Claiming that Pakistan has been abetting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir [Images], Chief Minister Ghulam [Images] Nabi Azad Monday said the government was taking all possible easures to curb the violence.

• Quake hits North India

"Pakistan has an agenda to abet terrorism in the Valley, but we are equally resolved to defeat it," Azad told reporters in Ludhiana.

"We have strong determination to curb terrorism and finish it out," he said.

In reply to a question regarding the damage caused by the October 8 earthquake, Azad said that around 1,300 people lost their lives, 50,000 were injured and 95,000 houses had collapsed.

"While three sectors - Poonch, Uri and Dandar -- were totally destroyed, partial damage was caused to certain other areas of Kashmir, which was yet to be ascertained. The survey for that would start soon," he said.

Azad also extended invitation to Punjab industrialists to set up units in the Kashmir Valley and assured full protection.

Labour was available in the Valley at much cheaper rates than in Punjab, he said.

"Moreover, the industry will enjoy several benefits and incentives already announced by the central government," Azad said.