Terrorists today opened fire on a patrolling party at Shopian district in J&K, reports said.

The soldiers belonged to the 44 RR regiment who were on the lookout in Ahgam village.

Reports said the terrorists fired upon Special Police Officer, Mushtaq Ahmed Sheikh, at his house in Bijbehara.

Authorities immediately made arrangements for Ahmed Sheikh's treatment, however, he died on the way to the hospital.

The soldiers belonged to the 44 RR regiment who were on the lookout in Ahgam village

Terrorists today opened fire on a patrolling party at Shopian district in J&K, reports said. The soldiers belonged to the 44 RR regiment who were on the lookout in Ahgam village. Reports said the terrorists fired upon Special Police Officer, Mushtaq Ahmed Sheikh, at his house in Bijbehara. Authorities immediately made arrangements for Ahmed Sheikh's treatment, however, he died on the way to the hospital.

J&K: Terrorists open fire on security forces in Shopian, 1 policeman killed

Four terrorists have been gunned down by security forces in Sunderbani area of Rajouri district in J&K.

The fidayeen, or suicide attackers, had infiltrated into the Indian territory from across the Line of Control (LoC) about four-five days ago, prompting security forces to launch a search operation in the area.

Authorities had ordered the closure of educational institutions in the Sunderbani tehsil in view of the search operation.

This is the second major terror incident in the Jammu region this year.

"Security forces today eliminated a group of four fidayeen in the Sunderbani area in a well-coordinated day-long operation," Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rajouri, Yougal Manhas told PTI.

"Four terrorists have been killed in the encounter," J&K's Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid confirmed.

No injury was reported to anyone in the gunfight with the terrorists, he said.

The encounter broke out in the Nowshera-Sunderbani belt after the group of infiltrating terrorists was intercepted by the security forces early today, the DGP said.

The SSP said the search operation in the villages of Sunderbani had been going on for four days. Last night, a joint column of police, Army and BSF launched a search in the Rawariya Talla area near a security establishment on the basis of a strong input.?

"Today morning, the terrorists, who were hiding in the bushes, fired at a search party, following which the police, Army and BSF cordoned off the entire area. Reinforcements were rushed to the spot and a fierce gunfight started," Manhas said.

In the day-long operation, four terrorists of a fidayeen group were gunned down. Their identities are yet to be ascertained, the officer said.

Four terrorists have been gunned down by security forces in Sunderbani area of Rajouri district in J&K. The fidayeen, or suicide attackers, had infiltrated into the Indian territory from across the Line of Control (LoC) about four-five days ago, prompting security forces to launch a search operation in the area. Authorities had ordered the closure of educational institutions in the Sunderbani tehsil in view of the search operation. This is the second major terror incident in the Jammu region this year. "Security forces today eliminated a group of four fidayeen in the Sunderbani area in a well-coordinated day-long operation," Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rajouri, Yougal Manhas told PTI. "Four terrorists have been killed in the encounter," J&K's Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid confirmed. No injury was reported to anyone in the gunfight with the terrorists, he said. The encounter broke out in the Nowshera-Sunderbani belt after the group of infiltrating terrorists was intercepted by the security forces early today, the DGP said. The SSP said the search operation in the villages of Sunderbani had been going on for four days. Last night, a joint column of police, Army and BSF launched a search in the Rawariya Talla area near a security establishment on the basis of a strong input.? "Today morning, the terrorists, who were hiding in the bushes, fired at a search party, following which the police, Army and BSF cordoned off the entire area. Reinforcements were rushed to the spot and a fierce gunfight started," Manhas said. In the day-long operation, four terrorists of a fidayeen group were gunned down. Their identities are yet to be ascertained, the officer said.

J&K: 4 terrorists killed in Rajouri encounter

In yet another incident of ceasefire violation, Pakistani troops on Wednesday resorted to unprovoked mortar shelling along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.

A Defence Ministry official said the Pakistan army started shelling and firing at Indian positions in Khari Karmara area of the LoC in Poonch district.

"Pakistan firing started at 8.30 pm yesterday (Tuesday) and continued for nearly half an hour. Our troops retaliated effectively and strongly", the official said.

There have been more than 300 incidents of ceasefire violations along the border between India and Pakistan during in last one year so far, resulting in the death of many people, including soldiers and injuries to many others.

A Defence Ministry official said the Pakistan army started shelling and firing at Indian positions in Khari Karmara area of the LoC in Poonch district.

In yet another incident of ceasefire violation, Pakistani troops on Wednesday resorted to unprovoked mortar shelling along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. A Defence Ministry official said the Pakistan army started shelling and firing at Indian positions in Khari Karmara area of the LoC in Poonch district. "Pakistan firing started at 8.30 pm yesterday (Tuesday) and continued for nearly half an hour. Our troops retaliated effectively and strongly", the official said. There have been more than 300 incidents of ceasefire violations along the border between India and Pakistan during in last one year so far, resulting in the death of many people, including soldiers and injuries to many others.

Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch district of J&K

Not very often journalists get the chance to go to no-go areas in the North-East. After a decade of exposure to Siachin glacier and Line of Control (LoC), the attention of the government has shifted to a region which has been draped in mystique, myth, war, defeat and heroism. 
&nbsp 
To be able to visit the remotest part of Arunachal Pradesh as part of a group and understand the life around Line of Actual Control (LAC) - which divides India and China - is a privilege. The decision by the government to give access to areas which saw brutal war of 1962 and understand the functioning of the Army in changed geo-political climate in Asia reflects a change in its mindset and evolution of different priorities of both the Army and civilian leadership. 
&nbsp 
The Siachin and LoC exposure made people understand the violence in the border areas - general rhetoric usually suits political parties but not the soldiers on the border. They die. They take the bullet. Their bodies are consumed on TV screens but the men in coffin do not go back to their families.

They become fodder on TV nationalism. 
&nbsp 
The North-East is different. It is accepted cutting across the Army and political leadership. When you talk about the North-East, it is not Pakistan but China which is the issue. 
&nbsp 
The situation gets complicated politically as a hyper-nationalist mindset wants the Indian Army to teach the PLA one lesson every week.

It does not suit anyone.

Doklam was one example. The Army and the government showed more restraint than the media and civil society. Maybe this needs to change. Someone wants that the civil society should understand the difficulty and complexity of the North-East. 
&nbsp 
Perhaps for the first time, the difficulty of the terrain and inhumanness of geography in the North-East would stand exposed to an audience sitting in the drawing room. 
&nbsp 
It is not that the Indian Army is afraid of action, it is just that it wants to impart a sense of realism in civil society.

China can build roads right up to the border but the Indian Army cannot because of the terrain. After years of defensive posturing whereby lack of roads and bridges stood as a defensive strategy, the state is executing a 1,703 km long Trans-Arunachal Pradesh Highway and another stretch of 780 km of roads to inter-connect valleys which in the past was never done.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
Even the bridge-building had been slow in the North-East. Many would argue that the lack of infrastructure perhaps reflected a thinking that it would slow down a raging Chinese Army. Today, the opposite is happening. Slightly more confident India is building infrastructure, the latest example is the Bhupen Hazarika bridge (spanning the Lohit river and connecting Arunachal Pradesh with Assam) which is 9.15 km long. 
&nbsp 
But it does not match the Chinese size and scale. The Chinese have been able to build buildings and concrete huts with air conditioners near the border. The assessment is that they are trying to bring smaller settlements huddled together. It also reflects their confidence. Indian patrolling around disputed areas known as Fish Tail 1 and Fish Tail 2 is far more aggressive and frequent. The Chinese don’t go there much. 
&nbsp 
India has its problem. The Army has inherited a burden of bad connectivity and slow decision making. Whether it is of their making or top-down political percolation, the blame is difficult to pin down. 
&nbsp 
There are areas - not on our map - which India claims as its own. Long patrolling is conducted in those areas. Indian troops travel 28 days and cover 90 km area on long treks on smaller treks, they take 20 days. The trek is needed as there are no roads and the border needs to be checked diligently. 
&nbsp 
It shows how contentious the border issue really is!&nbsp

The LAC is divided into sensitive and disputed areas. Disputed areas are those where both parties acknowledge a dispute. "Sensitive areas" are those where despite different perspective, the "dispute" is not acknowledged and the "claim" is laid. The latter is more sensitive than the former as it doesn’t have any rules of engagement. 
&nbsp 
Lastly, LAC is not LoC. It never will be and perhaps this is the message which the Army wants to send across. It wants to break the stereotype. Unlike other places, Hindi binds all the tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. They are better Hindi speakers than many mainland states. 
&nbsp 
Siachin killed more people with its cold fury than bullets. The message went across as journalists visited the barren cold beast.

The fervour of Siachin war was subdued with reality. The Eastern theatre also needs this dose of reality. The civil society should realise that this theatre will never witness localized violence or skirmish. It will not create a crass Hollywood style consumable violence for the TV audience.

