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Srinagar: In the first major surrender after formation of the People's Democratic Party (PDP)-led coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir, 24 militants of different outfits surrendered before the Army on July 17.

The militants, most of them wearing masks, surrendered before the Corps Commander of 15 Corps Lt Gen V G Patankar at a function at the headquarters of Kilo-Force, which co-ordinates anti-militant operations in Kupwara and Baramulla district and parts of Srinagar, in Shariefabad on the outskirts of the city.

Welcoming the surrender, Patankar said the July 17 function was aimed at sending a message to the misguided youth that Army wanted them back in the mainstream.

When asked about the response of the Army to dreaded militants intending to surrender, the Army officer said they are all welcome to start a new life.

A Defence spokesman later said a number of inputs indicated that many more such youths strayed were planning to return to the mainstream.

PTI