Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force once again on Friday, marking his second interaction with the top military leadership in just a few days, as tensions between India and Pakistan reached their highest point in nearly three decades.
This series of high-level meetings underscores the gravity of the current security situation following a sharp escalation of hostilities between the two countries.
The latest spike in tensions began on Wednesday when India launched precision air strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. These strikes were carried out in retaliation for a brutal terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region two weeks earlier, in which 26 people—mostly tourists—lost their lives.
In retaliation, on the intervening night of May 8-9, Pakistan launched a coordinated series of attacks along the western border. According to the Indian Army, the Pakistani offensive included the use of drones and various types of munitions.
These attacks were met with a strong Indian response and were successfully repelled. Additionally, Pakistani troops carried out multiple ceasefire violations (CFVs) along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, which were also met with a “befitting reply”, the Army said.
Defence officials highlighted that the indigenously developed Akash surface-to-air missile system played a pivotal role in neutralising the Pakistani drone threats. The Akash systems, deployed by both the Indian Army and the Air Force along the Pakistan border, significantly bolstered India’s air defence capabilities during the attacks.
“The Pakistan Armed Forces launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along the entire western border on the night of May 8-9. Pakistani troops also resorted to numerous ceasefire violations along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. The drone attacks were effectively repulsed and a firm response was given to the CFVs,” the Indian Army stated.
The Army further affirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, declaring that any hostile action would be met with decisive force.
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In parallel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh convened a comprehensive review of the evolving national security landscape alongside the top brass of the armed forces. This review took place a day after Pakistan’s failed attempt to strike Indian military installations, underscoring the government's alertness and preparedness at the highest levels.
Amid the ongoing conflict, the central government has taken key policy steps to reinforce India's defence posture. In a significant move, the Army Chief has been granted authority to mobilise every officer and enrolled personnel of the Territorial Army (TA) for essential guard duties or full embodiment to supplement the regular armed forces as required.
Additionally, the Centre has directed all states and Union Territories to grant emergency procurement powers to the heads of civil defence authorities. This would enable them to carry out necessary purchases promptly in emergency situations.
The instruction was issued under the provisions of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, to ensure that local administrations are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of hostile actions.
These rapid developments reflect the Centre’s multi-layered response to the increasing hostilities along the India-Pakistan border and underline India’s preparedness to counter any form of aggression.
Also Read: Pak gives communal hue to military conflict, new low : MEA
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