Any exchange in LAC has potential to derail India’s growth story. China waited long to assert itself. Indians can also be a bit patient allowing elbow room to the Indian Army which is already facing two nuclear-armed foes who are each other’s best friends.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When you talk about the North-East, it is not Pakistan but China which is the issue

Not very often journalists get the chance to go to no-go areas in the North-East. After a decade of exposure to Siachin glacier and Line of Control (LoC), the attention of the government has shifted to a region which has been draped in mystique, myth, war, defeat and heroism. To be able to visit the remotest part of Arunachal Pradesh as part of a group and understand the life around Line of Actual Control (LAC) - which divides India and China - is a privilege. The decision by the government to give access to areas which saw brutal war of 1962 and understand the functioning of the Army in changed geo-political climate in Asia reflects a change in its mindset and evolution of different priorities of both the Army and civilian leadership. The Siachin and LoC exposure made people understand the violence in the border areas - general rhetoric usually suits political parties but not the soldiers on the border. They die. They take the bullet. Their bodies are consumed on TV screens but the men in coffin do not go back to their families. They become fodder on TV nationalism. The North-East is different. It is accepted cutting across the Army and political leadership. When you talk about the North-East, it is not Pakistan but China which is the issue. The situation gets complicated politically as a hyper-nationalist mindset wants the Indian Army to teach the PLA one lesson every week. It does not suit anyone. Doklam was one example. The Army and the government showed more restraint than the media and civil society. Maybe this needs to change. Someone wants that the civil society should understand the difficulty and complexity of the North-East. Perhaps for the first time, the difficulty of the terrain and inhumanness of geography in the North-East would stand exposed to an audience sitting in the drawing room. It is not that the Indian Army is afraid of action, it is just that it wants to impart a sense of realism in civil society. China can build roads right up to the border but the Indian Army cannot because of the terrain. After years of defensive posturing whereby lack of roads and bridges stood as a defensive strategy, the state is executing a 1,703 km long Trans-Arunachal Pradesh Highway and another stretch of 780 km of roads to inter-connect valleys which in the past was never done. Even the bridge-building had been slow in the North-East. Many would argue that the lack of infrastructure perhaps reflected a thinking that it would slow down a raging Chinese Army. Today, the opposite is happening. Slightly more confident India is building infrastructure, the latest example is the Bhupen Hazarika bridge (spanning the Lohit river and connecting Arunachal Pradesh with Assam) which is 9.15 km long. But it does not match the Chinese size and scale. The Chinese have been able to build buildings and concrete huts with air conditioners near the border. The assessment is that they are trying to bring smaller settlements huddled together. It also reflects their confidence. Indian patrolling around disputed areas known as Fish Tail 1 and Fish Tail 2 is far more aggressive and frequent. The Chinese don’t go there much. India has its problem. The Army has inherited a burden of bad connectivity and slow decision making. Whether it is of their making or top-down political percolation, the blame is difficult to pin down. There are areas - not on our map - which India claims as its own. Long patrolling is conducted in those areas. Indian troops travel 28 days and cover 90 km area on long treks on smaller treks, they take 20 days. The trek is needed as there are no roads and the border needs to be checked diligently. It shows how contentious the border issue really is! The LAC is divided into sensitive and disputed areas. Disputed areas are those where both parties acknowledge a dispute. "Sensitive areas" are those where despite different perspective, the "dispute" is not acknowledged and the "claim" is laid. The latter is more sensitive than the former as it doesn’t have any rules of engagement. Lastly, LAC is not LoC. It never will be and perhaps this is the message which the Army wants to send across. It wants to break the stereotype. Unlike other places, Hindi binds all the tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. They are better Hindi speakers than many mainland states. Siachin killed more people with its cold fury than bullets. The message went across as journalists visited the barren cold beast. The fervour of Siachin war was subdued with reality. The Eastern theatre also needs this dose of reality. The civil society should realise that this theatre will never witness localized violence or skirmish. It will not create a crass Hollywood style consumable violence for the TV audience. Any exchange in LAC has potential to derail India’s growth story. China waited long to assert itself. Indians can also be a bit patient allowing elbow room to the Indian Army which is already facing two nuclear-armed foes who are each other’s best friends. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Arunachal & North-East - Old frontier but a new challenge for the Indian Army

Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah was summoned today after five Indian civilians were killed and two children got injured in an &quot;unprovoked firing&quot;&nbsp;by Pakistani forces yesterday.&nbsp;

The summon came after strong protests condemned yesterday&#39;s ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Bhimber Gali Sector across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

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Dy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah was summoned today &amp; strong protest was lodged at loss of lives of 5 innocent Indian civilians &amp; grievous injuries to 2 other children in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on 18 March in Bhimber Gali Sector: MEA
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/975722415434141698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shah was also told that such heinous acts are against established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, the External Affairs Ministry said.&nbsp;

&ldquo;It was conveyed that the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians, who are located two kilometres away from the forward line of defences, by Pakistan forces using high calibre weapons, is highly deplorable and is condemned in the strongest terms,&rdquo; the ministry said.

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

Shah was also told that such heinous acts are against established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct

Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah was summoned today after five Indian civilians were killed and two children got injured in an "unprovoked firing" by Pakistani forces yesterday. The summon came after strong protests condemned yesterday's ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Bhimber Gali Sector across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir. Dy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah was summoned today & strong protest was lodged at loss of lives of 5 innocent Indian civilians & grievous injuries to 2 other children in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on 18 March in Bhimber Gali Sector: MEA — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2018 × Shah was also told that such heinous acts are against established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, the External Affairs Ministry said. “It was conveyed that the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians, who are located two kilometres away from the forward line of defences, by Pakistan forces using high calibre weapons, is highly deplorable and is condemned in the strongest terms,” the ministry said. (With inputs from PTI)

India summons Pakistan Deputy High Commissioner over 'unprovoked firing' at LoC

India has offered Madagascar an $80.7 million Line of Credit for agriculture and mechanisation during the visit of President Ram Nath Kovind to the island nation - the first ever by an Indian president.

President Kovind, who arrived there yesterday on the second leg of his two-nation state visit to Africa and the Indian Ocean Region, held delegation-level talks with his counterpart Hery Rajaonarimampianina in Madagascar.

India offered Madagascar an $80.7 million Line of Credit for agriculture and mechanisation yesterday, according to an official statement.

After the delegation-level talks, President Kovind was conferred the Grand Cross of the Second Class by Solonandrasan. This is the highest honour Madagascar bestows on a non-citizen.

Addressing students and academic community at the University of Antananarivo before concluding his visit, Kovind said, &quot;our primary shared resource is the ocean, a vast expanse of water that holds within it many riches, much hope and sometimes hidden challenges as well. We need to explore the sea and we need to help fishing communities here in Madagascar&quot;.

&quot;We need to ensure maritime security and guard against environmental degradation. Above all, we need to be prepared for humanitarian disasters and the unpredictable moods of the ocean. Malagasy and Indian Navies are close partners and Indian ships have made several friendly visits to Madagascar,&quot; he said.

Earlier today, President Kovind interacted with members of the India-Madagascar Business Forum and urged them to further trade and business opportunities.

President Kovind visited the island nation and held delegation-level talks

India has offered Madagascar an $80.7 million Line of Credit for agriculture and mechanisation during the visit of President Ram Nath Kovind to the island nation - the first ever by an Indian president. President Kovind, who arrived there yesterday on the second leg of his two-nation state visit to Africa and the Indian Ocean Region, held delegation-level talks with his counterpart Hery Rajaonarimampianina in Madagascar. India offered Madagascar an $80.7 million Line of Credit for agriculture and mechanisation yesterday, according to an official statement. After the delegation-level talks, President Kovind was conferred the Grand Cross of the Second Class by Solonandrasan. This is the highest honour Madagascar bestows on a non-citizen. Addressing students and academic community at the University of Antananarivo before concluding his visit, Kovind said, "our primary shared resource is the ocean, a vast expanse of water that holds within it many riches, much hope and sometimes hidden challenges as well. We need to explore the sea and we need to help fishing communities here in Madagascar". "We need to ensure maritime security and guard against environmental degradation. Above all, we need to be prepared for humanitarian disasters and the unpredictable moods of the ocean. Malagasy and Indian Navies are close partners and Indian ships have made several friendly visits to Madagascar," he said. Earlier today, President Kovind interacted with members of the India-Madagascar Business Forum and urged them to further trade and business opportunities.

India offers $80.7 million Line of Credit to Madagascar for agriculture and mechanisation

Pakistan today summoned <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-why-india-used-light-artillery-guns-against-pakistan-along-the-loc-34427">India&#39;s deputy high commissioner J P Singh</a> for the second consecutive day over &nbsp;&quot;unprovoked firing by Indian troops&quot; along the Line of Control(LoC).

The situation on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistans-bat-team-targets-indian-army-along-loc-33825">border continued to be tense</a> on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&amp;K remained closed due to cross-border firing.&nbsp;

Amid the tensions, Director General (South Asia &amp; SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Singh and condemned the &quot;unprovoked ceasefire violations&quot; by the Indian forces along the LoC on March 1 in Bhimber/Samahini sectors.

Faisal said despite calls for restraint, &quot;India continues to indulge in ceasefire violations.&quot;

He said this &quot;unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations.&quot;

&quot;The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation,&quot; said Faisal.

Last month, the Indian deputy high commissioner was summoned on&nbsp;February 5, 15, 20, 22, 24 and 27.

 
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The situation on the border continued to be tense on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&K remained closed due to cross-border firing

Pakistan today summoned India's deputy high commissioner J P Singh for the second consecutive day over "unprovoked firing by Indian troops" along the Line of Control(LoC). The situation on the border continued to be tense on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&K remained closed due to cross-border firing. Amid the tensions, Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Singh and condemned the "unprovoked ceasefire violations" by the Indian forces along the LoC on March 1 in Bhimber/Samahini sectors. Faisal said despite calls for restraint, "India continues to indulge in ceasefire violations." He said this "unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations." "The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," said Faisal. Last month, the Indian deputy high commissioner was summoned on February 5, 15, 20, 22, 24 and 27.

Amid cross-border firing, Pakistan summons India's deputy high commissioner

As Indian troops continue to engage <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistans-bat-team-targets-indian-army-along-loc-33825">Pakistan along the Line of Control(LoC)</a>, the Indian Army used 105 MM locally developed light field guns in the URI sector in J&amp;K recently against Pakistan troops, this is reportedly the first time artillery has been used in the area in nearly 14 years.

