In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched precision strikes under a military operation code named ‘Operation Sindoor’ on terrorist infrastructure at nine different sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (“PoK”). The Indian Armed Forces used highly sophisticated and niche technology weapons to carry out the strikes.
Why did India launch Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was India’s response to the deadly April 22 attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, during which 26 innocent civilians were killed. Tensions between India and Pakistan grew after this deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. The attack led to a serious breakdown in relations between the two countries. After the attack, India took several steps meant to punish terror camps based in Pakistan and to send a message to the Pakistan administration that India will not tolerate Pakistan sponsored terrorism. India cut off all trade with Pakistan, closed its borders, and expelled diplomats. India even cancelled the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.
After the strikes, later on May 7 morning, the Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri along with two women officers briefed the country on the details of Operation Sindoor. The two women officers were Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a helicopter pilot. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said, “The Armed forces conducted Operation Sindoor on the night between May 6 and 7 at 1.05 a.m. and 1.30 a.m. Nine terror camps were targeted and completely destroyed. Terror infrastructures such as centres for recruitment, indoctrination and launch pads are present in Pakistan and PoK”.
Where did India strike during Operation Sindoor?
Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed forces targeted the following nine places:
- 2 separate places in Muzaffarabad (PoK)
- 2 separate places in Kotli (PoK)
- 1 place in Bhimber (PoK)
- 2 separate places in Sialkot (Pakistan)
- 1 place in Bahawalpur (Pakistan)
- 1 place in Muridke (Pakistan)
India successfully destroyed these terror camps linked to banned terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen. These groups have carried out many attacks in India. More than 100 terrorists, including five key terrorists responsible for terror attacks in India, were killed during India’s strikes on the terror camps in Pakistan. These locations were identified as key training and operational hubs in Pakistan for terror attacks against India. Further, 11 air bases in Pakistan were also destroyed. Operation Sindoor was executed through the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, conducted from Indian territory.
What happened after Operation Sindoor?
After the launch of Operation Sindoor by India on May 7, Pakistan flew drones and aircrafts into the Indian airspace all across borders, and launched artillery shelling across the Line of Control. India responded to these attacks by Pakistan by use of appropriate force and successfully neutralised the attacks by Pakistan. The Indian Army inflicted heavy damage on Pakistan.
Ceasefire the fighting has stopped
India and Pakistan agreed to halt all military actions on land, air, and sea, with effect from the evening of May 10.
Why did India target terror camps and Pakistan based terror organisations?
There have been several terrorist attacks in India since 2001 where there has been a direct involvement of Pakistan. Despite India giving evidence, Pakistan has refused to take action against terrorist organisations and continues to extend support to them. The examples of major terrorist attacks include: 2001 Parliament attack, 2008 Mumbai attacks, 2011 attacks in Delhi and Mumbai, 2013 Hyderabad, 2015 Gurdaspur, 2016 Uri, 2017 Amarnath Yathra, and 2019 Pulwama. After the recent Pahalgam attack, India decided to give a befitting reply to the terror attacks on India by terror organisations based in Pakistan.
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Civil Drills
On May 7, India carried out mock drills across 244 districts in the country. These drills, codenamed ‘Operation Abhyas’, were held to ensure that the civilians are prepared and aware about safety protocols. During the drills air raid warning sirens were played in some areas and training was conducted for civilians and students on how to protect themselves during a hostile attack. These mock drills are like fire safety and earthquake drills that you may have at your school. The main reason for conducting the drills was to ensure that everyone stays calm and is prepared.
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If you feel or felt anxious after hearing about Operation Sindoor, here are a few things you can do:
- Talk to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, or school counselor about how you are feeling.
- Ask questions if you are confused or scared. Adults can help explain what’s happening in a way that’s easier to understand and reassure you that you are safe.
- Focus on calming activities like drawing, reading, playing games, or spending time with friends and family to help distract from anxious thoughts.
- Remember that safety measures are in place. The Indian government and armed forces worked together to keep everyone safe.
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