Op Sindoor just the beginning: Armed forces say fight against terror goes on

At a joint press conference marking one year of Operation Sindoor, senior armed officials described it as a defining military moment. They said the operation underscored India's zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, joint force coordination and indigenous capability.

In Short

• Senior officers reviewed strategic gains a year after the Pahalgam attack
• Lt Gen Ghai said government directives gave forces full operational freedom
• Over 65 per cent equipment used during strikes was indigenously developed

On the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, senior officers of the Indian Armed Forces, at a press conference, described it as a defining moment in India’s military history. Addressing a joint briefing, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, Air Marshal Avadhesh Bharti and Vice Admiral AN Pramod highlighted its strategic impact and lessons learnt a year after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

They said that the operation reflected India’s firm resolve to act decisively against terrorism and its support infrastructure. They stated that Indian forces achieved significant operational success, including neutralising multiple enemy assets and inflicting heavy damage on hostile abilities.

Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, who was serving as Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) at the time, began by paying tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. He said Operation Sindoor marked a “major moment” in India’s military history, made possible by clear directives from the government and full operational freedom granted to the armed forces. "Operation Sindoor was NOT an end and it was just the beginning," he said.

Calling the operation a “gold standard” in both military and strategic terms, Lt Gen Ghai highlighted that more than 65 per cent of the defence equipment used was indigenously developed, stressing the strength of India’s push for self-reliance. He also noted that sustained pressure compelled Pakistan to seek de-escalation.

Air Marshal Avadhesh Bharti outlined the Indian Air Force’s role, stating that while operations are currently paused, the guiding principle remains “live and let live”. He also warned that any attempt to exploit India’s restraint would be met with decisive action. He said the first successful strike boosted troop morale and delivered a measure of justice to victims’ families. The Air Force, he added, played a central role in anticipating and countering enemy moves, reaffirming the importance of air power.

Vice Admiral AN Pramod detailed the Indian Navy’s contribution, including the deployment of carrier battle groups and submarines, as well as control over key maritime routes, which added strategic pressure. He said the operation showcased India’s naval strength and readiness on the global stage.

Officials said that Operation Sindoor highlighted India's zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, along with joint force coordination, indigenous capability and decisive execution, setting a new benchmark for future operations.

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