As Pakistan continues ‘bleed India with thousand cuts’ policy, our forces ready for befitting reply: Rajnath Singh in J&K

He also praised the forces for their 'relentless' efforts in curbing the terror activities.

"Our neighbour has always resorted to anti-India activities. The state also witnessed terror activities in the past. Due to the relentless efforts of the personnel of the Armed Forces, BSF, CRPF & J&K Police, there has been a significant decline in the number of terror activities in the state recently," Singh said.

"Pakistan continuously tries to disturb peace in the country through its approach of bleed India with a thousand cuts. But, our security forces are such a protective shield for this country that whoever tries to break it, bleeds himself. The nation has immense faith in our forces who are always ready to deal with any situation,” he added.

Singh, who is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory, undertook a first-hand assessment of the situation in the formations looking after the Line of Control (LoC) and forward areas in North Kashmir.

He was briefed on the existing ceasefire agreement on the LoC, development works on field fortifications, counter-infiltration grid, operational preparedness and Army-citizen connections in border areas.

Singh interacted with the personnel of the Armed Forces, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and J&K Police.

Addressing the personnel, he commended them for fulfilling their responsibilities efficiently even in challenging situations, describing their valour and zeal as remarkable.

He praised the excellent synergy exhibited by all sections of civil administration, J&K Police, Central Armed Police Forces and other security agencies in projecting a ‘Whole of Government’ approach that has resulted in the improvement of the security situation conducive to fostering a new era of development in the region.

The Defence Minister lauded the security personnel for serving the country with indomitable courage and dedication and instilling a sense of national pride in the people, especially the youth.

Reiterating that India is a peace-loving country which has given the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the whole world is one family) to the world, Singh asserted that “we have never tried to hurt any country in any way, nor have we tried to capture even an inch of anyone’s land."

He, however, assured that if an attempt is ever made to hurt the unity and integrity of the nation, the Armed Forces will give a befitting reply.

He exuded confidence that the Armed Forces will face the future challenges with full strength and that their valour and dedication will build a golden future for the country.