The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced a new lesson focusing on "Operation Sindoor" to school curriculums for students in Classes 3 to 12. This module aims to educate children about India's response to terrorism, specifically referencing the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22 and the subsequent counter-terrorism operations.
Operation Sindoor: A Response to Terror
Operation Sindoor was initiated on May 7 as a military response to the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists killed 26 tourists. The NCERT modules highlight that the attack was carried out on the "direct orders" of Pakistan's military and political leadership, though Pakistan denied any involvement. The aim of the terrorists, according to the module, was "to create fear and religious tension".
President Droupadi Murmu stated that Operation Sindoor would be remembered as a prime example of humanity's fight against terrorism, emphasizing India's firm resolve following the "cowardly and inhuman" Pahalgam attack. She also lauded the country's unity in the face of the attack.
Inside the NCERT Module
The NCERT has created two modules: "Operation Sindoor—A Saga of Valour" for preparatory and middle school students (Classes 3 to 8), and "Operation Sindoor—A Mission of Honour and Bravery" for secondary school students (Classes 9 to 12). The modules aim to raise awareness among students about India's military strength. The module describes Operation Sindoor as more than just a military operation; it was "a promise to protect peace and honour the lives lost".
The modules detail the planning and execution of Operation Sindoor, highlighting the roles played by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. They emphasize that the strikes were precision-based, targeting terror hideouts and training centers in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The strikes targeted nine terror launchpads, including those linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke, and also destroyed key Pakistani military facilities. According to the modules, the "valiant actions" of the Indian Armed Forces compelled the Pakistan Armed Forces to seek an urgent ceasefire.
The modules also highlight India's air defense systems, such as the S-400, which successfully shot down enemy aircraft and prevented enemy drones from causing damage.
India's Fight Against Terrorism
India has been contending with terrorism since its independence and faces threats from various regional groups. Several agencies are involved in counter-terrorism efforts, including intelligence, military, and police organizations. These include state police forces, special security forces, and paramilitary forces. The Army also participates in counterterrorism operations, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is India's external intelligence agency, while the Intelligence Bureau (IB) gathers intelligence within India. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is the lead federal agency for investigating terrorism-related cases.
Broader Implications
The NCERT module highlights the importance of understanding how nations respond to terror threats and the roles of defense, diplomacy, and coordination between ministries in ensuring national security. It also emphasizes the importance of national unity in the face of such threats, noting how people across the country stood together in solidarity after the Pahalgam attack.
While hard security responses are essential, experts emphasize the need for a combination of hard and soft measures to prevent terrorism in the long term. These include community policing, education, and rehabilitation programs. The international community also plays a role through diplomacy, military support, and strategic partnerships.
