In a powerful demonstration of national resolve, India's defence ministry has hailed Operation Sindoor as a defining and resounding success in the nation's fight against terrorism. The meticulously planned military action, executed in the early hours of May 7, 2025, delivered a calibrated and decisive blow to the heart of Pakistan-based terror infrastructure, marking a pivotal moment in India's security history.
The Catalyst and The Strike
The operation was a direct response to the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian civilians. Demonstrating a strategic shift from a defensive to an offensive posture, the Indian armed forces launched a series of precision missile strikes targeting nine terror camps located within Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes, which neutralised at least 100 terrorists, triggered a four-day military conflict between the two neighbouring nations.
The defence ministry stated that the operation sent an unambiguous global message: India will not tolerate terrorism and sponsors of terror will face the full force of retribution. It was powered by what the government termed a "transitional shift" in India's counter-terrorism policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
A Multi-Domain Show of Strength and Self-Reliance
Operation Sindoor was not confined to traditional warfare domains. It showcased an unmatched multi-domain capability, executed simultaneously across land, maritime, and air, as well as in the emerging frontiers of cyber, space, and information warfare. This highlighted India's sustained focus on capability development and joint operational synergy.
A cornerstone of the operation's success was the effective use of indigenous technology. The performance of home-grown weapon systems and technologies in live combat served as a robust validation of India's 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) vision in defence. From drone warfare and layered air defence to electronic warfare, the mission marked a significant milestone in India's journey toward technological self-sufficiency in military operations.
The tri-Service coordination was described as exemplary. While the Indian Air Force led aerial attacks, the Army stood firm on the Line of Control, delivering a "befitting reply" to Pakistani actions. The Indian Navy, maintaining a strong posture in the north Arabian Sea, signalled India's capability to strike vital Pakistani bases from the sea.
Pakistan's Retaliation and India's Robust Defence
On May 10, around 1:30 AM, Pakistan launched a massive counter-attack targeting IAF bases, army depots, airports, and cantonments using missiles, drones, rockets, and electronic warfare technologies. However, India's integrated air defence, counter-drone systems, and electronic equipment completely thwarted the assault. The ministry reported that the adversary failed to damage any vital Indian assets.
Following this failed retaliation, Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted his Indian counterpart on May 10, appealing for a halt to military operations. Formal talks on May 12 led to a mutual decision to cease hostilities.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed Parliament that Operation Sindoor had been halted, not ended, issuing a stern warning: "If Pakistan again tries to carry out any nefarious act, we are fully prepared for an even more intense and decisive action." He emphasised that India's action was an act of self-defence, being "neither provocative nor expansionist."
The ministry concluded that from Operation Sindoor to future-ready visions like Mission Sudarshan Chakra, and from record defence production to equipping soldiers with cutting-edge technology, 2025 offered a glimpse of a secure, self-reliant, and prosperous India, firmly committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and integrity.
