‘Op Sindoor’ key in anti-terror fight; India eyes developed nation by 2047
New Delhi, Aug 14: Terming April 22 Pahalgam terror attack as “cowardly and inhuman”, President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said that our befitting reply made it clear to the world that India won’t succumb and terrorism won’t be tolerated.
President Murmu, while addressing the nation on the eve of 79th Independence Day, condemned the scourge of terrorism that struck the country this year, describing the killing of innocent holidaymakers in Kashmir (Pahalgam) as a barbaric act aimed at dividing the nation. “India responded with remarkable unity, sending a message to the world,” she added.
“India responded in a decisive manner and with steely resolve by launching Operation Sindoor,” she said, adding, “ It (Operation Sindoor) demonstrated that our armed forces are prepared to meet any eventuality when it comes to guarding the nation.”
The President described the ‘Operation Sindoor’ a significant landmark in the global fight against terrorism. “With strategic clarity and technical capability, our armed forces destroyed terrorist hubs across the border,” she said.
“In our response, what was most noticeable was our unity, which is also the most befitting response to those who wanted to divide us. Our unity was on display also in the multi-party delegations of the Members of Parliament that reached out to various nations to explain India’s position. The world has taken note of India’s stance, that we will not be the aggressor, but we will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens,” she said.
She linked this success to growing domestic capability under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. “Our indigenous manufacturing has achieved the critical level that makes us self-sufficient in meeting many of our security requirements.”
She said, “India responded with unity post-terror attack which was the most befitting response to those who wanted to divide us.”
“Operation Sindoor was not only a military success but also a test case for India’s defence self-reliance. The outcome has proved we are on the right path.”
Beyond security, the President also spoke of national development goals. “India is placed on the path of becoming a developed economy by 2047,” she said, citing good governance and zero tolerance for corruption as essential elements of that mission.
She reminded the country of its cultural and economic roots, marking August 7 as National Handloom Day. “Let us resolve to buy and use Indian products,” she urged, connecting the message to the ongoing Swadeshi and Make-in-India efforts.
She also extended greetings to security personnel, civil servants, the judiciary, diplomats, and the diaspora. “With contribution from all of us, we will leave behind a planet in which life will be flourishing in natural order.”
