India explains moving troops to border

NEW DELHI, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- India's government Saturday dismissed claims its movement of more troops to its western border with Pakistan is because of mounting tensions with its neighbor.

Press Trust of India reported that Indian Defense Ministry spokesperson Sitanshu Kar said the troop movements were "normal" and "routine."

Kar was quoted as saying the soldiers are taking part in a winter training exercise in Rajasthan and Punjab.

"Taking into consideration the climatic conditions of Rajasthan throughout the year, winter months are the best months for troops to practice maneuvers and hence these annual training exercises," Kar said.

The Indian government also discounted reports that its army units are replacing border security force troops along the international border with Pakistan.

"There is no change in the peacetime deployment orders issued to the army formations as of today," Kar said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan heightened after the terrorist attacks in Mumbai last month. The Indian officials have blamed the attacks on elements within Pakistan.