Operation Sindoor: India's Deepest Strike Since 1971 Targets Terror Camps

India undertook Operation Sindoor, striking nine terror sites in Pakistan and PoK, retaliating against the Pahalgam terror attack. A nationwide mock drill tested emergency preparedness across major cities following MHA directives for augmented security measures. This marks a historic military action by India in Pakistani territory since 1971.

A sweeping mock drill was executed in Bhubaneswar's Rajmahal Square on Wednesday, gauging emergency readiness. Participants included Civil Defence Volunteers, NSS, NCC, and voluntary groups. This initiative falls under broader drills taking place in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, as mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs to assess responsiveness to security threats.

In a dramatic retaliation early Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, systematically targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This action responded to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which tragically claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepali citizen. Following the strikes, India's top officials, including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, briefed the media in New Delhi on the operation's successful outcome.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh disclosed the deliberate targeting of nine terror sites to avenge the Pahalgam atrocity. Sites chosen were aimed to avoid civilian harm, achieving military objectives without collateral damage. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi showcased video evidence of the targeted camps' destruction, including locations linked to historical terror figures. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the Pahalgam attack's brutal nature and its intent to destabilize Jammu and Kashmir, asserting India's stance against terrorism.

(With inputs from agencies.)