Encounters have increased in border areas: Parrikar

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday asserted that there has been an increase in the number of encounters taking place in the border areas.

The Defence Minister, however, downplayed a poser when asked about the increase in terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Parrikar's remark assumes significance in wake of the militant attack on a CRPF convoy in Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir, in which eight security personnel were martyred.

In the fierce gun-battle that took place on June 25 evening, 24 CRPF jawans were also injured.

According to a recent intelligence review, 73 terrorists have been gunned down till date while the number was 34 in the corresponding period last year.