At least 10 terrorists, who had crossed over to Pakistan, set up businesses across the border with the active aid of ISI and were involved in the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-deplores-indias-decision-to-suspend-cross-loc-trade-212250&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj76tDQp-jhAhVE7nMBHWQbD74QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0fEgkdR_is0yM-NW1Hj5CU">recently suspended cross LoC trade</a> to provide funds to terrorists and separatists in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

These Jammu and Kashmir natives are either based in Islamabad and Rawalpindi in Pakistan or Muzaffarabad in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and operate businesses ranging from almonds, dry dates, dry fruits to mangoes as part of the modus operandi to send money to fuel unrest in Jammu and Kashmir on behalf of the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI, they said.

"These 10 terrorists were using&nbsp;the cross-LoC trade between Jammu and Kashmir and PoK to fund terrorists and separatists in Jammu and Kashmir," a senior security official said.

India last week indefinitely suspended cross-LoC trade at two points along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir following reports that it was being "misused" by elements from across the border to smuggle weapons, narcotics and fake currency.

The LoC trade across Chakan-Da-Bagh and Salamabad was intended as a confidence-building measure for the population living in Jammu and Kashmir and across the Line of Control (LoC) in PoK.

Security officials also gave details of the 10 terrorists and their businesses which were involved in the cross LoC trade.

Mehrajuddin Bhat, a resident of Tral, had gone to Pakistan to join terrorism&nbsp;about a decade ago. &nbsp;

Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Bhat set up 'Mehrajuddin Traders' to get involved in the cross LoC trade.

Mehrajuddin's brother is also a registered LoC trader on the Indian side at the Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) at Uri.

Nazir Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Pampore, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism.

Presently staying in Islamabad, he runs the business through his firms the 'New Kashmir Traders' and 'New Kashmir Firm'.

Basharat Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan years ago and had joined terrorism.

Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Bhat runs his business through the 'Al Nasir Trading Company'.

Showkat Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism.

Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Showkat's trading firm was 'Taha Enterprises'.

Noor Mohammad, who hails from Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan more than a decade ago and joined terrorism.

Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Noor runs the business through his company 'Al Noor'.

Khursheed, a resident of Srinagar, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism about eight years ago.

Now living in Islamabad, he operates the business through M/s Khursheed and Sons.

Imtiyaz Ahmed, who was originally from Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan about seven years ago.

Now staying in Muzaffarabad and was involved in the cross LoC trade through 'MIK Traders' and 'M/s Imtiyaz Traders'.

Amir, a resident of Pattan in Baramulla, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined the terrorism.

Presently living in Rawalpindi, Amir was an active LoC trader.

Azaz Rehmani, who hails from Baramulla, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism.

Presently staying in Muzaffarabad, Azaz has set up business entities in Muzaffarabad and Islamabad.

Shabbir Illahi, who was originally from Sopore, has been an active member of Hizbul Mujahideen.

He was involved in the cross LoC trade through his firm 'MN Trading Company'.

"The direct involvement of terrorists in the cross LoC trade and their contribution to fund terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir was one of the reasons to suspend cross LoC trade," another official said.

The government will revisit the issue of resuming the LoC trade after stricter measures and systems are put in place to address these issues.

New measures are expected to restore the benefit of LoC trade to local population only, rather than allowing terrorist organisations and unscrupulous traders based far away from these trading points to syphon off benefits and fuel instability in the valley, the official said.&nbsp;

At least 10 terrorists, who had crossed over to Pakistan, set up businesses across the border with the active aid of ISI and were involved in the recently suspended cross LoC trade to provide funds to terrorists and separatists in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

At least 10 terrorists, who had crossed over to Pakistan, set up businesses across the border with the active aid of ISI and were involved in the recently suspended cross LoC trade to provide funds to terrorists and separatists in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. These Jammu and Kashmir natives are either based in Islamabad and Rawalpindi in Pakistan or Muzaffarabad in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and operate businesses ranging from almonds, dry dates, dry fruits to mangoes as part of the modus operandi to send money to fuel unrest in Jammu and Kashmir on behalf of the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI, they said. "These 10 terrorists were using the cross-LoC trade between Jammu and Kashmir and PoK to fund terrorists and separatists in Jammu and Kashmir," a senior security official said. India last week indefinitely suspended cross-LoC trade at two points along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir following reports that it was being "misused" by elements from across the border to smuggle weapons, narcotics and fake currency. The LoC trade across Chakan-Da-Bagh and Salamabad was intended as a confidence-building measure for the population living in Jammu and Kashmir and across the Line of Control (LoC) in PoK. Security officials also gave details of the 10 terrorists and their businesses which were involved in the cross LoC trade. Mehrajuddin Bhat, a resident of Tral, had gone to Pakistan to join terrorism about a decade ago. Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Bhat set up 'Mehrajuddin Traders' to get involved in the cross LoC trade. Mehrajuddin's brother is also a registered LoC trader on the Indian side at the Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) at Uri. Nazir Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Pampore, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism. Presently staying in Islamabad, he runs the business through his firms the 'New Kashmir Traders' and 'New Kashmir Firm'. Basharat Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan years ago and had joined terrorism. Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Bhat runs his business through the 'Al Nasir Trading Company'. Showkat Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism. Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Showkat's trading firm was 'Taha Enterprises'. Noor Mohammad, who hails from Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan more than a decade ago and joined terrorism. Presently staying in Rawalpindi, Noor runs the business through his company 'Al Noor'. Khursheed, a resident of Srinagar, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism about eight years ago. Now living in Islamabad, he operates the business through M/s Khursheed and Sons. Imtiyaz Ahmed, who was originally from Budgam, had crossed over to Pakistan about seven years ago. Now staying in Muzaffarabad and was involved in the cross LoC trade through 'MIK Traders' and 'M/s Imtiyaz Traders'. Amir, a resident of Pattan in Baramulla, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined the terrorism. Presently living in Rawalpindi, Amir was an active LoC trader. Azaz Rehmani, who hails from Baramulla, had crossed over to Pakistan and joined terrorism. Presently staying in Muzaffarabad, Azaz has set up business entities in Muzaffarabad and Islamabad. Shabbir Illahi, who was originally from Sopore, has been an active member of Hizbul Mujahideen. He was involved in the cross LoC trade through his firm 'MN Trading Company'. "The direct involvement of terrorists in the cross LoC trade and their contribution to fund terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir was one of the reasons to suspend cross LoC trade," another official said. The government will revisit the issue of resuming the LoC trade after stricter measures and systems are put in place to address these issues. New measures are expected to restore the benefit of LoC trade to local population only, rather than allowing terrorist organisations and unscrupulous traders based far away from these trading points to syphon off benefits and fuel instability in the valley, the official said.

10 Kashmiri terrorists based in Pakistan involved in LoC trade, says officials

India has suspended LoC trade in J&K with Pakistan as route being misused for smuggling of weapons & Drugs. Watch complete video to know more.

Gravitas: India suspends LoC trade in J&K with Pakistan

India on Thursday had suspended trade with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-of-india-suspends-loc-trade-with-pakistan-says-route-being-misused-211563">Pakistan at the Line of Control</a>(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade.&nbsp;

What India found was that almonds produced in California were being traded through the LoC and later used to fuel terror in the state by providing hawala money.

The national investigating agency(NIA) was able to find out modus operandi of dubious hawala transactions for terror financing.&nbsp;

Terror groups, identifying themselves as Pakistani trade firms, used to hand over the money to terrorist organizations on the Indian side through the hawala route. Some of the Pakistani firms had a close association with terror groups like Hizbul Mujahideen.

Pakistani traders under invoiced products like California almonds which they received.&nbsp;

On receipt of the consignment, a trader on the Indian side sold the California almonds at the prevailing market price and made extra and undue profit to the extent of under-invoicing.&nbsp;

The extra money generated was handed over by the trader to terrorist organizations in the Valley to fuel anti-India operations.

