Friday, October 7 2005 14:53 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Jaipur: Infiltration across the border and terror attacks have declined in Jammu and Kashmir after the start of the Indo-Pak dialogue, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General J J Singh said here today (Oct 7, 2005).

"The decline in infiltration has lessened internal disturbances in Jammu and Kashmir, boosting tourism. The Amarnath Yatra passed off peacefully and the state is heading towards peace and prosperity," the General told reporters after launching a 'Jai Jawan Aawas Yojna' for army personnel here.

Attributing the decline in violence to better counter-measures by the army and the ongoing Indo-Pak dialogue, Gen. Singh said, "The confidence building measures (CBM) are favourable for both India and Pakistan as it led to the peace process, going in the right direction between the two nations."

"Due to a better counter-terror measures, intrusions by terrorists were very low, evident from the casualties of terrorists trying to sneak in," he said.

When asked if the number of army personnel could be reduced in the state, Gen. Singh said, "It has to be evaluated by those concerned but we are ready for any exigency anywhere in the country."

"Generally, the army does not want to interfere in the civil administration but if required we are ready to control internal disturbances and restore law and order," the COAS stated.