Ram Rattan Sharma
Operation Sindoor was an Indian military operation launched on May 7, 2025, in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. The need and urgency for operation Sindoor arose directly from the Pahalgam terror attack.
Retaliation against terrorism:-The primary and most, immediate need was to retaliate decisively against the Pakistan backed terrorists responsible for the brutal killing of innocent civilians. India deemed it crucial to send a strong message that such acts of terror would not go unpunished.
Dismantling terror infrastructure:-The operation aimed to dismantle terror infrastructure across the line of control and deep with in Pakistan.This included destroying terror launch pads, training camps, and related military posts that facilitated infiltration and supported terrorists activities.
Deterrence and redefining rules of engagement:-Operation Sindoor was seen as a turning point in India’s counter terrorism strategy. It aimed to define the rules of engagement by demonstrating India’s willingness and capability to conduct precision strikes deep inside enemy territory utilising advanced technology and at a scale and intensity that would deter future cross border terrorism. It signalled shift from a purely reactive defense to an assertive restrained response.
Protecting civilian lives:-The Pahalgam attack specifically targeted Hindu tourists, highlighting a shift in asyanmetric warfare to increasingly target unarmed civilians. This underscored the urgency of eliminate threats that directly endangered civilian lives.
Showcasing military capability and technological advancement:-The operation provided an opportunity to showcase India’s enhanced military capabilities, including the effective use of indigenous high-tech systems like drones, guided munitions and electronic warfare assets. The swift and precise strikes, executed without loss of Indian assets, demonstrated India’s technological edge and coordinated tri services synergy. (Army, Air force and Navy)
Sending a clear message to Pakistan:-By targeting not only terror strong holds but also Pakistani military installations including air bases and air bases and air defence systems, India aimed to convey a clear message that it would hold Pakistan accountable for harboring and supporting terrorism. The panic observed with in the Pakistan army and their subsequent requests for a ceasefireunder scored the impact of the operation.
Strategic pause-not end of operation:-While a fragile ceasefire has been achieved, Indian officials have clarified that operation Sindoor is a “Strategic pause”, indicating that the underlying massage and capability to strike remain active if cross border terrorism continues. This further emphazies the long term strategic need for such an operation to maintain deterrence.
In essence, operation Sindoor was a necessary and urgent response to a grave act of terrorism, aimed at finishing perpetrators degrading terror capabilities, deterring future attacks, and asserting India’s evolving military doctrine.
(The Author is Former Deputy Librarian, University of Jammu)
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