India Confronts Pakistan on Terrorism Threats Amid Credible Intelligence

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh addressed chief ministers on internal security, citing "credible information" on terrorist plans in Pakistan. Singh's remarks came despite a joint statement de-linking talks from anti-terror action by Pakistan. The threat from Pakistan-based groups remains a concern, with a surge in infiltration this year. Home Minister P Chidambaram emphasized that better intelligence and preparedness have helped thwart potential terror attacks, but the threat has not vanished.

Key Takeaways:

The Indian government has "credible information" of plans by terrorist groups in Pakistan to carry out attacks in India, according to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Singh emphasized that cross-border terrorism remains the most pervasive threat, and there has been a surge in infiltration this year.
Home Minister P Chidambaram stated that better intelligence and preparedness have helped thwart potential terror attacks, but the threat has not been eliminated.
Intelligence agencies estimate that nearly 200 terrorists have infiltrated into India already this year, as against 342 in all of 2008.
The infiltrators are increasingly better trained, equipped, and connected, with some using global positioning systems, satellite phones, and sophisticated communications.
Singh acknowledged disturbing trends in Jammu and Kashmir, including a surge in infiltrations by more battle-hardened and equipped individuals.

Statistics:

200 terrorists have infiltrated into India this year, up from 342 in all of 2008.
The infiltrators are increasingly using global positioning systems, satellite phones, and sophisticated communications.
The low violence profile in Jammu and Kashmir belies a surge in infiltrations by more battle-hardened and equipped individuals.

Sources:

"India has 'credible information' of Pakistan terror plans." Hindustan Times, Aug. 18.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.