New Delhi, May 11 – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian military's courage and restraint, highlighting their decisive retaliation against Pakistan’s military bases. Speaking virtually during the inauguration of a BrahMos production unit in Lucknow on Sunday, Singh described Operation Sindoor as not just a military response, but a powerful symbol of India’s political, social, and strategic determination to combat terrorism.
Operation Sindoor: India’s Strong Response
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was a targeted military offensive aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), as a direct response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed numerous innocent lives. Singh emphasized that the operation was a clear message of India’s unwavering commitment to fight terrorism. He further added that this retaliation was not limited to military engagements near the border but extended even to Rawalpindi, the headquarters of the Pakistan Army.Retaliation and Tactical Precision
Through the operation, the Indian forces successfully neutralized seven major terrorist infrastructures, sending a strong message to Pakistan about the repercussions of supporting terrorism. Singh stated, "Through Operation Sindoor, the Indian military has punished those who wiped off the vermilion of many families."In his speech, Singh reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a new India that will not hesitate to take effective action against terrorism, irrespective of the boundaries involved. He noted that while India’s military actions were precise and targeted, Pakistan’s strategy often involved the targeting of civilian areas, including places of worship.
Global Reactions and Ceasefire Agreement
Singh's comments came shortly after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire, halting all military actions on land, air, and sea. However, the Defence Minister highlighted that the military’s actions, especially the strikes on Pakistan’s military infrastructure, underscored India’s resolve to defend its sovereignty.Singh concluded by reiterating that India’s actions were aimed at protecting its citizens and sending a clear signal to those who sponsor terrorism. "The world has seen how India entered Pakistan and carried out multiple strikes after the Pahalgam terror attack," he said.
The inauguration of the BrahMos production unit also marked a significant step towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities, aligning with the government's broader vision of self-reliance in military manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.