Basically, Rs 1,200 per kg almonds were under invoiced to Rs 200. On the Indian side, almonds were sold at Rs 1,200, thus getting a profit of Rs 1,000 and addition Rs 1,000 from terror groups from Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate(ED) has already chargesheeted businessman Zahoo Ahmed Watali who was the president of LoC traders association. He was found to be funnelling money to terrorists, separatists and subversive elements in the Valley.&nbsp;

Other than funding terror, the trade route had become a channel of funnelling drugs such as cocaine, brown sugar and heroine and supply of arms to support terrorists in the Valley.&nbsp;

Upto 66.5 kg heroin was seized from a Valley-based consignee and the drugs came through the LoC trade. A large cache that was concealed in a consignment of bananas was seized from across the LoC from a driver from Kulgam in the Valley.

The route had become a way to pump fake currency notes - Rs 57 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, Rs 15 lakh&nbsp;and Rs 7.5 lakh&nbsp;- &nbsp;fake currency notes were&nbsp;seized at different time.

Trade was allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres (TFCs) at Salamabad in Uri, part of the Baramulla district and at Chakkan-da-Bagh in the Poonch district.&nbsp;

The cross-LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) for 21 agreed items on barter system.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-suspends-cross-loc-trade-with-pakistan-in-jammu-and-kashmir-211807/embed" width="560"></iframe></div>

India on Thursday had suspended trade with Pakistan at the Line of Control(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade.

India on Thursday had suspended trade with Pakistan at the Line of Control(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade. What India found was that almonds produced in California were being traded through the LoC and later used to fuel terror in the state by providing hawala money. The national investigating agency(NIA) was able to find out modus operandi of dubious hawala transactions for terror financing. Terror groups, identifying themselves as Pakistani trade firms, used to hand over the money to terrorist organizations on the Indian side through the hawala route. Some of the Pakistani firms had a close association with terror groups like Hizbul Mujahideen. Pakistani traders under invoiced products like California almonds which they received. On receipt of the consignment, a trader on the Indian side sold the California almonds at the prevailing market price and made extra and undue profit to the extent of under-invoicing. The extra money generated was handed over by the trader to terrorist organizations in the Valley to fuel anti-India operations. Basically, Rs 1,200 per kg almonds were under invoiced to Rs 200. On the Indian side, almonds were sold at Rs 1,200, thus getting a profit of Rs 1,000 and addition Rs 1,000 from terror groups from Pakistan. The Enforcement Directorate(ED) has already chargesheeted businessman Zahoo Ahmed Watali who was the president of LoC traders association. He was found to be funnelling money to terrorists, separatists and subversive elements in the Valley. Other than funding terror, the trade route had become a channel of funnelling drugs such as cocaine, brown sugar and heroine and supply of arms to support terrorists in the Valley. Upto 66.5 kg heroin was seized from a Valley-based consignee and the drugs came through the LoC trade. A large cache that was concealed in a consignment of bananas was seized from across the LoC from a driver from Kulgam in the Valley. The route had become a way to pump fake currency notes - Rs 57 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, Rs 15 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh - fake currency notes were seized at different time. Trade was allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres (TFCs) at Salamabad in Uri, part of the Baramulla district and at Chakkan-da-Bagh in the Poonch district. The cross-LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) for 21 agreed items on barter system.

How trade in California almonds through LoC route funded terror in J&K

In a blow to Pakistan, India on Thursday called off&nbsp;trade between J&amp;K and POK(Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) along the line of control(LoC).

The ministry of home affairs letter, procured by WION and dated April 18, 2019, said the trade is being misused by the Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency and called for a "stricter regulatory regime".

"The LoC mechanism is, therefore, being suspended pending the putting into place a stricter regulatory regime," the letter read.&nbsp;

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India suspends LoCs trade; Says its being misused by the Pakistan based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics &amp; fake currency <a href="https://t.co/7DDguQ7tKT">pic.twitter.com/7DDguQ7tKT</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1118860181847379968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is to ensure that only bonafide trade takes place, for the benefit of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, through this mechanism," the letter added.

Further, MHA sources said "the main objective of allowing trade between J&amp;K and POK, was to encourage local trade and exchange of locally made and grown products."&nbsp;

Sources added that the&nbsp;facility was being misused by some influential local businessmen in nexus with unscrupulous elements to trade in products from third countries. Hence, the government has suspended the trade at Salamabad and Chakkan-da-Bagh in Jammu and Kashmir.

The trade is allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres located at Salamabad, Uri, District Baramulla and Chakkan-da-Bagh, District Poonch. The trade which takes place four days a week is based on the barter system and zero duty basis.

In an ongoing investigation by the National investigation agency (NIA), MHA said, "persons closely associated with banned terrorist organizations involved in fuelling terrorism/separatism" have been involved in the trade.

MHA said, some individuals, who have crossed over to Pakistan, and joined militant organizations have opened trading firms in Pakistan and these trading firms are engaged in the LoC trade.

Meanwhile, sources also said that a stricter regulatory and enforcement mechanism was&nbsp;being worked out. The issue of reopening of cross-border&nbsp;trade would be&nbsp;revisited thereafter.

The cross LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) for 21 agreed items on the barter system, on zero duty basis, through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch- Rawalakote routes.

Initially, the trade was allowed for 2 days per week but later, upon an increase in the volume of trade, trading days was increased to 4 days per week. 
&nbsp;

In a blow to Pakistan, India on Thursday called off trade between J&K and POK(Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) along the line of control(LoC). The ministry of home affairs letter, procured by WION and dated April 18, 2019, said the trade is being misused by the Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency and called for a "stricter regulatory regime".

In a blow to Pakistan, India on Thursday called off trade between J&K and POK(Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) along the line of control(LoC). The ministry of home affairs letter, procured by WION and dated April 18, 2019, said the trade is being misused by the Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency and called for a "stricter regulatory regime". "The LoC mechanism is, therefore, being suspended pending the putting into place a stricter regulatory regime," the letter read. India suspends LoCs trade; Says its being misused by the Pakistan based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics & fake currency pic.twitter.com/7DDguQ7tKT — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 18, 2019 × This is to ensure that only bonafide trade takes place, for the benefit of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, through this mechanism," the letter added. Further, MHA sources said "the main objective of allowing trade between J&K and POK, was to encourage local trade and exchange of locally made and grown products." Sources added that the facility was being misused by some influential local businessmen in nexus with unscrupulous elements to trade in products from third countries. Hence, the government has suspended the trade at Salamabad and Chakkan-da-Bagh in Jammu and Kashmir. The trade is allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres located at Salamabad, Uri, District Baramulla and Chakkan-da-Bagh, District Poonch. The trade which takes place four days a week is based on the barter system and zero duty basis. In an ongoing investigation by the National investigation agency (NIA), MHA said, "persons closely associated with banned terrorist organizations involved in fuelling terrorism/separatism" have been involved in the trade. MHA said, some individuals, who have crossed over to Pakistan, and joined militant organizations have opened trading firms in Pakistan and these trading firms are engaged in the LoC trade. Meanwhile, sources also said that a stricter regulatory and enforcement mechanism was being worked out. The issue of reopening of cross-border trade would be revisited thereafter. The cross LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) for 21 agreed items on the barter system, on zero duty basis, through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch- Rawalakote routes. Initially, the trade was allowed for 2 days per week but later, upon an increase in the volume of trade, trading days was increased to 4 days per week.

Government of India suspends LoC trade with Pakistan, says route being misused

An Indian defence spokesperson in Jammu said on Wednesday that Pakistan did not violate Indian air space on Wednesday.

He issued the statement after media reports earlier had suggested an airspace violation near&nbsp;the&nbsp;Line of Control&nbsp;(LoC).

The news agency ANI quoted him as saying there "was no air space violation by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch."

Indian radar had early on Monday detected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-radars-catch-four-pakistani-f-16s-flying-close-to-the-border-in-punjab-207239">four Pakistani F-16s flying close to the Punjab border</a>.&nbsp;

The incident had taken place at 3 am Monday morning, when Indian radars detected a large-sized UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) and four F-16s flying close to the Indian border in Punjab's Khemkaran sector.&nbsp;

India scrambled Sukhoi 30MKIs and Mirage jets in response after which the Pakistani jets retreated further into their territory.&nbsp;

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been high ever since the Indian Air Force conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakote in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province on February 26.&nbsp;

A day later, on February 27, Indian and Pakistani jets engaged in a dogfight after Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir from its side of the Line of Control. India says the bombs were targeting military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

It was the first time in over 40 years the air forces of the two countries had engaged in combat. Both sides lost a plane each — India a MiG-21 and the Pakistanis an F-16.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian defence spokesperson in Jammu said on Wednesday that Pakistan did not violate Indian air space on Wednesday. He issued the statement after media reports earlier had suggested an airspace violation near the Line of Control (LoC).

