The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable decline in terrorism-related activities, with new statistics indicating a significant shift in the dynamics of militancy. According to security officials, 80% of active terrorists operating in the region are of Pakistani origin, while local recruitment into terror outfits has dropped to unprecedented levels.

There is ample evidence that fewer citizens in Kashmir are backing terrorism and violence, which is a significant political gain. The trend is encouraging for security forces as terrorists will have fewer guides to bring them back from the launch pad across the Line of Control. They will have less logistical support once they cross the border and will receive less intelligence support. To compensate for this, the terrorist handlers - especially Pakistan's military intelligence agency ISI - will have to train them thoroughly and provide them with more resources, including ammunition, maps and medicine.

Currently, out of the 140 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, about 80 are north of the Pir Panjal range, and the rest are in the Jammu area. Heavy snowfall this year which has been particularly severe has reduced infiltration into north Kashmir. Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have adopted a proactive approach to neutralising threats, targeting terror infrastructure and cutting off financial and logistical support to militant groups.

There are about 60 terrorists at launch pads on the Pakistani side of the Line of Control. There are only 20 launch pads on the north side, but the Poonch-Rajouri sector is easy to infiltrate, and about 40 camps face the Jammu region.

The decline in terrorism and local recruitment in Jammu and Kashmir marks a turning point in the region’s fight against militancy. While the road to lasting peace requires continued effort and caution, the current trends offer hope for a stable and prosperous future for the region and its people.