In a significant escalation of military tensions between India and Pakistan, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) held a high-profile press conference on May 8, 2025, to discuss the ongoing Operation Sindoor. The operation, which has drawn international attention, was launched in retaliation for a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and Colonel Sofia Qureshi of the Indian Army, provided updates on the operation, detailing India’s strategic military actions and the responses from Pakistan.
As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian forces have successfully neutralized multiple terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoJK). High-value targets were struck in cities such as Lahore, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffarabad, with the operation expanding significantly in scope. Misri stated, "As far as we are concerned, the individuals eliminated at these facilities were terrorists. Giving terrorists state funerals may be a practice in Pakistan," highlighting India's stance on the nature of the targets.
In a demonstration of advanced military capabilities, the Indian Armed Forces deployed Harpy drones equipped with anti-radiation seekers to target Pakistani air defense systems, including a major installation in Lahore. Additionally, the Indian Air Force activated its S-400 missile systems to intercept and neutralize incoming threats from Pakistan, ensuring the safety of Indian airspace.
Furthermore, in a strategic move, India released water from the Baglihar Dam, raising concerns of flooding downstream in Pakistan. This action was viewed as a tactical response to the ongoing conflict and as part of the broader military strategy during Operation Sindoor.
The press conference also addressed the recent uptick in cross-border shelling from Pakistan, which has resulted in civilian casualties. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh reported that 16 innocent lives were lost, including three women and five children, due to unprovoked firing from across the Line of Control (LoC). She emphasized that India was compelled to respond to bring mortar and artillery fire from Pakistan to a halt.
Misri further elaborated on the situation, stating that Pakistan's reputation as the epicenter of global terrorism is well-documented. He referred to the recent targeted attacks by Pakistan on the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir, where a gurudwara in Poonch was hit, resulting in at least three fatalities. Misri underscored the irony of Pakistan's claims of not harboring terrorists while simultaneously attacking civilian populations.
Amidst the military actions, the Indian government has taken precautionary measures domestically. A blackout was enforced in the border districts of Pathankot and Amritsar, and all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts were closed on May 9, 2025, to ensure the safety of students amid rising tensions.
In response to the heightened security situation, major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air issued travel advisories, urging passengers to arrive at airports three hours prior to departure due to enhanced security measures. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has implemented these measures to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding experience for travelers.
On the military front, India successfully neutralized several Pakistani-origin drones and missiles that targeted military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. Defense sources reported that these threats were swiftly countered using established standard operating procedures, with no casualties or material losses reported on the Indian side.
In a notable development, Foreign Secretary Misri dismissed Pakistan's claims of civilian casualties due to Indian strikes, presenting evidence of Pakistan Army personnel attending the funerals of terrorists killed in Operation Sindoor. Misri pointed out that the coffins of these individuals were draped in Pakistani flags, questioning the narrative presented by Pakistan regarding civilian deaths.
As the situation continues to evolve, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level meeting with various ministries to review national preparedness and inter-ministerial coordination in light of the recent developments. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for continued alertness and institutional synergy as the nation navigates this sensitive period.
India's military response has been characterized as focused, measured, and non-escalatory, with officials reiterating that the operations are aimed solely at terrorist infrastructure and not military targets. Misri stated, "Our intention is not to escalate matters, and we are only responding to the escalation." This statement reflects India’s commitment to a defensive posture while addressing provocations from across the border.
Looking ahead, the Indian government plans to urge the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reconsider financial aid to Pakistan, citing the latter's ongoing support for terrorist activities. Misri indicated that India’s executive director at the IMF would present the country’s position during the upcoming board meeting.
The situation remains tense as both countries navigate the complexities of military engagement and diplomatic relations. With the international community closely monitoring developments, the focus remains on achieving stability and security in the region while addressing the underlying issues of terrorism and cross-border aggression.
As Operation Sindoor unfolds, India stands firm in its resolve to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens, demonstrating a commitment to national security that resonates across its borders.