An Indian defence spokesperson in Jammu said on Wednesday that Pakistan did not violate Indian air space on Wednesday. He issued the statement after media reports earlier had suggested an airspace violation near the Line of Control (LoC). The news agency ANI quoted him as saying there "was no air space violation by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch." Indian radar had early on Monday detected four Pakistani F-16s flying close to the Punjab border. The incident had taken place at 3 am Monday morning, when Indian radars detected a large-sized UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) and four F-16s flying close to the Indian border in Punjab's Khemkaran sector. India scrambled Sukhoi 30MKIs and Mirage jets in response after which the Pakistani jets retreated further into their territory. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been high ever since the Indian Air Force conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakote in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province on February 26. A day later, on February 27, Indian and Pakistani jets engaged in a dogfight after Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir from its side of the Line of Control. India says the bombs were targeting military installations but that they missed their targets. It was the first time in over 40 years the air forces of the two countries had engaged in combat. Both sides lost a plane each — India a MiG-21 and the Pakistanis an F-16. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan did not violate Indian air space on Wednesday: Defence spokesperson

A day after Indian Air Force(IAF) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-scrambles-sukhoi-30-jets-after-sighting-pakistani-drone-207336">scambled Sukhoi-30 jets</a> after sighting Pakistani drones, IAF planes have been flying over Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri area.

Locals in the area witnessed jets flying over Mendhar in Poonch.

On Tuesday, India officials had spotted two Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft close to the LoC(Line of Control). Sources had told PTI that Sukhoi-30 MKI jets were deployed soon after the Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) were seen hovering over the border.

The incident which took place on Tuesday afternoon comes just over a month after India conducted air strikes on&nbsp;Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) terror facilities at Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Last month, a Pakistani UAV which intruded into Rajasthan's Ganganagar was shot down by the Army, another Pakistani military drone was shot down by IAF's Sukhoi-30 fighter jet.

Tensions have escalated at the international border in the past month with Pakistan opening fire on Indian troops. On Tuesday, seven Pakistani posts across the LoC was destroyed by the Indian Army during cross-border shelling as Pakistan targeted Indian posts in Rajouri and Poonch districts.

On Monday, a BSF inspector and a five-year-old girl were among three persons killed while 24 others were injured as Pakistani troops heavily shelled forward areas along the LoC&nbsp;in Poonch district.

A day after Indian Air Force(IAF) scambled Sukhoi-30 jets after sighting Pakistani drones, IAF planes have been flying over Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri area.

A day after Indian Air Force(IAF) scambled Sukhoi-30 jets after sighting Pakistani drones, IAF planes have been flying over Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri area. Locals in the area witnessed jets flying over Mendhar in Poonch. On Tuesday, India officials had spotted two Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft close to the LoC(Line of Control). Sources had told PTI that Sukhoi-30 MKI jets were deployed soon after the Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) were seen hovering over the border. The incident which took place on Tuesday afternoon comes just over a month after India conducted air strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) terror facilities at Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Last month, a Pakistani UAV which intruded into Rajasthan's Ganganagar was shot down by the Army, another Pakistani military drone was shot down by IAF's Sukhoi-30 fighter jet. Tensions have escalated at the international border in the past month with Pakistan opening fire on Indian troops. On Tuesday, seven Pakistani posts across the LoC was destroyed by the Indian Army during cross-border shelling as Pakistan targeted Indian posts in Rajouri and Poonch districts. On Monday, a BSF inspector and a five-year-old girl were among three persons killed while 24 others were injured as Pakistani troops heavily shelled forward areas along the LoC in Poonch district.

Day after Pak drone sighting, Indian Air Force jets seen over J&K

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-gamechanger-hal-still-deal-iaf-chief-dhanoa-169154">Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC"</a>.&nbsp;

He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force chief was speaking in Chandigarh at the induction into the air force of the first Chinook helicopters. This first unit of Chinooks — India took possession of them from Boeing on February 1 — will be deployed in Chandigarh.&nbsp;

Dhanoa said Monday that another unit would be deployed in Dinjan in Assam.&nbsp;

"Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet," Dhanoa said on Monday.&nbsp;

On February 27 this year, the Indian and Pakistani air forces had engaged in a dogfight for the first time in over 40 years.&nbsp;

Both air forces lost a plane each — the Indians a MiG-21 Bison and the Pakistanis an F-16.&nbsp;

A day earlier, on February 26, the IAF had conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The strike had been retaliation for the suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">that left at least 40 CRPF personnel dead</a>.&nbsp;

On February 27, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it was proving its "deterrence capabilities".&nbsp;

India said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that the February 26 air strike would have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-country-missing-rafale-slams-opposition-for-doubting-balakot-air-strike-200822">more effective</a> if India had had the Rafale.&nbsp;

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Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa: When the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> comes in, the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold,and they (Pak) will not come anywhere near the LoC or the border,with the kind of of capability that we will posses, for which presently they(Pak) don't have an answer <a href="https://t.co/mVnM62kQyz">pic.twitter.com/mVnM62kQyz</a>
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The previous UPA government had signed a deal with Dassault Aviation — the maker of the Rafale — to buy 126 of the planes. Then, in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra announced a new government-to-government deal to purchase 36 of the planes.&nbsp;

India is still to get possession of the fighter planes. Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said the first planes will arrive in India in September 2019.&nbsp;

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC". He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC". He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale. The Indian Air Force chief was speaking in Chandigarh at the induction into the air force of the first Chinook helicopters. This first unit of Chinooks — India took possession of them from Boeing on February 1 — will be deployed in Chandigarh. Dhanoa said Monday that another unit would be deployed in Dinjan in Assam. "Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet," Dhanoa said on Monday. On February 27 this year, the Indian and Pakistani air forces had engaged in a dogfight for the first time in over 40 years. Both air forces lost a plane each — the Indians a MiG-21 Bison and the Pakistanis an F-16. A day earlier, on February 26, the IAF had conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The strike had been retaliation for the suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that left at least 40 CRPF personnel dead. On February 27, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it was proving its "deterrence capabilities". India said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that the February 26 air strike would have been more effective if India had had the Rafale. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa: When the #Rafale comes in, the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold,and they (Pak) will not come anywhere near the LoC or the border,with the kind of of capability that we will posses, for which presently they(Pak) don't have an answer pic.twitter.com/mVnM62kQyz — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2019 × The previous UPA government had signed a deal with Dassault Aviation — the maker of the Rafale — to buy 126 of the planes. Then, in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra announced a new government-to-government deal to purchase 36 of the planes. India is still to get possession of the fighter planes. Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said the first planes will arrive in India in September 2019.

When Rafale comes, Pakistan will not come anywhere near LoC: IAF chief BS Dhanoa

J&K: Rifleman loses life in ceasefire violation along LoC in Sunderbani Sector

An Indian Army jawan has been killed in a ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri.&nbsp;

The ceasefire violation took place in Keri Battal in the Sunderbani sector.&nbsp;

Tensions have been running high between India and Pakistan ever since the Indian Air Force's air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakote on February 26 in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province.&nbsp;

Pakistan retaliated a day later, dropping bombs on Indian territory from their side of the Line of Control. India said the bombs were aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

India also scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes. A dogfight ensued in which a Pakistani F-16 and and Indian MiG-21 were shot down. This was the first time the Indian and Pakistani air forces had been involved in a skirmish in over 40 years.&nbsp;

Both countries have been on high alert ever since.&nbsp;

The air strike on the JeM training camp was in retaliation for the Pulwama terrorist attack which left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">over 40 CRPF personnel dead</a>.&nbsp;

An Indian Army jawan has been killed in a ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri. The ceasefire violation took place in Keri Battal in the Sunderbani sector.

An Indian Army jawan has been killed in a ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri. The ceasefire violation took place in Keri Battal in the Sunderbani sector. Tensions have been running high between India and Pakistan ever since the Indian Air Force's air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakote on February 26 in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. Pakistan retaliated a day later, dropping bombs on Indian territory from their side of the Line of Control. India said the bombs were aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets. India also scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes. A dogfight ensued in which a Pakistani F-16 and and Indian MiG-21 were shot down. This was the first time the Indian and Pakistani air forces had been involved in a skirmish in over 40 years. Both countries have been on high alert ever since. The air strike on the JeM training camp was in retaliation for the Pulwama terrorist attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead.

