CDS General Anil Chauhan stated that Operation Sindoor is still ongoing, and the Indian Army is prepared for any eventuality. He emphasized the importance of strategic skills coupled with technology.
Operation Sindoor: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan clarified at a defense symposium on Friday that Operation Sindoor is still underway, and the Indian Army is prepared to respond to any act of aggression around the clock. He also stated that warfare in the modern era is not solely fought with weapons, but knowledge, technology, and strategy also play a crucial role.
Operation Sindoor: Decisive Action Against Terrorism
General Chauhan said that in response to the Pahalgam attack, the Indian Army carried out precise and aggressive actions under Operation Sindoor against terrorist bases located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). During this operation, more than nine terrorist camps were demolished, including the main command centers of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
He reported that over 100 terrorists were killed in this action. These terrorists were responsible for several deadly attacks in India, including terrorist attacks such as Pulwama (2019) and Mumbai (2008). Following India's retaliatory action, Pakistan attempted attacks on Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10, but the Indian Army retaliated precisely, targeting key Pakistani military installations.
Technology and Strategy: The Foundation of Modern Warfare
CDS Chauhan said at the symposium that the nature of warfare has changed. Now, not only weapons but also knowledge is equally important. He said that today's warrior must be proficient at all three levels: Tactical, Operational, and Strategic. He stated that the army should not be limited to conventional weapons but should also be proficient in technology.
The Third Military Revolution: Envisioning Convergent Warfare
In his address, the CDS referred to the modern warfare system as "Convergent Warfare." He said that this is the third era of warfare, which is a mixture of kinetic and non-kinetic means. It combines elements of first and second-generation warfare with modern third-generation methods.
According to him, this transformation is like a revolution that is creating a new warfare model by combining technology and strategy. Its main objective is to ensure that the Indian Army is mentally, technologically, and strategically prepared for every challenge.
The Balance of 'Shastra and Astra' is Essential
CDS Chauhan emphasized that an army should not only rely on 'Astra,' the power of weapons, but also have a deep understanding of 'Shastra,' knowledge, strategy, and military principles. He said that even in ancient times, warriors were considered effective only when they were proficient in the art of war as well as policy and strategy. The same principle applies today.
24-Hour Readiness
He stated that India's armed forces are ready at all times. Whether it is cross-border terrorism or the threat of cyber attacks, the Indian Army is capable of handling any situation. Operation Sindoor is clear evidence that India's retaliatory strategy is not limited to words but also manifests as action on the ground.
