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  • Brexit: UK and EU strike deal on Northern Ireland protocol

    Brexit: UK and EU strike deal on Northern Ireland protocol

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    LONDON — The U.K. and the EU finally reached a deal after months of talks over contentious post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland.

    Already, both sides are pitching it as a major reset in frayed relations — but U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak still has to sell it to skeptics in his own party and beyond.

    The so-called “Windsor Framework” comes after a final day of talks between Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor.

    In key developments Monday:

    — Sunak and von der Leyen talked up the deal as a “new chapter” in EU-U.K. ties at a Windsor press conference.

    — The U.K. PM urged his MPs to get behind him in a Commons statement, as key Brexiteers gave supportive early comments.

    — Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) vowed to study the text closely before deciding whether or not to back it.

    — And Brexiteers in the U.K. hit out at No. 10 Downing Street over a meeting between King Charles III and von der Leyen on the same day a deal was struck.

    ‘New chapter’

    Details of the new agreement are now being pored over by lawmakers on both sides of the English Channel, but the plan is aimed at easing customs red-tape, equalizing some tax rules across the United Kingdom, and giving Northern Ireland’s lawmakers more of a say over the future of the arrangement.

    “The United Kingdom and European Union may have had our differences in the past, but we are allies, trading partners and friends, something that we’ve seen clearly in the past year as we joined with others to support Ukraine,” Sunak said at the joint press conference. “This is the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship.”

    That line was echoed by von der Leyen, who said the plan would allow the two sides “to begin a new chapter,” and offer up “long-lasting solutions that both of us are confident will work for all people and businesses in Northern Ireland.”

    Sunak — under pressure to hold a House of Commons vote on the agreement — told MPs Monday evening that the arrangement would end “burdensome customs bureaucracy” and “routine checks” on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, and claimed he had “delivered what the people of Northern Ireland asked for … We have removed the border in the Irish Sea.”

    He now faces the sizable task of convicing Brexiteer lawmakers on his own Conservative benches, many of whom will be closely watching the verdict of Northern Ireland’s fiercely anti-protocol DUP, to get on board.

    “Our judgment and our principled position in opposing the protocol in Parliament and at Stormont has been vindicated,” said DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson Monday night. “Undoubtedly it is now recognized that the protocol does not work. When others said there would be no renegotiation and no change, our determination has proved what can be achieved.”

    Stormont brake

    The protocol has been a long-running source of tension between the U.K. and the EU, and the two sides have been locked in months of talks to try to ease the way it works.

    Under the arrangement, the EU requires checks on trade from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in order to preserve the integrity of its single market and avoid such checks taking place at the sensitive land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

    The DUP has been boycotting the region’s power-sharing government while it pushes for major changes to a set-up it sees as driving a wedge between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K.

    Speaking at the press conference, Sunak and von der Leyen talked up a host of changes to the protocol that they hope will be enough to restore power-sharing in Northern Ireland.

    Under the revised plan, goods moving from Great Britain but destined only for Northern Ireland will travel through a new “green lane” with fewer checks, while a separate, more stringent, “red lane” for goods at risk of moving on to the Republic of Ireland — and thereby entering the EU’s single market — will now operate.

    Sunak said food retailers would “no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry” entering Northern Ireland, while food made to U.K. standards will be able to be freely sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. He also vowed that the new pact would scrap customs paperwork for people sending parcels to family or friends or shopping online.

    GettyImages 1247532264
    UK PM Rishi Sunak and EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen hope that the host of changes to the Brexit protocol announced today will be enough to restore power-sharing in Northern Ireland | Dan Kitwood/Pool/AFP via Getty Images

    The two sides have also amended the text of the protocol, Sunak said, to allow U.K. VAT and excise changes to apply in Northern Ireland — while a “landmark” settlement on medicines will mean drugs approved for use by the U.K. medicines regulator will be “automatically available in every pharmacy and hospital in Northern Ireland.”

    And London and Brussels are now jointly pitching a new “Stormont brake,” claiming this will allow the devolved assembly in Northern Ireland — currently on ice amid a DUP boycott over the protocl — to prevent changes to EU goods rules “that would have significant and lasting effects on everyday lives” from applying in the region.

