On May 7, 2025, India launched a calculated and precise military response to the Pahalgam terror attack that had claimed 26 innocent lives. At 12:37 am, Indian missile strikes targeted nine key locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the notorious Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba’s base in Muridke. This operation, dubbed ‘Operation Sindoor,’ was the result of careful planning, intelligence gathering, and strategic decision-making led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and finally approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Initial Command and Intelligence Gathering
The operation began under the leadership of NSA Ajit Doval, who headed a specialized team tasked with gathering critical intelligence on terror activities within Pakistan and PoK. This team conducted extensive surveillance, tracking terrorist hideouts and movements to ensure accurate target identification. After gathering the required intelligence, Doval briefed Prime Minister Modi, and a well-detailed attack plan was finalized. The goal was clear: to dismantle terrorist hideouts while ensuring minimal collateral damage. Once the plan was confirmed, Doval coordinated with the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) for the final intelligence, which was crucial for the operation’s success.
Execution and Air Strikes
At the stroke of midnight, the Indian Air Force launched the first phase of Operation Sindoor. Fighter jets executed swift and surgical strikes against the terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and PoK. Nine locations were targeted, including the key terrorist bases in Bahawalpur and Muridke. The attack was precise, and the targets were destroyed within minutes, creating chaos in Pakistan. The Ministry of Defence issued a statement confirming the success of the operation, stating that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted, underscoring India’s measured approach and restraint in executing the mission.
The strikes were closely monitored by Prime Minister Modi, ensuring their precise implementation. The success of Operation Sindoor was a significant moment in India’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and dismantle terror infrastructure across the border.
