In early May 2025, India launched a high-stakes military operation named Operation Sindoor. This mission came in the wake of a horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, where 26 Hindu tourists lost their lives on April 22. The attack deeply shocked the nation, prompting the Indian government to respond with precision and purpose.
What Was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was a series of carefully planned airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force on May 6, 2025. The strikes targeted nine specific locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) that were believed to be linked with major terror outfits including Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Rather than being a large-scale military engagement, this operation was designed to be quick, precise, and avoid escalating tensions further. The Indian government made it clear: this was about hitting terrorist infrastructure, not targeting Pakistan’s military or civilian population.
Where Did the Strikes Happen?
The Indian Air Force targeted sites in:
Muzaffarabad and Kotli in PoK
Bahawalpur, Muridke, Tehra Kalan, and Sialkot in Pakistan’s Punjab province
These locations weren’t chosen randomly. Intelligence reports had identified them as bases or training grounds for terrorist groups. For example:
The Markaz Subhan Allah facility in Bahawalpur was linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed.
The Markaz Taiba in Muridke was known to be associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
A facility in Sarjal (Kotli) was identified as a terrorist logistics and training hub.
How Was the Operation Carried Out?
Using Rafale fighter jets equipped with advanced weapons like SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, the Indian Air Force carried out the mission with high precision. One notable detail: Indian jets never crossed into Pakistani airspace. The strikes were executed from within Indian borders, relying on long-range weapons to hit their marks.
The entire operation lasted just under 25 minutes — short, focused, and effective.
What Were the Results?
According to Indian reports, over 70 terrorists were killed and around 60 were injured. The strikes reportedly destroyed multiple terror hideouts, weapons dumps, and training facilities.
Pakistan, however, provided a different version. Officials there reported civilian casualties, including the tragic death of a child, and claimed damage to mosques and homes. These contrasting narratives reflect the ongoing tension and differing perspectives between the two nations.
Why Is It Called Operation Sindoor?
The name “Sindoor” is symbolic. In Indian culture, sindoor is a red powder worn by married Hindu women as a sign of their marital status. In this context, it represents both mourning and remembrance for the victims of the Pahalgam attack. The operation’s name was meant to honor their memory and signal that their loss would not be forgotten.
International Reactions
The global community watched closely. While there was recognition of India’s right to defend itself against terrorism, several countries, including the United States and China, urged restraint. The United Nations called on both India and Pakistan to avoid further escalation and find a peaceful resolution.
Why Does This Matter?
Operation Sindoor marks a shift in India’s approach to cross-border terrorism. Instead of lengthy diplomatic statements or reactive defenses, it showcased India’s ability to act swiftly and decisively. It also highlighted the use of precise intelligence and advanced military technology in addressing modern security threats.
As the region watches what happens next, Operation Sindoor will likely be remembered as a defining moment in India’s ongoing effort to combat terrorism and protect its citizens.