New Delhi: For the first time, India has said it is prepared to handle any threat to its security from the Taliban.

Defence Minister AK Antony has said, "The situation in Pakistan is serious. Pakistan must tackle the situation sincerely and seriously. We are ready for any challenge to security, be it from Taliban or any other terrorist group."

The Indian Army Chief added, "We will give an appropriate and strong response to any possible threat from Taliban."

Last week, the new head of the Pakistan Taliban, Hakimullah Mehsud, warned that his men will bring their war to India "after establishing an Islamic state in Pakistan". The warning was issued in footage aired by Britain's Sky News.

Reacting to that warning, Indian officials had told NDTV that they were taking the threat seriously, but that the Taliban's anti-India posturing was aimed at galvanizing support in Pakistan. The Taliban's series of brutal attacks in Lahore and Peshawar over the last 10 days killed more than a hundred people, and saw women and children being taken hostage.