New Delhi, Aug 26 : Expressing concern over rising infiltration bids by militants and ceasefire violations by Pakistan, Defence Minister AK Antony on Tuesday said the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) should be maintained. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of the 'INDAIR-08: Strategic partnering of IAF and Industry on Modernisation and Indigenisation' seminar at Vigyan Bhavan here, Antony said: "The border firing and attempts at infiltration are a matter of concern."

"Our forces are doing their best to prevent these incidents. By and large, they are able to control the situation. Our forces are ready to meet any challenges in the border. So there is no cause for worry," he said.

Antony's comments came hours after a group of armed militants reportedly sneaked into the Indian territory through Kanachak border in Jammu and Kashmir under the cover of firing from the Pakistani side. The reports added that the search is going on for the infiltration.

In another incident, four personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF) were injured in Poonch district when Pakistani forces allegedly opened fire from across the border.

Antony said that India would observe the ceasefire despite violation by the Pakistani troops.

When asked about the simmering situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the Defence Minister urged the agitators to maintain restraint, as any further debate over the current impasse would directly impact India's security.

Antony said: "You know very well the situation, both in the Valley and in Jammu. It is a matter of concern to us. In the rest of the country, there can be political debates. But in J-K, we are playing with the security of the nation. Therefore we have to keep restraint."

"The Government is making all out effort to bring normalcy in the state. The task at hand is difficult. I do not want to say anything more now. Already, the Government stand is very clear," he added.

ANI