A Defence Ministry statement said: "A terrorist has been killed in Branpathri forest area encounter today. Arms and ammunition have been recovered. The operation is still going on".

Police sources said security forces started a cordon and search operation in Branpathri forest area of Tral tehsil following information about the presence of a group of militants there.

"Hiding militants opened fire at the security forces after the cordon around them was tightened," sources said.