Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday lauded Operation Sindoor as a powerful demonstration of India’s political, social, and military will, stating that the Indian Armed Forces had delivered a decisive blow to anti-India elements operating from within Pakistan.
Addressing the virtual inauguration of the BrahMos Aerospace Integration and Testing Facility in Lucknow, Singh said the operation reaffirmed India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and showcased the nation’s evolving strategic strength.
“Operation Sindoor is not just a military operation—it is a symbol of India’s political, social, and military willpower. It reflects our firm resolve and growing strength to act decisively against terrorism,” Singh said.
Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, Singh emphasized that India’s response on May 7 was both strong and precise, targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites deep within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
He highlighted that unlike Pakistan, which has targeted Indian civilians and even places of worship, India has conducted its military operations with restraint, avoiding harm to ordinary civilians across the border.
“The echo of our action reached Rawalpindi, the headquarters of the Pakistani Army,” Singh noted, drawing parallels with past Indian military responses—such as the 2016 surgical strikes after the Uri attack, and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes following Pulwama.
Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “New India,” Singh said the country has made it clear that it will take effective and punitive action against terrorism, whether within its borders or beyond them.
He also acknowledged the bravery of Indian troops and the unity of the nation behind the armed forces. “Today, India is one of the most powerful nations in the world. The entire country is saluting the courage and professionalism of our armed forces,” he added.
Operation Sindoor has since triggered escalations from Pakistan, including the use of artillery and drones, but Indian forces have remained on high alert and are responding proportionately to any provocation.
The Defence Minister’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions and continued military vigilance, even as both India and Pakistan recently agreed to a cessation of hostilities.