Jammu and Kashmir: Army jawan killed in ceasefire violation along LoC

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning.

The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.30 am.&nbsp;

Indian Army, however, retaliated befittingly to the violation.

Pakistan also resorted to shelling with mortars and firing of small arms.

Further details on the incident are awaited.

Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire at Indian border areas at three places along the Line of Control and International Border.

The violations had occurred at Rajouri, Poonch and Akhnoor sectors of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning. The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning. The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.30 am. Indian Army, however, retaliated befittingly to the violation. Pakistan also resorted to shelling with mortars and firing of small arms. Further details on the incident are awaited. Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire at Indian border areas at three places along the Line of Control and International Border. The violations had occurred at Rajouri, Poonch and Akhnoor sectors of Jammu and Kashmir.

Heavy firing by Pakistan along LoC in KG sector of Poonch, Army strongly retaliates

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said.

Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in the Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir, a police official said.&nbsp;

He said four civilians, including a woman, were injured in the firing.

The injured were admitted to a hospital, the official said.

An Army official confirmed the ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops, but said the Indian Army has responded to Pakistani firing in adequate measure.&nbsp;

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said.

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said. Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in the Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir, a police official said. He said four civilians, including a woman, were injured in the firing. The injured were admitted to a hospital, the official said. An Army official confirmed the ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops, but said the Indian Army has responded to Pakistani firing in adequate measure.

Four civilians injured in Pakistani firing along LoC in J-K's Baramulla

The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-shoots-down-pakistani-drone-that-violated-airspace-in-rajasthan-201136">Line of Control</a> has been "relatively calm".&nbsp;

"In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense &amp; unprovoked firing with heavy caliber weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts &amp; civilian areas with Mortar bombs &amp; heavy Arty (artillery) Guns," the Indian Army said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The same was effectively retaliated by the Indian Army. There have been no casualties on the Indian side," the army added.&nbsp;

"We would reiterate that as a professional Army we are committed to avoid civil casualties, especially along the Line of Control. All actions taken by our defence forces are targeted towards counter terrorism and terrorist infrastructure, away from civilian areas, to avoid civilian casualties," the army said.&nbsp;

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Indian Army: Would reiterate that as a professional Army we are committed to avoid civil casualties, especially along LoC. All actions taken by our defence forces are targeted towards counter terrorism&amp;terrorist infrastructure,away from civilian areas,to avoid civilian casualties
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"We are maintaining strict vigil along the Line of Control and IB. Any further provocation or misadventure by Pakistan will be responded in a befitting manner with dire consequences," it added.&nbsp;

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been high ever since India's February 26 air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province.&nbsp;

Pakistan hit back a day later by dropping bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. The Indian Army said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

On Monday, an Indian Sukhoi 30MKI shot down a Pakistani drone in Rajasthan.&nbsp;

And on Tuesday, Pakistan said it had stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters. India said the claim was propaganda aimed at diverting attention from Pakistan's support for terror.&nbsp;

The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the Line of Control has been "relatively calm". "In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense & unprovoked firing with heavy caliber weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts & civilian areas with Mortar bombs & heavy Arty (artillery) Guns," the Indian Army said in a statement.

The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the Line of Control has been "relatively calm". "In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense & unprovoked firing with heavy caliber weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts & civilian areas with Mortar bombs & heavy Arty (artillery) Guns," the Indian Army said in a statement. "The same was effectively retaliated by the Indian Army. There have been no casualties on the Indian side," the army added. "We would reiterate that as a professional Army we are committed to avoid civil casualties, especially along the Line of Control. All actions taken by our defence forces are targeted towards counter terrorism and terrorist infrastructure, away from civilian areas, to avoid civilian casualties," the army said. Indian Army: Would reiterate that as a professional Army we are committed to avoid civil casualties, especially along LoC. All actions taken by our defence forces are targeted towards counter terrorism&terrorist infrastructure,away from civilian areas,to avoid civilian casualties — ANI (@ANI) March 6, 2019 × "We are maintaining strict vigil along the Line of Control and IB. Any further provocation or misadventure by Pakistan will be responded in a befitting manner with dire consequences," it added. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been high ever since India's February 26 air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. Pakistan hit back a day later by dropping bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. The Indian Army said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets. On Monday, an Indian Sukhoi 30MKI shot down a Pakistani drone in Rajasthan. And on Tuesday, Pakistan said it had stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters. India said the claim was propaganda aimed at diverting attention from Pakistan's support for terror.

Further provocation by Pakistan along LoC will be met with dire consequences: Indian Army

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said.

The intense shelling and firing from across the border continued throughout the night in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district, while it started in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch in the early hours of Wednesday, they said.

Officials said the Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively, and the exchange of heavy fire caused panic among the border residents. However, there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side, they said.

Pakistan had resorted to cross-border firing at Nowshera and Sunderbani in Rajouri and Krishna Ghati in Poonch on Tuesday as well. While the cross-border skirmishes lasted for over three hours in Nowshera sector which left a soldier injured, the firing in Krishna Ghati took place from 6 pm to 8:15 pm.

Firing in Sunderbani sector started at 8:30 pm Tuesday and ended around 4:30 am on Wednesday, the officials said. Minutes later, they said the guns once again roared in Krishna Ghati sector and firing was underway between the two sides when last reports were received. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 suicide bombing in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured in over 60 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch last week.&nbsp;

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said.

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said. The intense shelling and firing from across the border continued throughout the night in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district, while it started in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch in the early hours of Wednesday, they said. Officials said the Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively, and the exchange of heavy fire caused panic among the border residents. However, there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side, they said. Pakistan had resorted to cross-border firing at Nowshera and Sunderbani in Rajouri and Krishna Ghati in Poonch on Tuesday as well. While the cross-border skirmishes lasted for over three hours in Nowshera sector which left a soldier injured, the firing in Krishna Ghati took place from 6 pm to 8:15 pm. Firing in Sunderbani sector started at 8:30 pm Tuesday and ended around 4:30 am on Wednesday, the officials said. Minutes later, they said the guns once again roared in Krishna Ghati sector and firing was underway between the two sides when last reports were received. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 suicide bombing in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured in over 60 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch last week.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Rajouri, Poonch

India on Wednesday summoned Pakistan's deputy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shot-down-one-pakistan-air-force-plane-1-mig-21-aircraft-lost-pilot-missing-in-action-india-200042">High Commissioner Syed Haider </a>Shah after Pakistan Air Force jets entered Indian airspace in Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir, a day after the Indian Air Force(IAF) carried out air strikes in Balakot across the Line of Control(LoC).

India's external affairs ministry spokesman<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fighter-planes-enter-indian-airspace-in-jk-pushed-back-by-indian-jets-199993"> Raveesh Kumar at a press conference had</a> informed earlier that an Indian Air Force MiG-21 was lost and the pilot was "missing in action".

Kumar added that Indian forces had shot down an PAF fighter jet earlier on Wednesday morning.

Sources said India was likely to share evidence of Pulwama attack.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ATO9mYlhFRw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

"Pakistan has responded this morning by using its Air Force to target military installations on the Indian side. Due to our high state of readiness and alertness, Pakistan's attempts were foiled successfully," Kumar &nbsp;said. Report had earlier said India had shot down Pakistan Air Force's F-16 fighter jet in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector.

&nbsp;

Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets had conducted predawn attack on several Pakistani terror facilities across the LoC in Balakot on Tuesday.

After the attacks, on Wednesday in a televised address to the nation, Pakistan&nbsp;PM Imran Khan said: "I ask India: with the weapons you have and the weapons we have, can we really afford a miscalculation? If this (situation) escalates, it will no longer be in my control or in (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi's."&nbsp;

"Let's sit together and settle this with talks," he added.

Meanwhile, the US firmly asked Pakistan to take "meaningful action" against terrorist groups operating on its soil after India's counter-terrorism action against it and asked the two neighbours to exercise restraint and avoid escalation at any cost.&nbsp;

India on Wednesday summoned Pakistan's deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah after Pakistan Air Force jets entered Indian airspace in Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir, a day after the Indian Air Force(IAF) carried out air strikes in Balakot across the Line of Control(LoC).