The gun is the mainstay of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-killed-in-encounter-in-jks-bandipora-district-34385">Indian artillery, it entered into</a> service in the 80s. India has as many as 2,400 guns light field guns, its longer barrel gives it a respectable 17 km range. Moreover, the gun is light enough to be transported by helicopter making it an ideal weapon during cross-border firing.

The gun takes just 3 minutes to get ready for action. The Indian Army also has heavy artillery comprising of 155 MM Bofors guns which was famously used during the Kargil war. The fabled Bofors guns have a range of 39 kms. The Indian army has nearly 400 Bofors guns.

Pakistan is reported to have more 155 MM calibre guns than India.

Artillery regiments are usually located well back from the LoC&nbsp;since they fire shells over large distances.

Experts feel India&#39;s latest use of artillery fire instead of mortar attack against Pakistan is mainly because Pak troops have been positioned in reinforced bunkers which renders mortar fire virtually incapable of piercing the bunkers.

India&#39;s aim is to ensure Pak army&#39;s constant ceasefire violations are met with maximum force, the reason it switched to artillery attack at Uri.

​​​​ 
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Artillery regiments are usually located well back from the LoC since they fire shells over large distances.

As Indian troops continue to engage Pakistan along the Line of Control(LoC), the Indian Army used 105 MM locally developed light field guns in the URI sector in J&K recently against Pakistan troops, this is reportedly the first time artillery has been used in the area in nearly 14 years. The gun is the mainstay of the Indian artillery, it entered into service in the 80s. India has as many as 2,400 guns light field guns, its longer barrel gives it a respectable 17 km range. Moreover, the gun is light enough to be transported by helicopter making it an ideal weapon during cross-border firing. The gun takes just 3 minutes to get ready for action. The Indian Army also has heavy artillery comprising of 155 MM Bofors guns which was famously used during the Kargil war. The fabled Bofors guns have a range of 39 kms. The Indian army has nearly 400 Bofors guns. Pakistan is reported to have more 155 MM calibre guns than India. Artillery regiments are usually located well back from the LoC since they fire shells over large distances. Experts feel India's latest use of artillery fire instead of mortar attack against Pakistan is mainly because Pak troops have been positioned in reinforced bunkers which renders mortar fire virtually incapable of piercing the bunkers. India's aim is to ensure Pak army's constant ceasefire violations are met with maximum force, the reason it switched to artillery attack at Uri.

Watch: Why India used light artillery guns against Pakistan along the LoC

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah today said that the exchange of firing and shelling between India and Pakistan will continue unless the two nations start thinking of peace.

Abdullah spoke on the issue of the ongoing ceasefire violations and heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the LoC.

&quot;If they (both the nations) don&#39;t think of peace, the firing will not stop, neither from our side nor from their side,&quot; the National Conference chief told reporters at a function.&nbsp;

The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&amp;K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues.&nbsp;

&quot;I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end,&quot; Abdullah noted.

Mufti recently noted that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/guns-cannot-solve-any-problems-only-talks-can-jk-cm-mehbooba-mufti-33268">dialogue can solve problems</a> and not &quot;guns&quot;.

&quot;Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity,&quot; Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&amp;K earlier this month.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah today said that the exchange of firing and shelling between India and Pakistan will continue unless the two nations start thinking of peace. Abdullah spoke on the issue of the ongoing ceasefire violations and heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the LoC. "If they (both the nations) don't think of peace, the firing will not stop, neither from our side nor from their side," the National Conference chief told reporters at a function. The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues. "I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end," Abdullah noted. Mufti recently noted that dialogue can solve problems and not "guns". "Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity," Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&K earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Indo-Pak shelling will stop only when two nations think of peace: Farooq Abdullah

&nbsp;The Indian Army today repulsed an attack by the Border Action Team (BAT), a mix of Pakistani regulars and militants, near the Line of Control in the Tangdhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Kupwara district, officials said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

No casualty was reported in the incident that took place last night, the officials said.

A BAT team attacked Indian troops near the LoC in the Tangdhar sector, prompting the Army to retaliate.

The exchange of fire continued for nearly an hour and the attack was effectively repulsed, an Army official said.

A BAT team attacked Indian troops near the LoC in the Tangdhar sector

The Indian Army today repulsed an attack by the Border Action Team (BAT), a mix of Pakistani regulars and militants, near the Line of Control in the Tangdhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, officials said. No casualty was reported in the incident that took place last night, the officials said. A BAT team attacked Indian troops near the LoC in the Tangdhar sector, prompting the Army to retaliate. The exchange of fire continued for nearly an hour and the attack was effectively repulsed, an Army official said.

J&K: Pakistan's BAT team targets Indian Army along LoC

As China should work towards reducing tension in the Indian Ocean Region and put pressure on Pakistan to accept India&#39;s position over Kashmir, an improved Sino-Indian relationship can only be possible if India, in response, should agree to facilitate the unhindered utilisation of Chinese-built road through Aksai Chin. The Chinese built this road to serve some very crucial logistical purposes, particularly, to connect with the Xin Jiang province, the raison de etre for the occupation of Aksai Chin in 1962. Further, India should also agree to transit facilities to China for CPEC infrastructure, passing through the Indian territory in POK.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities. Pakistan&#39;s Kashmir obsession has catapulted it into a political cauldron of the economic mess, governance deficit and slanderous afflictions associated with terrorism. It has been amply proved in Pakistan&#39;s case that the religion alone is not the binding force to sustain the viability of a nation-state. Pakistan needs to introspect their politico-religious concepts as they have failed to keep East Pakistan based on it and there are dissident movements continuing within Pakistan, indicating flaws in theological overreach which Pakistan propagates in Kashmir.

Moreover, looking at current US strategic interests, Russian assertiveness, and Chinese aggressiveness in the Asian landscape,&nbsp; it has the potential to impact on political autonomy and security of Pakistan itself.&nbsp; Reconciliation with India would bestow higher political buoyancy to absorb the negative influences of extra-regional manipulations which is a bigger threat to them as on date. Pakistani civil society and think tanks are abuzz with such fears and have been vocal in favour of an urgent need of a reality check by the ruling establishment.&nbsp;

Post reconciliation, if it happens, Pakistan would no longer require strategic depth against India which has been the primary motive of their complicity in fostering insurgency in Afghanistan. As a cascading effect, it would pave the way for reconciliation amongst the warring factions of Afghanistan as Pakistan have substantial influence over Taliban and their affiliates. It will help in bringing about political stability in the Af-Pak region, leading to a gradual reduction in terrorism, a matter of grave international concern. It would also deny any excuse for extra-regional powers to meddle in their internal affairs to an extent they do it as of now.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With security situation improving in Afghanistan, the success of CPEC would get a further boost with the participation of Central Asian Republics and Eurasian countries. Besides this, Pakistan would have much needed higher economic synergies with a friendly India and its&nbsp; MFN status for trade and commerce. As a consequence, Pakistan would have fair chances to bring about their economic turnaround. It is time for Pakistan to realise that their political vibrancy is a function of regional cohesiveness and not extra-regional political surrogacy.&nbsp;

The&nbsp; spectre of ten ASEAN heads of states on 69th republic day of India, Quad sponsored mil exercises in Indo- Pacific, suspension&nbsp; of US aid to Pakistan,&nbsp; Indian&nbsp; concern on illegality of CPEC alignment through POK, Chabahar port as an alternate linkage to Afghanistan and Eurasia are all links to a subtle&nbsp; political message to China and Pakistan combine signaling them to revisit their priority matrix . India is central to this diplomatic push being the dominant power in IOR and South Asian landscape, hence need be taken seriously.&nbsp;

Unlike Chinese self-seeking exclusivity, India has aspirations of peaceful growth including everyone as per their ancient philosophy of &ldquo;Vasudeva Kutumbam&rdquo;(the world is one family). The key to Chinese aspirations and Pakistani politico-economic stability lies in recognising the legally correct status of J&amp;K as it existed at the time of accession with India, and restoring forced occupation of its territories to India. Yes, it is difficult to change the subversive political narratives propagated by both China and Pakistan for their vested interests all these years. But, given the current national interests of all parties, reconciliation is the only sensible way forward, and it is bound to happen sooner or later. Therefore, it is time to move away from the designed manipulative discourses by the Chinese as well as Pakistani leaders.&nbsp;

India as an economically vibrant, militarily strong, politically mature nation with strong strategic pull is a beacon to be rallied around to bring in positive political synergies in the South Asian landscape.&nbsp; Marching together with India will bring about higher strategic dividends to both China as well as Pakistan, a win-win situation for all.&nbsp;

To do all these, the Chinese political tango needs a paradigm shift in the orchestration of her steps in sync with contemporary global strategic outlook and keeping in rhythm with regional compatriots to achieve their ambitions of world leadership role. The ball is in China&rsquo;s court. Take it, or leave it.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities in Kashmir.

