Operation Sindoor, the Balakot Airstrike, and the Surgical Strikes, all of these operations have one common message: terrorists are no longer safe in their so-called “safe havens.” The Indian Armed Forces have proven their unmatched capability, and the Government of India has demonstrated the political will to authorize deep strikes inside enemy territory, delivering devastating blows.
A Turning Point After 2014
This change in approach came after 2014, when the Narendra Modi-led government took charge. Unlike previous administrations, this government drew a clear red line and showcased the true power of the Armed Forces with decisive retaliation.
Before 2014, India faced regular bombings and terror attacks where hundreds of innocent lives were lost. Yet, political leadership often lacked the will to act. Citizens were left helpless, knowing that despite their anger, justice would rarely be served.
Instead, leaders offered excuses like “we cannot risk a full-scale war” or expressed condolences, followed by endless inquiries that led nowhere. Sometimes, a minister would resign to show “seriousness,” but resignation never equaled accountability. What was needed was action, not symbolism.
Shift in Public Trust
Today, the psyche of the Indian masses has transformed. People now trust the government and the Armed Forces to retaliate decisively.
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The first Surgical Strike in 2016 restored faith in India’s response.
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The Balakot Airstrike in 2019 strengthened that trust further.
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Operation Sindoor has now solidified it completely.
The message is clear: India will not tolerate terrorism, and those behind it will face consequences even across the border.
Professionalism of Indian Armed Forces
Equally important is how the Indian Armed Forces conducted these operations. With precision, professionalism, and control, they ensured strikes were contained and targeted, avoiding escalation into a full-fledged war. This sent a powerful message: terrorists are not safe even in their own homes.
Earlier, citizens would often say India should learn from Israel’s approach on how its intelligence and military hunt down terrorists anywhere in the world. Today, India itself has become an example, setting a new global standard.
A New Template for Political Leaders
The Modi government has set a template for future governments. Regardless of who comes to power, public expectation has shifted. Leaders now face compulsion to act decisively against terrorism because the people demand it.
No one before 2016 would have imagined that India could strike terrorist bases, bomb air bases and headquarters of a nuclear-armed neighbor and yet, India did exactly that. This evolution is something every citizen should take pride in.
Role of Indian Media
The latest action, Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack, also highlighted the positive role of Indian media during wartime. Media outlets helped maintain public morale and actively countered propaganda during the information war on digital platforms. This synergy between the Armed Forces, government, and media created a strong unified front.
The Responsibility of Citizens
As citizens, not all of us can carry guns and fight on the frontlines. But we do share responsibilities:
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Stand with the Armed Forces who sacrifice daily for our safety.
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Support the government that shows the will to act.
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Accept the reality that terrorism cannot be responded with empty gestures of flying pigeons of peace, it demands firm and decisive responses.
Final Thoughts
India has come a long way in its fight against terrorism. From an era of helplessness and excuses to a time of confidence, retaliation, and accountability, the change is visible. Thanks to the Modi government’s firm stance and the professionalism of our Armed Forces, a new template has been set against terrorism, one that future governments cannot ignore.