Operation Sindoor - Redefining India's policy against terrorism
On April 22nd, India witnessed a tragic and horrifying incident in the serene meadows of
Pahalgam, Kashmir, where 26 unarmed Indian civilians were brutally killed by the terrorists. The
attackers reportedly forced the victims to recite the Quran (Kalma) before executing them. This
was one of the most severe terror attacks on Indian soil.
For decades, India followed strategic restraint policy in response to terrorism, however, the
landscape of national security changed dramatically with the Pahalgam incident which led to
Operation Sindoor - a bold, calculated, counter-terror retaliation that marked a paradigm shift
in India's policy to deal with terrorism. Operation Sindoor is an epitome of - ‘India will not remain
silent’. Through this strategic retaliation India has shifted its policy against terrorism as - act of
terror means an act of war. The valour of Indian armed Forces proved this very statement; the
calculated strikes on terror infrastructure sites and headquarters in both Pakistan and PoK were
crippled down to dust and dismantled at its roots.
This is not India anymore, which used to seek help from other countries, or absorb the blow, to
avoid escalation. This is now India which works on the doctrine of active deterrence, zero
tolerance, prevention and rapid neutralization, rather than prolonged post - attack investigation,
allowing it to act without waiting for global validation, giving a clear and cut message that
terrorism would be met with force, not with passivity. On that account, Operation Sindoor proved
to be a fitting response to terrorism.
Additionally, Operation Sindoor also highlights the impressive growing role of technology and
real-time intelligence in India’s counter-terrorism operations. Drones, satellite imagery,
night-vision equipment, and thermal scanners were used to track terrorist movements and
monitor the terrain. This showcases the growth of India's digital warfare in its security
infrastructure.
Furthermore, through this operation the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed a national wide
Civil Defence Mock Drill which served as an immediate front readiness response, reducing
citizen vulnerability and ensuring preparedness. The participation of civic volunteers also
highlighted the community wide defence mobilization.
Although India is a peace loving country. However when its sovereignty is attacked, it is
necessary to respond. Operation Sindoor was a turning point in national security, showcasing
the prospect of notwithstanding or tolerating terrorism. Indeed, our honorable Prime Minister
also emphasized on, “ Terror and Talks cannot go together.” This redefined India's policy
against terrorism to a decisive action and in doing so, it not only protected security but also
restored the essence of justice and dignity.We can also cofer that as India continues to face
threats from across the border and within, this model could become the blueprint for future
operations. It blends hard power with smart intelligence and civilian cooperation.
It is important to note that India today stands as a resilient and responsible nation, prepared to
act decisively when circumstances demand. With a firm stance against threats and a
commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, India demonstrates strength, readiness, and the
resolve to strike whenever national security is challenged.
