Supporters of terrorism will not be spared: Army chief Upendra Dwivedi on Kargil Vijay Diwas

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Saturday said India’s Operation Sindoor was a clear and targeted response to cross-border terrorism, sending a firm message to Pakistan that supporters of terror will face direct consequences.

Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, Gen Dwivedi said the army’s action during Operation Sindoor, which followed the terror attack in Pahalgam, reflected a new strategic approach adopted by India.

"Operation Sindoor was a message to Pakistan as well as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which was a deep wound for the entire nation. This time India did not only mourn but showed that the response will be decisive," he said.


He underlined that India had set a “new normal” through swift, direct military responses when provoked. "The faith shown by the countrymen and the free hand given by the government, the Indian Army gave a befitting surgical response. Any power that tries to challenge the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India or harm the people will be given a befitting reply. This is the new normal of India," he said.

Gen Dwivedi said that the operation had achieved its objective by eliminating nine high-value terrorist targets across the border with no 'innocent' hurt.

"India attained a decisive victory by effective targeting of terror infrastructure in Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The army targeted the terrorist infrastructure and foiled the other aggressive moves of Pakistan to attain a decisive victory," he said.

He added that while India had sought peace, Pakistan responded with aggression.

"The Pakistani action on May 8 and 9 was responded to effectively. Our army air defence stood like an impregnable wall which could not be breached by any missile or drones," he said.

Outlining structural reforms and modernisation efforts, the army chief said the force was evolving into a modern combat-ready entity.

"Rudra, all of brigade, is being established for which I gave an approval yesterday. Under this, we will have infantry, mechanised infantry, armoured units, artillery, special forces and unmanned aerial units at one place to provide logistics and combat support," he said.

He also shared that the Bhairav Light Commando Unit has been formed as a dedicated strike unit ready to act on short notice.

"Every infantry battalion now has a drone platoon. In the artillery, the Shaktiban regiment has been set up, which will be equipped with a drone, counter-drone, and loiter munition. Every regiment will have a composite battery equipped with these things," he said.

Gen Dwivedi noted that the army’s future capabilities would grow with the integration of indigenous missile systems into its air defence.

He recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the silver jubilee of the Kargil victory last year, saying that the participation of top leadership underlined the national significance of the day.

"The nation is safe due to the sacrifices made by the heroes at the icy heights. We remember their dedication and determination, and we bow to the brave heroes who laid down their lives so that we can live a peaceful life with dignity," he added.

(With inputs from PTI)