Published: May 7, 2025
In a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 6, 2025. The operation targeted nine sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, aiming to dismantle terrorist infrastructure linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen .
Strategic Execution of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor The Indian Air Force executed a 23-minute precision strike using Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs. Targets included Bahawalpur, Muridke, Tehra Kalan, Sialkot, Bhimber, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad . The Ministry of Defence described the strikes as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” emphasizing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted .
Casualties and Damage Assessment
Operation Sindoor India reported the elimination of over 70 militants and injuries to 60 others. However, Pakistan contested these claims, stating that 26 civilians were killed and 35 injured, including women and children . Pakistan also claimed to have shot down five Indian aircraft, including Rafales and a Su-30, and captured Indian soldiers a claim later retracted . India confirmed that three of its jets crashed, with pilots hospitalized.
Pakistan’s Retaliation and Civilian Impact
In response, Pakistan initiated heavy mortar shelling along the Line of Control, resulting in the deaths of three Indian civilians . The conflict led to widespread disruptions: India closed several airports, including those in Srinagar and Jammu, while Pakistan diverted flights to Karachi. Power outages were reported in Muzaffarabad, and schools in Indian Kashmir were closed .
International Reactions
The international community expressed concern over the escalating tensions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for de-escalation and urged both nations to exercise restraint . UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for maximum restraint from both sides .
Domestic Preparedness: Operation Abhyaas
In anticipation of potential escalations, India conducted “Operation Abhyaas,” a nationwide emergency preparedness drill on May 7, 2025. Coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority, the drill involved air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, and evacuation exercises across 244 districts, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad .
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