India on Wednesday summoned Pakistan's deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah after Pakistan Air Force jets entered Indian airspace in Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir, a day after the Indian Air Force(IAF) carried out air strikes in Balakot across the Line of Control(LoC). India's external affairs ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar at a press conference had informed earlier that an Indian Air Force MiG-21 was lost and the pilot was "missing in action". Kumar added that Indian forces had shot down an PAF fighter jet earlier on Wednesday morning. Sources said India was likely to share evidence of Pulwama attack. "Pakistan has responded this morning by using its Air Force to target military installations on the Indian side. Due to our high state of readiness and alertness, Pakistan's attempts were foiled successfully," Kumar said. Report had earlier said India had shot down Pakistan Air Force's F-16 fighter jet in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector. Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets had conducted predawn attack on several Pakistani terror facilities across the LoC in Balakot on Tuesday. After the attacks, on Wednesday in a televised address to the nation, Pakistan PM Imran Khan said: "I ask India: with the weapons you have and the weapons we have, can we really afford a miscalculation? If this (situation) escalates, it will no longer be in my control or in (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi's." "Let's sit together and settle this with talks," he added. Meanwhile, the US firmly asked Pakistan to take "meaningful action" against terrorist groups operating on its soil after India's counter-terrorism action against it and asked the two neighbours to exercise restraint and avoid escalation at any cost.

Amid tensions at the border, India summons Pakistan deputy High Commissioner

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday.

Authorities have ordered temporary closure of educational institutions in a 5-km radius along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch districts on Wednesday amid mounting tensions between the two countries, following the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 and an Indian air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed camp inside Pakistan on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fighter-planes-enter-indian-airspace-in-jk-pushed-back-by-indian-jets-199993">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan fighter planes enter Indian airspace in J&amp;K; one reportedly shot down, others drop bombs when pushed back</a>

All residents of the border areas have been asked to remain inside their homes and not venture outside.

"There was night long-heavy firing and mortar shelling along the LoC in most of areas in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts. However there was no firing and shelling from across the border on Wednesday," officials said.

"Army and BSF troops have been put on highest alert along the LoC and International Border (IB) in view of the high degree of tension in wake of air space violations," they said.

According to some reports, panic gripped the residents of border areas and some locals have left their homes and moved to safer areas.

Pakistan on Wednesday said that its jets crossed the Line of Control to undertake strikes in India for "self defence".

Indian officials said Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Nowshera sectors but were pushed back by Indian aircraft.

On Tuesday night, the Indian Army destroyed five Pakistani posts along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in a befitting retaliation to firing from across the border, resulting in a "number of casualties" to Pak troops,&nbsp; 
a defence official had said.

"The Indian Army retaliated for effect and our focused fire resulted in severe destruction to five posts and number of casualties to Pak army (along LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts)," a defence PRO said.

From 6:30 pm Tuesday, the Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with heavy calibre weaponry along the LoC out of frustration, he said.

The Pakistani troops were also seen firing mortars and missiles from civilian houses, using villagers as human shields.

However, the Indian Army targeted the Pakistani posts away from civilian areas, the PRO said, adding that this resulted in a "number of casualties" to Pak troopers.

In exchange of fire, five soldiers of the Indian Army suffered minor injuries, out of which two of them were shifted to a military hospital for medical treatment. They are stable.

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday.

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday. Authorities have ordered temporary closure of educational institutions in a 5-km radius along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch districts on Wednesday amid mounting tensions between the two countries, following the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 and an Indian air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed camp inside Pakistan on Tuesday. Also read: Pakistan fighter planes enter Indian airspace in J&K; one reportedly shot down, others drop bombs when pushed back All residents of the border areas have been asked to remain inside their homes and not venture outside. "There was night long-heavy firing and mortar shelling along the LoC in most of areas in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts. However there was no firing and shelling from across the border on Wednesday," officials said. "Army and BSF troops have been put on highest alert along the LoC and International Border (IB) in view of the high degree of tension in wake of air space violations," they said. According to some reports, panic gripped the residents of border areas and some locals have left their homes and moved to safer areas. Pakistan on Wednesday said that its jets crossed the Line of Control to undertake strikes in India for "self defence". Indian officials said Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Nowshera sectors but were pushed back by Indian aircraft. On Tuesday night, the Indian Army destroyed five Pakistani posts along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in a befitting retaliation to firing from across the border, resulting in a "number of casualties" to Pak troops, a defence official had said. "The Indian Army retaliated for effect and our focused fire resulted in severe destruction to five posts and number of casualties to Pak army (along LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts)," a defence PRO said. From 6:30 pm Tuesday, the Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with heavy calibre weaponry along the LoC out of frustration, he said. The Pakistani troops were also seen firing mortars and missiles from civilian houses, using villagers as human shields. However, the Indian Army targeted the Pakistani posts away from civilian areas, the PRO said, adding that this resulted in a "number of casualties" to Pak troopers. In exchange of fire, five soldiers of the Indian Army suffered minor injuries, out of which two of them were shifted to a military hospital for medical treatment. They are stable.

Army, Border Security Force troops along International border, LoC put on highest degree of alertness: Officials

Pakistan Foreign Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-dream-of-isolating-pakistan-will-never-be-fulfilled-qureshi-199738">Shah Mahmood Qureshi</a> called an "emergency meeting" Tuesday after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-camps-destroyed-as-12-mirage-jets-drops-1000-kg-bombs-across-loc-iaf-sources-199744">India carried out air strikes across the LoC</a> and destroyed terror camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Qureshi will meet Prime Minister Imran Khan after the meeting in which he will discuss the security situation with high-level officials.

Sources here said that Qureshi summoned the "emergency meeting" at the Foreign Office for consultations.

In New Delhi, sources said that India is believed to have carried out <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-carries-out-air-strikes-inside-pakistan-what-we-know-so-far-199767">air strikes inside Pakistan</a> early Tuesday and targeted terror camps.

The strikes involving several fighter jets of the Indian Air Force successfully destroyed camps belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfits in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the sources told PTI.

Earlier, the Pakistan Army alleged that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-claims-indian-air-force-violated-loc-199740">Indian Air Force (IAF) violated the Line of Control (LoC)</a> in Muzaffarabad sector.

"Indian aircraft intruded from Muzaffarabad sector. Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage," Major General Asif Ghafoor, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said in a tweet.

"Indian Air Force violated Line of Control Pakistan. Pakistan Air Force immediately scrambled. Indian aircraft gone back," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, Pakistani media was reporting that the Indian government has staged a symbolic intrusion due to domestic pressure.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has not commented on the issue.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called an "emergency meeting" Tuesday after India carried out air strikes across the LoC and destroyed terror camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called an "emergency meeting" Tuesday after India carried out air strikes across the LoC and destroyed terror camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Qureshi will meet Prime Minister Imran Khan after the meeting in which he will discuss the security situation with high-level officials. Sources here said that Qureshi summoned the "emergency meeting" at the Foreign Office for consultations. In New Delhi, sources said that India is believed to have carried out air strikes inside Pakistan early Tuesday and targeted terror camps. The strikes involving several fighter jets of the Indian Air Force successfully destroyed camps belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfits in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the sources told PTI. Earlier, the Pakistan Army alleged that the Indian Air Force (IAF) violated the Line of Control (LoC) in Muzaffarabad sector. "Indian aircraft intruded from Muzaffarabad sector. Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage," Major General Asif Ghafoor, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said in a tweet. "Indian Air Force violated Line of Control Pakistan. Pakistan Air Force immediately scrambled. Indian aircraft gone back," he tweeted. Meanwhile, Pakistani media was reporting that the Indian government has staged a symbolic intrusion due to domestic pressure. Prime Minister Imran Khan has not commented on the issue.

Pakistan calls 'emergency meeting' after India carried out air strikes 

Pulwama aftermath: IAF destroys terror camps across LoC

Watch: WION Your Story, 26th February, 2019

India Air Force strikes 'biggest training camp of JeM' across LoC

After India conducted air strikes beyond the Line of Control(LoC)&nbsp;on Tuesday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strikes-on-terror-launchpads-meticulous-planning-led-to-successful-air-force-mission-199830">Pakistan's National Security Committee</a> (NSC) held a meeting in which it said India has committed "uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing".