    “This gives the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland a powerful new safeguard based on cross-community consent,” Sunak promised.

    DUP’s next move

    As he departed for London, DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said he and senior party colleagues would “take time to look at the deal” – a process likely to run at least through the weekend and to involve specially-commissioned analysis by constitutional lawyers. Early word from some Conservative Brexiteers was positive, with David Davis — who quit Theresa May’s government over her own EU deal-making — hailed it as a “a formidable negotiating success.”

    Before flying out of Belfast, Donaldson briefed his party’s 25 members of the Northern Ireland Assembly about the expected key points. The DUP lawmakers met at Stormont, the seat of the power-sharing legislature that the DUP has blocked since May.

    Donaldson said the DUP’s legal counsel would produce a detailed analysis for consideration by the party’s executive officers.

    “It is vital that Northern Ireland’s place within the U.K. and its internal market is restored. We will have lawyers assess the legal text to ensure that this [is] in fact the case,” Donaldson told the Belfast News Letter, the main unionist newspaper in Northern Ireland.

    Later, Donaldson told the BBC he was “neither positive nor negative” when assessing whether the DUP should accept the compromise package on offer.

    “We need to take time to look at the deal, what’s available, and how does that match our seven tests,” he said, referring to the DUP’s July 2021 list of demands for “replacing” the protocol.

    Other DUP officials said the party’s senior leadership would convene at party headquarters in Belfast, possibly on Saturday, to review the party’s legal verdict on the deal – and whether concessions won by the U.K. government were sufficient to end the DUP’s obstruction of power-sharing at Stormont.

    Donaldson will seek maximum support at that meeting before committing to any policy pivot on the protocol. Other senior officials, including former deputy leader Lord Dodds, have explicitly rejected the idea of reviving Stormont if the revised protocol agreement retains any oversight role for the CJEU. Both Donaldson and the DUP’s “seven tests” have stopped short of drawing this red line.

    Ever since narrowly losing May’s assembly elections to the Irish republicans of Sinn Féin, the DUP has refused not only to form a new cross-community government – the assembly’s central function under terms of Northern Ireland’s 1998 peace accord – but also has blocked the election of a neutral speaker for the assembly, preventing it from sitting.

    This developing story is being updated. Annabelle Dickson and Noah Keate contributed reporting.



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    ( With inputs from : www.politico.eu )

  • Sunak to meet Von der Leyen amid hopes of Northern Ireland protocol deal

    Sunak to meet Von der Leyen amid hopes of Northern Ireland protocol deal

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    Rishi Sunak is to meet the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, over the weekend, raising hopes of an imminent deal to end the protracted Northern Ireland protocol dispute.

    They are expected to meet on the sidelines of an international security conference in Munich that will also be attended by EU leaders including the German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, and the French president, Emmanuel Macron.

    Talks to solve the dispute over the Brexit trading arrangements have intensified over the past week and it is thought an agreement in principle is at the closing stages.

    UK sources say an announcement has been pencilled in for next week, possibly Tuesday, if the remaining issues can be resolved.

    If loose ends cannot be tied up over the weekend, the schedule will be moved back. Sources say both sides are keen to present a “voluntary agreement” and avoid slipping back into the era of threats and counter-threats.

    A breakthrough has already been made on reducing checks on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, with a “green lane” involving no customs declarations being proposed for food and farm produce destined for Northern Irish supermarkets, corner shops, hospitals, schools and prisons and other public settings.

    Negotiators have agreed that products for retail should go through this “green” lane, with discussions continuing on how to deal with wholesalers who supply to independent shops and hospitality.

    Talks are also continuing on how to deal with “intermediary” goods, including components which may end up in finished products destined for sale in the EU’s single market.

    A new path has also been agreed in principle on governance and the role of the European court of justice (ECJ) in dispute resolution, a source of considerable political problems for Sunak with the Democratic Unionist party (DUP) and hardline Brexiters in the European Research Group (ERG) of MPs.

