Pakistani troops today violated the ceasefire twice by firing and shelling along the International Border in Jammu district and the Line of Control in Poonch, prompting retaliation from the security forces.

Pakistan rangers resorted to small arms firing on BrahmanBella and Raipur border outposts along the border in Pargwal sector of the Akhnoor belt in Jammu from 3.15 pm today, a police officer said.

At 3.45 hours, Pak rangers also fired mortar shells along IB, he said adding that the BSF retaliated.

There was no loss of life or injury to any one so far, he said.

The Pakistan Army resorted to firing and shelling on Indian posts along the LoC in Mankote, Sabjian and Digwar areas in Poonch from 3 pm onwards, another officer said.

Pakistani forces have violated the ceasefire several times in recent days, officials said.

Incidents of ceasefire violation by Pakistan have increased sharply this year.

Till August 1, there were 285 such violations by the Pakistan Army, while in 2016, the number was significantly less at 228 for the entire year, according to Army figures. -- PTI