other weapons systems. The MGO and OFB procure spares worth over Rs 10,000 crore annually, the official said. It has been a long-standing grievance of armed forces that supply of critical spares and equipment from Russia takes a long-time, affecting maintenance of military systems procured from that country. Russia has been a major supplier of military platforms to India. The decision to go for indigenisation of spares is part of the government's overall approach to enhance battle readiness of the 1.3 million strong Army after a thorough review found "gaps" in its operational preparedness. The official said the Army plans to involve micro, small and medium enterprises to produce smaller parts of the weapons systems. Extensive discussions were already held with around 80 MSMEs. A policy document finalising the roadmap is likely to be issued in the next couple of weeks. The initiative to go for indigenous production of spares is in sync with defence ministry's policy to cut import bill on defence and promote the domestic industry. Earlier this month, the government had empowered the Vice Chief of Army to directly procure ammunition and spares to maintain readiness for short duration "intense wars". The full financial powers was given to the Army after an internal review found that optimum level of "war stores" were not being maintained. The Army has been pressing the government for ensuring speedy procurement of key military platforms citing evolving security challenges. In April, top Army Commanders had brain-stormed over the prevailing security scenario as well as external threats facing the country and decided to enhance combat effectiveness.

After delays in imports, Indian Army to go big on indigenisation of critical spares

The year 2016 was a testing one for the Indian defence forces. The terrorist attacks on the Pathankot, Uri and the Nagrota bases were followed by frequent cross-border firing between India and Pakistan. It was also the year when India crossed the Line of Control and performed the the so-called surgical strikes bringing the country to the brink of conflict with Pakistan and questioning it&rsquo;s war preparedness.

On the other hand, soldiers posted a string of grievance videos on social media, fuelling a debate on the possible failure to &nbsp;provide them with basic amenities.

2016 was also the year when India joined the military big boys club by becoming the fourth-largest spender on defence, as per a&nbsp;report by the US based research firm IHS inc. After a year that saw army veterans take to the streets to demand One Rank One Pension (OROP), a whopping&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;82,332 crore ($12 billion&nbsp;approximately) were set aside for OROP and the Seventh Pay Commission.

When taken with defence pensions, the budget increased&nbsp;from 1.71 per cent to 2.26 per cent of the country&rsquo;s Gross Domestic Product.

All this did paint a rosy picture. However, for a country moving towards defence modernisation, the capital outlay was slashed by 8.5 per cent.

A 2015 Controller and Auditor General report revealed that India was facing a severe shortage of ammunition, having only enough to last 20 days of full-scale war.&nbsp;

Some varieties of ammunition with the army, the report added, would barely last ten days of conflict. A shortage of 47 per cent in holding of BMP vehicles, the mainstay of Mechanised Infantry of the 1.8 million strong Indian Army, was also reported.

In addition, there is an acute shortage of protective gear for soldiers. According to media reports, in October 2009 the army authorised over three hundred and fifty three thousand (3,53,765) bullet proof jackets. Under half of those (1,86,168) were to come in 11th plan between 2007 to 2012, with the remaining (1,67,597) to be in during the 12th five-year plan. But the reality is that till March 2016 no new jackets were provided. According to reports, the army needs an additional hundred and eighty thousand (1,86,138) jackets.

The Indian air force and aviation units of the army also have obsolete equipment.

&ldquo;There is a huge shortage of bullet proof vests. Only recently the defence ministry had put out a statement that 50,000 bullet proof vests are being procured on &nbsp;on a priority basis from abroad. There is possibly a shortage of 150,000-200,000 more,&rdquo; says Brigadier (Retd) Gurmeet Kanwal, Distinguished Fellow, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

&ldquo;The vests that are currently held are bulky and do not provide protection all over the body. For example, they cover the front and the back but not the sides, not the neck. There are major challenges over there which need to be rectified. The soldiers equipment has to be appropriate all the way from his rifle, his night-vision goggles, his protective gear like bulletproof jackets, to the clothes and the boots that he wears. Of&nbsp;late, there has been a lot of hue and cry that &nbsp;soldiers are having to buy winter clothing and equipment from the market because it&rsquo;s lighter and longer-lasting rather than what they get issued from the ordnance core,&rdquo; Kanwal adds.

The truth is that the capital budget is mainly used for procurement of weapons and equipment. But more than half of that goes towards annual payments due for military equipment already bought.

&ldquo;A budget is essentially a wish list and a wish list must start from the soldier, after all it&rsquo;s a man behind the gun fighting the war,&rdquo; says Colonel (Retd) Anil Kaul, Defence Analyst.

Prime Minister Modi has time and again stressed on defence modernisation. With the new plan he wants come up with what is being dubbed as a &ldquo;shoot to kill army&rdquo;.

&ldquo;1.71 per cent of the GDP is inadequate for the kinds of threats and challenges that India faces. It will be a great day if the Indian armed forces can be transformed from a defensive strategic approach to an offensive strategic approach but it will cost a lot. The funds available for modernisation are too meagre to suffice. If Modi doesn&rsquo;t nudge his finance minister to shell out some more money for defence budget then I am afraid he&rsquo;ll have to serve several terms to realise his dream,&rdquo; says Kanwal.

In November 2016, India began exploring the global market for 185,000 modern assault rifles, along with body armours and helmets. However, as the defence forces continue to grapple with pending orders and the soldiers make do with the shortage of weapons and protective gear, it remains to be seen how the capital expenditure pans out this year.

(WION)

When taken with pensions the budget did increase, but a 2015 report says India only has enough ammunition to last 20 days of full-scale war

The year 2016 was a testing one for the Indian defence forces. The terrorist attacks on the Pathankot, Uri and the Nagrota bases were followed by frequent cross-border firing between India and Pakistan. It was also the year when India crossed the Line of Control and performed the the so-called surgical strikes bringing the country to the brink of conflict with Pakistan and questioning it’s war preparedness. On the other hand, soldiers posted a string of grievance videos on social media, fuelling a debate on the possible failure to provide them with basic amenities. 2016 was also the year when India joined the military big boys club by becoming the fourth-largest spender on defence, as per a report by the US based research firm IHS inc. After a year that saw army veterans take to the streets to demand One Rank One Pension (OROP), a whopping Rs 82,332 crore ($12 billion approximately) were set aside for OROP and the Seventh Pay Commission. When taken with defence pensions, the budget increased from 1.71 per cent to 2.26 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. All this did paint a rosy picture. However, for a country moving towards defence modernisation, the capital outlay was slashed by 8.5 per cent. A 2015 Controller and Auditor General report revealed that India was facing a severe shortage of ammunition, having only enough to last 20 days of full-scale war. Some varieties of ammunition with the army, the report added, would barely last ten days of conflict. A shortage of 47 per cent in holding of BMP vehicles, the mainstay of Mechanised Infantry of the 1.8 million strong Indian Army, was also reported. In addition, there is an acute shortage of protective gear for soldiers. According to media reports, in October 2009 the army authorised over three hundred and fifty three thousand (3,53,765) bullet proof jackets. Under half of those (1,86,168) were to come in 11th plan between 2007 to 2012, with the remaining (1,67,597) to be in during the 12th five-year plan. But the reality is that till March 2016 no new jackets were provided. According to reports, the army needs an additional hundred and eighty thousand (1,86,138) jackets. The Indian air force and aviation units of the army also have obsolete equipment. “There is a huge shortage of bullet proof vests. Only recently the defence ministry had put out a statement that 50,000 bullet proof vests are being procured on on a priority basis from abroad. There is possibly a shortage of 150,000-200,000 more,” says Brigadier (Retd) Gurmeet Kanwal, Distinguished Fellow, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. “The vests that are currently held are bulky and do not provide protection all over the body. For example, they cover the front and the back but not the sides, not the neck. There are major challenges over there which need to be rectified. The soldiers equipment has to be appropriate all the way from his rifle, his night-vision goggles, his protective gear like bulletproof jackets, to the clothes and the boots that he wears. Of late, there has been a lot of hue and cry that soldiers are having to buy winter clothing and equipment from the market because it’s lighter and longer-lasting rather than what they get issued from the ordnance core,” Kanwal adds. The truth is that the capital budget is mainly used for procurement of weapons and equipment. But more than half of that goes towards annual payments due for military equipment already bought. “A budget is essentially a wish list and a wish list must start from the soldier, after all it’s a man behind the gun fighting the war,” says Colonel (Retd) Anil Kaul, Defence Analyst. Prime Minister Modi has time and again stressed on defence modernisation. With the new plan he wants come up with what is being dubbed as a “shoot to kill army”. “1.71 per cent of the GDP is inadequate for the kinds of threats and challenges that India faces. It will be a great day if the Indian armed forces can be transformed from a defensive strategic approach to an offensive strategic approach but it will cost a lot. The funds available for modernisation are too meagre to suffice. If Modi doesn’t nudge his finance minister to shell out some more money for defence budget then I am afraid he’ll have to serve several terms to realise his dream,” says Kanwal. In November 2016, India began exploring the global market for 185,000 modern assault rifles, along with body armours and helmets. However, as the defence forces continue to grapple with pending orders and the soldiers make do with the shortage of weapons and protective gear, it remains to be seen how the capital expenditure pans out this year. (WION)

How the defence budget impacts the Indian soldier?

On Wednesday the Pakistan Army&nbsp;claimed it had&nbsp;destroyed an Indian&nbsp;post&nbsp;in retaliation for&nbsp;an alleged ceasefire violation by India.

Video claiming to be of&nbsp;the bunker&#39;s destruction was published in a tweet posted by Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor, the official spokesperson of Pakistan Armed Forces.

Watch it here:

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PR 370/17 Ref 
Clip showing Pak Army&#39;s response to Indian CFV today. Every CFV shall get such aggressive &amp; effective response! <a href="https://t.co/7LwYjdB9Yq">pic.twitter.com/7LwYjdB9Yq</a>
&mdash; Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/887731890257571840">July 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Pakistan Foreign Office summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh to protest against alleged Indian violations across the Line of Control (LoC). Director General (SA and SAARC) Dr Mohammad Faisal handed over a letter of protest to Singh, reports Geo News.

The Pakistan military&#39;s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), has alleged Indian forces resorted to unprovoked firing on Sunday and targetted a Pakistan Army vehicle across the Line of Control (LoC).

This is the third time in this month that the Indian envoy has been summoned by the Pakistan authorities. Earlier on July 8 and July 9, the Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner over alleged ceasefire violations along the LoC, claiming that civilians were killed in firing by the Indian troops.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Foreign Office summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh to protest against alleged Indian violations across the Line of Control

On Wednesday the Pakistan Army claimed it had destroyed an Indian post in retaliation for an alleged ceasefire violation by India. Video claiming to be of the bunker's destruction was published in a tweet posted by Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor, the official spokesperson of Pakistan Armed Forces. Watch it here: PR 370/17 Ref Clip showing Pak Army's response to Indian CFV today. Every CFV shall get such aggressive & effective response! pic.twitter.com/7LwYjdB9Yq — Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) July 19, 2017 × Earlier, the Pakistan Foreign Office summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh to protest against alleged Indian violations across the Line of Control (LoC). Director General (SA and SAARC) Dr Mohammad Faisal handed over a letter of protest to Singh, reports Geo News. The Pakistan military's media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), has alleged Indian forces resorted to unprovoked firing on Sunday and targetted a Pakistan Army vehicle across the Line of Control (LoC). This is the third time in this month that the Indian envoy has been summoned by the Pakistan authorities. Earlier on July 8 and July 9, the Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner over alleged ceasefire violations along the LoC, claiming that civilians were killed in firing by the Indian troops.

Watch: Indian Army post allegedly destroyed by Pakistan Army

An&nbsp;Army Major was shot dead last evening, allegedly by an Army soldier, following a dispute about an unknown topic at a post near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, media reports said.

Police say Major Shikar Thapa of 8 Rashtriya Rifles died on the spot after being fired upon allegedly by Naik Kathiresan G.

Police are investigating the case.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Army officials have confirmed the fratricidal killing, that of a fellow soldier or superior. They say details are being ascertained.

The Army is expected to release a statement later today.

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Police say Major Shikar Thapa of 8 Rashtriya Rifles died on the spot after being fired upon allegedly by Naik Kathiresan G.

An Army Major was shot dead last evening, allegedly by an Army soldier, following a dispute about an unknown topic at a post near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, media reports said. Police say Major Shikar Thapa of 8 Rashtriya Rifles died on the spot after being fired upon allegedly by Naik Kathiresan G. Police are investigating the case. Meanwhile, Army officials have confirmed the fratricidal killing, that of a fellow soldier or superior. They say details are being ascertained. The Army is expected to release a statement later today.

Soldier allegedly shoots Army Major dead after dispute near LoC

In yet another incident of ceasefire violation, a soldier was injured when Pakistani side fired on several Indian posts in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Uri sector.

According to ANI, the Indian side retaliated against the ceasefire violation after several Indian posts were targeted. Artillery shells were also fired from the Pakistani side.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash">#UPDATE</a> J&amp;K: One jawan injured in Uri ceasefire violation, artillery shells fired from PoK side.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/886909230082441216">July 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Indian Army top brass has strongly conveyed to Pakistan&nbsp;that it has every right to retaliate against incidents of ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Raising the issue of repeated ceasefire violation by the Pakistani side along the LoC, India&#39;s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), Lt&nbsp;Gen A K Bhatt, in a telephonic conversation with his Pakistani counterpart which lasted for nearly 10 minutes, told him that the Indian Army reserves the right to retaliate against ceasefire violation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The DGMO further added that the Indian Army &quot;is sincere&nbsp;in its effort of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LoC provided there was reciprocity&quot;, Army spokesman Lt Col Aman Anand said, as reported by PTI.&nbsp;

An Indian Army soldier and a nine-year-old girl were killed while three persons injured in heavy firing and mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.&nbsp;

The Indian Army said it has&nbsp;retaliated, triggering heavy exchanges.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash">#WATCH</a> Ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the Line of Control in Rajouri&#39;s Manjakote sector (Jammu &amp; Kashmir) <a href="https://t.co/nBeko8KCeZ">pic.twitter.com/nBeko8KCeZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/886843172508151811">July 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Army Headquarters released a statement: Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked firing on Indian Army posts in Rajouri sector around 0730 hours today. Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively.

In the fire exchange, Naik Mudassar Ahmed was grievously injured when mortar shells landed on his bunker. He was evacuated to the MI room where he succumbed to his injuries.

The statement said Muddasar Ahmed was 37, and belonged to a village named Duchoo, Tehsil Tral, in the Pulwama District in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his wife, Shaheena Muddasar, and two children.

The nine-year-old girl has been identified in media reports as&nbsp;Sajada Houser. She was killed at Baroti, a&nbsp;police officer told PTI.&nbsp; 
 
A senior district official of Rajouri told PTI that two civilians were injured in shelling in Manjakote belt of Rajouri district and have been hospitalised. A soldier&nbsp;was also injured, he said.

Schools along the&nbsp;Manajote and Balakote belt have been shut and people have been advised&nbsp;not to come out of their homes in view of the heavy shelling.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash">#Visuals</a> of woman injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri&#39;s Manjakote sector (J&amp;K) <a href="https://t.co/XgScZfAzga">pic.twitter.com/XgScZfAzga</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/886846115382820864">July 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, in a stern message, India conveyed to Pakistan that it has the right to retaliate against ceasefire violation along LoC

In yet another incident of ceasefire violation, a soldier was injured when Pakistani side fired on several Indian posts in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector. According to ANI, the Indian side retaliated against the ceasefire violation after several Indian posts were targeted. Artillery shells were also fired from the Pakistani side. #UPDATE J&K: One jawan injured in Uri ceasefire violation, artillery shells fired from PoK side. — ANI (@ANI_news) July 17, 2017 × Earlier, the Indian Army top brass has strongly conveyed to Pakistan that it has every right to retaliate against incidents of ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Raising the issue of repeated ceasefire violation by the Pakistani side along the LoC, India's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), Lt Gen A K Bhatt, in a telephonic conversation with his Pakistani counterpart which lasted for nearly 10 minutes, told him that the Indian Army reserves the right to retaliate against ceasefire violation. The DGMO further added that the Indian Army "is sincere in its effort of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LoC provided there was reciprocity", Army spokesman Lt Col Aman Anand said, as reported by PTI. An Indian Army soldier and a nine-year-old girl were killed while three persons injured in heavy firing and mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. The Indian Army said it has retaliated, triggering heavy exchanges. #WATCH Ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the Line of Control in Rajouri's Manjakote sector (Jammu & Kashmir) pic.twitter.com/nBeko8KCeZ — ANI (@ANI_news) July 17, 2017 × The Indian Army Headquarters released a statement: Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked firing on Indian Army posts in Rajouri sector around 0730 hours today. Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively. In the fire exchange, Naik Mudassar Ahmed was grievously injured when mortar shells landed on his bunker. He was evacuated to the MI room where he succumbed to his injuries. The statement said Muddasar Ahmed was 37, and belonged to a village named Duchoo, Tehsil Tral, in the Pulwama District in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his wife, Shaheena Muddasar, and two children. The nine-year-old girl has been identified in media reports as Sajada Houser. She was killed at Baroti, a police officer told PTI. A senior district official of Rajouri told PTI that two civilians were injured in shelling in Manjakote belt of Rajouri district and have been hospitalised. A soldier was also injured, he said. Schools along the Manajote and Balakote belt have been shut and people have been advised not to come out of their homes in view of the heavy shelling. #Visuals of woman injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri's Manjakote sector (J&K) pic.twitter.com/XgScZfAzga — ANI (@ANI_news) July 17, 2017 ×

After Poonch and Rajouri, Pakistan violates ceasefire in J&K's Uri sector, 1 killed

The Pakistan Army on Sunday claimed that it has&nbsp;destroyed two Indian Army posts along the Line of Control (LoC) and killed four Indian soldiers.

The Pakistan Army said the action was taken in response to the alleged &quot;unprovoked firing by the Indian side from across the Line of Control (LoC) that killed five civilians (Pakistani civilians)&quot; on Saturday.

&quot;Pakistan Army befittingly responded on July 9, causing substantial losses to men and material.

Two Indian Army posts firing on innocent civilians have been destroyed, four Indian soldiers killed,&quot; read a statement issued by the Pakistan Army Inter-Services Public Relations wing.

The statement further stated that, &quot;it resolves to protect the civil population against unprovoked Indian aggression at any cost.&quot;

Meanwhile, the official spokesperson of Pakistani Armed Forces, Major General Asif Ghafoor also took to his twitter account to inform about the same and also released a video of Pakistani Armed forces allegedly destroying two Indian Army posts.

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In utter failure to cap remembrance of Wani&#39;s shahadat, Indian forces targeted innocent civ along LOC. Indian guns silenced effectively! <a href="https://t.co/qOoAtVvCIg">pic.twitter.com/qOoAtVvCIg</a>
&mdash; Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/884134499889500160">July 9, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Saturday, on the occasion of the first death anniversary of the Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani, the Pakistani Army claimed that Indian Armed forces allegedly resorted heavy shelling in different areas of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) from across the LoC.

As per reports, at least five Pakistani civilians, including four women were killed and ten others were injured.&nbsp;

The Pakistan army claimed that its actions were in retaliation to the alleged 'unprovoked firing by the Indian side from across the Line of Control (LoC) that killed five civilians (Pakistani civilians)' on Saturday

The Pakistan Army on Sunday claimed that it has destroyed two Indian Army posts along the Line of Control (LoC) and killed four Indian soldiers. The Pakistan Army said the action was taken in response to the alleged "unprovoked firing by the Indian side from across the Line of Control (LoC) that killed five civilians (Pakistani civilians)" on Saturday. "Pakistan Army befittingly responded on July 9, causing substantial losses to men and material. Two Indian Army posts firing on innocent civilians have been destroyed, four Indian soldiers killed," read a statement issued by the Pakistan Army Inter-Services Public Relations wing. The statement further stated that, "it resolves to protect the civil population against unprovoked Indian aggression at any cost." Meanwhile, the official spokesperson of Pakistani Armed Forces, Major General Asif Ghafoor also took to his twitter account to inform about the same and also released a video of Pakistani Armed forces allegedly destroying two Indian Army posts. In utter failure to cap remembrance of Wani's shahadat, Indian forces targeted innocent civ along LOC. Indian guns silenced effectively! pic.twitter.com/qOoAtVvCIg — Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) July 9, 2017 × Earlier on Saturday, on the occasion of the first death anniversary of the Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani, the Pakistani Army claimed that Indian Armed forces allegedly resorted heavy shelling in different areas of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) from across the LoC. As per reports, at least five Pakistani civilians, including four women were killed and ten others were injured.

Four Indian soldiers killed, two posts destroyed along LoC, claims Pakistan Army

India on Saturday lodged a&nbsp;strong protest with Pakistan over death of two Indian civilians in ceasefire violations across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars early morning in Poonch sector, ANI reported.

According to ANI, two civilians have been killed in the firing.

The violation took place around 6:30 am today.

The Indian Army is retaliating strongly and effectively.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash">#WATCH</a>: Ceasefire violation by Pakistan in J&amp;K&#39;s Poonch, two civilians killed. <a href="https://t.co/r6kC3uTbp2">pic.twitter.com/r6kC3uTbp2</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/883530011054977025">July 8, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Indian Army is retaliating strongly and effectively

India on Saturday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over death of two Indian civilians in ceasefire violations across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars early morning in Poonch sector, ANI reported. According to ANI, two civilians have been killed in the firing. The violation took place around 6:30 am today. The Indian Army is retaliating strongly and effectively. #WATCH: Ceasefire violation by Pakistan in J&K's Poonch, two civilians killed. pic.twitter.com/r6kC3uTbp2 — ANI (@ANI_news) July 8, 2017 ×

India lodges protest with Pakistan over civilian deaths in J&K ceasefire violation

Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader and lawyer Rajesh Kumar Awasthi has announced a Rs 50 lakh reward to anyone who cuts off Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan&rsquo;s tongue, The Indian Express reported.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
This announcement comes three days after Khan made controversial remarks about the Indian armed forces. 
&nbsp; 
Azam Khan, while speaking at the SP office in Rampur district on June 27, had referred to &quot;shameful violent happenings&quot; in places such as Kashmir, Tripura, Jharkhand and Bengal. 
&nbsp; 
Khan had said excesses by security forces had led to &quot;women in some places chopping off the private parts of Army men&quot;.

Awasthi, who is a VHP district secretary, said he would sell his property to pay the reward.

&ldquo;I have announced to give Rs 50 lakh cash to anyone who cuts off Azam&rsquo;s tongue. If anyone is ready to take my offer and complete the task, I would sell off my property to pay the amount,&rdquo; Awasthi said, The Indian Express reported.

A police inquiry has been ordered.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Khan was charged with sedition for his comments at the Chandpur police station in Bijnor.&nbsp; 
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The leader, a lawyer, said he would sell his property to pay the reward

Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader and lawyer Rajesh Kumar Awasthi has announced a Rs 50 lakh reward to anyone who cuts off Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan’s tongue, The Indian Express reported. This announcement comes three days after Khan made controversial remarks about the Indian armed forces. Azam Khan, while speaking at the SP office in Rampur district on June 27, had referred to "shameful violent happenings" in places such as Kashmir, Tripura, Jharkhand and Bengal. Khan had said excesses by security forces had led to "women in some places chopping off the private parts of Army men". Awasthi, who is a VHP district secretary, said he would sell his property to pay the reward. “I have announced to give Rs 50 lakh cash to anyone who cuts off Azam’s tongue. If anyone is ready to take my offer and complete the task, I would sell off my property to pay the amount,” Awasthi said, The Indian Express reported. A police inquiry has been ordered. Meanwhile, on Friday, Khan was charged with sedition for his comments at the Chandpur police station in Bijnor.

VHP leader announces Rs 50 lakh reward for Azam Khan's tongue

India&#39;s army chief visited the mountainous state of Sikkim bordering China on Thursday, where tensions have flared after Beijing accused New Delhi of sending troops into its territory and obstructing the construction of a road.

Small incursions and troop stand-offs are common along other parts of the contested 3,500 km (2175 miles) frontier, but a flare-up near strategically positioned Sikkim is rare.

General Bipin Rawat arrived in Gangtok, the capital of the tiny Himalayan state, before heading off to visit troop formations. A spokesman for the Indian army said the one-day trip was &quot;routine&quot; and planned before the recent tensions.

Reports of the incursion and a confrontation between troops emerged as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, the latest in a line of stand-offs reported during diplomatic initiatives.

India has deepened its military ties with the United States in recent years, worrying China, which is also unhappy with India&#39;s refusal to participate in Beijing&#39;s multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. India is concerned the project could cement China&#39;s dominance over Asia.

According to the Chinese interpretation of events, Indian guards crossed into the Donglang region earlier in June and obstructed work on a road on a plateau.

The two sets of troops then confronted each other close to a highly strategic valley controlled by China that separates India from Bhutan - a close Indian ally - and gives China access to the so-called Chicken&#39;s Neck, a slither of land that connects India to its remote northeastern regions.

Indian media have reported that the dispute began when China removed an old Indian bunker.

China says that unlike other parts of their shared border, the delineation of the frontier with Sikkim is settled, and it has the right to develop the area.

&quot;Donglang Region is part of China&#39;s territory,&quot; Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said on Thursday. &quot;China&#39;s road-building activities in Donglang on its own territory are totally reasonable and understandable.&quot;

Late on Thursday, the ministry released on its website two photographs it said showed Indian troops and at least two Indian military bulldozers on what it said was the Chinese side of the border.

The Nathu La Pass, which lies on the frontier between Sikkim and Tibet, was the site of a fierce border clash between Chinese and Indian troops in 1967.

China has accused India of sending troops into its territory and obstructing a road construction

India's army chief visited the mountainous state of Sikkim bordering China on Thursday, where tensions have flared after Beijing accused New Delhi of sending troops into its territory and obstructing the construction of a road. Small incursions and troop stand-offs are common along other parts of the contested 3,500 km (2175 miles) frontier, but a flare-up near strategically positioned Sikkim is rare. General Bipin Rawat arrived in Gangtok, the capital of the tiny Himalayan state, before heading off to visit troop formations. A spokesman for the Indian army said the one-day trip was "routine" and planned before the recent tensions. Reports of the incursion and a confrontation between troops emerged as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, the latest in a line of stand-offs reported during diplomatic initiatives. India has deepened its military ties with the United States in recent years, worrying China, which is also unhappy with India's refusal to participate in Beijing's multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. India is concerned the project could cement China's dominance over Asia. According to the Chinese interpretation of events, Indian guards crossed into the Donglang region earlier in June and obstructed work on a road on a plateau. The two sets of troops then confronted each other close to a highly strategic valley controlled by China that separates India from Bhutan - a close Indian ally - and gives China access to the so-called Chicken's Neck, a slither of land that connects India to its remote northeastern regions. Indian media have reported that the dispute began when China removed an old Indian bunker. China says that unlike other parts of their shared border, the delineation of the frontier with Sikkim is settled, and it has the right to develop the area. "Donglang Region is part of China's territory," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said on Thursday. "China's road-building activities in Donglang on its own territory are totally reasonable and understandable." Late on Thursday, the ministry released on its website two photographs it said showed Indian troops and at least two Indian military bulldozers on what it said was the Chinese side of the border. The Nathu La Pass, which lies on the frontier between Sikkim and Tibet, was the site of a fierce border clash between Chinese and Indian troops in 1967.

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat  visits Sikkim amid tensions with China

The Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid by terrorists on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Palanwala sector.

The alert soldiers deployed along the LOC detected and engaged suspicious movement of a group of terrorists in the early hours of June 21.

As the army jawans opened fire, the terrorists returned fire and ran back across the LoC.

An intense combing operation was conducted in the area which resulted in recovery of one AK-47 rifle with ammunition and other war like stores.

In another development from Pulwama, an officer of 50 Rashtriya Rifles on late Wednesday night sustained injuries in an encounter with terrorists.

The encounter was underway at the time of filing this report between armed forces and terrorists, believed to be affiliated to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

According to security officials, fierce stone pelting that began during Pulwama encounter might have helped terrorists escape the cordon.

50 Rashtriya Rifles, Special Operations Group (SOP) and 183 CRPF battalion are involved in the encounter.&nbsp;

The alert soldiers deployed along the LOC detected and engaged suspicious movement of a group of terrorists in the early hours of June 21

The Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid by terrorists on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Palanwala sector. The alert soldiers deployed along the LOC detected and engaged suspicious movement of a group of terrorists in the early hours of June 21. As the army jawans opened fire, the terrorists returned fire and ran back across the LoC. An intense combing operation was conducted in the area which resulted in recovery of one AK-47 rifle with ammunition and other war like stores. In another development from Pulwama, an officer of 50 Rashtriya Rifles on late Wednesday night sustained injuries in an encounter with terrorists. The encounter was underway at the time of filing this report between armed forces and terrorists, believed to be affiliated to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). According to security officials, fierce stone pelting that began during Pulwama encounter might have helped terrorists escape the cordon. 50 Rashtriya Rifles, Special Operations Group (SOP) and 183 CRPF battalion are involved in the encounter.

J&K: Indian Army foils Infiltration bid along LoC in Pallanwala sector, ammunition recovered

Army chief General Bipin Rawat said the human shield tactic&nbsp;cannot become the standard operating procedure in the Valley, the <a href="http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/human-shield-tactic-is-not-our-sop-army-chief-gen-bipin-rawat-says/articleshow/59198761.cms" target="_blank">Times of India</a> reports. The human shield&nbsp;tactic drew a lot of criticism after a Major, Leetul Gogoi, tied a civilian up to his jeep.

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A man was strapped to the front of a police jeep purportedly to be used as a human shield against stone pelters (DNA)
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This is something of&nbsp;a reversal for Rawat, who earlier said that Major Gogoi&#39;s decision prevented casualties and injuries. Rawat added that the armed forces are sensitive to issues of human rights, and have always maintained a good record.

Rawat&#39;s earlier support for human shields taken against this recent reversal makes it hard to peg down exactly where he currently stands: Is he in favour of human shields so long as they potentially protect against injuries or death? If so, when&nbsp;isn&#39;t&nbsp;he against them?&nbsp;He never said they are never acceptable,&nbsp;only&nbsp;that&nbsp;it&nbsp;cannot become standard operating procedure.

After, he told the media that security force were working hard to bring normalcy to Kashmir, and said the situation was &quot;not deteriorating&quot;.

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Earlier, General Bipin Rawat said Gogoi's use of a human shield prevented casualties injuries

Army chief General Bipin Rawat said the human shield tactic cannot become the standard operating procedure in the Valley, the Times of India reports. The human shield tactic drew a lot of criticism after a Major, Leetul Gogoi, tied a civilian up to his jeep. A man was strapped to the front of a police jeep purportedly to be used as a human shield against stone pelters (DNA) × This is something of a reversal for Rawat, who earlier said that Major Gogoi's decision prevented casualties and injuries. Rawat added that the armed forces are sensitive to issues of human rights, and have always maintained a good record. Rawat's earlier support for human shields taken against this recent reversal makes it hard to peg down exactly where he currently stands: Is he in favour of human shields so long as they potentially protect against injuries or death? If so, when isn't he against them? He never said they are never acceptable, only that it cannot become standard operating procedure. After, he told the media that security force were working hard to bring normalcy to Kashmir, and said the situation was "not deteriorating".

Human shield not to become 'standard operating procedure': Army chief

Pakistani troops have again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. This time Pakistan violated ceasefire in Nowshera sector&#39;s Lam, in Rajouri district, ANI reported.

NA Chowhan, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Nowshera, said heavy and small arms were being used by the Pakistani Army. He added that the firing is still on.

Even as firing continues, India repatriated 11 Pakistani prisoners via Wagah Border today, ANI reported.

Earlier today, Pakistani Army initiated indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars at 6:20 am&nbsp;along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Krishna Ghati sector.

The Indian Army posts are retaliating strongly and effectively.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash">#WATCH</a> J&amp;K : Nine ceasefire violations by Pakistan since June 1: Visuals from Poonch&#39;s KG sector, which is the 6th CFV in the last 72 hours. <a href="https://t.co/8UP0zkmpJh">pic.twitter.com/8UP0zkmpJh</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/874128324473176065">June 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, the Pakistan Army violated ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Naushera sector.

This came after the Pakistan Army earlier in the day initiated indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars in Naushera along the Line of Control (LoC).

Pakistan summons India&#39;s deputy high commissioner

Pakistan, meanwhile,&nbsp;alleged that two Pakistani civilians were killed&nbsp;in firing by Indian troops along the LoC.

The country summoned India&#39;s Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh on Monday and condemned the alleged ceasefire violation.

Geo TV quoted the army&#39;s media wing as saying that Indian troops resorted to unprovoked firing with heavy weapons in the Jandrot and Hotspring (Tattapani) sectors.

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Earlier today, Pakistani Army initiated indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars at 6:20 am?along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Krishna Ghati sector

Pakistani troops have again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. This time Pakistan violated ceasefire in Nowshera sector's Lam, in Rajouri district, ANI reported. NA Chowhan, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Nowshera, said heavy and small arms were being used by the Pakistani Army. He added that the firing is still on. Even as firing continues, India repatriated 11 Pakistani prisoners via Wagah Border today, ANI reported. Earlier today, Pakistani Army initiated indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars at 6:20 am along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Krishna Ghati sector. The Indian Army posts are retaliating strongly and effectively. #WATCH J&K : Nine ceasefire violations by Pakistan since June 1: Visuals from Poonch's KG sector, which is the 6th CFV in the last 72 hours. pic.twitter.com/8UP0zkmpJh — ANI (@ANI_news) June 12, 2017 × On Sunday, the Pakistan Army violated ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir's Naushera sector. This came after the Pakistan Army earlier in the day initiated indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars in Naushera along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan summons India's deputy high commissioner Pakistan, meanwhile, alleged that two Pakistani civilians were killed in firing by Indian troops along the LoC. The country summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh on Monday and condemned the alleged ceasefire violation. Geo TV quoted the army's media wing as saying that Indian troops resorted to unprovoked firing with heavy weapons in the Jandrot and Hotspring (Tattapani) sectors.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan continues to violate ceasefire

The Indian Army has been given a free hand to deal with any attempt by Pakistani troops to disturb peace in the country, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday. 
 
Addressing Tridev Sammelan, a conclave of booth-level office-bearers of the assembly constituencies within the Hamirpur Lok sabha seat, he warned the neighbouring country against any misadventure. 
 
&quot;Indian forces will not count bullets while replying to any provocation by Pakistan,&quot; he said. 
 
His statement comes a day after two Indian soldiers were killed in an ambush attack on an Army convoy by militants on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. 
 
&quot;Pakistan has been making repeated efforts to disturb the peace and tranquility in J&amp;K...Our forces will give appropriate reply to such provocations,&quot; he added. 
 
Stating that militancy has come down in all parts of the country, he said the government is committed to eliminate terrorism and &quot;our forces are on alert round the clock and sacrificing their lives in fighting terrorists&quot;. 
 
He called upon BJP workers to oust the Congress government in the state in the upcoming Assembly polls.

The home minister said he was confident his party would win the elections and form the next government. 
 
The state goes to poll later this year. 
 
Accusing the Virbhadra Singh government of not utilising the funds given by the NDA government, Rajnath Singh said rampant corruption was hampering development in the state. 
 
He said&nbsp;the Centre would do its best to help Himachal Pradesh in accelerating its developmental activities. 
 
Federal health minister JP Nadda, former state chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, state BJP chief Sat Pal Satti, and state party in-charge Mangal Pandey attended the conclave. 
 
Nadda said, under the present Congress dispensation, the state has witnessed one of the &quot;darkest periods&quot; since Independence. 
 
He accused the CM of indulging in corruption and spending most of his time in securing bails and facing court cases rather than working for the welfare of the people. 
 
Dhumal demanded quota for Himachalis in recruitments in paramilitary forces and asserted that their contribution in guarding the borders has been immense. 
 
Satti pitched for making Rajnath Singh the party&#39;s star campaigner for the upcoming state elections. 
 
(PTI)

 
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The home minister's statement comes a day after two Indian soldiers were killed in an ambush attack on an Army convoy by militants on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway

The Indian Army has been given a free hand to deal with any attempt by Pakistani troops to disturb peace in the country, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday. Addressing Tridev Sammelan, a conclave of booth-level office-bearers of the assembly constituencies within the Hamirpur Lok sabha seat, he warned the neighbouring country against any misadventure. "Indian forces will not count bullets while replying to any provocation by Pakistan," he said. His statement comes a day after two Indian soldiers were killed in an ambush attack on an Army convoy by militants on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. "Pakistan has been making repeated efforts to disturb the peace and tranquility in J&K...Our forces will give appropriate reply to such provocations," he added. Stating that militancy has come down in all parts of the country, he said the government is committed to eliminate terrorism and "our forces are on alert round the clock and sacrificing their lives in fighting terrorists". He called upon BJP workers to oust the Congress government in the state in the upcoming Assembly polls. The home minister said he was confident his party would win the elections and form the next government. The state goes to poll later this year. Accusing the Virbhadra Singh government of not utilising the funds given by the NDA government, Rajnath Singh said rampant corruption was hampering development in the state. He said the Centre would do its best to help Himachal Pradesh in accelerating its developmental activities. Federal health minister JP Nadda, former state chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, state BJP chief Sat Pal Satti, and state party in-charge Mangal Pandey attended the conclave. Nadda said, under the present Congress dispensation, the state has witnessed one of the "darkest periods" since Independence. He accused the CM of indulging in corruption and spending most of his time in securing bails and facing court cases rather than working for the welfare of the people. Dhumal demanded quota for Himachalis in recruitments in paramilitary forces and asserted that their contribution in guarding the borders has been immense. Satti pitched for making Rajnath Singh the party's star campaigner for the upcoming state elections. (PTI)

Indian Army given free hand to deal with Pakistan misadventure: Rajnath Singh

The Indian Army is all set to open up combat positions for women, a gender barrier broken by only a few countries globally. 
 
Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said the process to allow women in combat role, currently an exclusive domain of men, is moving fast and initially women will be recruited for positions in military police. 
 
&quot;I am looking at women coming as jawans. I am going to start it soon. Firstly, we will start with women as military police jawans,&quot; he said, giving details of the move to allow women in the male-dominated positions in the Army. 
 
Currently, women are allowed in a number of select areas including in medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army but combat roles are kept off limit for them due to operational concerns and logistical issues. 
 
The Army Chief said he was ready to recruit women as jawans and the matter is being taken up with the government. 
 
&quot;We have already started the process,&quot; Gen Rawat told PTI in an exclusive interaction recently 
 
He said women will have to show grit and strength in taking up challenges in combat role and shattering the glass ceiling. 
 
Very few countries including Germany, Australia, Canada, the US, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel have allowed women in combat roles 
 
The roles of military police include policing the cantonments and army establishments, prevent breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required. 
 
Creating history, the Indian Air Force, last year, had inducted three women as fighter pilots, less than a year after the government decided to open the fighter stream for women on an experimental basis 
 
A decision on having women as fighter pilots will be taken after evaluating performance of the three women -- Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh who are now part of IAF&#39;s fighter squadron 
 
The Indian Navy is currently deliberating on a policy on having women onboard the ships. The Navy allows women in various other segments including in legal, logistics, naval architecture and engineering departments.

(PTI)

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat told PTI that they will start with women as military police jawans

The Indian Army is all set to open up combat positions for women, a gender barrier broken by only a few countries globally. Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said the process to allow women in combat role, currently an exclusive domain of men, is moving fast and initially women will be recruited for positions in military police. "I am looking at women coming as jawans. I am going to start it soon. Firstly, we will start with women as military police jawans," he said, giving details of the move to allow women in the male-dominated positions in the Army. Currently, women are allowed in a number of select areas including in medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army but combat roles are kept off limit for them due to operational concerns and logistical issues. The Army Chief said he was ready to recruit women as jawans and the matter is being taken up with the government. "We have already started the process," Gen Rawat told PTI in an exclusive interaction recently He said women will have to show grit and strength in taking up challenges in combat role and shattering the glass ceiling. Very few countries including Germany, Australia, Canada, the US, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel have allowed women in combat roles The roles of military police include policing the cantonments and army establishments, prevent breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required. Creating history, the Indian Air Force, last year, had inducted three women as fighter pilots, less than a year after the government decided to open the fighter stream for women on an experimental basis A decision on having women as fighter pilots will be taken after evaluating performance of the three women -- Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh who are now part of IAF's fighter squadron The Indian Navy is currently deliberating on a policy on having women onboard the ships. The Navy allows women in various other segments including in legal, logistics, naval architecture and engineering departments. (PTI)

Indian army to allow women in combat role

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed a money laundering case against four principals in connection with the Bihar topper scam.

After Bihar Arts topper, Ganesh Kumar failed to show any of his academic prowess raising speculation of yet another topper scam in the state, the Bihar School Exam Board Chairman Anand Kishore on Thursday gave a clean chit to the former while saying that no one can raise question on his merit.

Where around 65 per cent of the students failed the Bihar board, Ganesh Kumar topped from the Arts stream. He secured 65 out of 70 marks in the Practical examinations of Music and 18 out of 30 in the theory. He has secured 92 marks out of 100 in Hindi.

However, a meeting with him gives a different picture. Ganesh even failed to answer basic questions related to the subjects in which he secured the highest mark.&nbsp;When he was asked to play some instruments and sing a song, he seemed unable to play anything in tune.

Last year, scam in the&nbsp;Bihar&nbsp;Board was revealed after topper Ruby Rai, who secured 444&nbsp;marks out of 500 in the arts stream, was not even able to answer some of the basic questions related to her subjects in which she passed in.&nbsp;

(ANI)

The Indian Army had also rejected the Pakistan military's claim that five Indian soldiers were killed in Tatta Pani sector along the LoC?yesterday

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed a money laundering case against four principals in connection with the Bihar topper scam. After Bihar Arts topper, Ganesh Kumar failed to show any of his academic prowess raising speculation of yet another topper scam in the state, the Bihar School Exam Board Chairman Anand Kishore on Thursday gave a clean chit to the former while saying that no one can raise question on his merit. Where around 65 per cent of the students failed the Bihar board, Ganesh Kumar topped from the Arts stream. He secured 65 out of 70 marks in the Practical examinations of Music and 18 out of 30 in the theory. He has secured 92 marks out of 100 in Hindi. However, a meeting with him gives a different picture. Ganesh even failed to answer basic questions related to the subjects in which he secured the highest mark. When he was asked to play some instruments and sing a song, he seemed unable to play anything in tune. Last year, scam in the Bihar Board was revealed after topper Ruby Rai, who secured 444 marks out of 500 in the arts stream, was not even able to answer some of the basic questions related to her subjects in which she passed in. (ANI)

Pakistan military video of attacks on Indian posts false: Indian Army

The Indian Army today said it had&nbsp;successfully foiled an infiltration bid in the Rampur sector of Jammu and Kashmir, killing 6 militants.

Earlier four militants were reported to be have been gunned down.&nbsp;The area had been cordoned off and was being sanitised to check for more militants. Reports now suggest that a total of 6 militants have been killed.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash">#UPDATE</a> J&amp;K: Infiltration bid foiled by Security forces in Rampur sector. Two more terrorists killed, operation underway
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/868340743194066945">May 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash">#UPDATE</a> : Four AK rifles, one pistol recovered from six terrorists killed by security forces, operation underway
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/868350972447281152">May 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, around two-three terrorists are trapped and a massive encounter is underway in Saimu Tral sector of Jammu and Kashmir, as security forces are trying to smoke them out from their hideouts.

A major counter- operation is underway.

(ANI)

A gun battle broke out between the infiltrators and the Indian Army in the early hours of Saturday

The Indian Army today said it had successfully foiled an infiltration bid in the Rampur sector of Jammu and Kashmir, killing 6 militants. Earlier four militants were reported to be have been gunned down. The area had been cordoned off and was being sanitised to check for more militants. Reports now suggest that a total of 6 militants have been killed. #UPDATE J&K: Infiltration bid foiled by Security forces in Rampur sector. Two more terrorists killed, operation underway — ANI (@ANI_news) May 27, 2017 × #UPDATE : Four AK rifles, one pistol recovered from six terrorists killed by security forces, operation underway — ANI (@ANI_news) May 27, 2017 × Meanwhile, around two-three terrorists are trapped and a massive encounter is underway in Saimu Tral sector of Jammu and Kashmir, as security forces are trying to smoke them out from their hideouts. A major counter- operation is underway. (ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir : 6 militants killed in infiltration bid in Rampur sector, another encounter underway in Tral

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