DefenseNews – Poonch Observes Operation Sindoor Anniversary With Tightened Security
DefenseNews – Security arrangements were strengthened across major market areas in Poonch on Thursday as the country marked one year since Operation Sindoor, the military campaign launched after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in 2025 that killed 26 people.
Additional police and security personnel were deployed in busy commercial zones of Poonch city to maintain vigilance during the anniversary observance. Residents, local leaders, and officials paid tribute to civilians and soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict that followed the terror strike.
Tributes Paid to Victims and Armed Forces
Among those remembering the victims was advocate Iftaqar Ahmed Bazmi, who honoured both the civilians killed in the attack and the armed forces personnel involved in the military response.
Speaking to ANI, Bazmi said the country continues to remember the sacrifices made by innocent citizens as well as the courage shown by Indian soldiers during the operation. He added that the military action reflected the nation’s commitment to protecting its people and defending national security interests.
The anniversary prompted emotional scenes in several parts of the district, where residents gathered to remember those affected by the violence and military escalation that followed the attack.
Rajnath Singh Highlights Military Preparedness
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also marked the occasion by praising the Indian armed forces for their role in the operation.
In a message shared on X, the Defence Minister said the country salutes the bravery and sacrifices of military personnel whose dedication continues to safeguard India’s borders and citizens.
He noted that the operation showcased strong coordination among different branches of the armed forces. According to him, the mission demonstrated high operational precision and effective joint planning, which became an example of modern military strategy.
Singh further stated that the operation reflected India’s readiness to take firm action whenever national security is threatened.
Background of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, following the terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 people. The attack had triggered nationwide outrage and calls for decisive action against terror groups operating across the border.
In response, Indian armed forces carried out targeted strikes on terror infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Official statements released after the operation said security forces targeted nine major terror launch facilities associated with organisations including Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Government sources had stated at the time that more than 100 terrorists were eliminated during the strikes.
Four-Day Conflict Followed Military Action
The operation later escalated into a brief but intense military confrontation between India and Pakistan. Pakistani forces reportedly responded with drone activity and shelling in border regions, leading to heightened tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
India subsequently carried out retaliatory actions targeting radar systems in Lahore and installations near Gujranwala, according to official information released during the conflict.
The military standoff lasted four days before diplomatic and military communication channels helped reduce tensions.
Ceasefire Brought End to Hostilities
The confrontation officially ended after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations established contact with the Indian DGMO. Following the discussions, both sides agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, 2025.
Since then, Operation Sindoor has remained a significant chapter in India’s recent military history, often cited by government officials as an example of rapid response and coordinated defence action against terrorism.