Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Sunday that while the Indian armed forces exercised significant restraint during Operation Sindoor, they possessed the full capability to deliver a much stronger response if the situation had demanded it. The operation was launched in retaliation to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.
Valour and Discipline in Counter-Terror Response
Addressing a gathering after inaugurating 125 infrastructure projects executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) across the country, Singh reflected on the military action undertaken earlier this year. He emphasized that the offensive in May showcased the military's dual strengths of 'capability' and 'discipline' in neutralizing terror threats without allowing the situation to escalate unnecessarily.
"Just a few months ago, we witnessed how, in response to the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, our armed forces executed Operation Sindoor, and the world knows what they did to the terrorists," Singh said, as quoted by PTI.
He added a pointed remark on India's strategic posture: "Of course, we could have done much more had we wanted, but our forces demonstrated not only valour but also restraint, doing only what was necessary."
Coordination and Connectivity: Pillars of Success
The Defence Minister highlighted the exceptional coordination between security forces, local civil administrations, and residents of border areas as a key factor in the operation's success. He specifically expressed gratitude to the citizens of Ladakh and other border regions for their unwavering support.
"During Operation Sindoor, the coordination we witnessed among our armed forces, the civil administration, and the citizens of the border areas was incredible," Singh stated. He described this synergy as a defining element of India's national identity.
Singh placed major emphasis on the role of enhanced border connectivity, facilitated by projects like those of the BRO, in enabling such precise operations. He argued that robust infrastructure is not merely about convenience but forms the backbone of national security.
"Today, our soldiers stand strong in difficult terrains because they have access to roads, real-time communication systems, satellite support, surveillance networks, and logistics connectivity," he explained. He stressed that every second for a border soldier is critical, making seamless connectivity paramount.
Broader Impact on Security and Economy
The minister elaborated that modern communication networks serve a purpose far beyond the military. They allow for regular interaction with troops across the country and are fundamental to societal peace, harmony, and understanding. He affirmed the government's commitment to deepening engagement with border regions, including Ladakh.
Linking infrastructure development to macroeconomic growth, Singh referenced India's 8.2 per cent GDP growth recorded in the second quarter of 2025-26. He noted that improved communication networks, supported by government reforms, have contributed significantly to this positive economic momentum.
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 against terror facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives, most of whom were tourists.
