PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik’s move to reverse the previous state government’s decision, exempting women from paying stamp duty on property registration, had negated her efforts toward women empowerment. Mehbooba led the previous PDP-BJP government in the state.

“As far as empowering women is concerned, all our efforts are negated by the Governor’s recent decision. One fails to understand why my government’s historic decision to levy no stamp duty on property registered in the names of females was revoked,” she said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also called the Centre’s flagship “beti bachao beti padhao” scheme hogwash.&nbsp;

“Women contribute the most to the world’s wealth but hardly own any assets. GoIs beti bachao beti padao programme is simply hogwash. Time for them to walk the talk,” she added.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik’s move to reverse the previous state government’s decision, exempting women from paying stamp duty on property registration, had negated her efforts toward women empowerment.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik’s move to reverse the previous state government’s decision, exempting women from paying stamp duty on property registration, had negated her efforts toward women empowerment. Mehbooba led the previous PDP-BJP government in the state. “As far as empowering women is concerned, all our efforts are negated by the Governor’s recent decision. One fails to understand why my government’s historic decision to levy no stamp duty on property registered in the names of females was revoked,” she said in a tweet. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also called the Centre’s flagship “beti bachao beti padhao” scheme hogwash. “Women contribute the most to the world’s wealth but hardly own any assets. GoIs beti bachao beti padao programme is simply hogwash. Time for them to walk the talk,” she added.

Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Jammu and Kashmir governor for reversing decision taken by her govt

An encounter between security forces and terrorists started earlier on Saturday in Srinagar's Khonmoh, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter;&nbsp;more details are awaited.&nbsp;

On January 23, three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district, news agency PTI reported.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Security forces neutralise two terrorists during encounter in Khonmoh, Srinagar <a href="https://t.co/yeDnv8ROR1">https://t.co/yeDnv8ROR1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1089000220866818049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Binner area of the district following information about the presence of terrorists in the area, a police official said.

He said the search operation turned into a gun battle after the terrorists opened fire on the security forces.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An encounter between security forces and terrorists started earlier on Saturday in Srinagar's Khonmoh, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter; more details are awaited.

An encounter between security forces and terrorists started earlier on Saturday in Srinagar's Khonmoh, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter; more details are awaited. On January 23, three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district, news agency PTI reported. #UPDATE: Security forces neutralise two terrorists during encounter in Khonmoh, Srinagar https://t.co/yeDnv8ROR1 — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2019 × The security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Binner area of the district following information about the presence of terrorists in the area, a police official said. He said the search operation turned into a gun battle after the terrorists opened fire on the security forces. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Srinagar's Khonmoh

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds. The snow is 8-feet deep and the enemy can fire from anywhere, its an act of bravado that keeps these men going at an altitude of 4 thousand metres.&nbsp;

Every morning, wearing special white jackets, security personnel&nbsp;head out on their usual patrol with heavy guns and other equipment to guard the fence. They look at every suspicious movement and look out for an unusual enemy - an avalanche. The bunkers are mostly covered with snow and walking on frozen snow is difficult.&nbsp;

"During the day, we patrol the fence and at night we set special points where we do our duties in shifts, so that enemy doesn't come beyond the fence. If someone comes close, we have orders to fire and kill", said BSF Sub-inspector, Brij Tyagi.&nbsp;

BSF jawans carry tri-colour with them to hoist it near the line of control and remember those who have fallen in the line of duty. For them, celebrations are limited but the morale remains high even in adverse conditions. They say that they are happy in celebrating Republic Day with their colleagues with whom they have developed a strong bond over the years. Special meals are cooked and self-made sweets are distributed to mark the day.&nbsp;

"On national festivals, we have to be extra vigilant and carry out extra patrolling. Our nation should remain happy and people should distribute sweets without any worry. We are here for the protection of our nation," noted Head constable Bharat Singh.&nbsp;

The operations don’t stop even for a minute here. A round-the-clock vigil is the only way to keep a sneaking enemy at bay. In this area here, the lull only breaks with the bang of guns.

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds.

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds. The snow is 8-feet deep and the enemy can fire from anywhere, its an act of bravado that keeps these men going at an altitude of 4 thousand metres. Every morning, wearing special white jackets, security personnel head out on their usual patrol with heavy guns and other equipment to guard the fence. They look at every suspicious movement and look out for an unusual enemy - an avalanche. The bunkers are mostly covered with snow and walking on frozen snow is difficult. "During the day, we patrol the fence and at night we set special points where we do our duties in shifts, so that enemy doesn't come beyond the fence. If someone comes close, we have orders to fire and kill", said BSF Sub-inspector, Brij Tyagi. BSF jawans carry tri-colour with them to hoist it near the line of control and remember those who have fallen in the line of duty. For them, celebrations are limited but the morale remains high even in adverse conditions. They say that they are happy in celebrating Republic Day with their colleagues with whom they have developed a strong bond over the years. Special meals are cooked and self-made sweets are distributed to mark the day. "On national festivals, we have to be extra vigilant and carry out extra patrolling. Our nation should remain happy and people should distribute sweets without any worry. We are here for the protection of our nation," noted Head constable Bharat Singh. The operations don’t stop even for a minute here. A round-the-clock vigil is the only way to keep a sneaking enemy at bay. In this area here, the lull only breaks with the bang of guns.

Self-made sweets and bonhomie in sub-zero temperature: How security forces mark Republic Day in J&K

Baramulla, located in the north of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday became the first district in the state to have eliminated all surviving terrorists, according to police.

The largest of the 10 districts in the Valley has been one of the hotbeds of terrorism as it adjoins Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and thus offers a strategic location for terrorists to infiltrate into India.

Terror attacks and encounter operations by police and security forces were a regular feature here with terror-related incidents being reported from the district nearly on a weekly basis.

"Baramulla has become the first district of Kashmir with no surviving militant as on date. Jammu and Kashmir Police extend its thanks to the local population for all their support in providing a better security environment in the district," Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said.

This development comes hours after three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region on Tuesday.

The terrorists have been identified as Suhaib Farooq Akhoon resident of Baramulla, Mohsin Mushtaq Bhat, a resident of Baramulla and Nasir Ahmad Darzi, from Sopore.

Arms and ammunition including three AK 47 rifles were recovered from the site of encounter and police has initiated an investigation.

All three slain terrorists have believed to be affiliated to Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT) were wanted in terror crimes including an attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities.&nbsp;

Baramulla, located in the north of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday became the first district in the state to have eliminated all surviving terrorists, according to police.

Baramulla, located in the north of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday became the first district in the state to have eliminated all surviving terrorists, according to police. The largest of the 10 districts in the Valley has been one of the hotbeds of terrorism as it adjoins Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and thus offers a strategic location for terrorists to infiltrate into India. Terror attacks and encounter operations by police and security forces were a regular feature here with terror-related incidents being reported from the district nearly on a weekly basis. "Baramulla has become the first district of Kashmir with no surviving militant as on date. Jammu and Kashmir Police extend its thanks to the local population for all their support in providing a better security environment in the district," Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said. This development comes hours after three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region on Tuesday. The terrorists have been identified as Suhaib Farooq Akhoon resident of Baramulla, Mohsin Mushtaq Bhat, a resident of Baramulla and Nasir Ahmad Darzi, from Sopore. Arms and ammunition including three AK 47 rifles were recovered from the site of encounter and police has initiated an investigation. All three slain terrorists have believed to be affiliated to Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT) were wanted in terror crimes including an attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities.

Jammu and Kashmir: Police declare Baramulla as first terrorist-free district

The Pakistan Army Thursday targeted forward posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district with mortars and small arms, official said.

"Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by small arms fire and shelling with mortars in Sunderbani Sector since 0915 hours", the Defence PRO said.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire at four locations along the Line of Control in Poonch and Rajouri sector <a href="https://t.co/y2Jsuh8XmO">pic.twitter.com/y2Jsuh8XmO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1088314054677012481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Army is effectively retaliating.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army also targeted forward posts in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Wednesday night, officials said.&nbsp;

Officials said the Pakistan Army is continuously firing 120 mm and 81 mm mortars when last reports came in.

The shelling and firing have triggered panic among border dwellers.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir had said on Thursday last that a befitting reply will be given to ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army Thursday targeted forward posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district with mortars and small arms, official said.

