Centre praises J-K govt efforts on terror front

Addressing country's top police brass here, Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said "I have the pleasure to register my satisfaction with regard to the success of efforts made by all elements of the Jammu and Kashmir Government in ensuring steady progress towards controlling terrorist violence."

He said besides controlling terror activities, the state government had been able in buttressing the confidence of the people about the bright future of their state.

The arrangements at the recent Amarnath pilgrimage, which ended last month, also came in for praise as Home Minister said "excellent arrangements led to a successful Amarnath Yatra this year.

"...The number of tourists to the state has increased significantly, with more than 9.1 lakh tourists having visited so far this year as against about five lakh last year.

Apparently referring to separatist groups, Shinde said "we realise that there are still sections of society in the state, albeit small ones with limited influence, which have grievances.

"Such groups should realise that spirit of accommodation can create the backdrop for democratic aspirations of the people to be achieved."