Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including tourists, India launched a decisive retaliatory operation named "Operation Sindoor". The operation involved precision strikes against nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The name "Operation Sindoor" itself carries significant weight, serving as a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally chose the name "Operation Sindoor," deliberately invoking the image of "sindoor," the vermillion worn by married Hindu women. This was a direct response to the fact that the Pahalgam attack had particularly affected Indian men, leaving behind widows and grieving families. The name served as a reminder of the grief and loss caused by the attack, as well as a demonstration of India's resolve to not let such acts go unpunished. The Prime Minister emphasized that the operation's name was a deliberate invocation of grief, memory, and resolve.

The operation was a rare display of tri-service coordination, with the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly executing a multi-domain assault. The Indian Air Force struck nine terror hideouts of banned groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. The targets included Jaish's Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, Sarjal camp in Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli, and the Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad. Lashkar's strongholds, such as Markaz Taiba in Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala, and Shwawai Nalla camp in Muzaffarabad, were also hit.

The choice of the name "Sindoor" also resonated deeply within India. It served as a gesture of solidarity with the victims and their families, conveying a message that their loss was recognized and that the nation stood with them. The operation and its name also aimed to reassure the public and send a strong message to those who perpetrate terror.

The operation has received widespread support across the Indian political spectrum. Political leaders have commended the armed forces for their precise strikes on terror targets, emphasizing national unity and accountability in action. The strikes were seen as a befitting reply to those who dare to challenge India's borders, military, and citizens.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that "Operation Sindoor" was launched against terrorist camps after specific inputs and is a testament to the government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.

The United States has also taken note of the situation, with Congressman Shri Thanedar expressing solidarity with India and urging the US to stand with its allies against terrorism. The UK stated that it stands ready to support both India and Pakistan to move towards dialogue and de-escalation.

"Operation Sindoor" was not only a military response but also a powerful statement of intent and solidarity. The name itself served as a constant reminder of the human cost of terrorism and India's unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens.