During a talk at IIT Madras, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi exclusively revealed how they carefully planned and executed Operation Sindoor with both military precision and political resolve.
On Saturday, General Dwivedi spoke about events after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan-based militants carried out the attack.
“On April 22, you are aware of what happened in Pahalgam – it shocked the entire nation,” he said.
He further added, “The very next day, April 23, we sat down for discussions. For the first time, the Raksha Mantri said, ‘Enough is enough’. All three service chiefs agreed that decisive action was needed, and we were given a free hand to decide the course. That kind of political direction and clarity was something we witnessed for the first time.”
On April 25, the Army Chief visited the Northern Command, the hub where Operation Sindoor was devised and directed.
“It was there that we planned, conceptualised, and executed the mission. Out of nine designated targets, seven were destroyed, and a large number of terrorists were neutralised. April 29, of course, was the time when we met the Prime Minister for the first time,” General Dwivedi disclosed.
Grey Zone of Chess
The General likened the operation to a chess game in the ‘grey zone’, short of full-scale war.
“In Operation Sindoor, we played chess. We did not know the enemy’s next move, and they did not know ours. This is called the grey zone – operations that fall just short of a conventional war. We made moves, they countered, and sometimes we delivered checkmate. At other times, we went for the kill, even at the risk of losing our own. That’s what life in uniform is all about,” he explained.
General Dwivedi’s insights highlighted the crucial synergy between military strategy and political leadership. His candid narration gave the IIT Madras audience a rare glimpse into the complexities of modern military operations. He emphasised that strategic patience and calculated risks are essential.
However, Operation Sindoor marked a landmark strike against cross-border terrorism. It showcased India’s capability and determination to respond swiftly to threats. The General praised the troops’ professionalism and dedication, emphasising their readiness and adaptability in confronting evolving challenges.
The mission’s success highlights the growing role of ‘grey zone’ tactics in modern warfare. In these situations, limited military actions coexist with diplomatic efforts to manage conflict escalation.
As India navigates a complex security environment, the lessons from Operation Sindoor offer valuable guidance for future operations. These missions demand a blend of tactical acumen and political foresight.
