The Indian government has demonstrated a powerful response to terrorism with the launch of Operation Sindoor, an operation that saw simultaneous strikes on nine terrorist bases located in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). These precision strikes were a direct retaliation to the brutal Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. For the first time in recent history, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly conducted a tri-services operation under a single codename, marking a turning point in India’s defense policy.
According to sources, the targets included terror hubs in Kotli, Muridke, Bahawalpur, Chak Amru, Bhimber, Gulpur, Sialkot, and two sites in Muzaffarabad. Notably, some of these locations, like Muridke and Bahawalpur, are known headquarters of banned terror groups. The military action was labeled “non-escalatory” and deliberately avoided Pakistani military installations to prevent broader conflict. This strategic restraint highlights India’s focus on eliminating terror infrastructure without provoking a conventional war.
Operation Sindoor was initiated at 1:44 am on May 7, 2025, following weeks of diplomatic efforts and national security assessments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held multiple high-level meetings before authorizing the operation, which also involved suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and revoking Pakistani visas. The coordinated nature of this military and diplomatic push indicates a long-term shift in India’s strategic doctrine.
The strikes utilized SCALP cruise missiles and Hammer Smart Bombs, launched from India’s Rafale fighter jets. These advanced munitions ensured deep penetration and pinpoint accuracy against the identified terror targets. As part of the larger plan under Operation Sindoor, Indian forces are also preparing for potential retaliatory actions by Pakistan, including shelling along the Line of Control (LoC).
Following the strikes, Pakistan’s military responded with artillery shelling in border areas like Bhimber Gali. Three Indian civilians lost their lives due to cross-border firing. However, Indian forces have been instructed to maintain calibrated responses to avoid escalation.
Flight operations across key cities like Srinagar, Jammu, and Amritsar have been temporarily halted. Airports in Leh, Jodhpur, and Chandigarh were also affected. The Indian Air Force has issued a NOTAM, halting all civilian and military flight operations across a wide area of Rajasthan due to ongoing drills related to Operation Sindoor.
The strikes were launched just hours before a nationwide civil defense drill involving 244 districts—the first of its kind since the 1971 war. This coincidence further highlights the seriousness with which Indian authorities are treating the threat of cross-border terrorism.
Diplomatic reactions have poured in globally. The Indian government briefed top officials from the United States, including the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of State. While official global condemnation of Pakistan’s terror bases remains muted, nations have expressed concern and urged both sides to exercise restraint.
Operation Sindoor also revives memories of previous strikes like the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrike. However, this time, the coordinated use of all three military branches and enhanced diplomatic groundwork suggest a more comprehensive national security strategy.
The Indian government’s recent emphasis on internal security includes revoking Pakistan’s access to Indian water resources and shutting diplomatic channels. With tensions rising, India has shown it will not hesitate to act unilaterally in its fight against terrorism.
This decisive step under Operation Sindoor reinforces India’s stance that any attack on its soil will meet a resolute, multi-dimensional response. While Pakistan has threatened to suspend the 1972 Simla Agreement, Indian officials remain focused on ensuring internal safety and defending its sovereignty.
As India remains on high alert, further developments under Operation Sindoor are expected, depending on Pakistan’s response. The operation has set a precedent for future counter-terrorism measures and has become a symbol of India’s firm resolve to protect its citizens at all costs.
