India marks one year of Pahalgam terror attack: PM Modi remembers 26 victims, sends strong message to terror groups

On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the victims of one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years, reaffirming India’s unwavering stance against terrorism and its commitment to national security.

Taking to X, Modi remembered the 26 innocent lives lost in the brutal massacre in Jammu and Kashmir, where Pakistan-backed terrorists targeted tourists after identifying their religion.

“Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss,” he said.


Reinforcing India’s position, the Prime Minister added: “As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed.”

Pahalgam Attack Anniversary: A Grim Reminder of Terror in Kashmir

The Pahalgam terror attack took place on April 22, 2025, when terrorists linked to The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, gunned down 26 people, including 25 tourists and a local resident. Victims were reportedly identified based on religion, making it one of the most chilling religion-based terror attacks in India in recent times.

The incident shocked the nation and triggered a massive counter-terrorism response in Kashmir.

Operation Mahadev: Indian Army’s Counter-Terror Success

Following the attack, the Indian Army launched Operation Mahadev, a large-scale manhunt across difficult Himalayan terrain near Dachigam and Mahadev Ridge.

Over 93 days, forces scanned more than 300 square kilometres of rugged terrain before successfully neutralising the three main perpetrators. The operation underscored India’s counter-terror operations capability and determination to deliver justice.

In a strong message shared on social media, the Army said: “For acts against India, the response is assured. Justice will be served. Always.”

Operation Sindoor and India’s Military Response to Terror

In response to the attack, India also launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Officials described it as a “focused, measured and non-escalatory” action aimed at dismantling terror bases across the border.

The operation marked a significant moment in India’s anti-terror strategy, combining military precision with strategic restraint while sending a clear signal of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

The Indian Army reiterated its stance with a powerful message: “When boundaries of humanity are crossed, the response is decisive. Justice is served. India stands united.”

India-Pakistan Tensions

Following India’s strikes, Pakistan responded with drone incursions and shelling, escalating India-Pakistan tensions 2025. India retaliated with targeted strikes on key installations, leading to significant damage.

Eventually, military officials from both sides reached an understanding to halt hostilities on May 10, 2025, rather than a formal ceasefire. However, sporadic drone intrusions and violations continued, with Indian forces maintaining a high level of vigilance and readiness along the border.

India’s Zero-Tolerance Policy on Terrorism

From Operation Mahadev to Operation Sindoor, India’s response has demonstrated a clear doctrine: swift retaliation, strategic precision, and an uncompromising stance against terror networks.