New Delhi/Bhuj, Oct 2: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday declared that the Indian military had achieved every objective set under Operation Sindoor, describing the operation as a significant success that highlighted India’s superior defence preparedness and exposed the weaknesses of Pakistan’s air defence system.
Speaking to soldiers at a forward military base in Bhuj, Gujarat, on the occasion of Dussehra before performing the traditional shastra puja (worship of weapons), Singh said Pakistan attempted to challenge India’s defence establishment but failed. He stressed that India’s armed forces, through their calculated and restrained action, delivered a clear message to the world that the country is capable of inflicting “heavy and decisive losses” on its adversaries at a time and place of its choosing.
“During Operation Sindoor, Pakistan made an unsuccessful attempt to penetrate India’s defence system from Leh in the north to Sir Creek in the west,” Singh said. “However, in retaliation, Indian forces completely exposed Pakistan’s air defence apparatus, demonstrating that our military possesses both the capability and the will to strike effectively against those who seek to destabilize our nation.”
The Defence Minister clarified that the Indian response was carefully calibrated. “The purpose of the operation was not to escalate tensions or trigger a full-scale war. Escalation was never the objective. The aim was clear—to respond decisively to terrorism, and in that, our forces have accomplished all the set military goals,” he added.
Singh praised the professionalism, discipline, and courage of India’s armed forces, noting that the operation had also reinforced international confidence in India’s role as a responsible power that exercises restraint even while defending its sovereignty. “India displayed maturity by ensuring that the focus remained firmly on counter-terrorism, and not on war. But let it be known—our fight against terrorism is far from over, and it will continue with the same resolve,” he said.
The remarks came amid continuing tensions with Pakistan over cross-border terrorism. Operation Sindoor, according to officials, was designed to neutralize terror threats and showcase India’s defence capabilities without escalating into a conventional conflict. Military analysts view the operation as a demonstration of India’s readiness to defend its territory across multiple fronts while keeping the larger objective of regional stability intact.
On the occasion of Dussehra, Singh also performed shastra puja, a centuries-old tradition symbolizing respect for weapons as instruments of protection and justice. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the armed forces with modern technology, advanced weaponry, and improved infrastructure.
“India today is far more self-reliant in defence production and is determined to achieve complete Atmanirbharta (self-reliance). This will not only empower our soldiers but also ensure that India never has to depend on others for safeguarding its sovereignty,” Singh said, linking the success of Operation Sindoor to the broader national vision of a strong, independent, and terror-free India. (Agencies)