    It is thought this path includes the creation of a new arbitration panel and the involvement of Northern Ireland courts in devolved matters, including food and agriculture health standards.

    One of Sunak’s biggest challenges is how to quell any potential rebellion headed by the ERG, which wants the protocol scrapped altogether and folded into the wider trade and cooperation agreement with the EU.

    The Irish former foreign minister Simon Coveney has said the best deal is a “nil-all draw” where nobody has won and nobody has lost.

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    Insiders say they hope the creation of the panel will address ERG concerns, particularly as this was mooted in a confidential paper by the group’s former chair, the Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker.

    It is also notable that the Northern Ireland secretary, Chris Heaton-Harris, another former leader of the ERG, has been involved in the negotiations from the start, accompanying the foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in all talks with the European Commission vice-president Maroš Šefčovič.

    The panel would involve legal representatives from the EU and the UK, and include a mechanism to give the ECJ a role in advising on matters of EU law.

    It is not known if the key question over the continued application of EU law in Northern Ireland will be resolved to the satisfaction of the ERG or the DUP. The DUP has set out seven tests for agreeing to any new deal, including an assurance of “no new regulatory borders” between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

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    ( With inputs from : www.theguardian.com )

  • Army’s Northern Chief Sees Rise In Kashmir’s Narco-Terrorism

    Army’s Northern Chief Sees Rise In Kashmir’s Narco-Terrorism

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    SRINAGAR: Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, GOC-in-C, Northern Command on Tuesday said that Kashmir is witnessing a concerning rise in narco-terrorism and that the Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future.

    Addressing a gathering at the first segment of the Investiture Ceremony at BB Cantt, Srinagar, the Northern Army Commander stated that the Northern Command is in a high state of readiness and morale to face constantly evolving threats and challenges, according to a statement issued by the PRO Defence.

    “The security situation in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh poses many challenges in terrain and operational dynamics, especially from different adversaries along the Northern and Western Borders. We are committed to defending India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while upholding the democratic traditions of the Nation,” he said.

    The General said that they are maintaining a constant vigil, monitoring all developments and will take all necessary steps to protect the national interests.

    “Indian Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future and will always work for the betterment of the people of the region. The last two years have brought to the fore newer challenges in the wake of abrogation of Article 370, the Galwan conflict and multiple waves of COVID-19,” he said.

    The Northern Army Commander added that these challenges have only served to strengthen the resolve to be steadfast and determined in their commitment.

    “The situation along the LOC has remained stable and the ceasefire understanding continues to sustain. A very strict vigil and a robust technology-enabled multi-tiered counter-infiltration grid is being maintained to thwart any attempts of infiltration,” the Army officer added.

    He further said that the ceasefire violations, infiltration bids or any other misadventure attempted by the adversary will be dealt with firmly. “Numerous infiltration bids have been foiled in the last year. The highest standards of professionalism and joint-ness displayed by the troops in all dimensions of Counter Terror Operations has nullified and limited the kinetic threat.”

    He said Pakistan of using narco-terrorism as a new tool in its proxy war, adding that of late, a dual strategy of sending drugs as well as weapons through drones are being employed to keep the fire burning in an attempt to disrupt the social fabric. “The cross-border smuggling of narcotics provides a succour to terrorism. The security forces are alive to this trend and have already initiated counter-drone measures to curb the menace,” he said.

    “Our focus continues to reinforce our intelligence set up by synergising with all stakeholders & sister agencies, to usher in peace and undertake developmental activities. The overall situation is progressively improving and a positive and conducive environment for accelerating the developmental initiatives of the government has been created. The dividends of peace and stability are reaching people in far-flung areas and they are participating wholeheartedly to preserve and sustain this peace,” he further added.

    He said that Army’s response to Chinese attempts to unilaterally change the status quo was a swift, undaunted and synergised action by the Indian Armed Forces. “Any adverse aggressive designs or attempts will definitely be met with appropriate posturing of forces and a strong intent with complete synergy amongst the three services,” he said.

