Srinagar, May 20 (KNS): Army on Monday said that the number of local youth joining militant ranks has significantly reduced, saying that anti-militancy operations will continue with full vigor.

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command of Army, Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh told media persons that 86 militants have been killed in anti-militancy operations this year so far. He said that the number of local youth joining militant ranks has significantly reduced.

Addressing media persons in Jammu, Singh said that 20 active militants were apprehended this year so far, adding that the security situation at present in the valley was under control.

He also informed that many of the local youth who had joined the militant ranks have returned to the mainstream and joined their families again.

The Army commander also added that Pakistan was continuously promoting cross border infiltration, ceasefire violations and circulation of fake Indian currency, adding that all their actions will be countered and they won’t be allowed to succeed in its plans. (KNS)