The Pakistan Army Thursday targeted forward posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district with mortars and small arms, official said. "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by small arms fire and shelling with mortars in Sunderbani Sector since 0915 hours", the Defence PRO said. Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire at four locations along the Line of Control in Poonch and Rajouri sector pic.twitter.com/y2Jsuh8XmO — ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2019 × The Indian Army is effectively retaliating. The Pakistan Army also targeted forward posts in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Wednesday night, officials said. Officials said the Pakistan Army is continuously firing 120 mm and 81 mm mortars when last reports came in. The shelling and firing have triggered panic among border dwellers. Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir had said on Thursday last that a befitting reply will be given to ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops.

Pakistan Army lobs mortars at forward posts in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Two&nbsp;terrorists have been killed in the encounter that started during a cordon and search operation in Shopian's Zainapora. More details are awaited.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-budgam-district-191710">Budgam district on Monday</a>.

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J&amp;K: An encounter has broken out between terrorists and security forces during a cordon and search operation in Shopian's Zainapora. More details awaited.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1087541751856926723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Shopian encounter: Two terrorists have been neutralized by the security forces; Operation underway <a href="https://t.co/5xezyeKaIo">https://t.co/5xezyeKaIo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1087595278574804992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The operation was launched in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. Two terrorists have been killed in the encounter that started during a cordon and search operation in Shopian's Zainapora.

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. Two terrorists have been killed in the encounter that started during a cordon and search operation in Shopian's Zainapora. More details are awaited. Meanwhile, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. J&K: An encounter has broken out between terrorists and security forces during a cordon and search operation in Shopian's Zainapora. More details awaited. — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation. #UPDATE Shopian encounter: Two terrorists have been neutralized by the security forces; Operation underway https://t.co/5xezyeKaIo — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × The operation was launched in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K: Two militants killed in encounter with security forces in Shopian's Zainapora

Bangladesh has denied entry to 31 <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-insurgents-attack-police-in-western-myanmar-wounding-six-state-tv-191526&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjQ_rDw0_7fAhUS148KHVMvC14QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RCHQFjfdN3gmu8TkpKrWA">Rohingya Muslims</a> trying to enter from India and they are stuck in no man's land on the border, Bangladesh authorities said on Monday, as India cracks down on members of the community.

The stranded Rohingya, including women and children, had been living in the Indian state of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-budgam-district-191710&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjX0rqI1P7fAhWTiXAKHebqBtIQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Skug--IXG_8mHmvL6efxK">Jammu and Kashmir</a>, according to a Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) official who said he had seen some of their identity cards issued by the UN refugee agency in India.

The 31 had been stuck on Bangladesh's border with northeast India since Friday, said the BGB commander in the area, Golam Kabir.

"We stopped them as they were crossing the border," Kabir told Reuters by telephone.

"They've been on the zero lines since the 18th of this month," he said, referring to the border. Two rounds of talks on what to do with the 31, with India's Border Security Force on Sunday, had "ended without any conclusive decision", Kabir said.

Many hundreds of thousands of members of mostly Buddhist Myanmar's Rohingya community have left their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine State over the decades, most fleeing military crackdowns and discrimination.

Many have sought shelter in Bangladesh - where nearly 1 million live - but others have ended up in India, Southeast Asia and beyond.

An Indian border force officer in Tripura state told reporters on Sunday that they were providing food and clothing to the Rohingya, 16 of whom were children.

The force could not be reached for comment on Monday.

India estimates that 40,000 Rohingya are living in scattered settlements in various parts of the country.

But its&nbsp;government regards them as illegal aliens and a security threat and has ordered that they are identified and repatriated.

The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, has issued about 16,500 Rohingya in India with identity cards that it says can help "prevent harassment, arbitrary arrests, detention, and deportation". India does not recognise the cards.

Hundreds of Rohingya families have left India for Bangladesh since seven Rohingya men were deported to Myanmar in October. This month, India sent a Rohingya family of five to Myanmar.

The United Nations says conditions are not conducive for Rohingya to return to Myanmar.

In August, the United Nations accused the Myanmar military of mass killings and rapes of Rohingya with "genocidal intent" in a 2017 military operation that drove more than 700,000 of them into Bangladesh, according to UN agencies.

Myanmar has denied the accusations, saying its military launched a counter-insurgency operation after attacks on security posts by Muslim terrorists.

Bangladesh has denied entry to 31 Rohingya Muslims trying to enter from India and they are stuck in no man's land on the border, Bangladesh authorities said on Monday, as India cracks down on members of the community.

Bangladesh has denied entry to 31 Rohingya Muslims trying to enter from India and they are stuck in no man's land on the border, Bangladesh authorities said on Monday, as India cracks down on members of the community. The stranded Rohingya, including women and children, had been living in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, according to a Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) official who said he had seen some of their identity cards issued by the UN refugee agency in India. The 31 had been stuck on Bangladesh's border with northeast India since Friday, said the BGB commander in the area, Golam Kabir. "We stopped them as they were crossing the border," Kabir told Reuters by telephone. "They've been on the zero lines since the 18th of this month," he said, referring to the border. Two rounds of talks on what to do with the 31, with India's Border Security Force on Sunday, had "ended without any conclusive decision", Kabir said. Many hundreds of thousands of members of mostly Buddhist Myanmar's Rohingya community have left their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine State over the decades, most fleeing military crackdowns and discrimination. Many have sought shelter in Bangladesh - where nearly 1 million live - but others have ended up in India, Southeast Asia and beyond. An Indian border force officer in Tripura state told reporters on Sunday that they were providing food and clothing to the Rohingya, 16 of whom were children. The force could not be reached for comment on Monday. India estimates that 40,000 Rohingya are living in scattered settlements in various parts of the country. But its government regards them as illegal aliens and a security threat and has ordered that they are identified and repatriated. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, has issued about 16,500 Rohingya in India with identity cards that it says can help "prevent harassment, arbitrary arrests, detention, and deportation". India does not recognise the cards. Hundreds of Rohingya families have left India for Bangladesh since seven Rohingya men were deported to Myanmar in October. This month, India sent a Rohingya family of five to Myanmar. The United Nations says conditions are not conducive for Rohingya to return to Myanmar. In August, the United Nations accused the Myanmar military of mass killings and rapes of Rohingya with "genocidal intent" in a 2017 military operation that drove more than 700,000 of them into Bangladesh, according to UN agencies. Myanmar has denied the accusations, saying its military launched a counter-insurgency operation after attacks on security posts by Muslim terrorists.

Bangladesh denies entry to 31 Rohingyas trying to flee India

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday.

The&nbsp;encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Encounter underway between terrorists and security forces in Zinpanchal, Chari Sharief in Budgam district; 2 terrorists have been neutralised. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAnd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAnd</a> Kashmir (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/mKMJorc4IQ">pic.twitter.com/mKMJorc4IQ</a>
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The operation was launched&nbsp;in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added.

52 Rashtriya Rifles, Budgam police and CRPF personnel are involved in the operation against the terrorists.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation. #WATCH Encounter underway between terrorists and security forces in Zinpanchal, Chari Sharief in Budgam district; 2 terrorists have been neutralised. #JammuAnd Kashmir (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/mKMJorc4IQ — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2019 × The operation was launched in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added. 52 Rashtriya Rifles, Budgam police and CRPF personnel are involved in the operation against the terrorists. (With inputs from agencies)

2 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district

Pakistani troops Sunday violated ceasefire by firing at Indian posts along the International Border and Line of Control (LoC) in Kathua and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

However, no casualty was reported on the Indian side in the firing, which was retaliated effectively and strongly by the forces, they said.

Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing on border outposts of the BSF in Hiranagar sector around 11 am, the officials said, adding it was retaliated and the exchange of fire lasted for a brief period.

This was the third time in the past six days that Pakistan violated ceasefire in this sector. Last Tuesday, a Border Security Force or BSF official was killed when he was hit by a Pakistani sniper from across the border.

Pakistani troops also fired on Indian army positions and the villages along the LoC in Naushera sector of Rajouri district from 1 pm to 3 pm, the officials said.

They said several mortar shells from across the border hit the forest area but there was no report of any damage.

Besides the International Border, the Pakistani troops have been violating ceasefire along the LoC in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch almost on a daily basis since the beginning of the year.

While an Army porter was killed in the Pakistani firing on January 11, two Army personnel, including a major, lost their lives in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion on the same day along the LoC in Rajouri district.

Pakistani troops Sunday violated ceasefire by firing at Indian posts along the International Border and Line of Control (LoC) in Kathua and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

Pakistani troops Sunday violated ceasefire by firing at Indian posts along the International Border and Line of Control (LoC) in Kathua and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. However, no casualty was reported on the Indian side in the firing, which was retaliated effectively and strongly by the forces, they said. Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing on border outposts of the BSF in Hiranagar sector around 11 am, the officials said, adding it was retaliated and the exchange of fire lasted for a brief period. This was the third time in the past six days that Pakistan violated ceasefire in this sector. Last Tuesday, a Border Security Force or BSF official was killed when he was hit by a Pakistani sniper from across the border. Pakistani troops also fired on Indian army positions and the villages along the LoC in Naushera sector of Rajouri district from 1 pm to 3 pm, the officials said. They said several mortar shells from across the border hit the forest area but there was no report of any damage. Besides the International Border, the Pakistani troops have been violating ceasefire along the LoC in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch almost on a daily basis since the beginning of the year. While an Army porter was killed in the Pakistani firing on January 11, two Army personnel, including a major, lost their lives in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion on the same day along the LoC in Rajouri district.

Pakistan violates ceasefire along International Border, LoC in Jammu and Kashmir

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/once-fragile-indian-economy-now-worlds-fastest-growing-pm-modi-191614">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to lay the foundation stone for and inaugurate various projects in all three regions of the state, BJP general secretary Ram Madhav said on Sunday.&nbsp;

He said Modi will lay the foundation stone for and inaugurate projects worth Rs 35,000 crore and Rs 9,000 crore in Jammu and Kashmir, respectively, during his visit.

"The prime minister is visiting the state next month and will visit Leh, Jammu and Srinagar. He will address a mega rally in Jammu in which over two lakh people are expected to turn up," Madhav told reporters here.&nbsp;

He said Modi will lay the foundation stone for AIIMS, IIM, IIT, Jammu-Akhnoor road, Shahpur-Kandi road, Sunderbani college and IIMC in Jammu during his visit.&nbsp;

The prime minister will also inaugurate an engineering college in Kathua and the Jammu ropeway project, he added. Responding to a question, the BJP general secretary said, "We tried to take forward many projects being part of the previous government, like AIIMS. It was due to our efforts that we brought one AIIMS for Jammu even when in rest of the country only one AIIMS was given to each state."&nbsp;

Madhav alleged that several projects were delayed due to the Peoples Democratic Party - the BJP's coalition partner in the erstwhile state government. "We undertook many projects like this. However, the coalition partner used to slow down the process, otherwise it could have been done earlier," he said.&nbsp;

He said the BJP will continue its efforts to ensure all-round development in the three regions of the state.&nbsp;

The party was also making efforts to ensure reservation for the Pahari speaking people and divisional status for the region of Ladakh, Madhav said. "We are making a demand to the governor administration to grant reservation to the Pahari people, who are mostly residing in Jammu, and the divisional status to Ladakh before the prime minister's visit to the state," he said.&nbsp;

He asked party leaders and workers to work hard for to make Modi's visit successful

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to lay the foundation stone for and inaugurate various projects in all three regions of the state, BJP general secretary Ram Madhav said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to lay the foundation stone for and inaugurate various projects in all three regions of the state, BJP general secretary Ram Madhav said on Sunday. He said Modi will lay the foundation stone for and inaugurate projects worth Rs 35,000 crore and Rs 9,000 crore in Jammu and Kashmir, respectively, during his visit. "The prime minister is visiting the state next month and will visit Leh, Jammu and Srinagar. He will address a mega rally in Jammu in which over two lakh people are expected to turn up," Madhav told reporters here. He said Modi will lay the foundation stone for AIIMS, IIM, IIT, Jammu-Akhnoor road, Shahpur-Kandi road, Sunderbani college and IIMC in Jammu during his visit. The prime minister will also inaugurate an engineering college in Kathua and the Jammu ropeway project, he added. Responding to a question, the BJP general secretary said, "We tried to take forward many projects being part of the previous government, like AIIMS. It was due to our efforts that we brought one AIIMS for Jammu even when in rest of the country only one AIIMS was given to each state." Madhav alleged that several projects were delayed due to the Peoples Democratic Party - the BJP's coalition partner in the erstwhile state government. "We undertook many projects like this. However, the coalition partner used to slow down the process, otherwise it could have been done earlier," he said. He said the BJP will continue its efforts to ensure all-round development in the three regions of the state. The party was also making efforts to ensure reservation for the Pahari speaking people and divisional status for the region of Ladakh, Madhav said. "We are making a demand to the governor administration to grant reservation to the Pahari people, who are mostly residing in Jammu, and the divisional status to Ladakh before the prime minister's visit to the state," he said. He asked party leaders and workers to work hard for to make Modi's visit successful

PM Modi to visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3: Ram Madhav 

At least ten people are trapped in snow after an avalanche hit Khardung La pass, near Leh in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K)

Four vehicles carrying the passengers have been trapped in snow as authorities have launched a rescue effort in the region.

J&amp;K had witnessed heavy snowfall including in Srinagar with Pahalgam which is a major tourist resort destination recording three centimetres of snow. In early January, an Army soldier was killed after an avalanche had hit Poonch.&nbsp;

High-altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir had received heavy snowfall last week. The minimum temperature in Srinagar last Thursday was minus one degree celsius.

In other parts of Jammu region, Bhadarwah town in Doda district had emerged as the coldest recorded place with a low of minus 1.8 degrees celsius. Qazigund, the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir had recorded a low of minus 1.2 degrees celsius, while the nearby Kokernag town had registered a low of minus 2.2 degrees celsius on last Thursday night.

The mercury in Kupwara town in north Kashmir had settled at a low of minus 0.6 degree celsius.

Most parts of Kashmir, including the plains had received fresh snowfall again last Friday resulting in the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.

At least ten people are trapped in snow after an avalanche hit Khardung La pass, near Leh in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) Four vehicles carrying the passengers have been trapped in snow as authorities have launched a rescue effort in the region.

At least ten people are trapped in snow after an avalanche hit Khardung La pass, near Leh in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) Four vehicles carrying the passengers have been trapped in snow as authorities have launched a rescue effort in the region. J&K had witnessed heavy snowfall including in Srinagar with Pahalgam which is a major tourist resort destination recording three centimetres of snow. In early January, an Army soldier was killed after an avalanche had hit Poonch. High-altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir had received heavy snowfall last week. The minimum temperature in Srinagar last Thursday was minus one degree celsius. In other parts of Jammu region, Bhadarwah town in Doda district had emerged as the coldest recorded place with a low of minus 1.8 degrees celsius. Qazigund, the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir had recorded a low of minus 1.2 degrees celsius, while the nearby Kokernag town had registered a low of minus 2.2 degrees celsius on last Thursday night. The mercury in Kupwara town in north Kashmir had settled at a low of minus 0.6 degree celsius. Most parts of Kashmir, including the plains had received fresh snowfall again last Friday resulting in the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.

Watch: 10 trapped in cars after avalanche hits Khardung La pass near Leh in J&K

Political leaders come in all shapes and sizes. United States President Donald Trump was a real estate developer. Former British prime minister David Cameron was a public relations executive. And Iceland’s former prime minister Johanna Sigurdardottir was an airline stewardess.

So we shouldn’t dismiss Imran Khan, Pakistan Prime Minister, as a lightweight just because he was a cricketer. Khan’s background isn’t the problem. His credibility is. Shortly after being elected PM, Khan promised to build a ‘Naya Pakistan’. India has reacted cautiously. Old wine in a new bottle is the consensus.

Khan has done nothing to stop terrorist infiltration. His writ stops at the outskirts of Rawalpindi. Pakistan’s army generals are a law unto themselves. Though Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has declared that Islamabad wants peace with India, Pakistan’s rogue Border Action Team (BAT), acting under Bajwa’s overall command, continues to attack Indian targets in the Kashmir Valley.

The Indian Army is eliminating Pakistan-abetted terrorists at the rate of roughly one a day. Over 300 terrorists were killed in 2018, a 50 per cent increase over 2017. But the Indian Army estimates that 280-300 terrorists remain active in the Valley. More are being pushed in by the Pakistani Army across the LoC’s porous terrain of forests, rivers and hillocks.

There have, however, been notable changes. Ceasefire violations across the LoC have fallen significantly since May 2018 when the Pakistani Army, bludgeoned by Indian retaliatory mortar fire, sued for peace. The Indian Army, CRPF and J&amp;K police have meanwhile tightened the tourniquet around Pakistani terror modules in the Valley.

Ever since governor’s rule was imposed in June 2018, followed by President’s rule, Indian security forces have succeeded in targeting the leadership of several Pakistan-backed terror groups active in the Valley.

On former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti’s watch, the security forces often operated with one hand tied behind their backs. Mufti, along with the other dynast in the Valley, Omar Abdullah of the National Conference (NC), spoke from both corners of the mouth. In Delhi, they spoke of a robust anti-terror strategy. In Srinagar, they spoke the language of separatist appeasement.

It is telling that tourism is again flourishing in the Valley. Over 8 lakh tourists (including 50,000 foreign tourists) holidayed in Kashmir in 2018. The PDP-NC narrative that the Valley is in the throes of its worst crisis plays into the hands of Pakistan. The ISI funds stone-pelters, Hurriyat separatists and a hoary cabal of journalists, ex-army officers, former intelligence operatives and activists to further the narrative of Kashmir under military siege.

Part of the blame lies with the Indian government. Its Pakistan policy has oscillated from conciliatory in 2014 to intransigent in 2019. Is it though a propitious time now to change the status quoist strategy on Pakistan? The conventional wisdom is that nothing will change before the May 2019 Lok Sabha election. Imran Khan has said much the same. He could be wrong.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is known to make unpredictable policy moves. Pakistan is today in a particularly vulnerable position. Its treasury is bankrupt, kept afloat by loans from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and China. Islamabad is under severe pressure from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) over terror financing and could be blacklisted in September 2019 when a final decision is taken by the Paris-based global anti-terror body.

In Afghanistan, meanwhile, the Taliban, Pakistan’s outsourced terror group to keep Kabul in Islamabad’s malign grip, has developed sub-Taliban groups. Many of these are outside the control of the main Taliban leadership. If the Taliban joins a “peace” coalition and the Afghan government following negotiations begin shepherded by the US, the sub-Taliban groups could attack the Pakistan State itself.

Khaled Ahmed of Newsweek Pakistan conceded in a recent column: “The mood in India is punitive. In contrast, the mood in Pakistan is cautiously submissive. For the Pakistan Army, some options are closing, especially one of “championing the Kashmir cause”, but it doesn’t know how to roll back the old agitprop. It is facing a new situation in next door Afghanistan, where India is now firmly entrenched. The Taliban is no longer willing to play ball, and is more inclined instead to listen to India and its patrons in the Gulf. A return to Taliban rule in Kabul will be dangerous for Pakistan because of its jihadi underground.”

Hemmed in on all sides, Pakistan is running out of options. It is an opportune moment for India to realign its Pakistan policy by continuing tough anti-terror operations in the Valley and talking directly to Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa. Talking to Imran Khan, who fantasises about fomenting trouble in Punjab through Khalistani separatists, is a waste of time.

Pakistan is a schizophrenic country. It wants trade with India but won’t grant it reciprocal MFN status. It wants talks with India without stopping abetment of terrorism against India.

Global think tanks project that India’s economy, already nearly 10 times as large as Pakistan’s, will within a few years put it in a different league, well out of Islamabad’s reach. Pakistan too has belatedly realised that its window to gain false equivalence with India will soon slam shut. India’s new policy to deal with ‘Naya Pakistan’ should be based on this hardnosed reality. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-calling-imran-khan-s-bluff-2708745">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Political leaders come in all shapes and sizes. United States President Donald Trump was a real estate developer. Former British prime minister David Cameron was a public relations executive.

Political leaders come in all shapes and sizes. United States President Donald Trump was a real estate developer. Former British prime minister David Cameron was a public relations executive. And Iceland’s former prime minister Johanna Sigurdardottir was an airline stewardess. So we shouldn’t dismiss Imran Khan, Pakistan Prime Minister, as a lightweight just because he was a cricketer. Khan’s background isn’t the problem. His credibility is. Shortly after being elected PM, Khan promised to build a ‘Naya Pakistan’. India has reacted cautiously. Old wine in a new bottle is the consensus. Khan has done nothing to stop terrorist infiltration. His writ stops at the outskirts of Rawalpindi. Pakistan’s army generals are a law unto themselves. Though Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has declared that Islamabad wants peace with India, Pakistan’s rogue Border Action Team (BAT), acting under Bajwa’s overall command, continues to attack Indian targets in the Kashmir Valley. The Indian Army is eliminating Pakistan-abetted terrorists at the rate of roughly one a day. Over 300 terrorists were killed in 2018, a 50 per cent increase over 2017. But the Indian Army estimates that 280-300 terrorists remain active in the Valley. More are being pushed in by the Pakistani Army across the LoC’s porous terrain of forests, rivers and hillocks. There have, however, been notable changes. Ceasefire violations across the LoC have fallen significantly since May 2018 when the Pakistani Army, bludgeoned by Indian retaliatory mortar fire, sued for peace. The Indian Army, CRPF and J&K police have meanwhile tightened the tourniquet around Pakistani terror modules in the Valley. Ever since governor’s rule was imposed in June 2018, followed by President’s rule, Indian security forces have succeeded in targeting the leadership of several Pakistan-backed terror groups active in the Valley. On former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti’s watch, the security forces often operated with one hand tied behind their backs. Mufti, along with the other dynast in the Valley, Omar Abdullah of the National Conference (NC), spoke from both corners of the mouth. In Delhi, they spoke of a robust anti-terror strategy. In Srinagar, they spoke the language of separatist appeasement. It is telling that tourism is again flourishing in the Valley. Over 8 lakh tourists (including 50,000 foreign tourists) holidayed in Kashmir in 2018. The PDP-NC narrative that the Valley is in the throes of its worst crisis plays into the hands of Pakistan. The ISI funds stone-pelters, Hurriyat separatists and a hoary cabal of journalists, ex-army officers, former intelligence operatives and activists to further the narrative of Kashmir under military siege. Part of the blame lies with the Indian government. Its Pakistan policy has oscillated from conciliatory in 2014 to intransigent in 2019. Is it though a propitious time now to change the status quoist strategy on Pakistan? The conventional wisdom is that nothing will change before the May 2019 Lok Sabha election. Imran Khan has said much the same. He could be wrong. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is known to make unpredictable policy moves. Pakistan is today in a particularly vulnerable position. Its treasury is bankrupt, kept afloat by loans from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and China. Islamabad is under severe pressure from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) over terror financing and could be blacklisted in September 2019 when a final decision is taken by the Paris-based global anti-terror body. In Afghanistan, meanwhile, the Taliban, Pakistan’s outsourced terror group to keep Kabul in Islamabad’s malign grip, has developed sub-Taliban groups. Many of these are outside the control of the main Taliban leadership. If the Taliban joins a “peace” coalition and the Afghan government following negotiations begin shepherded by the US, the sub-Taliban groups could attack the Pakistan State itself. Khaled Ahmed of Newsweek Pakistan conceded in a recent column: “The mood in India is punitive. In contrast, the mood in Pakistan is cautiously submissive. For the Pakistan Army, some options are closing, especially one of “championing the Kashmir cause”, but it doesn’t know how to roll back the old agitprop. It is facing a new situation in next door Afghanistan, where India is now firmly entrenched. The Taliban is no longer willing to play ball, and is more inclined instead to listen to India and its patrons in the Gulf. A return to Taliban rule in Kabul will be dangerous for Pakistan because of its jihadi underground.” Hemmed in on all sides, Pakistan is running out of options. It is an opportune moment for India to realign its Pakistan policy by continuing tough anti-terror operations in the Valley and talking directly to Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa. Talking to Imran Khan, who fantasises about fomenting trouble in Punjab through Khalistani separatists, is a waste of time. Pakistan is a schizophrenic country. It wants trade with India but won’t grant it reciprocal MFN status. It wants talks with India without stopping abetment of terrorism against India. Global think tanks project that India’s economy, already nearly 10 times as large as Pakistan’s, will within a few years put it in a different league, well out of Islamabad’s reach. Pakistan too has belatedly realised that its window to gain false equivalence with India will soon slam shut. India’s new policy to deal with ‘Naya Pakistan’ should be based on this hardnosed reality. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Calling Imran Khan’s bluff: India needs to realign its Pakistan policy

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday.

Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation.

"As I am available to a common man, I am also available for Hurriyat. If some incident takes place regarding atrocities on residents here, I will with my full forces make efforts to deliver justice. I respect the senior leaders of the Hurriyats and will treat them the way I am treating the common man," he said.

However, he made it clear that his discussions with the Hurriyat will not be a political one.

He said, "Discussions with the Hurriyat cannot be termed as political. Being the Governor, I do not have the powers to hold political discussions with them. Only the Centre has the authority to do so."Governor`s rule was imposed in the state in June last year after Mehbooba Mufti resigned as Chief Minister following BJP`s exit from the alliance with the People`s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

The BJP and PDP formed a coalition government in 2015 after the state elections threw up a hung assembly.

However, both of them were ideologically divided on a variety of issues.

The BJP had 25 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, while the PDP had 28.

This is the fourth time in the last 10 years that a Governor`s rule is imposed in the state.

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation.

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation. "As I am available to a common man, I am also available for Hurriyat. If some incident takes place regarding atrocities on residents here, I will with my full forces make efforts to deliver justice. I respect the senior leaders of the Hurriyats and will treat them the way I am treating the common man," he said. However, he made it clear that his discussions with the Hurriyat will not be a political one. He said, "Discussions with the Hurriyat cannot be termed as political. Being the Governor, I do not have the powers to hold political discussions with them. Only the Centre has the authority to do so."Governor`s rule was imposed in the state in June last year after Mehbooba Mufti resigned as Chief Minister following BJP`s exit from the alliance with the People`s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. The BJP and PDP formed a coalition government in 2015 after the state elections threw up a hung assembly. However, both of them were ideologically divided on a variety of issues. The BJP had 25 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, while the PDP had 28. This is the fourth time in the last 10 years that a Governor`s rule is imposed in the state.

Hurriyat shouldn't consider me an alien: Satya Pal Malik

Terming local militants as 'sons of soil', PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti Tuesday said efforts should be made to save them, adding the Centre should initiate dialogue with the militant leadership in Jammu and Kashmir to end the "gun culture".

"Right now, talks should be held with Pakistan and separatists. Similarly, the militant leadership should also be talked to as it is they who have the guns and only they can end the gun culture," she told reporters in Anantnag after a party function.

"I believe at some stage, talks will have to be held with Hurriyat Conference and militants as well," she said.

The former chief minister, however, said it was "too early (for talks with militants)".&nbsp;

Mehbooba said local militants should be prevented from walking on the path of violence.&nbsp;

"Right from the time I came into politics in 1996, I have been saying that local militants are sons of the soil and our maximum efforts should be to save them because they are assets.&nbsp;

"If an encounter breaks out, the two people (militants and security forces) come face to face and no one can do anything about it then," she said.&nbsp;

The PDP president had on Monday questioned the timing of filing of charge sheet in the 2016 JNU sedition case, in which seven Kashmiris have been named, saying the students were being used to score political points ahead of Lok Sabha elections.

"No surprises here. We are months away from the 2019 general election and like always, using Kashmiris to score extra political points with the Indian electorate has become somewhat of a pre-requisite," she had said in a series of tweets.

"Timing of the charge sheet couldn't be any more suspicious. When UPA was in power, it decided to send Afzal Guru to the gallows and to this day, J&amp;K is paying a price," she said. 
&nbsp;

Terming local militants as 'sons of soil', PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti Tuesday said efforts should be made to save them, adding the Centre should initiate dialogue with the militant leadership in Jammu and Kashmir to end the "gun culture".

Terming local militants as 'sons of soil', PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti Tuesday said efforts should be made to save them, adding the Centre should initiate dialogue with the militant leadership in Jammu and Kashmir to end the "gun culture". "Right now, talks should be held with Pakistan and separatists. Similarly, the militant leadership should also be talked to as it is they who have the guns and only they can end the gun culture," she told reporters in Anantnag after a party function. "I believe at some stage, talks will have to be held with Hurriyat Conference and militants as well," she said. The former chief minister, however, said it was "too early (for talks with militants)". Mehbooba said local militants should be prevented from walking on the path of violence. "Right from the time I came into politics in 1996, I have been saying that local militants are sons of the soil and our maximum efforts should be to save them because they are assets. "If an encounter breaks out, the two people (militants and security forces) come face to face and no one can do anything about it then," she said. The PDP president had on Monday questioned the timing of filing of charge sheet in the 2016 JNU sedition case, in which seven Kashmiris have been named, saying the students were being used to score political points ahead of Lok Sabha elections. "No surprises here. We are months away from the 2019 general election and like always, using Kashmiris to score extra political points with the Indian electorate has become somewhat of a pre-requisite," she had said in a series of tweets. "Timing of the charge sheet couldn't be any more suspicious. When UPA was in power, it decided to send Afzal Guru to the gallows and to this day, J&K is paying a price," she said.

Mehbooba asks Centre to engage J&K militant leadership

An assistant commandant of the Border Security Force (BSF) was killed in sniper firing by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-dismisses-appeal-against-suspension-of-sharifs-sentences-in-graft-case-190305&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj38qaf1O_fAhVGMI8KHZClCyAQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw15-bzuEbxImPG2hU86B1CW">Pakistan</a> Rangers along the International Border (IB) in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-poonch-188363&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwikxo730-_fAhUIvo8KHe5-CzIQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3HgFZXBtjCAfmqcVjYvXhH">Jammu and Kashmir</a>'s Kathua district Monday morning, officials said.

Pakistan troops also violated the ceasefire and resorted to firing and shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district, prompting the Indian Army to retaliate strongly.

The BSF troops were carrying out border domination along the IB, when snipers of Pakistan Rangers opened fire on them at around 1050 hours in Hiranagar-Samba sector of Kathua district, a senior BSF officer told PTI.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad succumbed to his injuries in firing from across the border in Hiranagar sector, Kathua. <a href="https://t.co/8Qri93zHBY">https://t.co/8Qri93zHBY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085094521992605696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad was critically injured in the sniper fire and the officer was rushed to the Military Hospital at Satwari (Jammu), where he succumbed to his injuries and attained martyrdom, he said.

The BSF director general and all ranks of the force salute the supreme sacrifice of the martyr. The BSF stands with the family of the bereaved, the officer said.

In another incident, Pakistan troops also resorted to firing and shelling along the LoC in Sunderbani sector.

"Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violations by resorting to firing and shelling along with heavy calibre weapons in Sunderbani sector from 1000 hours," PRO, Defence said.

Indian Army troops guarding the borderline retaliated effectively and strongly. The exchange of fire is still on, he said.

The year 2018 has witnessed the highest number of 2,936 ceasefire violations by Pakistan troops in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. On Sunday, an Army jawan was injured in ceasefire violation along the LoC in Rajouri's Keri sector.

On Friday, an Army porter was killed in a ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. On the same day, a Major and a soldier were killed in an IED blast along the LoC in Laam sub-sector of Rajouri.

Despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the 2003 ceasefire understanding for maintaining peace and tranquillity at Indo-Pak flag meetings, the truce has been repeatedly violated.

An assistant commandant of the Border Security Force (BSF) was killed in sniper firing by Pakistan Rangers along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district Monday morning, officials said.

An assistant commandant of the Border Security Force (BSF) was killed in sniper firing by Pakistan Rangers along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district Monday morning, officials said. Pakistan troops also violated the ceasefire and resorted to firing and shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district, prompting the Indian Army to retaliate strongly. The BSF troops were carrying out border domination along the IB, when snipers of Pakistan Rangers opened fire on them at around 1050 hours in Hiranagar-Samba sector of Kathua district, a senior BSF officer told PTI. #UPDATE Jammu & Kashmir: Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad succumbed to his injuries in firing from across the border in Hiranagar sector, Kathua. https://t.co/8Qri93zHBY — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad was critically injured in the sniper fire and the officer was rushed to the Military Hospital at Satwari (Jammu), where he succumbed to his injuries and attained martyrdom, he said. The BSF director general and all ranks of the force salute the supreme sacrifice of the martyr. The BSF stands with the family of the bereaved, the officer said. In another incident, Pakistan troops also resorted to firing and shelling along the LoC in Sunderbani sector. "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violations by resorting to firing and shelling along with heavy calibre weapons in Sunderbani sector from 1000 hours," PRO, Defence said. Indian Army troops guarding the borderline retaliated effectively and strongly. The exchange of fire is still on, he said. The year 2018 has witnessed the highest number of 2,936 ceasefire violations by Pakistan troops in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. On Sunday, an Army jawan was injured in ceasefire violation along the LoC in Rajouri's Keri sector. On Friday, an Army porter was killed in a ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. On the same day, a Major and a soldier were killed in an IED blast along the LoC in Laam sub-sector of Rajouri. Despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the 2003 ceasefire understanding for maintaining peace and tranquillity at Indo-Pak flag meetings, the truce has been repeatedly violated.

J&K: BSF officer killed in Pak sniper fire along International Border in Kathua

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Katapora area of Kulgam on Saturday, news agency ANI reported. A search operation is underway.

According to the police and security forces, two to three terrorists were believed to be trapped while the firing was going on from both the sides.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Two terrorists have been neutralised in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Katapora area of Kulgam. Search operation underway. <a href="https://t.co/4pwbT5nNFK">https://t.co/4pwbT5nNFK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1084118942128525312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The encounter broke out during a search operation in the area when the terrorists fired upon the forces, ANI reported.&nbsp;

On January 8, one terrorist was shot dead in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. The shootout had broken out at Chowdhry Bagh area of Litter tehsil after terrorists ambushed an army patrol.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Katapora area of Kulgam on Saturday, news agency ANI reported.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Katapora area of Kulgam on Saturday, news agency ANI reported. A search operation is underway. According to the police and security forces, two to three terrorists were believed to be trapped while the firing was going on from both the sides. #UPDATE: Two terrorists have been neutralised in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Katapora area of Kulgam. Search operation underway. https://t.co/4pwbT5nNFK — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2019 × The encounter broke out during a search operation in the area when the terrorists fired upon the forces, ANI reported. On January 8, one terrorist was shot dead in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. The shootout had broken out at Chowdhry Bagh area of Litter tehsil after terrorists ambushed an army patrol. (With inputs from ANI)

J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Kulgam

The harsh winter conditions have gripped entire north India and in the Indian state, Jammu and Kashmir, the sub-zero temperature has made life difficult for the inhabitants.

The world famous Dal lake has partially frozen as 'Chillai Kalan', a 40-day long period of harsh winter, has set in.&nbsp;

The people are having difficulties in their daily life, as the meteorological department has predicted more snow and rain in the coming days.&nbsp;

The famous lake in the heart of Srinagar has frozen as valley recorded the coldest night in 28 years with the lowest temperature settling at minus 7.8 degrees Celsius. Last time, Srinagar recorded a minimum of minus 8.8 degrees Celsius was in December 1990.&nbsp;

People are moving back to traditional methods of warming themselves and storing an ample amount of food and other essentials as heavy snowfall is common during 'Chillai Kalan'.

The heavy snowfall sometimes leads to the closure of the highway, which connects Kashmir to rest of the world, for days. People living inside the second largest lake are batting all odds to do their routine work as the lake water has frozen.&nbsp;

"Since Chillai Kalan, winter has been intense, Dal lake has frozen, we are facing problems like shortage of electricity and drinking water. People who row their boats in the lake face problems due to the frozen surface," Tabish Ahmad, an inhabitant of Dal Lake told WION. &nbsp;

Water taps have also frozen, people are having problems in getting sufficient drinking water. Locals are now covering the water pipes with clothes and other material to stop them from freezing. Long icicles have also been formed at several spots.&nbsp;

Authorities have issued weather warning to the people living on the mountains as fresh snowfall could result in avalanches in the mountainous areas. They have also advised people to stay warm as intense cold increases the risk of heart attack. But the tourists are having a fun time, most of them are enjoying the cold weather as tourism players expect an increase in the flow of tourists in the state.&nbsp;

"Its colder than South Africa, I have never worn so many clothes in my life but actually this is fun and a nice experience to be here in January," said Mohammad Shaqir, a tourist from South Africa.

With the fresh snowfall, winter activities will also kick start in Gulmarg and other winter destinations in the region, bringing joy among the local tourist players.&nbsp;

With the fresh snowfall, winter activities will also kick start in Gulmarg and other winter destinations in the region, bringing joy among the local tourist players.

The harsh winter conditions have gripped entire north India and in the Indian state, Jammu and Kashmir, the sub-zero temperature has made life difficult for the inhabitants. The world famous Dal lake has partially frozen as 'Chillai Kalan', a 40-day long period of harsh winter, has set in. The people are having difficulties in their daily life, as the meteorological department has predicted more snow and rain in the coming days. The famous lake in the heart of Srinagar has frozen as valley recorded the coldest night in 28 years with the lowest temperature settling at minus 7.8 degrees Celsius. Last time, Srinagar recorded a minimum of minus 8.8 degrees Celsius was in December 1990. People are moving back to traditional methods of warming themselves and storing an ample amount of food and other essentials as heavy snowfall is common during 'Chillai Kalan'. The heavy snowfall sometimes leads to the closure of the highway, which connects Kashmir to rest of the world, for days. People living inside the second largest lake are batting all odds to do their routine work as the lake water has frozen. "Since Chillai Kalan, winter has been intense, Dal lake has frozen, we are facing problems like shortage of electricity and drinking water. People who row their boats in the lake face problems due to the frozen surface," Tabish Ahmad, an inhabitant of Dal Lake told WION. Water taps have also frozen, people are having problems in getting sufficient drinking water. Locals are now covering the water pipes with clothes and other material to stop them from freezing. Long icicles have also been formed at several spots. Authorities have issued weather warning to the people living on the mountains as fresh snowfall could result in avalanches in the mountainous areas. They have also advised people to stay warm as intense cold increases the risk of heart attack. But the tourists are having a fun time, most of them are enjoying the cold weather as tourism players expect an increase in the flow of tourists in the state. "Its colder than South Africa, I have never worn so many clothes in my life but actually this is fun and a nice experience to be here in January," said Mohammad Shaqir, a tourist from South Africa. With the fresh snowfall, winter activities will also kick start in Gulmarg and other winter destinations in the region, bringing joy among the local tourist players.

Jammu & Kashmir: Dal Lake freezes as Srinagar records lowest temperature in 28 years

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has said the state is just like any other, and that there is "no massacre going on at this time".&nbsp;

He added that "the number of murders witnessed in Patna in a single day is equal to deaths in Kashmir in a week".&nbsp;

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J &amp; K Governor. Satya Pal Malik: Jammu &amp; Kashmir is just like others, there’s no massacre going on at this time. The number of murders witnessed in Patna in a single day is equal to deaths in Kashmir in a week. Stone pelting and recruitment to terrorist groups has stopped. <a href="https://t.co/UszzYv5Cqy">pic.twitter.com/UszzYv5Cqy</a>
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2018 was one of the bloodiest years in Kashmir in recent times, with terrorist, civilian, and security force casualties all going up. That was a result of the security forces'&nbsp;iron hand approach to militant attacks.&nbsp;

Malik also added that "stone pelting and recruitment to terrorist groups has stopped".&nbsp;

It should however be remembered that both stone pelting and terror attacks always drop sharply in the winters because of the plummeting temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has said the state is just like any other, and that there is "no massacre going on at this time". He added that "the number of murders witnessed in Patna in a single day is equal to deaths in Kashmir in a week".

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has said the state is just like any other, and that there is "no massacre going on at this time". He added that "the number of murders witnessed in Patna in a single day is equal to deaths in Kashmir in a week". J & K Governor. Satya Pal Malik: Jammu & Kashmir is just like others, there’s no massacre going on at this time. The number of murders witnessed in Patna in a single day is equal to deaths in Kashmir in a week. Stone pelting and recruitment to terrorist groups has stopped. pic.twitter.com/UszzYv5Cqy — ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2019 × 2018 was one of the bloodiest years in Kashmir in recent times, with terrorist, civilian, and security force casualties all going up. That was a result of the security forces' iron hand approach to militant attacks. Malik also added that "stone pelting and recruitment to terrorist groups has stopped". It should however be remembered that both stone pelting and terror attacks always drop sharply in the winters because of the plummeting temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir.

Murders in Patna in 1 day equal to deaths in Kashmir in one week: J&K governor

An encounter broke out between the security forces and terrorists in Aripal area of Tral in South Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday.

The exchange of fire is underway. Security officials have cordoned off the area.

However, no casualty or injury has been reported as yet.

Earlier on Friday, a civilian was shot at by a terrorist in Pulwama district.

The injured was later shifted to the hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp;

The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months.

Last month on December 13,&nbsp;Two terrorists were gunned down in an encounter in Baramulla district.

On November 23, six terrorists were gunned down in Anantnag district in an encounter between security forces and terrorists.

The exchange of fire is underway. Security officials have cordoned off the area.

An encounter broke out between the security forces and terrorists in Aripal area of Tral in South Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday. The exchange of fire is underway. Security officials have cordoned off the area. However, no casualty or injury has been reported as yet. Earlier on Friday, a civilian was shot at by a terrorist in Pulwama district. The injured was later shifted to the hospital for medical treatment. The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months. Last month on December 13, Two terrorists were gunned down in an encounter in Baramulla district. On November 23, six terrorists were gunned down in Anantnag district in an encounter between security forces and terrorists.

