Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has asserted that "Operation Sindoor" is not over, but merely paused after Pakistan pleaded for a ceasefire. Singh made these remarks while addressing troops of the Northern Command in Udhampur on the eve of International Yoga Day. He emphasized that India will not tolerate terrorism and is prepared to take further action if its unity and integrity are harmed.

Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, mostly tourists. The operation, carried out on May 6 and 7, targeted terror infrastructure across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Indian armed forces reportedly destroyed nine terror camps and targeted 11 vital military bases. Pakistan is alleged to have lost 35-40 army personnel during the hostilities, which ended after Pakistan sought a ceasefire with India on May 10.

Singh described Operation Sindoor as a "natural progression" of the 2016 surgical strike and the 2019 Balakot airstrike. He commended the armed forces and intelligence agencies for their precision, coordination, and courage in destroying terrorist infrastructure. He further stated that the operation sent a powerful message to terrorists and their supporters that India is assertive, resolute, and will respond with strength and strategy against terrorism.

The Defence Minister also issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that any future terror attacks on Indian soil would face severe consequences. He affirmed that India is ready to take any necessary action against terrorism and that Pakistan's strategy of inflicting "a thousand cuts" on India would not succeed.

Singh highlighted that Operation Sindoor was executed in such a way that Pakistan requested a ceasefire, leading India to pause the operation. He emphasized that the Indian armed forces displayed restraint, balance, and precision during the operation, reflecting their inner strength attained by practicing yoga. He led the armed forces' yoga day celebrations, with around 2,500 soldiers participating in the Northern Command event.

Singh emphasized the importance of physical and mental well-being for soldiers, stating that strength and wellness are crucial in a soldier's life. He urged personnel to focus on maintaining their physical and mental strength, asserting that strong soldiers make strong borders. He also connected the armed forces' yoga practice with their performance during Operation Sindoor, emphasizing the unity and strength gained through yoga in the fight against terrorism.