Enduring Vigilance: Defence Chief Urges Sustained Military Readiness Amidst Ongoing “Operation Sindoor”

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India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, on Friday, July 25, 2025, underscored the critical need for constant and high-level military preparedness, asserting that “Operation Sindoor” remains an ongoing imperative. Speaking at a defense seminar held at Subroto Park, General Chauhan emphasized that the nation’s armed forces must maintain unwavering vigilance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, particularly in the current security climate.

Operation Sindoor, initiated on May 7, 2025, saw the Indian Armed Forces conduct precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). These actions were taken in the aftermath of a barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025 that claimed multiple lives. While the initial phases of the operation involved targeted strikes to dismantle terror networks, the CDS’s recent remarks highlight that the overarching mission of ensuring national security through robust readiness continues.

The operation showcased India’s capacity for calibrated and precise military action, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) playing a crucial role in delivering high-impact air operations. Reports indicated that the IAF successfully struck targets such as Nur Khan Air Base and Rahimyar Khan Air Base, demonstrating the effectiveness of India’s standoff weapons and precision-guided munitions. The Indian Navy also maintained maritime dominance with its Carrier Battle Group, ensuring persistent surveillance and preventing hostile aerial incursions. Furthermore, the Border Security Force (BSF) thwarted infiltration attempts along the International Border, showcasing a comprehensive, multi-domain response.

General Chauhan stressed that there are “no runners-up in a war,” underscoring that maintaining a superior operational posture is non-negotiable for any military. He further articulated a vision for the future soldier, envisioning a blend of “information warriors, technology warriors, and scholar warriors,” a testament to the evolving nature of modern conflict.

The ongoing nature of Operation Sindoor, even after initial significant engagements concluded by May 10, signifies that India views the threat landscape as persistent and dynamic. This posture reflects a strategic shift towards proactive deterrence and a readiness to respond decisively to threats emanating from across the border. The emphasis on sustained alertness reinforces India’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and national interests in a volatile regional environment.