This winter there will be less troops in Jammu and Kashmir.

A week ahead of his proposed visit to the state, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday night made an announcement in this regard.

"During the past several months, the Indian Army and other security forces deployed in the state of Jammu and Kashmir have achieved success in bringing about an improvement in the security situation in the state," Singh said in a statement.

He said effective counter-infiltration measures and mobilising the support of the people in the war against terrorism had led to a "visible improvement" in the situation.

"This is reflected in the increased tempo of economic activity, continuing increase in tourist arrivals and a general sense of security among the people."

The PM, however, made it clear that "if the levels of infiltration and terrorist violence increase, more troops as necessary will be redeployed".

"We cannot, however, afford to relax our vigil. We are aware that infiltration attempts from across the border and the LoC continue and the infrastructure of terrorism in the shape of training camps and launching bases remain intact.

"The decision to reduce the deployment of troops would therefore be kept under constant review."

The PM is likely to visit the state on November 17 and 18.