Army Chief on Operation Sindoor: Indian Army Awaited Just One Mistake from Pakistan, Tanks Were Ready for Ground Action

New Delhi, January 13:
Ahead of Army Day on January 15, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi delivered a strong and unambiguous message to Pakistan, stating that Operation Sindoor is not over yet and that the Indian Army remains fully prepared to respond decisively to any provocation.

Addressing a press conference, General Dwivedi revealed that during Operation Sindoor, conducted in May, the Indian Army was not only executing precision strikes but was also fully prepared for ground operations inside Pakistan. “We were waiting for just one mistake from Pakistan. Our tanks and ground forces were ready to move in,” the Army Chief said.

Ground Action Was a Real Option

General Dwivedi disclosed that during the operation, Indian armed forces had targeted multiple terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). More than 100 terrorists were neutralised during the operation, which began on May 7 and continued for 88 hours until May 10.

He emphasized that the Indian Army had complete operational freedom and clear political directives, enabling swift and precise action. “The preparedness for ground action was real, not theoretical,” he said, underlining the seriousness of India’s military posture during the operation.

Terror Infrastructure Destroyed in 88 Hours

The Army Chief said that the sustained and accurate strikes during the 88-hour-long operation completely dismantled the enemy’s terror infrastructure. Pakistan’s attempts to retaliate using missiles and drones were successfully thwarted by Indian forces. In response, India carried out strikes on Pakistani airfields, demonstrating its ability to escalate if required. A ceasefire was subsequently announced on May 10.

Strong Tri-Service Coordination

General Dwivedi highlighted that Operation Sindoor showcased exemplary tri-service synergy, with the Army, Navy and Air Force working in seamless coordination. “This level of jointness significantly enhanced the effectiveness of the operation and sent a clear message to the adversary,” he said.

Situation in Jammu and Kashmir

On the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army Chief said conditions remain sensitive but firmly under control. He noted that terrorist recruitment has almost come to a halt, with only two new recruits reported in 2025. The number of local terrorists has dropped to single digits, indicating a positive shift on the ground.

He also revealed that 31 terrorists were eliminated in 2025, of whom nearly 65 percent were of Pakistani origin. The three perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack were neutralised in Operation Mahadev, he added.

No Nuclear Discussion

Addressing concerns over nuclear escalation, General Dwivedi clarified that there was no discussion on nuclear weapons during military-level talks. “During DGMO-level interactions, nuclear issues were not raised. Pakistan’s nuclear rhetoric had no impact on our operational decisions,” he said.

Clear Warning to Pakistan

Concluding his remarks, the Army Chief reiterated that India’s armed forces remain vigilant and capable. “Operation Sindoor altered the enemy’s strategic calculations. If Pakistan commits any misadventure in the future, the response will be swift, precise and decisive,” he warned.

The statements underscore India’s firm stance on national security and its readiness to counter terrorism with strength, coordination and resolve.