As China should work towards reducing tension in the Indian Ocean Region and put pressure on Pakistan to accept India's position over Kashmir, an improved Sino-Indian relationship can only be possible if India, in response, should agree to facilitate the unhindered utilisation of Chinese-built road through Aksai Chin. The Chinese built this road to serve some very crucial logistical purposes, particularly, to connect with the Xin Jiang province, the raison de etre for the occupation of Aksai Chin in 1962. Further, India should also agree to transit facilities to China for CPEC infrastructure, passing through the Indian territory in POK. China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities. Pakistan's Kashmir obsession has catapulted it into a political cauldron of the economic mess, governance deficit and slanderous afflictions associated with terrorism. It has been amply proved in Pakistan's case that the religion alone is not the binding force to sustain the viability of a nation-state. Pakistan needs to introspect their politico-religious concepts as they have failed to keep East Pakistan based on it and there are dissident movements continuing within Pakistan, indicating flaws in theological overreach which Pakistan propagates in Kashmir. Moreover, looking at current US strategic interests, Russian assertiveness, and Chinese aggressiveness in the Asian landscape, it has the potential to impact on political autonomy and security of Pakistan itself. Reconciliation with India would bestow higher political buoyancy to absorb the negative influences of extra-regional manipulations which is a bigger threat to them as on date. Pakistani civil society and think tanks are abuzz with such fears and have been vocal in favour of an urgent need of a reality check by the ruling establishment. Post reconciliation, if it happens, Pakistan would no longer require strategic depth against India which has been the primary motive of their complicity in fostering insurgency in Afghanistan. As a cascading effect, it would pave the way for reconciliation amongst the warring factions of Afghanistan as Pakistan have substantial influence over Taliban and their affiliates. It will help in bringing about political stability in the Af-Pak region, leading to a gradual reduction in terrorism, a matter of grave international concern. It would also deny any excuse for extra-regional powers to meddle in their internal affairs to an extent they do it as of now. With security situation improving in Afghanistan, the success of CPEC would get a further boost with the participation of Central Asian Republics and Eurasian countries. Besides this, Pakistan would have much needed higher economic synergies with a friendly India and its MFN status for trade and commerce. As a consequence, Pakistan would have fair chances to bring about their economic turnaround. It is time for Pakistan to realise that their political vibrancy is a function of regional cohesiveness and not extra-regional political surrogacy. The spectre of ten ASEAN heads of states on 69th republic day of India, Quad sponsored mil exercises in Indo- Pacific, suspension of US aid to Pakistan, Indian concern on illegality of CPEC alignment through POK, Chabahar port as an alternate linkage to Afghanistan and Eurasia are all links to a subtle political message to China and Pakistan combine signaling them to revisit their priority matrix . India is central to this diplomatic push being the dominant power in IOR and South Asian landscape, hence need be taken seriously. Unlike Chinese self-seeking exclusivity, India has aspirations of peaceful growth including everyone as per their ancient philosophy of “Vasudeva Kutumbam”(the world is one family). The key to Chinese aspirations and Pakistani politico-economic stability lies in recognising the legally correct status of J&K as it existed at the time of accession with India, and restoring forced occupation of its territories to India. Yes, it is difficult to change the subversive political narratives propagated by both China and Pakistan for their vested interests all these years. But, given the current national interests of all parties, reconciliation is the only sensible way forward, and it is bound to happen sooner or later. Therefore, it is time to move away from the designed manipulative discourses by the Chinese as well as Pakistani leaders. India as an economically vibrant, militarily strong, politically mature nation with strong strategic pull is a beacon to be rallied around to bring in positive political synergies in the South Asian landscape. Marching together with India will bring about higher strategic dividends to both China as well as Pakistan, a win-win situation for all. To do all these, the Chinese political tango needs a paradigm shift in the orchestration of her steps in sync with contemporary global strategic outlook and keeping in rhythm with regional compatriots to achieve their ambitions of world leadership role. The ball is in China’s court. Take it, or leave it. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Kashmir is key to political reconciliation between India, Pakistan, China

Indian Army sources said today that a Pakistan military helicopter came close to the Line of Control(LoC) and then returned.

The chopper&nbsp;apparently flew near the Poonch area in J&amp;K which has seen several firing incidents by Pak troops across the border.

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Visual of the Pakistan military helicopter which came up to 300 metres of the LOC near Poonch, but then returned. <a href="https://t.co/yqyHBiEdwB">pic.twitter.com/yqyHBiEdwB</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/966272483623034880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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There was no firing or hostile action by any side, reports said.

The helicopter reportedly came within 300 metres of the LoC and then turned back.

According to army protocol, the rotary wing of an aircraft/chopper should not come within 1 kilometre and the fixed wing, not within 10 kilometres of the LoC.

There was no firing or hostile action by any side.

Indian Army sources said today that a Pakistan military helicopter came close to the Line of Control(LoC) and then returned. The chopper apparently flew near the Poonch area in J&K which has seen several firing incidents by Pak troops across the border. Visual of the Pakistan military helicopter which came up to 300 metres of the LOC near Poonch, but then returned. pic.twitter.com/yqyHBiEdwB — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018 × There was no firing or hostile action by any side, reports said. The helicopter reportedly came within 300 metres of the LoC and then turned back. According to army protocol, the rotary wing of an aircraft/chopper should not come within 1 kilometre and the fixed wing, not within 10 kilometres of the LoC.

Pak helicopter flies close to Poonch along LoC, no firing action reported

Pakistan troops <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/body-of-heavily-armed-pakistan-infiltrator-recovered-along-loc-33345">opened fire in&nbsp;Uri sector in Jammu </a>and Kashmir on Monday evening.

There are reports of heavy firing underway at the border in Uri.&nbsp;

At least three&nbsp;civilians have been injured in the firing at&nbsp;Uri, reports said.

Reports said the Indian army destroyed at least one Pakistani bunker in the Hajipir Nallah area.

There were no reports of any loss of life&nbsp;or property.

Earlier on Monday, security forces had recovered a body of a heavily-armed Pakistani intruder along the Line of Control (LoC) in Pooch district after thwarting an infiltration bid terrorists.

Twenty people - 11 security personnel and nine civilians have been killed and over 75 others injured in Pakistani shelling along the LoC and the International Border (IB) in Jammu since the beginning of this year.

There are reports of heavy firing underway at the border in Uri.

Pakistan troops opened fire in Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday evening. There are reports of heavy firing underway at the border in Uri. At least three civilians have been injured in the firing at Uri, reports said. Reports said the Indian army destroyed at least one Pakistani bunker in the Hajipir Nallah area. There were no reports of any loss of life or property. Earlier on Monday, security forces had recovered a body of a heavily-armed Pakistani intruder along the Line of Control (LoC) in Pooch district after thwarting an infiltration bid terrorists. Twenty people - 11 security personnel and nine civilians have been killed and over 75 others injured in Pakistani shelling along the LoC and the International Border (IB) in Jammu since the beginning of this year.

Pak troops open fire on Indian troops along LoC

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today spoke on the ongoing tension at the Indo-Pak border. She stated that dialogue can solve problems and not &quot;guns&quot;.

&quot;Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity,&quot; Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&amp;K earlier today.

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Guns cannot solve any problems, only talks can solve problems. Conditions at the border are not good, Both the countries should talk &amp; there should be ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity: Jammu &amp; Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti at Kulgam earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/HhwlQFQCgu">pic.twitter.com/HhwlQFQCgu</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/965200512520982528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah also commented on the &#39;worsening&#39; situation at the India Pakistan border.&nbsp;

The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&amp;K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues.&nbsp;

&quot;I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end,&quot; Abdullah noted.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah also commented on the 'worsening' situation at the India Pakistan border

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today spoke on the ongoing tension at the Indo-Pak border. She stated that dialogue can solve problems and not "guns". "Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity," Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&K earlier today. Guns cannot solve any problems, only talks can solve problems. Conditions at the border are not good, Both the countries should talk & there should be ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity: Jammu & Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti at Kulgam earlier today. pic.twitter.com/HhwlQFQCgu — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2018 × Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah also commented on the 'worsening' situation at the India Pakistan border. The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues. "I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end," Abdullah noted.

Guns cannot solve any problems, only talks can: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti

The Indian Army has killed at lat 20 Pakistan Rangers and left around 7 wounded in cross-border firing along the Line of Control (LoC) this year.&nbsp;

The information was brought to light on Thursday and added that Indian Army has been doing pro-active operations along LoC due to ongoing ceasefire violations and due to reports of 180 to 200 terrorists waiting to cross South of Pir Panjal ranges which includes areas of Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar.

&ldquo;Similar number of terrorists (180-200) are ready to cross LoC in North of Pir Panjal Ranges. In the action by Indian Army Pakistan has suffered 20 casualties &amp; 7 more were injured in 2018. This number was 138 casualties in 2017 with 156 people getting injured,&rdquo; ANI quoted.

The area south of Pir Panjal ranges includes Poonch, Rajouri, and Mendhar.

The insiders further revealed that the army is very much active in the Valley and is involved in pro-active operations due to the ongoing ceasefire violations.

Also, the Indian Army had suffered 10 casualties during ceasefire violations along the LoC this year.

They have been ordered to go ahead with cross firing in case of any act of violence by Pakistani troops along the LoC.&nbsp;

In 2017, the number of causalities on Pakistan side was 138. &nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

Also, the Indian Army had suffered 10 casualties during ceasefire violations along the LoC this year

The Indian Army has killed at lat 20 Pakistan Rangers and left around 7 wounded in cross-border firing along the Line of Control (LoC) this year. The information was brought to light on Thursday and added that Indian Army has been doing pro-active operations along LoC due to ongoing ceasefire violations and due to reports of 180 to 200 terrorists waiting to cross South of Pir Panjal ranges which includes areas of Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar. “Similar number of terrorists (180-200) are ready to cross LoC in North of Pir Panjal Ranges. In the action by Indian Army Pakistan has suffered 20 casualties & 7 more were injured in 2018. This number was 138 casualties in 2017 with 156 people getting injured,” ANI quoted. The area south of Pir Panjal ranges includes Poonch, Rajouri, and Mendhar. The insiders further revealed that the army is very much active in the Valley and is involved in pro-active operations due to the ongoing ceasefire violations. Also, the Indian Army had suffered 10 casualties during ceasefire violations along the LoC this year. They have been ordered to go ahead with cross firing in case of any act of violence by Pakistani troops along the LoC. In 2017, the number of causalities on Pakistan side was 138. (With ANI inputs)

Indian Army killed 20 Pakistan Rangers this year

BSF launched &quot;Operation Bhima&quot; against<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-pm-says-committed-to-seizing-charities-run-by-hafiz-saeed-30454"> Pakistan Rangers even as firing </a>stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today.

