Summary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national address on Operation Sindoor – India's military response to terrorism originating from Pakistan – delivered on 12 May, 2025.
Prime Minister Modi opened his speech by saluting the bravery and effectiveness of India’s armed forces, intelligence agencies, scientists, and all those involved in Operation Sindoor. He dedicated their courage and success to the mothers, sisters, and daughters of India.
The address highlighted the barbaric terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahelgam, where innocent civilians, including children, were brutally murdered while on vacation. PM Modi described this as a deeply painful event for both the nation and him personally.
The entire country, across all sections and political divides, had demanded strong action against the perpetrators. The government, in turn, gave the armed forces complete freedom to respond.
PM Modi emphasized that Operation Sindoor was not just a mission name, but a symbol of the nation’s emotions and resolve. It was a vow for justice, especially after the attack in which terrorists desecrated the sanctity of Indian womanhood.
He noted that on the night of 6 May and into the morning of 7 May, Indian forces precisely struck terrorist bases and training camps located deep inside Pakistan, including in areas like Bahawalpur and Murid, which have historically bred global terrorism.
Over 100 terrorists were killed in these strikes, including top planners and attackers who had evaded justice for decades. Their hideouts were demolished.
After suffering heavy losses, Pakistan responded not by acting against the terrorists, but by launching attacks on Indian schools, religious sites (including gurudwaras and temples), and civilian homes. Pakistan also targeted military facilities.
However, India’s air defense systems successfully intercepted and neutralized Pakistan’s drones and missiles mid-air. PM Modi stated that Pakistan prepared for war at the border, but India responded by striking at its core.
Within three days, India inflicted unprecedented damage on Pakistan’s military assets. This forced Pakistan to seek de-escalation, eventually contacting Indian officials on 10 May to propose a ceasefire.
PM Modi clarified that India had not ended its response but had paused it temporarily after dismantling terror infrastructure and receiving assurance from Pakistan about ceasing military and terror activity.
The following clear principles were laid out:
He cited the example of Pakistan’s military officers attending the funerals of dead terrorists as undeniable proof of state-supported terrorism.
Operation Sindoor marked a major shift in modern warfare. India demonstrated its capabilities not just on land and air but in the evolving domains of drone warfare and precision attacks.
The Indian-made defense equipment and systems performed successfully. PM Modi emphasized the growing relevance of Made-in-India defense technology in 21st-century conflict scenarios.
Modi reaffirmed that India’s unity is its biggest strength. Although this is not an age of wars, terrorism has no place in the world either. He warned Pakistan that unless it eliminates its terror infrastructure, it will end up destroying itself.
He reiterated India’s foreign policy stance:
The international community was also reminded that India’s stand is firm and transparent: any dialogue with Pakistan will focus solely on terrorism or Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, PM Modi recalled that peace must be backed by strength. He said India seeks peace, progress, and a prosperous future for all, but it will use its power when necessary to ensure national security.
He ended his address with deep gratitude toward the armed forces and citizens of India, and raised the slogan:
“भारत माता की जय! भारत माता की जय! भारत माता की जय!”
Jai Hind 🇮🇳