Defence Ministry spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Devender Anand said here: "At around 12 p.m today (Wednesday), the Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked firing in Nowshera Sector resulting in critical injuries to a civilian, Bodhraj, aged about 55 years, a resident of Deeing in Nowshera Tehsil.

The Indian troops replied to the Pakistani belligerence "in a befitting manner", the official said.

"Indian Army immediately evacuated the injured for medical aid. However, the individual succumbed to his injuries."

The Army authorities have promised all possible assistance and help to the family of the deceased, Anand said.