    He also said that the measures to resolve the LAC situation at diplomatic and operational levels are also simultaneously underway. “I assure you that the LAC in Eastern Ladakh is being dominated by physical patrolling and through technical means and our territorial integrity is being ensured. Restoration of peace and tranquility to enable progress in bilateral relations has been and will remain our constant endeavour,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Army Commander presented the COAS ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ GOC-in-C Northern Command ‘Unit Appreciation’ and the ‘GOC-in-C Northern Command Certificate of Appreciation’ to deserving units, who have excelled in operation during their tenure.

    The PRO Defence issued the text of the top General’s speech. It is reproduced verbatim here:

    “I extend my warm greetings and welcome to all Commanding Officers, Subedar Majors, JCOs, brave soldiers, ladies and gentlemen & friends from the media to the Northern Command Investiture Ceremony. It is a matter of immense honour for me to be presiding over the first segment of the Investiture Ceremony at Srinagar. This event is to commend the inspirational acts of bravery, commitment and sacrifice, in the true traditions of the Indian Army, by selected units of Northern Command which has contributed to stability along the LC and LAC.

    I begin by assuring everyone that Northern Command is in a high state of readiness and morale, to face constantly evolving threats and challenges. The security situation in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh poses many challenges in terrain and operational dynamics, especially from different adversaries along the Northern and Western Borders. We are committed to defending India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while upholding the democratic traditions of the Nation. We are maintaining a constant vigil, monitoring all developments and will take all necessary steps to protect our National Interests. Indian Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future and will always work for the betterment of the people of the Region. The last two years have brought to the fore newer challenges in the wake of abrogation of Article 370, the Galwan conflict and multiple waves of COVID-19. These challenges have only served to strengthen our resolve to be steadfast and determined in our commitment.

    The situation along the LC has remained stable and the Cease Fire Understanding continues to sustain. A very strict vigil and a robust technology enabled multi-tiered counter-infiltration grid is being maintained, to thwart any attempts at infiltration. CF violations, infiltration bids or any other misadventure attempted by the adversary will be dealt with firmly. Numerous infiltration bids have been foiled in the last year. The highest standards of professionalism and jointness displayed by the troops in all dimensions of Counter Terror Operations have nullified/ limited the kinetic threat.

    Kashmir has witnessed a concerning rise in narco-terrorism, as Pakistan is now using this as a new tool in its proxy war. Of late, a dual strategy of sending across drugs as well as weapons through drones is being employed to keep the fire burning in an attempt to disrupt the social fabric. The cross-border smuggling of narcotics provides a succor to terrorism. The Security Forces are alive to this trend and have already initiated counter-drone measures to curb the menace.

    Our focus continues to reinforce our intelligence set up by synergising with all stakeholders & sister agencies, to usher in peace and undertake developmental activities. The overall situation is progressively improving and a positive and conducive environment for accelerating the developmental initiatives of the government has been created. The dividends of peace and the stability are reaching people in far-flung areas and they are participating wholeheartedly to preserve and sustain this peace.

    On the LAC, our response to Chinese attempts to unilaterally change the status quo was a swift, undaunted and synergised action by the Indian Armed Forces. Any adverse aggressive designs or attempts will definitely be met with appropriate posturing of Forces and a strong intent with complete synergy amongst the three services. Measures to resolve the LAC situation at diplomatic and operational levels are also simultaneously underway. I assure you that the LAC in Eastern Ladakh is being dominated by physical patrolling and through technical means and our territorial integrity is being ensured. Restoration of peace and tranquility to enable progress in bilateral relations has been and will remain our constant endeavor.

    Progressive initiatives for coordination and synergy with our paramilitary forces such as the ITBP and BSF have also borne the desired results. Coordination training, exercises and operational tasks are being undertaken jointly to streamline procedures and enhance our ability to robustly defend our borders. As a consequence, all patrolling, along the LAC is now joint and integrated.

    In line with the ‘Nari Shakti’ initiative, Northern Command has taken lead in efforts to empower women. Recently, the first woman officer was deployed on Siachen Glacier and has now become a source of inspiration for all of us.

