Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a substantial reduction in terror-related incidents since the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2019, with the region experiencing an over 70% decline in such incidents, according to a recent presentation by the Union Home Ministry to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan made the presentation, noting that while the region has seen considerable progress in terms of security, the threat from militant groups like Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad remains a concern.
Mohan’s presentation is particularly significant as it comes after the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories on August 5, 2019. Following the restructuring, the Central Government has taken direct responsibility for law and order in the region.
Civilian Safety Improves Significantly
According to the data presented, civilian casualties in terror-related incidents have dramatically decreased over the last five years. In 2019, 50 civilians were killed, whereas this figure has now dropped to just 14 in 2024. The number of attacks on civilians has also decreased, from 73 in 2019 to 10 this year, marking a sharp decline in violence targeting ordinary citizens.
In 2023, only 5 civilians were killed, almost three times fewer than the number in 2024, showcasing a positive trend in terms of civilian safety.
Decline in Attacks on Security Forces and Infiltration Attempts
The Home Ministry’s data further reveals a sharp decline in the number of attacks on security forces. In 2019, there were 96 attacks, which increased slightly to 111 in 2020 but then steadily decreased in subsequent years. By 2024, attacks on security personnel had fallen to just 5 incidents.
Casualties among security personnel have also seen a significant reduction. In 2019, 77 security personnel were killed in various incidents, but this number has dropped to 7 so far in 2024. The decrease in both attacks and casualties is seen as a sign of effective counterterrorism measures and improved security operations.
Terrorist infiltration attempts have fallen dramatically as well, from 141 in 2019 to just 3 in 2024, indicating stronger border security and successful counter-infiltration operations. However, the Home Ministry noted that the number of terrorists eliminated has also decreased from 142 in 2019 to 44 in 2024, highlighting a shift in counterterrorism strategies.
Vision @ 2047: A Safer and Prosperous Future for India
In its presentation, the Home Ministry also outlined its Vision @ 2047, which aims to create a safe, harmonious, and prosperous India with strong internal security, secure cyberspace, and transparent criminal justice systems. The government is focusing on eliminating terrorist support and financing networks, alongside legal actions against anti-India elements to ensure the safety and security of the region.
Progress in Other Security Areas
Beyond Jammu and Kashmir, the Home Ministry also highlighted progress in reducing violence from other insurgencies. The Naxal violence death toll has dropped from 310 in 2014 to just 61 in 2022, while in the Northeast, casualties from insurgency-related violence decreased from 232 in 2014 to just 8 in 2022.
The Ministry also mentioned its ongoing efforts to tackle the rising narcotics trade, expanding the capacity of the Narcotics Control Bureau and improving scanning and monitoring at ports to prevent the smuggling of drugs.
Cybercrime and Digital Security
The Ministry addressed the growing threat of cybercrime, stating that it is working towards creating a secure digital ecosystem with initiatives such as regional cyber forensic laboratories, state cybersecurity wings, and cyber commando wings in various states. Additionally, cyber hygiene training will be expanded across regions to counter rising cyber threats.
Conclusion
The data presented by the Home Ministry illustrates significant progress in reducing terror-related incidents and improving security in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite the challenges, the Central Government remains committed to maintaining a strong security framework and working towards a safer and more prosperous India.
