PM Modi Salutes Forces on Op Sindoor Anniversary for Pahalgam Response

India on Thursday is marking the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, a decisive military action carried out by Indian armed forces on this day last year against the high-value terror infrastructures and terrorists across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "A year ago, our armed forces displayed unparalleled courage, precision and resolve during Operation Sindoor. They gave a fitting response to those who dared to attack innocent Indians at Pahalgam. The entire nation salutes our forces for their valour."

He said that Operation Sindoor reflected India's firm response against terrorism and an "unwavering commitment" to safeguarding national security.

"It also highlighted the professionalism, preparedness and coordinated strength of our armed forces. At the same time, it showcased the growing jointness among our forces and underlined the strength that India's quest for self-reliance in the defence sector has brought to our national security," the Prime Minister said.

"Today, a year later, we remain as steadfast as ever in our resolve to defeat terrorism and destroy its enabling ecosystem," he added.

In another post, PM Modi said that every citizen of the country should take pride in the courage and valour displayed by the Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor.

"The extraordinary victory achieved by India in Operation Sindoor is an inspiring example of the remarkable valour and patriotism of our brave soldiers. Every citizen of the country takes pride in their indomitable courage, unwavering resolve, and dedication to duty," he added.

The Prime Minister, along with many other leaders, changed his display profile on X. The new photo displays 'Operation Sindoor' written on it and a Tricolour.

Operation Sindoor was carried out in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistan-backed terrorists brutally massacred 26 innocent people. The Resistance Front -- an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) -- claimed responsibility for the attack.

The attackers singled out victims after asking about their religion, forcing them to recite the Islamic 'kalima' to identify non-Muslims. Among those killed were 25 tourists and one local pony ride operator who tried to save the tourists.

Several victims were newly married, and many were shot at close range in front of their families.

In response to the attack, Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' on May 6 and 7, carrying out what officials described as a focused, measured and non-escalatory military action targeting high-value terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

'Operation Sindoor' was a significant demonstration of India's military and strategic capability, combining both military and non-military measures.

The operation successfully neutralised terrorist threats, deterred further aggression and reinforced India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism while maintaining strategic restraint.

- IANS