    The Government has been extremely supportive in ensuring the availability of best weapon systems, equipment and clothing to our troops, who are braving extreme weather and hostile conditions. I am very happy to inform you that Indian Armed Forces have accelerated the achievement of the goal of a “Self-Reliant India”. I wish to state that ‘Modernisation through Indigenisation’ is our mantra and recent efforts in this direction such as ‘Techno Commanders Seminar’ or the ‘North Tech Symposium’ are steps towards enabling us to prepare for all challenges and adopting technology in an efficient manner. The induction of indigenous modern

    weapons and equipment enhance our combat capability tremendously. Several weapons and equipment have been inducted through ‘Hand Holding’ in the ‘Made-in-India’ sector. We have enhanced our firepower through the induction of K9 VAJRA and DHANUSH artillery gun systems; while improvement in mobility has been affected by the arrival of IPMV, QRFV and LCA Patrolling boats. Surveillance resources have been enhanced.

    Infrastructure Development and Logistics are important components of our Operational Preparedness. We have made significant improvement in this regard through our combined efforts with the local administration and other agencies. Over the last three years, infrastructure worth about Rs 1500 Crores has been created to cater for the billeting of new raisings units and accretional forces, that are deployed every year for the safety of our borders. Additionally, more than 800 Kms of new roads have been constructed in line with the GATISHAKTI Initiative at the National level thereby alleviating the remoteness of this region.

    Special clothing in seven layers and mountaineering equipment are being indigenized to increase the capability of soldiers in HAA. The study of Intermittent Oxygen Inhalation has been initiated with an aim to improve the overall health conditions in acclimatization of combat soldiers, deployed for more than one year in HAA.

    Pan-India Project of Network for Spectrum has reached completion in last one year and approximately 57% of this project is rolled out in the UTs of Jammu- Kashmir and Ladakh. Apart from an infusion of hi-tech and expertise, it has resulted in employment opportunities for technicians, civil contractors, labourers, engineers and support staff from remote areas on both temporary and permanent basis. The Army has in conjunction with the Ministry of Communication identified 144 villages in remote areas of Ladakh and Jammu-Kashmir for the installation of 4G/ 5G towers. Assistance in terms of sharing tower space and support infrastructure is being provided to telecom service providers, so that this critical facility reaches population residing in remote border villages.

    Besides the operational challenges on the LAC, LC and Hinterland, we remain committed to providing succor in times of natural disasters such as landslides, COVID and other natural calamities. I also take this opportunity to laud the efforts of the COVID warriors whose relentless efforts have kept us protected in these testing times. Needless to say, that “there is nothing nobler than reaching out and alleviating the lives of people”. On an annual basis, over 250 medical and 100 veterinary camps are conducted in the remotest areas of the UTs, which benefit thousands of lives and livestock. We are encouraging and facilitating graziers to move to their traditional grazing areas in Eastern Ladakh including those located close to the LAC.

    Op SADBHAVANA has bridged the gap between the Armed Forces and the Awam resulting in better Civil-Military integration and coordination. This has been achieved through well-orchestrated developmental works in conjunction with civil administration and assisting grassroot level development activities in far-flung areas. A participative approach by all stakeholders combined with an integration of all agencies to enhance development, improved educational facilities and employment opportunities for the youth will result in fulfilling the aspirations of the people.

    Northern Command manages 43 AGS {26,125 students passed out so far, 55 MBBS, 21 BDS, 32 Engineering (IIT/IIIT), 172 Pvt Engineering Colleges, 88 NIT}, have introduced programs such as Super 50 Medical and Engineering (241 selected), provided educational scholarships to 1800 students and partly funded higher education in universities and institutes outside J&K. We have established a network of skill development centres (beneficiaries 31,000), enabling youth to upgrade their skills on entrepreneurship, employment generation schemes. Sports activities (2100 events 94,000 participants) and competitions coupled with cultural activities form the core of creative youth engagement. Women empowerment efforts are embedded in almost all initiatives and girls are showing encouraging signs of benefitting from these.

