India demonstrated extraordinary composure and maturity during its military response under Operation Sindoor, even though it had the capacity to inflict far greater damage on its adversary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday. His remarks came during the inaugural plenary session of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in New Delhi.
Singh emphasised that after India’s precise strikes on terrorist launchpads and Pakistani military infrastructure, the country had the strategic capability to escalate the situation further. However, guided by the principle that true strength lies in controlled use of power, India chose to halt its operations before inflicting wider destruction.
“You witnessed how our forces first neutralised terrorist hideouts and then targeted the enemy’s air bases,” Singh said, addressing the gathering of industrial and strategic leaders. “We could have gone much further in our response. But power must be accompanied by restraint. We have given the world a powerful message—our strength is not only in our weapons but also in our ability to act with discipline and coordination.”
Operation Sindoor: A decisive response to terrorism
Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian armed forces on May 7, following the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed several innocent lives. The operation targeted terrorist camps affiliated with groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. According to official reports, more than 100 terrorists were eliminated as part of the comprehensive military offensive.
In retaliation to Pakistan’s shelling and attempted drone strikes following the initial Indian response, the Indian military expanded its objectives. It conducted precision attacks on multiple high-value Pakistani targets, including radar stations, communication centers, and key air force installations. These strikes covered a total of 11 different Pakistani sites.
The exchange of hostilities lasted for three days. By May 10, a mutual ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan was announced, bringing the immediate cross-border military engagement to a close.
Singh stated that the consequences of India's actions had sent a clear and stern message to Pakistan about the cost of perpetuating cross-border terrorism. He asserted that India has now completely transformed its diplomatic and strategic posture towards its western neighbor.
“Pakistan has now understood the heavy cost of sponsoring terrorism,” the Defence Minister declared. “We have redesigned and redefined our approach. From now on, the only topics of conversation with Pakistan will be terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. No other issues will be up for discussion.”
"PoK residents are our own people"
In a statement that is likely to provoke a strong reaction from Islamabad, Singh also addressed the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). He expressed a firm belief that the people living in that region are inherently connected to India and will, in due time, choose to reunite with the Indian nation.
“The people of PoK are our brothers and sisters. They are an integral part of the Indian family,” Singh said. “We believe that they will one day return to the Indian fold—willingly, proudly, and with self-respect. Most people in PoK still feel a profound bond with India. Only a handful have been led astray.”
Domestic defence industry comes of age
The Defence Minister also used the platform to highlight the advancements made by India’s indigenous defence manufacturing sector. He attributed the operational success of Operation Sindoor largely to domestically developed military systems and technology.
“Our indigenous military systems delivered a resounding impact during Operation Sindoor,” Singh said. “The world has been taken aback by the capabilities we demonstrated. This operation has proved that our ‘Make in India’ initiative is vital not only for economic progress but also for ensuring national security.”
The event also saw a special moment of recognition for the leadership of India’s armed forces. The chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force were honored for their strategic direction and execution of Operation Sindoor. Their efforts were credited with not only achieving tactical success but also reinforcing India’s resolve and reputation on the global stage.
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