Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State for Defence, ordered the Army in Kashmir on Sunday to be vigilant in the face of new security threats. Bhatt travelled to a forward station on the last day of his two-day tour to the Kashmir Valley on Sunday, where he was briefed by local commanders about the overall situation along the Line of Control, according to an Army spokeswoman.
The minister conveyed his gratitude to the Indian Army, which is continuously fighting Pakistan-abetted terrorism, while engaging with troops. According to the spokeswoman, Bhatt emphasised the importance of being prepared to properly address new security problems.
A wreath was also laid at the Chinar Corps War Memorial by the minister. Bhatt was welcomed by GOC Chinar Corps Lt Gen D P Pandey on Saturday and briefed on the current security situation and the efforts being taken to protect the border and hinterland from adversaries, according to a spokesman.
According to him, the minister was briefed on the Army’s efforts to identify and target overground workers (OGWs) involved in radicalization and recruitment of adolescents into terrorist ranks. The official added that efforts to discourage local recruitment and assist the surrender of local terrorists were also discussed.