    A unique initiative namely SAHI RAASTA, in collaboration with the UT Government has enabled structured rehabilitation programmes for about 150 youth and prevented them from being influenced by radical elements and being recruited by terrorist groups.

    Northern Command Green Energy Initiatives have resulted in 12,300 Kg/Hr reduction of carbon footprint in the last year. Active participation in saving the environment from pollution is been ensured. In the past years, about 8 MW solar power projects have been installed and 54 Solar Energy Project is in progress, thus generating 11,600 KW of Renewable Energy. Hydrogen Energy Project is being planned in collaboration with NTPC. Under Mission Amrit Sarovar (an Indian Army initiative to rejuvenate up to 450 ponds Pan-India by 15 August 2023) in Northern

    Command 75 lakes are being developed, while over one lakh trees have been planted as part of the Green India Initiative. Carbon Neutral Habitats for troops in High Altitude is a pioneering effort undertaken by Northern Command and is a first in the Indian Army.

    The ubiquitous presence of Security Forces in the UTs ensures significant annual contribution to the local economy (through personal purchases and expenditure through various funds). Some prominent sources of revenue generation, as also livelihood agricultural & dairy produce, transport contracts, construction activities and hiring of Porters & Ponies.

    We are proud to have created the required security condition for the successfulresumption and conduct of the Sri Amarnath and Sri Machal Mata Yatras. Our committed approach to security has provided an opportunity for thousands of people across the Country and the UT of Jammu-Kashmir to visit the holy Shrine.

    During the Cloud Burst calamity of Sri Amarnath Yatra, medical support was provided to the needy through the creation of two 15 bedded hospitals and 10 Medical Aid Posts consisting of 25 medical officers and 250 paramedical staff. The medical relief operations ensured the treatment of thousands of patients including timely evacuations by road and air. We have on numerous occasions come to the rescue of tourists, stranded & affected, by the vagaries of harsh weather and terrain.

    We are now working concertedly with the UT Government of Ladakh to facilitate tourism in the border areas and encourage of the immense potential that this beautiful part of the country possesses.

    I also take this occasion as an opportunity to exhort all ranks of Northern Command to be prepared for a variety of challenges on the internal and external security front. I wish to reiterate that “Our Flag does not fly because of the winds that move it; it flies with the last breath of soldiers who have sacrificed themselves protecting it”. The Nation looks up to us in times of crisis and we have to live up to the hopes and trust reposed on us by our countrymen. I urge the involvement and cooperation of all stakeholders in implementing the new dynamic “Agnipath Scheme” and in guiding the “Agniveers” for performing to their optimum potential.

    Being an important pillar of the Comprehensive National Power of the Nation, it is the responsibility of the Indian Army that we should always be prepared. It is imperative that Northern Command remains fully aligned and integrated with national goals and objectives and in doing so it is committed to achieving jointness and integration with our sister services the IAF and IN. We must ensure that from the security point of view, there should be no hindrance in the Nation Building Process.

    The lessons from ongoing Russia-Ukraine War have brought forth many lessons such as the employment of Disruptive and Dual-Use Technologies. Information Warfare, Cyber and Space have emerged as new domains of warfare. Gray Zone Warfare in both the Kinetic and Non-Kinetic domain is a challenge and we have adapted well to the ambiguities associated with these strategies. It is essential that we equip ourselves, progressively factor and consider these peculiarities to facilitate better and more effective warfighting.

    On this momentous occasion, I also wish to express my gratitude to the people of Jammu– Kashmir and Ladakh, the civil administration and the media for their unstinted support. I reiterate that a participative approach by all stakeholders will allow us to address the daunting challenges that we face in front of us. We wish a brighter future for all.

    In the end, I pray to the almighty for peace and contentment for the people of this region. The ‘Whole of Nation’ approach resulted in a progressive improvement in the security situation in Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. The extraordinary zeal and motivation among all ranks reassure me that the security of our borders is in safe and assured hands.