"Forum (NSC) strongly rejected Indian claim of targeting an alleged terrorist camp near Balakot and the claim of heavy casualties. Once again Indian government has resorted to a self serving, reckless and fictitious claim," said a statement issued after the NSC meeting in Islamabad.

The country's top security body "concluded that India has committed uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing," it added.

It also invited the world media to see the facts on ground and proposed a visit to the site.

The statement said&nbsp;the "action has been done for domestic consumption being in election environment, putting regional peace and stability at grave risk."&nbsp;To take the nation on board, the government has decided to requisition a joint session of the Parliament, the statement added.

Prime Minister Khan also summoned a special meeting of the National Command Authority (NCA) on Wednesday.

Khan will also engage with global leadership to "expose irresponsible" Indian policy in the region, the statement said.

India's foreign office had said earlier that "in an intelligence led operation in the early hours of today, India struck the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot," adding,"in this operation, a very large number of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/country-is-in-safe-hands-modi-says-hours-after-iaf-airstrikes-on-jem-terror-camps-199812"> JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders</a> and groups of jihadis who were being trained for fidayeen action were eliminated."&nbsp;

"This facility at Balakot was headed by MAULANA YOUSUF AZHAR (alias USTAD GHOURI), the brother-in-law of MASOOD AZHAR, chief of JeM," it said.

India's strikes comes just twelve days after the terrorist attack at Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. JeM had taken&nbsp;responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army alleged that the Indian Air Force violated the Line of Control (LoC) in Muzafarabad sector.

"Indian aircraft intruded from Muzafarabad sector. Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage," Major General Asif Ghafoor, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army,"&nbsp;said in a tweet.

"Indian Air Force violated Line of Control Pakistan(LoC). Pakistan Air Force immediately scrambled. Indian aircraft gone back," he tweeted.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said India has committed "aggression" by violating the LoC and Islamabad has "right to respond". 
&nbsp;

After India conducted air strikes beyond the Line of Control(LoC) on Tuesday, Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC) held a meeting in which it said India has committed "uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing".

After India conducted air strikes beyond the Line of Control(LoC) on Tuesday, Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC) held a meeting in which it said India has committed "uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing". "Forum (NSC) strongly rejected Indian claim of targeting an alleged terrorist camp near Balakot and the claim of heavy casualties. Once again Indian government has resorted to a self serving, reckless and fictitious claim," said a statement issued after the NSC meeting in Islamabad. The country's top security body "concluded that India has committed uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing," it added. It also invited the world media to see the facts on ground and proposed a visit to the site. The statement said the "action has been done for domestic consumption being in election environment, putting regional peace and stability at grave risk." To take the nation on board, the government has decided to requisition a joint session of the Parliament, the statement added. Prime Minister Khan also summoned a special meeting of the National Command Authority (NCA) on Wednesday. Khan will also engage with global leadership to "expose irresponsible" Indian policy in the region, the statement said. India's foreign office had said earlier that "in an intelligence led operation in the early hours of today, India struck the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot," adding,"in this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for fidayeen action were eliminated." "This facility at Balakot was headed by MAULANA YOUSUF AZHAR (alias USTAD GHOURI), the brother-in-law of MASOOD AZHAR, chief of JeM," it said. India's strikes comes just twelve days after the terrorist attack at Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. JeM had taken responsibility for the attack. The Pakistan Army alleged that the Indian Air Force violated the Line of Control (LoC) in Muzafarabad sector. "Indian aircraft intruded from Muzafarabad sector. Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage," Major General Asif Ghafoor, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army," said in a tweet. "Indian Air Force violated Line of Control Pakistan(LoC). Pakistan Air Force immediately scrambled. Indian aircraft gone back," he tweeted. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said India has committed "aggression" by violating the LoC and Islamabad has "right to respond".

Uncalled for aggression, will respond at time & place of our choosing, says Pak after NSC meeting

In a crucial breakthrough that could provide leads into the investigation <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-move-troops-from-western-to-eastern-border-amid-growing-tension-with-india-199619">of the Pulwama terror attack</a>, the National Investigating Agency (NIA) has obtained a crucial CCTV footage of the car that was used in the attack.&nbsp;

The CCTV footage captures the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/give-peace-a-chance-imran-khan-to-pm-modi-199487"> explosive-laden Maruti Eeco car</a>, a 2010-11 model, being driven by the suicide bomber, Aadil Ahmad Dar.&nbsp;

The owner of the car has been identified and is absconding. Several teams are working on gathering technical evidence, the NIA top brass is learnt to have assured the government that they will unravel the conspiracy very soon, sources told WION.

Meanwhile, in another development, the chief of air staff of Pakistan's Air Force visited a forward operating base to oversee operational preparedness of the Pakistani forces.&nbsp;

The officer said that the Pakistani armed forces were fully capable of tackling all kinds of challenges and are ready to thwart any kind of aggression. It occurred after the Pakistan Army violated ceasefire along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector over the weekend.

In a related development, reports said Islamabad had decided to move troops from the western border to its eastern border.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden car into a CRPF convoy on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack claimed lives of over 40 CRPF personnel.

The responsibility of the attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. The UN, the US, and several other major world powers have held JeM responsible for the attack.

In a crucial breakthrough that could provide leads into the investigation of the Pulwama terror attack, the National Investigating Agency (NIA) has obtained a crucial CCTV footage of the car that was used in the attack.

In a crucial breakthrough that could provide leads into the investigation of the Pulwama terror attack, the National Investigating Agency (NIA) has obtained a crucial CCTV footage of the car that was used in the attack. The CCTV footage captures the explosive-laden Maruti Eeco car, a 2010-11 model, being driven by the suicide bomber, Aadil Ahmad Dar. The owner of the car has been identified and is absconding. Several teams are working on gathering technical evidence, the NIA top brass is learnt to have assured the government that they will unravel the conspiracy very soon, sources told WION. Meanwhile, in another development, the chief of air staff of Pakistan's Air Force visited a forward operating base to oversee operational preparedness of the Pakistani forces. The officer said that the Pakistani armed forces were fully capable of tackling all kinds of challenges and are ready to thwart any kind of aggression. It occurred after the Pakistan Army violated ceasefire along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector over the weekend. In a related development, reports said Islamabad had decided to move troops from the western border to its eastern border. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden car into a CRPF convoy on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack claimed lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. The UN, the US, and several other major world powers have held JeM responsible for the attack.

NIA obtains CCTV footage of car used in Pulwama attack

Pakistan Army Chief General Bajwa visits troops at LoC

India has strongly raised the matter of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the month of January. A total of 216 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-fifth-time-in-a-week-fires-on-jk-border-posts-189011">ceasefire violations</a> were registered from Pakistan's side in the month of January 2019. Two BSF personnel were injured, while one lost his life.&nbsp;

India sent a note verbale to Pakistan regarding the violations. Pakistan violated ceasefire as many as 2,140 times last year in which 14 BSF personnel were killed, 53 got injured.&nbsp;

Minister of State for Home Ministry, Hansraj Ahir, told the Parliament on Tuesday, "Diplomatically, India has repeatedly emphasized, including at the highest level, the need for Pakistan to uphold the sanctity of the Line of Control (LoC) and abide by the ceasefire commitments along the International Border and LoC".

India has been raising the issue of ceasefire violations with Pak&nbsp;authorities at the appropriate levels. The matter is also raised through Directorate Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) talks via hotline which happen almost every Tuesday.

In May 2018, Indian and Pak DGMOs spoke to each other and agreed to fully implement the Ceasefire Understanding of 2003 in letter and spirit and ensure that the ceasefire is not violated by any side. 
&nbsp;

India has strongly raised the matter of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the month of January. A total of 216 ceasefire violations were registered from Pakistan's side in the month of January 2019.

