In a televised address to the nation on May 12, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about Operation Sindoor, India's response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. Modi declared that the operation, which involved strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, was "not just an operation but a doctrinal change and a policy against terrorism".
Modi emphasized that "this is not an era of war but also not an era of terrorism," sending a direct message to Pakistan. He stated that India has "only paused" its military action and will retaliate on its own terms if another terror attack occurs. "We will be monitoring every step of Pakistan," Modi added, suggesting that dialogue would only be considered if it pertained to terrorism or the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He asserted that "terror and talks can't go together. Nor can terror and trade".
The Prime Minister affirmed that the armed forces were given full authority to eliminate terrorists after the Pahalgam attack. He declared that "every terrorist and terror organisation now understands the consequences of attempting to harm the dignity and pride of our daughters and sisters". Modi also praised the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and scientists for their courage in fulfilling the goals of Operation Sindoor, which he called "a reflection of the feelings of millions" and "our unwavering commitment to justice".
PM Modi stated that India's missile and drone strikes targeted terror hubs in Pakistan, including locations like Bahawalpur and Muridke, which have long been considered centers of global terrorism. He said that over 100 terrorists were eliminated, and their bases were reduced to ruins. He further claimed that India neutralized incoming Pakistani drones and missiles while Pakistan attacked religious sites, schools, and civilian areas.
Modi underscored that Operation Sindoor demonstrated India's capabilities in deserts and mountains and proved its superiority in new-age warfare. He also highlighted the authenticity of "Made in India" weapons during the operation, suggesting a new era for the country's defense equipment. According to reports, Operation Sindoor has highlighted India's military might and indigenous weapons, with the Akash missile system and anti-drone D-4 system proving effective. The Nagastra-1 and SkyStriker loitering munitions were also reportedly used.
The Prime Minister's address followed reports of a ceasefire brokered with the help of the United States. However, Modi cautioned that Pakistan's support for terrorism would lead to its downfall and that peace could not be achieved unless the terror infrastructure was dismantled. "The way the Pakistani army and the Pakistan government are encouraging terrorism, it will destroy Pakistan one day," he said.
BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra stated that Operation Sindoor was "100% successful" and that Pakistan "did not see them coming". He claimed that Pakistan lost 11 military air bases and that over 100 terrorists were killed. Patra added that the operation sent a strong message against terrorism and showed that every inch of Pakistan was within India's reach.