J&K: Encounter underway between security forces, terrorists in Pulwama

Terming the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-january-2-opposition-stalls-triple-talaq-bill-187516">triple talaq bill</a> as an "assault" on Muslim families, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asked the Centre to desist from interfering in the religious affairs of the community.

Her comments came on the day when the contentious Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, which seeks to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among the community, was tabled in the Rajya Sabha.

However, the Upper House of Parliament failed to initiate a discussion on the bill, with a united opposition led by the Congress demanding that the draft law be sent to a select committee for scrutiny.

"As a Muslim and a woman who has gone through a broken marriage, I thought it is my duty to speak when there is an assault on the family structure of Muslims," Mufti told reporters here.

She said Muslims take pride in their family structure which is very strong and accused the Centre of trying to disturb the community through the bill.

"Our family structure is very strong. But unfortunately, after the economic onslaught on Muslims through curbs on meat and leather, now they (Centre) have entered our homes through the triple talaq bill, which would not only disturb our family life, but also put our women into economic distress," the People's Democratic Party (PDP) president said.

Mufti said while deserting a woman was very wrong, marriage is a contract between two people.

"If two people do not want to live together, they can live apart through consensus. The biggest challenge that a woman faces after her marriage breaks is economic," she said.

She alleged that while the BJP rejected reservation for Muslims in education and jobs, it chose to go ahead with a law like this, which is also based on religious lines.

"The Supreme Court has already ruled (that) it (practice of triple talaq) (is) invalid and Islam also rejects it, but despite that they went ahead with it (triple talaq bill)," she added.

The PDP chief called for a consensus over the issue.

"Democracy is not run through brute majority, it is about consensus. BJP claims (its motto is) 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', but by bringing such a bill, which would create division in Muslim families, they are doing everything wrong," Mufti said.

She said Jammu and Kashmir, despite being a Muslim-majority state, had aligned with Mahatma Gandhi's secular India.

"However, by acts like changing names of cities or islands, distorting history and banning beef and leather, and now this onslaught, I want to tell the Centre that you are not doing any service either to India or the Hindus. We do not want to create Zia-ul-Haq's Pakistan in Gandhi's India," she said, referring to the Pakistani dictator and former president.

Mufti warned that there would be "consequences in the future" if the Centre did not stop interfering in the religious affairs of Muslims.

"What message are you giving to 25 crore Muslims in the country. I do not think this is the legacy of Vajpayee whose statue they (BJP) want to build," she said.&nbsp;

Terming the triple talaq bill as an "assault" on Muslim families, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asked the Centre to desist from interfering in the religious affairs of the community.

Terming the triple talaq bill as an "assault" on Muslim families, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asked the Centre to desist from interfering in the religious affairs of the community. Her comments came on the day when the contentious Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, which seeks to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among the community, was tabled in the Rajya Sabha. However, the Upper House of Parliament failed to initiate a discussion on the bill, with a united opposition led by the Congress demanding that the draft law be sent to a select committee for scrutiny. "As a Muslim and a woman who has gone through a broken marriage, I thought it is my duty to speak when there is an assault on the family structure of Muslims," Mufti told reporters here. She said Muslims take pride in their family structure which is very strong and accused the Centre of trying to disturb the community through the bill. "Our family structure is very strong. But unfortunately, after the economic onslaught on Muslims through curbs on meat and leather, now they (Centre) have entered our homes through the triple talaq bill, which would not only disturb our family life, but also put our women into economic distress," the People's Democratic Party (PDP) president said. Mufti said while deserting a woman was very wrong, marriage is a contract between two people. "If two people do not want to live together, they can live apart through consensus. The biggest challenge that a woman faces after her marriage breaks is economic," she said. She alleged that while the BJP rejected reservation for Muslims in education and jobs, it chose to go ahead with a law like this, which is also based on religious lines. "The Supreme Court has already ruled (that) it (practice of triple talaq) (is) invalid and Islam also rejects it, but despite that they went ahead with it (triple talaq bill)," she added. The PDP chief called for a consensus over the issue. "Democracy is not run through brute majority, it is about consensus. BJP claims (its motto is) 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', but by bringing such a bill, which would create division in Muslim families, they are doing everything wrong," Mufti said. She said Jammu and Kashmir, despite being a Muslim-majority state, had aligned with Mahatma Gandhi's secular India. "However, by acts like changing names of cities or islands, distorting history and banning beef and leather, and now this onslaught, I want to tell the Centre that you are not doing any service either to India or the Hindus. We do not want to create Zia-ul-Haq's Pakistan in Gandhi's India," she said, referring to the Pakistani dictator and former president. Mufti warned that there would be "consequences in the future" if the Centre did not stop interfering in the religious affairs of Muslims. "What message are you giving to 25 crore Muslims in the country. I do not think this is the legacy of Vajpayee whose statue they (BJP) want to build," she said.

Mehbooba Mufti warns Centre against interfering in Muslims' religious affairs

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need.&nbsp;

Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters.

The sub-zero temperature in the mountainous state has frozen almost everything but this initiative is spreading warmth. The 'Wall of Kindness'&nbsp;is helping the poor and needy to survive in the biting cold winter.

Situated at the British-era boulevard, the wall has been painted by a non-governmental organisation where people can hang their clothes without being noticed.&nbsp;In the valley, many people have come forward with their clothes to help the needy in the freezing cold. State administration has also helped these people in getting the desired spaces for the wall.&nbsp;

<img alt="Wall of Kindness" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2de1f75-867d-476e-b3d7-60a62db3046b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_4.jpg" />

The initiative has been started by an NGO 'Who is Hussain’ which has almost two dozen volunteers including students and young professionals.

"The main idea was to help the people. We identified a wall where people can come and donate and at the same time, people who need can take them without being identified," a volunteer associated with the NGO said.

These volunteers now aim to expand the project to other areas as well. They say that they are already in the process of identifying spots where similar walls could be started. The move is being hailed by several people in the state.

A local resident said, "This is a very good step. This will help people in minus temperature, poor people will be benefited from this move. This has happened in foreign countries as well, I am happy that it has come to Kashmir, I urge people to donate extra clothes."

The initiative was initially started for the homeless people of Mashhad in Iran. Soon the practice spread throughout the country with a motto 'leave if you do not need'. Since then, the movement has spread to many other countries including China, Pakistan and Italy.&nbsp;

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need. Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters.

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need. Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters. The sub-zero temperature in the mountainous state has frozen almost everything but this initiative is spreading warmth. The 'Wall of Kindness' is helping the poor and needy to survive in the biting cold winter. Situated at the British-era boulevard, the wall has been painted by a non-governmental organisation where people can hang their clothes without being noticed. In the valley, many people have come forward with their clothes to help the needy in the freezing cold. State administration has also helped these people in getting the desired spaces for the wall. The initiative has been started by an NGO 'Who is Hussain’ which has almost two dozen volunteers including students and young professionals. "The main idea was to help the people. We identified a wall where people can come and donate and at the same time, people who need can take them without being identified," a volunteer associated with the NGO said. These volunteers now aim to expand the project to other areas as well. They say that they are already in the process of identifying spots where similar walls could be started. The move is being hailed by several people in the state. A local resident said, "This is a very good step. This will help people in minus temperature, poor people will be benefited from this move. This has happened in foreign countries as well, I am happy that it has come to Kashmir, I urge people to donate extra clothes." The initiative was initially started for the homeless people of Mashhad in Iran. Soon the practice spread throughout the country with a motto 'leave if you do not need'. Since then, the movement has spread to many other countries including China, Pakistan and Italy.

'Wall of Kindness' warms up Jammu and Kashmir

India remained largely secure in 2018, but security being work in progress, always needs a pragmatic relook and year-end is a good time to take stock.&nbsp;

Its major strategic security concerns revolved around its relations with China, US, Russia and Pakistan with doses of attention towards the Indo-Pacific and the nations there.

In spite of the above focus, 2018 began with an achievement, which triggered a continuation of positive events through the first quarter. This was the presence of ten ASEAN leaders as guests of honour at the Republic Day parade. Following it was the visit of the Israeli Prime Minister and the visit of India’s Prime Minister to Palestine, Jordan, UAE and Oman, all crucial areas for India’s engagement.&nbsp;

The Iranian President’s visit to Delhi, so close to the visit of the Israeli Prime Minister, followed by the King of Jordan, truly demonstrated a straddling of interests and reflected the initial approach to multilateralism, which was to emerge later in the year.

