New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday lauded India’s armed forces for showcasing exceptional coordination and strategic foresight during Operation Sindoor, which successfully dismantled terror infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC).
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan-controlled territories. The operation lasted four days and concluded on May 10, following an understanding to halt military actions after intense cross-border clashes.
Addressing the faculty and course members of the 65th National Defence College (NDC) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Murmu emphasized that India’s evolving geopolitical and security environment demands dynamic and integrated responses. She said the nation is transforming its defence forces into a technologically advanced, multi-domain combat-ready force.
“Our armed forces demonstrated the strength of jointness and strategic foresight during Operation Sindoor. The calibrated tri-service response ensured effective synergy, leading to the successful dismantling of terror infrastructure across and beyond the LoC,” Murmu said, commending the leadership of the armed forces.
Highlighting institutional reforms, the President praised the establishment of the Department of Military Affairs under the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), which has promoted operational jointness. She added that efforts are underway to form Integrated Theatre Commands and Integrated Battle Groups to further strengthen India’s defence capabilities.
Murmu also reflected on India’s ancient values of peace, unity, and preparedness. Citing the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the belief that the world is one family — she said that while peace and universal brotherhood are integral to Indian tradition, the country remains ready to defend humanity and national sovereignty against hostile forces.
Quoting the Mahabharata, she said India’s approach to war and peace emphasizes non-violence but equally stresses courage and duty when conflict becomes inevitable.
“The Gandhi Smriti and the National Defence College facing each other in Delhi symbolically reflect India’s holistic value system — peace on one side and preparedness on the other,” the President remarked.
