On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu hailed Operation Sindoor as a defining moment in the nation’s fight against terrorism, calling it “a decisive operation carried out with steely resolve.”
In her address to the nation on Thursday, President Murmu described the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 innocent lives, as “cowardly and utterly inhuman.” She said India’s swift military response — launched on May 7 — demonstrated both the preparedness and professionalism of the armed forces.
Operation Sindoor showed that our armed forces are ready to meet any eventuality when it comes to guarding the nation. It will go down in history as an example in humanity’s fight against terrorism,” she said.
The operation involved precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, neutralising over 100 terrorists. In response to Pakistan’s missile and drone attacks, India successfully defended its territory and retaliated with targeted strikes on Pakistani air bases.
President Murmu emphasised that the mission not only highlighted the bravery of the armed forces but also showcased the strength of India’s indigenous defence capabilities, including Akash and BrahMos missile systems. “This was a test case of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission in the defence sector, and the outcome has proved we are on the right path,” she said.
Underscoring the nation’s unity in the face of the attack, she remarked,
Our collective resolve was the most befitting response to those who sought to divide us. The world has taken note of India’s stance — we will never be aggressors, but we will not hesitate to retaliate to defend our citizens.