India has strongly raised the matter of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the month of January. A total of 216 ceasefire violations were registered from Pakistan's side in the month of January 2019. Two BSF personnel were injured, while one lost his life. India sent a note verbale to Pakistan regarding the violations. Pakistan violated ceasefire as many as 2,140 times last year in which 14 BSF personnel were killed, 53 got injured. Minister of State for Home Ministry, Hansraj Ahir, told the Parliament on Tuesday, "Diplomatically, India has repeatedly emphasized, including at the highest level, the need for Pakistan to uphold the sanctity of the Line of Control (LoC) and abide by the ceasefire commitments along the International Border and LoC". India has been raising the issue of ceasefire violations with Pak authorities at the appropriate levels. The matter is also raised through Directorate Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) talks via hotline which happen almost every Tuesday. In May 2018, Indian and Pak DGMOs spoke to each other and agreed to fully implement the Ceasefire Understanding of 2003 in letter and spirit and ensure that the ceasefire is not violated by any side.

Pakistan violated ceasefire over 200 times in January, India raises matter with Pak authorities

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday.&nbsp;

At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said.

Pakistani troops have been regularly violating ceasefire, especially along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said.

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said. Pakistani troops have been regularly violating ceasefire, especially along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire again in Poonch

The Indian Army said Thursday that five Pakistani soldiers had been killed in the last few days in retaliatory fire across the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh said "it shows that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-officer-killed-in-pak-sniper-fire-along-ib-in-jks-kathua-190480">Indian Army is always ready to give them a befitting reply</a>".

Singh added that "2018 has been a great year for the security forces: more than 250 terrorists were killed, 54 were caught alive, and four surrendered to the forces".

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Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh: In the last few days, as you mentioned in your question, 5 Pakistanis were killed, it shows that Indian Army is always ready to give them a befitting reply. <a href="https://t.co/YU74PrMFoD">pic.twitter.com/YU74PrMFoD</a>
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Singh was speaking at the inauguration of the Kalai Bridge in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

2018 has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/analysis-ceasefire-agreement-between-india-and-pakistan-is-as-good-as-dead-139471">one of the bloodiest years along the Line of Control</a> with the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan being broken incessantly.&nbsp;

An assistant commandant of the Border Security Force was on Monday killed along the International Border by sniper fire.&nbsp;

The BSF troops were carrying out a border domination exercise along the IB when snipers of the Pakistan Rangers opened fire on them at around 1050 hours in the Hiranagar-Samba sector of Kathua district, a senior BSF officer told PTI.

The officer told PTI that Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad was critically injured in the sniper fire. He was rushed to the Military Hospital at Satwari (Jammu), where he died from his injuries.

The Indian Army said Thursday that five Pakistani soldiers had been killed in the last few days in retaliatory fire across the Line of Control. Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh said "it shows that Indian Army is always ready to give them a befitting reply".

The Indian Army said Thursday that five Pakistani soldiers had been killed in the last few days in retaliatory fire across the Line of Control. Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh said "it shows that Indian Army is always ready to give them a befitting reply". Singh added that "2018 has been a great year for the security forces: more than 250 terrorists were killed, 54 were caught alive, and four surrendered to the forces". Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh: In the last few days, as you mentioned in your question, 5 Pakistanis were killed, it shows that Indian Army is always ready to give them a befitting reply. pic.twitter.com/YU74PrMFoD — ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2019 × Singh was speaking at the inauguration of the Kalai Bridge in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. 2018 has been one of the bloodiest years along the Line of Control with the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan being broken incessantly. An assistant commandant of the Border Security Force was on Monday killed along the International Border by sniper fire. The BSF troops were carrying out a border domination exercise along the IB when snipers of the Pakistan Rangers opened fire on them at around 1050 hours in the Hiranagar-Samba sector of Kathua district, a senior BSF officer told PTI. The officer told PTI that Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad was critically injured in the sniper fire. He was rushed to the Military Hospital at Satwari (Jammu), where he died from his injuries.

5 Pakistanis killed in retaliatory fire across LoC in last few days: Indian Army

The government will construct 44 strategic roads <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-navy-has-grown-as-rapidly-in-the-last-200-years-as-chinas-indian-navy-chief-sunil-lanba-189264">along the border with China</a> and over 2100 km of axial and lateral roads in Punjab and Rajasthan, abutting Pakistan, a CPWD document shows.

According to an annual report (2018-19) prepared, and released earlier this month by the Central Public Works Department, the agency has been asked to construct 44 "strategically important" roads along the India-China border to ensure quick mobilisation of troops in case of a conflict.

The nearly 4000-km-long Line of Actual Control between India and China touches areas from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh.

The report comes at a time China is giving a priority to projects along its India borders. In 2017, Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a face-off at the Doklam tri-junction after the neighbouring country had begun building road in the area.

The standoff ended on August 28 following a mutual agreement under which China stopped the construction of the road and India withdrew its troops.

The report stated that these 44 strategically important roads along the India-China border will be constructed at a cost of nearly Rs 21,000 crore.

"The CPWD has been entrusted with construction of 44 strategically important roads along the Indo-China Border spanning 5 states of J&amp;K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh," the report stated.

"The total Cost of work as per DPRs (Detailed Project Reports) is Rs 21,040 crores (approx.)," the report stated

It said the process of approval of DPRs by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is underway.

The CPWD report also stated that lateral and axial roads measuring over 2,100 kilometres will be built with a cost of around Rs 5,400 crore in Rajasthan and Punjab along the Indo-Pakistan border.

The DPRs for this project are under preparation in CPWD, which is a major construction agency of the central government.

"A total of 945 km of lateral roads and 533 km of axial roads lie in Rajasthan (tentative cost Rs 3,700 crores) and 482 km of lateral roads and 219 km of axial roads in Punjab (tentative cost Rs 1,750 crores)," it stated.

The road projects will secure the vast and remote border areas of Rajasthan and Punjab, it stated.

India's border with Pakistan runs through four states, Jammu and Kashmir (1,225 km, which includes 740 km of Line of Control), Rajasthan (1,037 km), Punjab (553 km) and Gujarat (508 km).

The nearly 4000-km-long Line of Actual Control between India and China touches areas from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh.

The government will construct 44 strategic roads along the border with China and over 2100 km of axial and lateral roads in Punjab and Rajasthan, abutting Pakistan, a CPWD document shows. According to an annual report (2018-19) prepared, and released earlier this month by the Central Public Works Department, the agency has been asked to construct 44 "strategically important" roads along the India-China border to ensure quick mobilisation of troops in case of a conflict. The nearly 4000-km-long Line of Actual Control between India and China touches areas from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh. The report comes at a time China is giving a priority to projects along its India borders. In 2017, Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a face-off at the Doklam tri-junction after the neighbouring country had begun building road in the area. The standoff ended on August 28 following a mutual agreement under which China stopped the construction of the road and India withdrew its troops. The report stated that these 44 strategically important roads along the India-China border will be constructed at a cost of nearly Rs 21,000 crore. "The CPWD has been entrusted with construction of 44 strategically important roads along the Indo-China Border spanning 5 states of J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh," the report stated. "The total Cost of work as per DPRs (Detailed Project Reports) is Rs 21,040 crores (approx.)," the report stated It said the process of approval of DPRs by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is underway. The CPWD report also stated that lateral and axial roads measuring over 2,100 kilometres will be built with a cost of around Rs 5,400 crore in Rajasthan and Punjab along the Indo-Pakistan border. The DPRs for this project are under preparation in CPWD, which is a major construction agency of the central government. "A total of 945 km of lateral roads and 533 km of axial roads lie in Rajasthan (tentative cost Rs 3,700 crores) and 482 km of lateral roads and 219 km of axial roads in Punjab (tentative cost Rs 1,750 crores)," it stated. The road projects will secure the vast and remote border areas of Rajasthan and Punjab, it stated. India's border with Pakistan runs through four states, Jammu and Kashmir (1,225 km, which includes 740 km of Line of Control), Rajasthan (1,037 km), Punjab (553 km) and Gujarat (508 km).

Government to construct 44 'strategically important' roads along India-China border

Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian troops retaliated to the ceasefire violation.&nbsp;

The latest ceasefire violation&nbsp;comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions.

No casualty or injury was reported.

On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan.

On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara.

The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa.&nbsp;

More details awaited.

The latest ceasefire violation comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions.

Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian troops retaliated to the ceasefire violation. The latest ceasefire violation comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions. No casualty or injury was reported. On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan. On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara. The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa. More details awaited.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch

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

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday.&nbsp;

The intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to the LoC and were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pak posts, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Indian Army: Foiled a major BAT(Border Action Team) attempt to strike a forward post along LoC in Naugam Sector on 30 December.Intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to LoC &amp;were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pakistani posts <a href="https://t.co/wKfOweHzuZ">pic.twitter.com/wKfOweHzuZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079566208209428481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indian Army personnel had conducted an extensive search operation and eliminated two intruders&nbsp;who are likely being ascertained as Pak soldiers, a large cache of warlike stores has been recovered.&nbsp;

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Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders <a href="https://t.co/0mveCKkJly">https://t.co/0mveCKkJly</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079567234824065024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Own troops had conducted prolonged search operations in thick jungles and difficult terrain conditions to ascertain the situation, which had confirmed elimination of two likely Pakistani soldiers and resulted in the recovery of a large cache of warlike stores," Army officials told ANI. &nbsp;

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Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders <a href="https://t.co/0mveCKkJly">https://t.co/0mveCKkJly</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079567234824065024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Army has clarified that Pakistan will be asked to take back the mortal remains of the deceased, likely Pakistani soldiers, since "Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders," ANI reported.&nbsp;

An Army spokesman said the fire-fight initiated by Pakistan was given strong retaliation by the Indian Army and the exchange of fire continued the whole night.

"Intruders were wearing combat dresses like Pakistani Regulars and were carrying stores with Pakistani markings further reinforced the assessment. Some intruders were also seen in BSF and old pattern IA dresses as part of deception," he was quoted by anews agency PTI.

The spokesman said the intruders were well equipped with IEDs, incendiary materials, explosives and a plethora of arms and ammunition.

"From the recovery, it was estimated that they intended to carry out a gruesome attack on the Indian Army forward post in Naugam sector. The alertness and resilience of the own troops, who engaged and neutralised the intruders, thus eliminated a likely treacherous attack on the Army forward posts along the LoC on the eve of New Year," the spokesman added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday.

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday. The intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to the LoC and were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pak posts, news agency ANI reported. Indian Army: Foiled a major BAT(Border Action Team) attempt to strike a forward post along LoC in Naugam Sector on 30 December.Intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to LoC &were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pakistani posts pic.twitter.com/wKfOweHzuZ — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × Indian Army personnel had conducted an extensive search operation and eliminated two intruders who are likely being ascertained as Pak soldiers, a large cache of warlike stores has been recovered. Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders https://t.co/0mveCKkJly — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × "Own troops had conducted prolonged search operations in thick jungles and difficult terrain conditions to ascertain the situation, which had confirmed elimination of two likely Pakistani soldiers and resulted in the recovery of a large cache of warlike stores," Army officials told ANI. Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders https://t.co/0mveCKkJly — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × The Indian Army has clarified that Pakistan will be asked to take back the mortal remains of the deceased, likely Pakistani soldiers, since "Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders," ANI reported. An Army spokesman said the fire-fight initiated by Pakistan was given strong retaliation by the Indian Army and the exchange of fire continued the whole night. "Intruders were wearing combat dresses like Pakistani Regulars and were carrying stores with Pakistani markings further reinforced the assessment. Some intruders were also seen in BSF and old pattern IA dresses as part of deception," he was quoted by anews agency PTI. The spokesman said the intruders were well equipped with IEDs, incendiary materials, explosives and a plethora of arms and ammunition. "From the recovery, it was estimated that they intended to carry out a gruesome attack on the Indian Army forward post in Naugam sector. The alertness and resilience of the own troops, who engaged and neutralised the intruders, thus eliminated a likely treacherous attack on the Army forward posts along the LoC on the eve of New Year," the spokesman added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army foils Pakistan BAT team's bid to carry out major attack along LoC

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded".

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor made the comments while talking to a group of journalists from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Hazara Division of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Ghafoor apprised them about the situation along the LoC and said that army operated in a restricted environment due to the presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on the other side of the LoC, the Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement.

"Despite restricted liberty of action for response to Indian fire due to presence of our Kashmiri brethren on both sides of LOC, Indian fire is always effectively responded focusing on Indian posts," he said.&nbsp;

He went on to say that Pakistan looks for peace yet any misadventure shall be responded befittingly.

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded".

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded". Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor made the comments while talking to a group of journalists from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Hazara Division of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Ghafoor apprised them about the situation along the LoC and said that army operated in a restricted environment due to the presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on the other side of the LoC, the Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement. "Despite restricted liberty of action for response to Indian fire due to presence of our Kashmiri brethren on both sides of LOC, Indian fire is always effectively responded focusing on Indian posts," he said. He went on to say that Pakistan looks for peace yet any misadventure shall be responded befittingly.

Indian fire 'effectively responded' despite restricted liberty of action along LoC: Pak Army

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591">100 years of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591">end</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591"> of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain</a>

President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said.

The last minute cancellation prompted widespread criticism on social media and from some officials in Britain and the United States that Trump had "dishonoured" US servicemen.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587">J&amp;K: In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587">2nd</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587"> attack in 2 days, Indian Army soldier killed in sniper fire along Line of Control</a>

An Army soldier was killed Saturday in sniper fire by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said.

The spokesman identified the soldier as rifleman Varun Kattal (21), a resident of Mawa-Rajpura area of Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his parents, father Anchal Singh and mother Pinki Rani.

This was the second sniper attack along the LoC in two days. An Army porter lost his life in a similar attack in Akhnoor sector of Jammu Friday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/florida-gubernatorial-candidate-andrew-gillum-recalls-concession-after-state-orders-vote-recount-176586">US midterms: After Florida orders recount, Democratic candidate recalls concession from Governor's race</a>

Florida authorities on Saturday ordered a statewide recount in the contentious races for US Senate and governor, amid tit-for-tat accusations of fraud from the candidates -- plunging the state once again into election uncertainty.

Eighteen years after the Sunshine State found itself at the heart of a battle for the US presidency, it was once again in the spotlight after Tuesday's vote, which left the contests for statewide offices undecided.

Florida's 67 counties had been given until midday (1700 GMT) on Saturday to submit unofficial totals.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-california-fire-rises-to-23-report-176596">California forest fires: Death toll rises to 23</a>

The death toll in California fire rose to 23 on Saturday after rescue workers recovered several bodies of people killed in the devastating fire; news agency AFP reported while quoting a sheriff.

"Today 14 additional bodies were located, which brings our total number to 23," Sheriff Kory Honea said.

The bodies were recovered in and around Paradise, California, a mountain community some 90 miles (145 km) north of Sacramento left devastated by the 'Camp Fire'.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-a-quality-remained-severe-on-sunday-construction-ban-extended-till-november-12-176593">Delhi: Air quality remains hazardous, construction ban extended to Nov 12</a>

Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka.&nbsp;

AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk.&nbsp;

On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

100 years of end of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said.

100 years of end of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said. The last minute cancellation prompted widespread criticism on social media and from some officials in Britain and the United States that Trump had "dishonoured" US servicemen. J&K: In 2nd attack in 2 days, Indian Army soldier killed in sniper fire along Line of Control An Army soldier was killed Saturday in sniper fire by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said. The spokesman identified the soldier as rifleman Varun Kattal (21), a resident of Mawa-Rajpura area of Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his parents, father Anchal Singh and mother Pinki Rani. This was the second sniper attack along the LoC in two days. An Army porter lost his life in a similar attack in Akhnoor sector of Jammu Friday. US midterms: After Florida orders recount, Democratic candidate recalls concession from Governor's race Florida authorities on Saturday ordered a statewide recount in the contentious races for US Senate and governor, amid tit-for-tat accusations of fraud from the candidates -- plunging the state once again into election uncertainty. Eighteen years after the Sunshine State found itself at the heart of a battle for the US presidency, it was once again in the spotlight after Tuesday's vote, which left the contests for statewide offices undecided. Florida's 67 counties had been given until midday (1700 GMT) on Saturday to submit unofficial totals. California forest fires: Death toll rises to 23 The death toll in California fire rose to 23 on Saturday after rescue workers recovered several bodies of people killed in the devastating fire; news agency AFP reported while quoting a sheriff. "Today 14 additional bodies were located, which brings our total number to 23," Sheriff Kory Honea said. The bodies were recovered in and around Paradise, California, a mountain community some 90 miles (145 km) north of Sacramento left devastated by the 'Camp Fire'. Delhi: Air quality remains hazardous, construction ban extended to Nov 12 Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka. AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk. On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening.

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