Operation Sindoor was 'just an 88-hour trailer': Army chief says India ready for longer, harder battles if pushed

The Army chief reiterated that India’s position remains unchanged: talks and terror cannot take place simultaneously. He said India expects neighbouring countries to follow peaceful processes, and until then, entities encouraging or sponsoring terrorism will be dealt with accordingly.

Dwivedi added that India 'will take action' against any attempt to obstruct its progress and said the armed forces are not deterred by external pressure.

Lessons from the 88-hour Operation Sindoor

The Army chief highlighted three key takeaways from the operation:

• Faster decision-making:
Operations require rapid decisions at multiple command levels, he said.

• Integration across forces:
Dwivedi emphasised stronger coordination between the Army, Navy, Air Force, CAPF and other security units as modern conflict spans multiple domains.

• Long-war preparedness:
He said India must ensure adequate supplies of food, ammunition and equipment for prolonged operations. While Operation Sindoor lasted 88 hours, future engagements could extend to months or years, he noted.

Context: escalation after Pahalgam attack

Tensions between India and Pakistan rose following the Pakistan-backed Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror hubs and air bases across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The standoff eased after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations initiated peace talks. However, India has maintained that the operation is paused, not terminated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier said any future terror attack would be considered an 'act of war.'

Security situation in Jammu and Kashmir

Dwivedi said terrorist incidents in Jammu and Kashmir have declined significantly since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. He attributed the change to political clarity and sustained security operations in the region.

Chanakya Defence Dialogues

The Chanakya Defence Dialogues is an annual seminar organised by the Indian Army to bring together policymakers, defence experts, military officials and researchers to discuss India’s strategic priorities. The main event will be held in New Delhi on November 27–28 under the theme “Reform to Transform, Sashakt, Surakshit, aur Viksit Bharat.”