Reports said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-firing-positions-fuel-dump-destroyed-in-retaliation-bsf-30385">Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani </a>Rangers as India&#39;s border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan&#39;s post.(Watch Video)

On Monday, India and Pakistan troops were engaged in cross-border firing as tensions rose along the border. The BSF said it retaliated against ceasefire violations by Pakistan destroying several posts on the border.

The BSF said it had fired 9,000 rounds of mortar shells in the last four days.&nbsp;

12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday.

As tensions built on the border, Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa warned India saying any Indian &quot;aggression&quot; or &quot;misadventure&quot; will always get a most befitting response during his visit to the Line of Control(LoC) and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors.

General Bajwa directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population along the border.

12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday.

BSF launched "Operation Bhima" against Pakistan Rangers even as firing stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today. Reports said Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani Rangers as India's border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan's post.(Watch Video) On Monday, India and Pakistan troops were engaged in cross-border firing as tensions rose along the border. The BSF said it retaliated against ceasefire violations by Pakistan destroying several posts on the border. The BSF said it had fired 9,000 rounds of mortar shells in the last four days. 12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday. As tensions built on the border, Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa warned India saying any Indian "aggression" or "misadventure" will always get a most befitting response during his visit to the Line of Control(LoC) and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors. General Bajwa directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population along the border.

BSF launches 'Operation Bhima' against Pak Rangers along LoC

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa today warned that any Indian &quot;aggression&quot; or &quot;misadventure&quot; will always get a most befitting response.

 
He made the remarks during his visit to the Line of Control and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors, the Inter-Services Public Relations said.

 
The army chief met local commanders, who briefed him about alleged ceasefire violations, especially alleged targeting of the civilian population across the LoC and WB, it said.

 
&quot;Our commitment to abide by the ceasefire agreement of 2003 should never be misconstrued as response limitation. Indian aggression or any misadventure shall always get a most befitting response,&quot; Gen Bajwa said.

 
He directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population.

 
Later, he visited Combined Military Hospital in Sialkot to meet injured citizens due to recent Indian shelling, the ISPR said in a statement.&nbsp;

General Bajwa made the remarks during his visit to the Line of Control and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa today warned that any Indian "aggression" or "misadventure" will always get a most befitting response. He made the remarks during his visit to the Line of Control and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors, the Inter-Services Public Relations said. The army chief met local commanders, who briefed him about alleged ceasefire violations, especially alleged targeting of the civilian population across the LoC and WB, it said. "Our commitment to abide by the ceasefire agreement of 2003 should never be misconstrued as response limitation. Indian aggression or any misadventure shall always get a most befitting response," Gen Bajwa said. He directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population. Later, he visited Combined Military Hospital in Sialkot to meet injured citizens due to recent Indian shelling, the ISPR said in a statement.

Indian aggression or 'misadventure' shall get befitting response: Pakistan Army chief

In a stern message to Pakistan, Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat asserted today that the Army will not allow anti-India activities to succeed in Jammu and Kashmir and it was ready to escalate military offensive to combat cross-border terrorism if Islamabad forces it to do so.

Addressing Army personnel on the occasion of Army Day, Rawat also said that disputes along the Line of Actual Control with China were continuing and the Army was trying to stop the Chinese transgressions.

&quot;Ensuring security along the Line of Actual Control (with China) is our main duty,&quot; he said without elaborating further.

Talking about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, he said the Pakistan Army has been continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control (LoC) in J&amp;K.

&quot;We will not let these anti-national elements to succeed at any cost. If we are forced, then we may escalate our military action and carry out (the) &#39;other action&#39;,&quot; he said.

The Army has been adopting a &#39;tit-for-tat&#39; approach in dealing with ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops as well as foiling infiltration bids by terrorists.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-rawats-remarks-on-dokalam-unconstructive-china-29595" target="_blank">China says General Rawat&#39;s remarks on Dokalam &#39;unconstructive&#39;</a>

&quot;The Army is using its might to teach them a lesson,&quot; the Army chief said, adding that, &quot;terrorists and their handlers are creating various challenges within the country by adopting new tactics.&quot;

Rawat said the Army will continue to give a befitting reply to Pakistani action along the border.

&quot;Targeting of Amarnath pilgrims, attacking policemen and Army personnel from Jammu and Kashmir, including murder of Lt Ummer Fayaz, were attempts to attack national unity and divide the society,&quot; Rawat said.

Young Army officer Fayaz, from Kulgam district, was killed in May last year when he had gone to Shopian to attend the marriage of one of his relatives.

Talking about Pakistan&#39;s proxy war and evolving security challenges facing the region, Gen Rawat asked the forces to remain ready to face any eventuality.

&quot;We will have to keep high-level of readiness&quot; to deal with any eventuality, he said.

On defence spending, Rawat said it acts as an engine of economic growth. The armed forces are expecting higher allocation in the budget for 2018-19.

&quot;Size of our defence budget is sixth globally. 30 per cent of the defence budget is spent on procurement of weapons. A portion of it is spent on the country&#39;s development and providing jobs. The defence budget should be looked as engine of development,&quot; he said.

Referring to the security situation in several states of the northeastern region, he said the Army&#39;s intelligence based operations have contained militancy to a large extent.

He also cautioned that success is never permanent and the troops will have to continue their hard work to deal with any security challenge.

Rawat said there has been sustained efforts to enhance capability of the Army and that contracts worth Rs 30,000 crore have been finalised in 2017-18.

Talking about modernisation of the infantry, he said the focus was on futuristic weapon systems.

The Army&#39;s aviation wing is being bolstered by inducting new helicopters. He said the missile system in the Army&#39;s air defence is also being strengthened.

He said cadre review of JCOs (junior commissioned officers) and other ranks have been approved which has resulted in the creation of 479 additional posts of Subedar major, 7,769 posts of Subedar, 13,466 naib subedars, 58,493 havaldars and 64,930 naiks.

The Army chief also said that an Aadhar-based mobile application is being developed through which Army personnel will be able to post their grievances online. The aim is to resolve their grivances as soon as possible, he said.

The Army chief also awarded the sena medal to a number of Army personnel.&nbsp;

Rawat said the Pakistani Army has been continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a stern message to Pakistan, Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat asserted today that the Army will not allow anti-India activities to succeed in Jammu and Kashmir and it was ready to escalate military offensive to combat cross-border terrorism if Islamabad forces it to do so. Addressing Army personnel on the occasion of Army Day, Rawat also said that disputes along the Line of Actual Control with China were continuing and the Army was trying to stop the Chinese transgressions. "Ensuring security along the Line of Actual Control (with China) is our main duty," he said without elaborating further. Talking about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, he said the Pakistan Army has been continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K. "We will not let these anti-national elements to succeed at any cost. If we are forced, then we may escalate our military action and carry out (the) 'other action'," he said. The Army has been adopting a 'tit-for-tat' approach in dealing with ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops as well as foiling infiltration bids by terrorists. Also read: China says General Rawat's remarks on Dokalam 'unconstructive' "The Army is using its might to teach them a lesson," the Army chief said, adding that, "terrorists and their handlers are creating various challenges within the country by adopting new tactics." Rawat said the Army will continue to give a befitting reply to Pakistani action along the border. "Targeting of Amarnath pilgrims, attacking policemen and Army personnel from Jammu and Kashmir, including murder of Lt Ummer Fayaz, were attempts to attack national unity and divide the society," Rawat said. Young Army officer Fayaz, from Kulgam district, was killed in May last year when he had gone to Shopian to attend the marriage of one of his relatives. Talking about Pakistan's proxy war and evolving security challenges facing the region, Gen Rawat asked the forces to remain ready to face any eventuality. "We will have to keep high-level of readiness" to deal with any eventuality, he said. On defence spending, Rawat said it acts as an engine of economic growth. The armed forces are expecting higher allocation in the budget for 2018-19. "Size of our defence budget is sixth globally. 30 per cent of the defence budget is spent on procurement of weapons. A portion of it is spent on the country's development and providing jobs. The defence budget should be looked as engine of development," he said. Referring to the security situation in several states of the northeastern region, he said the Army's intelligence based operations have contained militancy to a large extent. He also cautioned that success is never permanent and the troops will have to continue their hard work to deal with any security challenge. Rawat said there has been sustained efforts to enhance capability of the Army and that contracts worth Rs 30,000 crore have been finalised in 2017-18. Talking about modernisation of the infantry, he said the focus was on futuristic weapon systems. The Army's aviation wing is being bolstered by inducting new helicopters. He said the missile system in the Army's air defence is also being strengthened. He said cadre review of JCOs (junior commissioned officers) and other ranks have been approved which has resulted in the creation of 479 additional posts of Subedar major, 7,769 posts of Subedar, 13,466 naib subedars, 58,493 havaldars and 64,930 naiks. The Army chief also said that an Aadhar-based mobile application is being developed through which Army personnel will be able to post their grievances online. The aim is to resolve their grivances as soon as possible, he said. The Army chief also awarded the sena medal to a number of Army personnel.