After the palpable tension over Doklam that dominated the strategic discourse in the latter half of 2017, it needs to be recognised that India corrected course with the Wuhan and Sochi meetings allaying China’s fears about India’s strategic tie-up with the US. However, China has continued its campaign of psychological warfare, including the deployment of additional military resources and infrastructure along the Himalayan border.&nbsp;

Yet, 2018 did not witness any major standoff although attempted walk-in operations to perceived LAC continued, albeit at a lower key. With Russia also firmly with China, a level of discomfort was entering Indo-Russia relations where traditional strategic bonhomie was being compromised by India’s creeping proximity to the US.&nbsp;

A very deliberate diplomatic effort by the Indian government has apparently righted that perception and the $5 billion deal for acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defence system helped retrieve the relationship. The subsequent joint military training under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCC) at Chebarkulsky in the Ural Mountains further helped the retrieval.&nbsp;

With China, the military-diplomatic domain saw greater positive strokes, but by no means should this be considered permanent. China exercises a repertoire of options to keep India under pressure such that the focus of Indian planners remains embedded at the Himalayan front. If a more aggressive strategy is contemplated, India will need to revisit its decision to put in cold storage the completion of raising of the mountain strike corps.

With India torn by multiple interests with different big powers, the situation demanded a level of multilateralism. To walk the multilateral route, various meetings were held of the different forums and summits of the developing Indo-US Strategic Partnership, including the Indo-US Leadership Summit, the Indo-US Strategic Partnership Forum and the 2+2 Dialogue. The two sides demonstrated appreciation of the constraints that influence the relationship due to extraneous factors. India’s ability to handle the sensitive issue of US sanctions on Iran and the Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) in relation to the S-400 deal, demonstrated political maturity of both sides.&nbsp;

However, the year-end US decision to reduce its military presence in Afghanistan has caused some consternation in Indian strategic circles, which will need deliberation in 2019. India’s attendance of Asean-India and East Asia Summits in Singapore reflected its continued commitment to strengthen its engagement with Asean members and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

On the regional platform, the change of dispensation in Maldives marked a positive turn while Sri Lanka remained on the cusp with instability, although not negatively disposed towards India. To play an effective role in the Indo Pacific strategy, India will need to be deliberate in its relationships with important nations of the Indian Ocean Region.

It is with Pakistan that the relationship remained unchanged even with the arrival of Prime Minister Imran Khan at the helm. With the trust deficit and Pakistan’s continued intransigence over J&amp;K, India had to be diplomatically and militarily alert, a stance which will have to extend even more robustly into 2019.&nbsp;

The country’s national elections in the first half will prevent any decided response to Pakistan’s overtures. It would be far better that its strategic community deliberates on how to deal with Pakistan in the long run and have this in readiness for whichever government comes to power in May 2019.&nbsp;

This recommendation is as much applicable to J&amp;K where a season of high military achievements has been offset by the continuing local recruitment to terrorist ranks and increasing alienation.&nbsp;

The Kartarpur Corridor is a positive development, but contingent on how it is handled in the future. Clearly, Pakistan’s ISI is sensing an opportunity. That opportunity, which it seeks in embroiling India in a continuum of internal security challenges in Punjab and J&amp;K has to be met head-on; as much as the year-end discovery of fledgeling Islamic State networks in North India. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-secure-through-2018-india-has-work-cut-out-for-new-year-2702318">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India remained largely secure in 2018, but security being work in progress, always needs a pragmatic relook and year-end is a good time to take stock. Its major strategic security concerns revolved around its relations with China, US, Russia and Pakistan with doses of attention towards the Indo-Pacific and the nations there.

India remained largely secure in 2018, but security being work in progress, always needs a pragmatic relook and year-end is a good time to take stock. Its major strategic security concerns revolved around its relations with China, US, Russia and Pakistan with doses of attention towards the Indo-Pacific and the nations there. In spite of the above focus, 2018 began with an achievement, which triggered a continuation of positive events through the first quarter. This was the presence of ten ASEAN leaders as guests of honour at the Republic Day parade. Following it was the visit of the Israeli Prime Minister and the visit of India’s Prime Minister to Palestine, Jordan, UAE and Oman, all crucial areas for India’s engagement. The Iranian President’s visit to Delhi, so close to the visit of the Israeli Prime Minister, followed by the King of Jordan, truly demonstrated a straddling of interests and reflected the initial approach to multilateralism, which was to emerge later in the year. After the palpable tension over Doklam that dominated the strategic discourse in the latter half of 2017, it needs to be recognised that India corrected course with the Wuhan and Sochi meetings allaying China’s fears about India’s strategic tie-up with the US. However, China has continued its campaign of psychological warfare, including the deployment of additional military resources and infrastructure along the Himalayan border. Yet, 2018 did not witness any major standoff although attempted walk-in operations to perceived LAC continued, albeit at a lower key. With Russia also firmly with China, a level of discomfort was entering Indo-Russia relations where traditional strategic bonhomie was being compromised by India’s creeping proximity to the US. A very deliberate diplomatic effort by the Indian government has apparently righted that perception and the $5 billion deal for acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defence system helped retrieve the relationship. The subsequent joint military training under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCC) at Chebarkulsky in the Ural Mountains further helped the retrieval. With China, the military-diplomatic domain saw greater positive strokes, but by no means should this be considered permanent. China exercises a repertoire of options to keep India under pressure such that the focus of Indian planners remains embedded at the Himalayan front. If a more aggressive strategy is contemplated, India will need to revisit its decision to put in cold storage the completion of raising of the mountain strike corps. With India torn by multiple interests with different big powers, the situation demanded a level of multilateralism. To walk the multilateral route, various meetings were held of the different forums and summits of the developing Indo-US Strategic Partnership, including the Indo-US Leadership Summit, the Indo-US Strategic Partnership Forum and the 2+2 Dialogue. The two sides demonstrated appreciation of the constraints that influence the relationship due to extraneous factors. India’s ability to handle the sensitive issue of US sanctions on Iran and the Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) in relation to the S-400 deal, demonstrated political maturity of both sides. However, the year-end US decision to reduce its military presence in Afghanistan has caused some consternation in Indian strategic circles, which will need deliberation in 2019. India’s attendance of Asean-India and East Asia Summits in Singapore reflected its continued commitment to strengthen its engagement with Asean members and the wider Indo-Pacific region. On the regional platform, the change of dispensation in Maldives marked a positive turn while Sri Lanka remained on the cusp with instability, although not negatively disposed towards India. To play an effective role in the Indo Pacific strategy, India will need to be deliberate in its relationships with important nations of the Indian Ocean Region. It is with Pakistan that the relationship remained unchanged even with the arrival of Prime Minister Imran Khan at the helm. With the trust deficit and Pakistan’s continued intransigence over J&K, India had to be diplomatically and militarily alert, a stance which will have to extend even more robustly into 2019. The country’s national elections in the first half will prevent any decided response to Pakistan’s overtures. It would be far better that its strategic community deliberates on how to deal with Pakistan in the long run and have this in readiness for whichever government comes to power in May 2019. This recommendation is as much applicable to J&K where a season of high military achievements has been offset by the continuing local recruitment to terrorist ranks and increasing alienation. The Kartarpur Corridor is a positive development, but contingent on how it is handled in the future. Clearly, Pakistan’s ISI is sensing an opportunity. That opportunity, which it seeks in embroiling India in a continuum of internal security challenges in Punjab and J&K has to be met head-on; as much as the year-end discovery of fledgeling Islamic State networks in North India. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Secure through 2018, India has work cut out for New Year

Four&nbsp;terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning.

The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police&nbsp;launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

The search operation was initiated on specific&nbsp;inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama.

The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Four terrorists have been killed.Arms and ammunition recovered <a href="https://t.co/23BX6oZUie">https://t.co/23BX6oZUie</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078889604680429569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A gun&nbsp;battle also broke out&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours&nbsp;of Saturday morning.

Considering the security of civilians, the area had&nbsp;been cordoned off.

(With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists. The search operation was initiated on specific inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama. The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists. #UPDATE Four terrorists have been killed.Arms and ammunition recovered https://t.co/23BX6oZUie — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × A gun battle also broke out in the Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours of Saturday morning. Considering the security of civilians, the area had been cordoned off. (With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

Pulwama encounter: Four Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists killed

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