On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu hailed Operation Sindoor as a landmark moment in the country’s fight against terrorism, describing it as an example of “decisive action carried out with steely resolve.”
Referring to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians and was denounced by her as “cowardly and utterly inhuman,” the President praised India’s rapid military response. Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, involved precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, eliminating over 100 terrorists.
Pakistan retaliated with missile and drone attacks, but India’s defences — bolstered by indigenous systems like Akash surface-to-air missiles and BrahMos cruise missiles — successfully intercepted them. India then conducted retaliatory strikes on Pakistan’s air bases. The operation was lauded for its accuracy, restraint, and demonstration of Atmanirbhar Bharat capabilities in the defence sector.
President Murmu stressed that the country’s united response after Pahalgam was “the most befitting answer to those who wanted to divide us.” She also highlighted that India will never be the aggressor, but “will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens.”
Calling Operation Sindoor a “test case” for self-reliance in defence, she said its success proved that India is “on the right path” toward strengthening indigenous military capabilities.
