Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has revealed details of Pakistan's intentions and the swift response by India during Operation Sindoor. Speaking at a lecture in Pune, Gen Chauhan disclosed that Pakistan aimed to bring India "to its knees in 48 hours" starting on May 10, 2025, at approximately 1 am. However, their plans were thwarted within a mere eight hours due to India's decisive actions.

Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces on May 7, 2025, in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The operation involved eliminating nine terror sites deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to Gen Chauhan, the intent behind Operation Sindoor was to send a clear message that "state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan has to stop," and that India would not tolerate being held "hostage to terror activities" or nuclear blackmail.

In retaliation to India's strikes, Pakistan launched multiple attacks targeting Indian defense and civil installations. However, India responded with precision strikes, inflicting significant damage on several Pakistani air bases. The swift and effective response forced Pakistan to seek de-escalation, with their Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacting their Indian counterpart to request talks.

Gen Chauhan emphasized that India's military forces remained unfazed despite initial setbacks during the operation. He stated that "professional military forces are not affected by setbacks or losses," and that adaptability and learning from mistakes are crucial in warfare. He also highlighted that India had improved its counter-drone systems. Despite acknowledging that India lost some fighter jets in the initial stages of Operation Sindoor, Gen Chauhan asserted that "losses are not important, but outcomes are." He further explained that Pakistan's 48-hour plan to cripple India crumbled in just 8 hours, leading them to call for a ceasefire.

While India initially disclosed striking nine terror camps, a Pakistani dossier has revealed that India hit more targets than initially acknowledged. The dossier, related to Pakistan's Operation Bunyan un Marsoos, indicates that India struck at least seven additional locations, including areas like Peshawar, Jhang, and Hyderabad in Sindh. This revelation underscores the depth and impact of India's military operation, further explaining Pakistan's decision to seek a ceasefire.

Gen Chauhan clarified that Operation Sindoor is not about retribution but about "drawing the limits of tolerance" with Pakistan and ensuring that state-sponsored terrorism comes to an end. He also stated that Operation Sindoor is not over yet, and there is a need to maintain vigilance. The operation reflects India's resolve to not live under the shadow of terror or nuclear blackmail.