Won't allow anti-India activities in Kashmir: Army chief

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-launches-operation-bhima-against-pak-rangers-along-loc-30509" target="_blank">BSF launches &#39;Operation Bhima&#39; against Pak Rangers along LoC</a>

BSF launched &quot;Operation Bhima&quot; against<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-pm-says-committed-to-seizing-charities-run-by-hafiz-saeed-30454">&nbsp;Pakistan Rangers even as firing&nbsp;</a>stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today. Reports said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-firing-positions-fuel-dump-destroyed-in-retaliation-bsf-30385">Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani&nbsp;</a>Rangers as India&#39;s border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan&#39;s post.

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-lok-sabha-maharashtra-elections-could-be-held-in-2018-30484" target="_blank">Uddhav Thackeray: Lok Sabha, Maharashtra elections could be held in 2018</a>

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said Tuesday that the next general elections and the elections to the Maharashtra state assembly could be held in December 2018.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Highlights: PM Narendra Modi's big India pitch at Davos Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the plenary session of the 48th edition of the World Economic Forum at Davos in Switzerland. PM Narendra Modi is the first Indian prime minister to attend Davos summit in 20 years. BSF launches 'Operation Bhima' against Pak Rangers along LoC BSF launched "Operation Bhima" against Pakistan Rangers even as firing stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today. Reports said Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani Rangers as India's border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan's post. Sensex closes above 36,000 mark at all-time high The BSE Sensex on Tuesday BSE Sensex breached the 36,000 level mark to end at an all-time high at 36, 140 after the International Monetary Fund said India would regain the title as the world's fastest growing major economy in 2018-19. India should focus on women's inclusion in economy: IMF Chief Lagarde IMF chief Christine Lagarde today said India must continue with reforms especially in the financial services sector and should urgently focus on broad- based and the true inclusion of women in its economy. Uddhav Thackeray: Lok Sabha, Maharashtra elections could be held in 2018 Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said Tuesday that the next general elections and the elections to the Maharashtra state assembly could be held in December 2018.

WION Evening News brief, January 23, 2018

In a series of attacks ahead <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-firing-positions-fuel-dump-destroyed-in-retaliation-bsf-30385">of Republic Day, militants today hurled</a> a grenade at a police station in Baramulla and another at a CRPF team in Pulwama, where they also opened fire on a police patrol, leaving two persons injured in these incidents.

The militants lobbed a grenade towards CRPF personnel at Pampore in Pulwama district, 14 kms from here, a police official said.

He said the grenade landed on the roadside, resulting in injuries to a passerby.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Terrorists lobed a grenade near Baramullah Police station; One policeman injured, more details awaited (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/ubxdKTaf80">pic.twitter.com/ubxdKTaf80</a>
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In the second attack, militants opened fire on a police patrol party at Lassipora area of the Pulwama District, the official said.

He said the police retaliated, forcing the militants to flee from the spot. No one was injured in the firing incident.

Later in the evening, militants lobbed a grenade at police station Baramulla, resulting in injuries to a guard, the official said.

He said a few shots were also heard after the grenade blast.

The three attacks came four days ahead of the Republic Day celebrations.

Security forces have stepped up security across Kashmir to thwart possible militant attacks and to ensure an incident-free Republic Day.

The three attacks came four days ahead of the Republic Day celebrations.

In a series of attacks ahead of Republic Day, militants today hurled a grenade at a police station in Baramulla and another at a CRPF team in Pulwama, where they also opened fire on a police patrol, leaving two persons injured in these incidents. The militants lobbed a grenade towards CRPF personnel at Pampore in Pulwama district, 14 kms from here, a police official said. He said the grenade landed on the roadside, resulting in injuries to a passerby. Jammu & Kashmir: Terrorists lobed a grenade near Baramullah Police station; One policeman injured, more details awaited (#Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/ubxdKTaf80 — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2018 × In the second attack, militants opened fire on a police patrol party at Lassipora area of the Pulwama District, the official said. He said the police retaliated, forcing the militants to flee from the spot. No one was injured in the firing incident. Later in the evening, militants lobbed a grenade at police station Baramulla, resulting in injuries to a guard, the official said. He said a few shots were also heard after the grenade blast. The three attacks came four days ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. Security forces have stepped up security across Kashmir to thwart possible militant attacks and to ensure an incident-free Republic Day.

J&K: Ahead of Republic Day, militants launch attack on Baramulla, Pulwama

Three Army personnel were among six people injured this evening in a mine explosion along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Rajouri district, an official said.

An Army team was engaged in a security clearance operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sundarban Sector when a mine exploded, a senior Army officer.

In the blast, three army personnel and as many porters were injured. They were hospitalised, he said.

An Army team was engaged in a security clearance operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sundarban Sector when a mine exploded, a senior Army officer

Three Army personnel were among six people injured this evening in a mine explosion along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, an official said. An Army team was engaged in a security clearance operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sundarban Sector when a mine exploded, a senior Army officer. In the blast, three army personnel and as many porters were injured. They were hospitalised, he said.

3 Army personnel among 6 injured in mine blast along LoC

The Army today clearly indicated it would take retaliatory action against the killing of four army men in heavy shelling by Pakistani forces along the LoC in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that its action would speak for itself.

Vice chief Lt Gen Sarath Chand said the Army has been responding appropriately to Pakistan shelling, asserting that India will continue to give a &quot;befitting reply&quot; to such acts.

&quot;That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don&#39;t have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself,&quot; he said when asked about the killing of a Captain and three other Army men in the Rajouri sector.

The Captain and three jawans were killed and at least four people injured yesterday in the heavy Pakistani shelling along the LoC.

Chand also accused the Pakistani Army of supporting the infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-rocked-over-ceasefire-violations-by-pakistan-31836" target="_blank">Jammu and Kashmir Assembly rocked over ceasefire violations by Pakistan</a>

&quot;We will continue with our process of giving a befitting reply (to such acts),&quot; he told reporters on the sidelines of an event here, adding that there were even incidents of mutilation of bodies of jawans last year.

&quot;We have been responding appropriately,&quot; he said.

&quot;There has been cross-border shelling from their (Pakistan&#39;s) side. And one of the shells landed near the officer and his men, leading to the casualties,&quot; he said when asked about yesterday&#39;s shelling.

Captain Kapil Kundu, a resident of village Ransika in Haryana&#39;s Gurgaon district, was killed just six days before his 22nd birthday, Army officials said.

Havildar Roshan Lal, 42, a resident of Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, Riflemen Ramavatar, 27, of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and Subham Singh, 23, of Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Kathua district were also killed in the shelling.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said earlier today Indians had full faith in the valour of the Army. 
&quot;People of the country have full faith in the valour of the Indian Army,&quot; the minister told reporters outside Parliament when asked about the steps India would take in response to the attack.&nbsp;

'That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don't have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself,' Vice-Chief General Sarath Chand said

The Army today clearly indicated it would take retaliatory action against the killing of four army men in heavy shelling by Pakistani forces along the LoC in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that its action would speak for itself. Vice chief Lt Gen Sarath Chand said the Army has been responding appropriately to Pakistan shelling, asserting that India will continue to give a "befitting reply" to such acts. "That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don't have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself," he said when asked about the killing of a Captain and three other Army men in the Rajouri sector. The Captain and three jawans were killed and at least four people injured yesterday in the heavy Pakistani shelling along the LoC. Chand also accused the Pakistani Army of supporting the infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly rocked over ceasefire violations by Pakistan "We will continue with our process of giving a befitting reply (to such acts)," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event here, adding that there were even incidents of mutilation of bodies of jawans last year. "We have been responding appropriately," he said. "There has been cross-border shelling from their (Pakistan's) side. And one of the shells landed near the officer and his men, leading to the casualties," he said when asked about yesterday's shelling. Captain Kapil Kundu, a resident of village Ransika in Haryana's Gurgaon district, was killed just six days before his 22nd birthday, Army officials said. Havildar Roshan Lal, 42, a resident of Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, Riflemen Ramavatar, 27, of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and Subham Singh, 23, of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district were also killed in the shelling. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said earlier today Indians had full faith in the valour of the Army. "People of the country have full faith in the valour of the Indian Army," the minister told reporters outside Parliament when asked about the steps India would take in response to the attack.

'Action will speak for itself': Army hints at retaliatory action against killing of 4 soldiers by Pakistan

The Army today filed a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-killed-nine-injured-in-army-firing-after-protest-and-stone-pelting-erupted-in-shopian-south-kashmir-30927">counter FIR in the Shopioan firing</a> incident after a mob allegedly attacked it&nbsp;on January 27th.

The police had filed an FIR under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) against Army personnel, including a Major, however, the Army said it had fired in self-defense after seven personnel were injured.

Rayees Ahmad, who was among the nine persons injured in the Army firing last week, succumbed to injuries on Wednesday as the death toll increased to three. The incident had occurred in Ganovpora area of Shopian district.

The FIR by the Army is based on a statement that its vehicles were damaged and soldiers received injuries.

According to an army spokesman,&nbsp;&quot;an army administrative convoy was passing through Ganaupura chowk in Shopian when it came under unprovoked and intense stone pelting. They caused extensive damage to these vehicles.

&quot;A junior commissioned officer accompanying the convoy got hit on the head and fell unconscious suffering serious injury. Considering the extreme gravity of the situation, the army was constrained to open fire in self-defence. In the process, two civilians succumbed to the bullet injuries,&quot; the spokesman said.

Separatist groups had called for a shutdown in Kashmir on January 28th following the incident.

