Operation Sindoor: How India's Strategic Military Action Redefined Warfare Against Pakistan's Terror Hubs

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan emphasized that 'Operation Sindoor' against Pakistan in May established a "new matrix of decision and timing in warfare" while highlighting that warfare involves the entire nation, not solely the armed forces.

Speaking at the 128th Foundation Day celebrations of Scindia School in Gwalior, General Chauhan explained that politicians, diplomats, and military personnel all fulfill essential roles during wartime situations.

Following Operation Sindoor, which involved precise air strikes by Indian forces targeting terrorist strongholds in Pakistan and PoK, a new precedent has been established – diplomacy cannot coexist with terrorism, and India will not tolerate even nuclear threats, affirmed General Chauhan.

"Operation Sindoor created a new matrix of decision and timing in warfare. Many challenges still lie ahead for the armed forces. No war is fought by the armed forces alone; the whole nation fights it. Leaders, diplomats and soldiers know their roles," he stated while addressing students at the event.

The CDS underscored that while military forces are tasked with ensuring national security, nation-building requires collective effort from all citizens.

"The future belongs to India. The coming era belongs to India, and we, the 140 crore people of this country, can achieve this together," he remarked.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, numerous alumni, and parents attended the function held at the historic fort housing the prestigious school.

During the ceremony, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, an alumnus who was instrumental in media briefings during the four-day conflict (May 7-10) with Pakistan, was honored with the Madhav Award.

General Chauhan continued, "The Prime Minister has set a target of 2047 for a developed India. The country will be stronger and more secure in the coming years. We will transform the nation. After Operation Sindoor, a new normal has emerged talks and terrorism cannot go hand in hand."

He also referenced India's sporting dominance over its regional rival.

"The country cannot tolerate even the threat of a nuclear attack. Pakistan thought it could do anything with nuclear capability, but Operation Sindoor proved it wrong. The new normal's impact was visible on Pakistan -- we outperformed it in every field, including sports," the CDS stated.

He emphasized, "Our armed forces work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Wars are now fought using new technologies such as air defence, electronic warfare and drones." Describing the current era as "Amrit Kaal," General Chauhan encouraged young people to contribute toward building a developed India by 2047.

"Our country gave the world the concepts of decimal and zero. Indian minds have always been creative with strong memory and logic," he told the audience primarily comprised of alumni and students' parents.

"Today, our people's intellect is recognised globally. The Prime Minister says we must rid ourselves of the mentality of slavery," he added.

In his address, Union Minister Scindia emphasized that students represent India's future.

"This day is not just a date -- it reminds us of a journey that began 128 years ago. It was the vision of the late Madhav Maharaj, who wanted to create an academy that instils discipline and character. This tradition continues to this day," he explained, discussing the school's historical significance.

Reflecting on the Maratha heritage, the BJP leader noted, "The Marathas stood as the first line of defence for the nation. Mahadji Scindia equipped his army with modern artillery and carried forward Chhatrapati Shivaji's Hindavi Swaraj. Because of the Army's uniform, 140 crore Indians sleep peacefully at night. A nation becomes great through vision and values."

Operation Sindoor transcended being merely a military operation to become a symbol of courage, reflecting India's cultural values, the Union Minister suggested.

"Several enemy bases were destroyed without any loss of civilian life, thanks to technology and teamwork under General Chauhan's leadership," Scindia maintained.

Foreign Secretary Misri, who studied at the institution between 1977 and 1981 and belongs to the 1989 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, reminisced about his formative years at the esteemed school.

"The four years I spent here shaped my career. This award is dedicated to all my teachers and friends who moulded my life and career. It was here that I learnt to face challenges," the senior diplomat concluded.