The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General MM Naravane Thursday conducted first hand assessment of the prevailing security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir.

Immediately after landing in Srinagar General Naravane proceeded to the forward areas along with top brass of the Northern Command.

Later in the day, the COAS reviewed the overall security situation along with the Northern Army Commander and Chinar Corps Commander. He was also briefed by the commanders in the hinterland.

Defence Spokesman in Srinagar Col Rajesh Kalia said, “During his interaction with the soldiers deployed in high altitude areas, Genereal MM Naravane appreciated their high morale and complimented them on their response to Pakistan ceasefire violations.”

He also commended use of technology to ensure effective day and night surveillance across the LoC which has resulted in many successful operations to foil infiltration bids from POK in the recent past.

The COAS reinforced the need to extend all possible support to civilians residing in the border areas who are victims of targeted ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army and are facing hardships due to the pandemic.

The COAS alo appreciated the high level of coordination amongst all government agencies towards maintaining peace in the valley and efforts to reach out to the “Awam” to overcome the challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic.

The COAS also called on Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor of the UT of Jammu & Kashmir where he discussed issues concerning the present security situation in the Union Territory and assured the wholehearted support of the Army in ushering in peace and stability in the region.