The FIR by the Army is based on a statement that its vehicles were damaged and soldiers received injuries

The Army today filed a counter FIR in the Shopioan firing incident after a mob allegedly attacked it on January 27th. The police had filed an FIR under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) against Army personnel, including a Major, however, the Army said it had fired in self-defense after seven personnel were injured. Rayees Ahmad, who was among the nine persons injured in the Army firing last week, succumbed to injuries on Wednesday as the death toll increased to three. The incident had occurred in Ganovpora area of Shopian district. The FIR by the Army is based on a statement that its vehicles were damaged and soldiers received injuries. According to an army spokesman, "an army administrative convoy was passing through Ganaupura chowk in Shopian when it came under unprovoked and intense stone pelting. They caused extensive damage to these vehicles. "A junior commissioned officer accompanying the convoy got hit on the head and fell unconscious suffering serious injury. Considering the extreme gravity of the situation, the army was constrained to open fire in self-defence. In the process, two civilians succumbed to the bullet injuries," the spokesman said. Separatist groups had called for a shutdown in Kashmir on January 28th following the incident.

Shopian firing: Army files counter FIR

Heavy shelling and firing were reported on the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district from the Pakistani side yesterday.&nbsp;

Small arms, automatics, and mortars were used as the Pakistani army targeted military and civilian facilities in the Balakote sector on Tuesday evening.

Defence Ministry sources noted that the Indian positions retaliated to the firing, an exchange which kept on for nearly an hour.&nbsp;

The Pakistani Army carried out ceasefire violations on the LoC in the Rajouri district earlier yesterday.&nbsp;

No casualty or loss of life has been reported on the Indian side, although some civilian houses have been damaged.&nbsp;

The Pakistani Army carried out ceasefire violations on the LoC in the Rajouri district earlier yesterday.

Heavy shelling and firing were reported on the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district from the Pakistani side yesterday. Small arms, automatics, and mortars were used as the Pakistani army targeted military and civilian facilities in the Balakote sector on Tuesday evening. Defence Ministry sources noted that the Indian positions retaliated to the firing, an exchange which kept on for nearly an hour. The Pakistani Army carried out ceasefire violations on the LoC in the Rajouri district earlier yesterday. No casualty or loss of life has been reported on the Indian side, although some civilian houses have been damaged.

Pakistani army targets Indian positions on LoC

During the firing by the&nbsp;army in Shopian of Jammu and Kashmir, there is a new turning point in the case. Whereas 10 Garhwal rifle major and his unit have been made accused in the FIR lodged by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the army has also has lodged his complaint with police.&nbsp;

Srinagar-based Army PRO said: &quot;We had forwarded our complaint to the police in Shopian incident and is based on the same statement that army had issued that very day. It has been mentioned in DAK PAD of police, now its to police how they name it.&quot;&nbsp;

However, the army has not named any attacker but has mentioned the injuries to soldiers and damage to vehicles in the complaint.&nbsp;

The Army had issued a statement after&nbsp;the incident saying that&nbsp;&quot;On Jan 27th, 2018 at about 15:00 hours, an army administrative convoy was passing through Ganaupura chowk in Shopian when it came under unprovoked and intense stone pelting by a group of 100-120 stone pelters. Within no time, their numbers swelled to 200-250 persons. The crowd surrounded an isolated portion of the convoy consisting of four vehicles. They caused extensive damage to these vehicles and tried to set them on fire.&quot;&nbsp;

&quot;A junior commissioned officer accompanying the convoy got hit on the head and fell unconscious suffering serious injury. The mob tried to lynch the individual and snatch his weapon. The violent crowd further closed in towards the vehicles and attempted to set them on fire. Considering the extreme gravity of the situation the army was constrained to open fire in self-defence to prevent lynching of the JCO and burning of Government vehicle by the mob. A total of seven army men suffered injuries and extensive damage was caused to eleven vehicles. In the process two civilians succumbed to the bullet injuries,&quot; the statement added.

Now, the army and state police are&nbsp;face to face after the police lodged an FIR under section 336,307,302 RPC against the army unit naming army major and his unit. The&nbsp;army had lodged a counter FIR defending itself.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;incident has&nbsp;turned into a political row now after state chief minister&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti Sayeed said that the magisterial probe in the case will be taken to the logical conclusion.

The CM told the state assembly that the government had filed the FIR only after consulting defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

&quot;She told me that I should take action if any carelessness or anything wrong has happened,&quot; she said.&nbsp;

On the hand, the state government and its collation partners are not on the&nbsp;same page over the Shopian firing.

BJP is of the view that FIR against the army should be withdrawn as it would&nbsp;demoralise the army, however, they are condemning the incident, but the other partner PDP is of opinion that investigation should go as per law and police will investigate the case.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the state main opposition party National Conference said its an &quot;eyewash&quot;&nbsp;when the two parties which are running the government in the&nbsp;state are not of the&nbsp;same opinion.

Army has not named any attacker but has mentioned the injuries to soldiers and damage to vehicles in the complaint.

During the firing by the army in Shopian of Jammu and Kashmir, there is a new turning point in the case. Whereas 10 Garhwal rifle major and his unit have been made accused in the FIR lodged by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the army has also has lodged his complaint with police. Srinagar-based Army PRO said: "We had forwarded our complaint to the police in Shopian incident and is based on the same statement that army had issued that very day. It has been mentioned in DAK PAD of police, now its to police how they name it." However, the army has not named any attacker but has mentioned the injuries to soldiers and damage to vehicles in the complaint. The Army had issued a statement after the incident saying that "On Jan 27th, 2018 at about 15:00 hours, an army administrative convoy was passing through Ganaupura chowk in Shopian when it came under unprovoked and intense stone pelting by a group of 100-120 stone pelters. Within no time, their numbers swelled to 200-250 persons. The crowd surrounded an isolated portion of the convoy consisting of four vehicles. They caused extensive damage to these vehicles and tried to set them on fire." "A junior commissioned officer accompanying the convoy got hit on the head and fell unconscious suffering serious injury. The mob tried to lynch the individual and snatch his weapon. The violent crowd further closed in towards the vehicles and attempted to set them on fire. Considering the extreme gravity of the situation the army was constrained to open fire in self-defence to prevent lynching of the JCO and burning of Government vehicle by the mob. A total of seven army men suffered injuries and extensive damage was caused to eleven vehicles. In the process two civilians succumbed to the bullet injuries," the statement added. Now, the army and state police are face to face after the police lodged an FIR under section 336,307,302 RPC against the army unit naming army major and his unit. The army had lodged a counter FIR defending itself. The incident has turned into a political row now after state chief minister Mehbooba Mufti Sayeed said that the magisterial probe in the case will be taken to the logical conclusion. The CM told the state assembly that the government had filed the FIR only after consulting defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "She told me that I should take action if any carelessness or anything wrong has happened," she said. On the hand, the state government and its collation partners are not on the same page over the Shopian firing. BJP is of the view that FIR against the army should be withdrawn as it would demoralise the army, however, they are condemning the incident, but the other partner PDP is of opinion that investigation should go as per law and police will investigate the case. Meanwhile, the state main opposition party National Conference said its an "eyewash" when the two parties which are running the government in the state are not of the same opinion.

Shopian firing turns into political row in J&K

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today slammed Pakistan for continuously violating the ceasefire agreement with India despite giving assurance not to do so, saying Islamabad should not misinterpret &quot;powerful&quot; India&#39;s &quot;decency&quot;.

Pakistani shelling along the border in Jammu and Kashmir has increased over the past two weeks. Fourteen people, including eight civilians, have been killed in the shelling since January 18, according to the state police.

Today, Pakistani troops opened fire and lobbed mortars on forward and civilian areas along the LoC in Rajouri district. 
No casualties have been reported.

&quot;Three-four days ago, Pakistan Rangers held a flag meeting with our BSF DG. (The Rangers) assured that the ceasefire violation would not take place. But despite this, Pakistan has been violating ceasefire,&quot; Singh said.

&quot;Not saying much, I just want to say our politeness and decency has a limit and we want to maintain good relations with all and also with our neighbours. But our decency should not be wrongly interpreted,&quot; he said.

&quot;India is no more a weak country. India has now become a powerful country.&quot;

Singh said Pakistan, being a neighbour, should have a friendly attitude towards India, but added that the fencing of the Indo-Pak border was underway at a rapid pace.

Pakistani shelling along the border in Jammu and Kashmir has increased over the past two weeks

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today slammed Pakistan for continuously violating the ceasefire agreement with India despite giving assurance not to do so, saying Islamabad should not misinterpret "powerful" India's "decency". Pakistani shelling along the border in Jammu and Kashmir has increased over the past two weeks. Fourteen people, including eight civilians, have been killed in the shelling since January 18, according to the state police. Today, Pakistani troops opened fire and lobbed mortars on forward and civilian areas along the LoC in Rajouri district. No casualties have been reported. "Three-four days ago, Pakistan Rangers held a flag meeting with our BSF DG. (The Rangers) assured that the ceasefire violation would not take place. But despite this, Pakistan has been violating ceasefire," Singh said. "Not saying much, I just want to say our politeness and decency has a limit and we want to maintain good relations with all and also with our neighbours. But our decency should not be wrongly interpreted," he said. "India is no more a weak country. India has now become a powerful country." Singh said Pakistan, being a neighbour, should have a friendly attitude towards India, but added that the fencing of the Indo-Pak border was underway at a rapid pace.

Pakistan must not misinterpret India's 'decency': Rajnath Singh

Pakistan troops<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-troops-open-fire-again-along-loc-indian-army-retaliates-30011"> today opened fire in several points </a>along the line of control(LoC) in R S Pura, Arnia and Samba sectors in J&amp;K.

In less than 24 hours, Pakistan troops once again opened fire in the RS Pura sector. Indian security forces immediately retaliated.

Two civilians - a woman and a child were killed and at least four others were injured in the R S Pura firing.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

WION reporters said Pakistan troops were targeting 50 villages along the border including two dozen BSF posts.

On Wednesday night, a BSF soldier was killed after Pakistan troops opened fire at RS Pura sector. Three civilians were also injured as the firing by Pakistan troops hit an Indian village along the border. Indian border guards retaliated as the firing continued till early on Thursday morning.

A Suresh, a soldier belonging to 78 BN BSF security force was killed in the firing at RS Pura.

WION reporters said Pakistan troops targetting 50 villages along the border including two dozen BSF posts.

Pakistan troops today opened fire in several points along the line of control(LoC) in R S Pura, Arnia and Samba sectors in J&K. In less than 24 hours, Pakistan troops once again opened fire in the RS Pura sector. Indian security forces immediately retaliated. Two civilians - a woman and a child were killed and at least four others were injured in the R S Pura firing. WION reporters said Pakistan troops were targeting 50 villages along the border including two dozen BSF posts. On Wednesday night, a BSF soldier was killed after Pakistan troops opened fire at RS Pura sector. Three civilians were also injured as the firing by Pakistan troops hit an Indian village along the border. Indian border guards retaliated as the firing continued till early on Thursday morning. A Suresh, a soldier belonging to 78 BN BSF security force was killed in the firing at RS Pura.

Watch: Pak troops target 50 villages, at least 24 BSF posts along the border

In less than 24 hours,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-bsf-soldier-killed-3-civilians-injured-in-ceasefire-violation-in-jk-29887"> Pakistan troops once again</a> opened fire in the RS Pura sector along the line of control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-never-starts-it-but-when-they-do-they-make-sure-strong-action-is-taken-bsf-dg-on-pak-ceasefire-violation-29933"> security forces immediately</a> retaliated.

Reports said two civilians were killed and at least four others injured&nbsp;in the R S Pura firing.

On Wednesday night, a BSF soldier was killed after Pakistan troops opened fire at RS Pura sector. Three civilians were also injured as the firing by Pakistan troops hit an Indian village along the border. Indian border guards retaliated as the firing continued till early on Thursday morning.

A Suresh, a soldier belonging to 78 BN BSF security force was killed in the firing at RS Pura.

A Suresh, a soldier belonging to 78 BN BSF security force was killed in the firing at RS Pura

In less than 24 hours, Pakistan troops once again opened fire in the RS Pura sector along the line of control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Indian security forces immediately retaliated. Reports said two civilians were killed and at least four others injured in the R S Pura firing. On Wednesday night, a BSF soldier was killed after Pakistan troops opened fire at RS Pura sector. Three civilians were also injured as the firing by Pakistan troops hit an Indian village along the border. Indian border guards retaliated as the firing continued till early on Thursday morning. A Suresh, a soldier belonging to 78 BN BSF security force was killed in the firing at RS Pura.

Pak troops open fire again along LoC, 2 civilians killed

India&#39;s security agencies deployed along <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-engineers-helping-pakistan-to-fortify-bunkers-along-loc-intelligence-report-29658">the eastern sector of Arunachal Pradesh</a> at the Indo-China border reported the presence of an unidentified flying object, intelligence sources revealed.

The troops observed the object flying from Loah Sikho which moved towards Himi Siko and then the same object returned from Himi Siko and went towards the China side.

The unidentified flying object was blinking light every 4-5 seconds and could not be clearly seen due to darkness, the report said.

According to intelligence officials, the aerial transgression from China had happened last month on December 18th. Flying objects were seen inside Indian territory at 4:55 PM(local time) to 5:15 PM deep inside 5.5 km into Indian territory.

Due to darkness, Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan border police(ITBP) were unable to identify the flying object.

Joint report of Indian Army and ITBP sent to the Home ministry mentioned 8 major transgressions by China&#39;s army into India in December.&nbsp;

As per the report, three major border transgression happened in the northern sector of Ladakh.

On December 20th, the Chinese Army had entered 6.6 km into the Ladakh by vehicle. On Dec 21st again the Chinese troops in vehicles entered 2km into&nbsp;Indian territory. On December 30th, the Chinese army again entered 5.5 km deep into India.

According to the ITBP report, &nbsp;border transgression in the Thakung post of the central sector of Ladakh on December 30th was reported after Chinese troops were seen near the north bank of Pangong Tso early morning 1 km into India.

On December 21st and 28th, the Chinese troops entered 19 km across the border in Depsang area of Ladakh and 13.5 km into Samar Lungpa of Ladakh area.

he troops observed the object flying from Loah Sikho which moved towards Himi Siko

India's security agencies deployed along the eastern sector of Arunachal Pradesh at the Indo-China border reported the presence of an unidentified flying object, intelligence sources revealed. The troops observed the object flying from Loah Sikho which moved towards Himi Siko and then the same object returned from Himi Siko and went towards the China side. The unidentified flying object was blinking light every 4-5 seconds and could not be clearly seen due to darkness, the report said. According to intelligence officials, the aerial transgression from China had happened last month on December 18th. Flying objects were seen inside Indian territory at 4:55 PM(local time) to 5:15 PM deep inside 5.5 km into Indian territory. Due to darkness, Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan border police(ITBP) were unable to identify the flying object. Joint report of Indian Army and ITBP sent to the Home ministry mentioned 8 major transgressions by China's army into India in December. As per the report, three major border transgression happened in the northern sector of Ladakh. On December 20th, the Chinese Army had entered 6.6 km into the Ladakh by vehicle. On Dec 21st again the Chinese troops in vehicles entered 2km into Indian territory. On December 30th, the Chinese army again entered 5.5 km deep into India. According to the ITBP report, border transgression in the Thakung post of the central sector of Ladakh on December 30th was reported after Chinese troops were seen near the north bank of Pangong Tso early morning 1 km into India. On December 21st and 28th, the Chinese troops entered 19 km across the border in Depsang area of Ladakh and 13.5 km into Samar Lungpa of Ladakh area.

Mysterious 'flying object' transgressed into Arunachal Pradesh, later returned to China: Intelligence report

India and Pakistan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-buy-160000-guns-including-assault-rifles-for-border-troops-29785">Director Generals of Military Operation</a>(DGMO) held talks on Tuesday&nbsp;morning for about fifteen minutes.

India&#39;s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-credible-nuclear-capability-should-india-test-our-resolve-pakistan-29639">DGMO raised concerns of infiltration</a> and ceasefire violations across the border during talks with the Pakistan DGMO.

The Pakistan DGMO reportedly said Indian troops have been firing at its troops along the border.

On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Poonch district. An Army captain was injured in the firefight.

The Indian troops retaliated and the exchange of fire continued till late night.

India authorities on Monday had suspended the cross-border LoC bus service between Chakan Da Bagh and Rawalakot following heightened tension on the LoC.

On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district

India and Pakistan Director Generals of Military Operation(DGMO) held talks on Tuesday morning for about fifteen minutes. India's DGMO raised concerns of infiltration and ceasefire violations across the border during talks with the Pakistan DGMO. The Pakistan DGMO reportedly said Indian troops have been firing at its troops along the border. On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. An Army captain was injured in the firefight. The Indian troops retaliated and the exchange of fire continued till late night. India authorities on Monday had suspended the cross-border LoC bus service between Chakan Da Bagh and Rawalakot following heightened tension on the LoC.

After firing along LoC, India, Pak DGMOs hold talks

India&#39;s defence ministry has informed the country <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-troops-fire-at-loc-posts-in-poonch-army-captain-injured-29759">will be buying 160,000 guns </a>worth $553 million for troops at the border.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman while charing the Defence acquisition council cleared the purchase of 72,400 assault rifles and &nbsp;93,895 carbines worth $553 million.

The forces will now conduct trials and shortlist guns to be brought, bids were placed back in 2014 but the Indian Army could not find buyers with the required specifications.

India&#39;s defence requirement across all major forces - Army, Navy and Air Force - have been left on the backburner several decades, only recently several defence deals have begun to be cleared by the Defense ministry.

India was ranked in the fifth position in 2016 among world&#39;s largest military spenders as the country&#39;s expenditure grew by 8.5% to $55.9 billion.

Last year India had signed missile deals worth multi-billion dollars with Israel and had placed orders to procure artillery guns from South Korea.

In December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had commissioned Scorpene-class submarine Kalvari into the Indian Navy after extensive tests.

The defence ministry has also expedited the acquisition of warplanes for the Indian Air Force.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman while charing the Defence acquisition council cleared the purchase of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines worth $553 million.

India's defence ministry has informed the country will be buying 160,000 guns worth $553 million for troops at the border. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman while charing the Defence acquisition council cleared the purchase of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines worth $553 million. The forces will now conduct trials and shortlist guns to be brought, bids were placed back in 2014 but the Indian Army could not find buyers with the required specifications. India's defence requirement across all major forces - Army, Navy and Air Force - have been left on the backburner several decades, only recently several defence deals have begun to be cleared by the Defense ministry. India was ranked in the fifth position in 2016 among world's largest military spenders as the country's expenditure grew by 8.5% to $55.9 billion. Last year India had signed missile deals worth multi-billion dollars with Israel and had placed orders to procure artillery guns from South Korea. In December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had commissioned Scorpene-class submarine Kalvari into the Indian Navy after extensive tests. The defence ministry has also expedited the acquisition of warplanes for the Indian Air Force.

India to buy 160,000 guns including assault rifles for border troops

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