New Delhi, June 17 : Defence Minister A K Antony will begin his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir today to assess the security situation in the state.

During his visit, Antony will hold meeting with top army and state government officials. He will also visit forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC).

The Minister will discuss security issues, after a detailed briefing by army's Northern Commander Lieutenant General P C Bharadwaj and 15 Corps Commander Lieutenant General Mukesh Sabharwal.

He will also have an overview of the anti-militancy operations and the security apparatus being put in place in the state in view of the assembly elections.

Antony will also examine the progress made in implementing the new norms laid down for acquiring land and buildings to meet the operational needs of the armed forces and on paying higher rentals for these properties.

A high-level delegation comprising Defence Secretary Vijay Singh, Army chief Gen. Deepak Kapoor and special secretary in the home ministry M. L. Kumawat will accompany the Minister. (ANI)