     

     

     

     

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    ( With inputs from : kashmirlife.net )

  • Kashmir witnessing concerning rise in narco-terrorism: Northern Army Commander

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    Umaisar Gull Ganie

    Srinagar, Feb 07: Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, GOC-in-C, Northern Command on Tuesday said that Kashmir is witnessing a concerning rise in narco-terrorism and that the Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future.

    Addressing a gathering at the first segment of the Investiture Ceremony at BB Cantt, Srinagar, Northern Army Commander, as per the news agency-Kashmir News Observer (KNO) stated that the Northern Command is in a high state of readiness and morale to face constantly evolving threats and challenges.

    “The security situation in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh poses many challenges in terrain and operational dynamics, especially from different adversaries along the Northern and Western Borders. We are committed to defending India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while upholding the democratic traditions of the Nation,” he said. He further added that they are maintaining a constant vigil, monitoring all developments and will take all necessary steps to protect the national interests.

    “Indian Army is prepared to meet any challenges in the future and will always work for the betterment of the people of the Region. The last two years have brought to the fore newer challenges in the wake of abrogation of Article 370, the Galwan conflict and multiple waves of COVID-19,” he said.

    The Northern Army Commander added that these challenges have only served to strengthen the resolve to be steadfast and determined in their commitment. “The situation along the LOC has remained stable and the ceasefire understanding continues to sustain. A very strict vigil and a robust technology enabled multi-tiered counter infiltration grid is being maintained to thwart any attempts of infiltration,” the Army officer added.

    He added that the ceasefire violations, infiltration bids or any other misadventure attempted by the adversary will be dealt with firmly. “Numerous infiltration bids have been foiled in the last year. The highest standards of professionalism and joint-ness displayed by the troops in all dimensions of Counter Terror Operations has nullified and limited the kinetic threat.”

    Kashmir is witnessing a concerning rise in narco-terrorism, as Pakistan is now using this as a new tool in its proxy war, he said, adding that of late, a dual strategy of sending across drugs as well as weapons through drones is being employed to keep the fire burning in an attempt to disrupt the social fabric. “The cross-border smuggling of narcotics provides a succor to terrorism. The security forces are alive to this trend and have already initiated counter drone measures to curb the menace,” he said.

    “Our focus continues to reinforce our intelligence setup by synergising with all stakeholders & sister agencies, to usher in peace and undertake developmental activities. The overall situation is progressively improving and a positive and conducive environment for accelerating the developmental initiatives of the government has been created. The dividends of peace and stability are reaching people in far flung areas and they are participating wholeheartedly to preserve and sustain this peace,” he further added.

    On the LAC situation, he said that Army’s response to Chinese attempts to unilaterally change the status quo was a swift, undaunted and synergised action by the Indian Armed Forces. “Any adverse aggressive designs or attempts will definitely be met with appropriate posturing of forces and a strong intent with complete synergy amongst the three services,” he said.

    He also said that the measures to resolve the LAC situation at diplomatic and operational levels are also simultaneously underway. “I assure you that the LAC in Eastern Ladakh is being dominated by physical patrolling and through technical means and our territorial integrity is being ensured. Restoration of peace and tranquility to enable progress in bilateral relations has been and will remain our constant endeavour,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Army Commander presented COAS ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ GOC-in-C Northern Command ‘Unit Appreciation’ and the GOC-in-C Northern Command Certificate of Appreciation’ to deserving units, who have excelled in operation during their tenure.

    He further extended his compliments to the battalions for their inspiring acts in the highest traditions of the Army. The Army Commander Commended all ranks of Northern Command for their dedication and devotion to duty in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. He also conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the soldiers, who made the supreme sacrifice while facing adverse situations.

    The General Officer also brought out that the ‘Whole of Nation Approach’ has led to the progressive improvement in the security situation in J&K and Ladakh. He emphasised upon the ‘Whole of Nation Approach’ to meet the challenges and thus reposed full faith in the support forthcoming from the Union Government and the nation at large.

    Lt General Dwivedi also expressed his gratitude to the people of J&K and Ladakh, the civil administration and the media for their unstinted support and wished for peace and contentment for the people of this region—(KNO)

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    ( With inputs from : roshankashmir.net )