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On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi asserted that India’s decisive military response during Operation Sindoor had sent a clear message to Pakistan that those who support terrorism will face severe consequences.
“Operation Sindoor was both a message to Pakistan and a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which left a deep wound on the nation. This time, India did not just mourn; we acted decisively,” Gen. Dwivedi said while addressing a gathering at the Kargil War Memorial on Saturday.
The Army Chief underscored that a firm and immediate response to any adversary has become India’s ‘new normal’.
“With the faith of our countrymen and the free hand given by the government, the Indian Army delivered a befitting surgical response. Any power that challenges India’s unity, integrity, or sovereignty or harms its people will face a decisive response. This is the new normal for India,” he declared.
Gen. Dwivedi said that nine high-value terrorist targets inside Pakistan were eliminated during Operation Sindoor, with zero collateral damage.
“By effectively targeting terror infrastructure, India secured a decisive victory and thwarted Pakistan’s aggressive moves,” he said.
He also criticised Pakistan for its continued provocations:
“India gave peace a chance, but Pakistan resorted to cowardice. The Pakistani actions of May 8 and 9 were responded to effectively. Our air defence stood like an impregnable wall, immune to missiles and drones.”
Strengthening India’s Combat Capabilities
Gen. Dwivedi highlighted the Army’s ongoing modernisation drive:
- A new integrated strike brigade, ‘Rudra’, has been approved, bringing together infantry, mechanised units, armoured forces, artillery, special forces, and UAV units for seamless logistics and combat support.
- A special strike force, ‘Bhairav Light Commando Unit’, is now positioned to deliver swift and unexpected responses at the border.
- Every infantry battalion now includes a dedicated drone platoon.
- The Shaktiban Regiment has been formed within the artillery, equipped with drones, counter-drone systems, and loitering munitions.
- Army Air Defence systems are being upgraded with indigenous missile technology to boost self-reliance and firepower.
Remembering the Sacrifices of Heroes
Reflecting on the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at last year’s silver jubilee celebrations of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Army Chief said:
“This day is not just an Army Day but a festival for the entire nation. The country is safe because of the sacrifices of our heroes on the icy heights. We bow to the brave souls who laid down their lives so we may live with dignity and peace.”
Team BharatShakti
