ISLAMABAD: The grand jirga of Pakistan Army and tribal elders have decided that the return of South Waziristan IDPs from Tank would start from April 30.

Thousands of Mehsud tribesmen were displaced as a result of a military operation against Al-Qaeda and Taliban

Talking to a private news channel, Brigadier Shahid Mehmood appreciated the role of South Waziristan people in the government's efforts against militancy. "The safe and dignified return of Mehsud people is Pak Army's top priority. The damaged infrastructure of education and health has been revived by the army in affected areas while a medical team is also present in the area to provide medical cover to the returning Mehsuds," he said.

"The Mehsuds have proved their patriotism by working with the army and the political administration. We hold their sacrifices in high esteem," he said.

He said the IDPs would be provided ration for six months, tents and other basic items free of cost. He further said the tribal elders assured complete cooperation to the army and political administration in their struggle to establish complete peace in the Agency.