Operation Sindoor a Decisive Strike on Terror, Not War: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the Lok Sabha on Monday! (Image Sansad TV, X)
The Defence Minister said that multiple strategic options were considered, but the one chosen ensured maximum damage
By TRH Political Desk
NEW DELHI, July 28, 2025 — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in an address during the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, said “some members ask how many of our planes were lost. I believe this doesn’t reflect the sentiments of our nation. The correct question is: were our soldiers harmed? And the answer is — no.” He hailed the military action as a historic, coordinated, and strategic strike that reasserted India’s policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism.
He paid tribute to the armed forces and reiterated that the operation was not an act of war, but a calibrated response to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. “First and foremost, through this House, I salute our brave soldiers who stand ever ready to protect the nation’s borders. I also pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives to uphold India’s unity and integrity,” Singh began.
He detailed that on May 6 and 7, 2025, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, a joint tri-services action aimed at dismantling terror camps operating across the border. “It was not just a military action; it was a statement of India’s sovereignty, responsibility toward its citizens, and a message to the enemies of peace,” Singh said.
The Defence Minister emphasized that multiple strategic options were considered, but the one chosen ensured maximum damage to terrorist infrastructure while avoiding harm to Pakistani civilians.
- Nine terror infrastructure sites were hit with precision air strikes.
- An estimated 100+ terrorists, handlers, and trainers, mostly from Jaish-e-Mohammed, were neutralized.
- The action was a coordinated effort of the Army, Air Force, and Navy, symbolizing India’s growing tri-services synergy.
Singh praised India’s air defence and counter-drone systems for successfully thwarting Pakistani retaliatory attempts. “Not a single Indian asset was damaged. Our response was bold, decisive, and effective,” he told the House.
He said the Indian Air Force struck at Pakistani air bases, command centres, and military infrastructure on the western front, while ground troops held firm at the LoC and the Navy reinforced the offensive posture.
Operation with a Purpose, Not a War
The Defence Minister clarified that India had no intent to capture territory or escalate into a full-scale conflict. “Operation Sindoor was launched to dismantle terror nurseries nurtured by Pakistan. It was for justice — for the innocent Indian families who lost loved ones in Pak-sponsored attacks,” said the minister.
He revealed that on May 10, after suffering heavy losses and fearing escalation, Pakistan’s DGMO contacted his Indian counterpart to request an end to hostilities. On May 12, both DGMOs formally agreed to pause military actions—though Singh made it clear in Parliament: “This was only a pause. If Pakistan dares again, India will respond with greater force.”
Addressing criticism from sections of the Opposition, Singh said: “Some members ask how many of our planes were lost. I believe this doesn’t reflect the sentiments of our nation. The correct question is: were our soldiers harmed? And the answer is — no.”
He cautioned against trivializing strategic operations and reminded the House that such missions reflect the strength, resolve, and professionalism of India’s defence forces. “This is not a border conflict. This is a clash between civilization and barbarism. Pakistan cannot defeat us on the battlefield, so they export terror,” Singh said.
In closing, Singh asserted: “Operation Sindoor is proof that India will not remain silent if its citizens are targeted. Our political leadership and defence forces will act, without fear or pressure. Our missiles will cross borders, and our soldiers will destroy the enemy at its roots.”
He concluded by reaffirming that India’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, and that justice will be delivered to every citizen wronged by terrorism.
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