The Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan at Indian Army's Northern Command at Udhampur, in Jammu and Kashmir on May 25, 2025.
New Delhi/Udhampur/Jamshedpur: In a resolute display of India’s commitment to countering terrorism and securing its borders, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan conducted a strategic review of the Indian Army’s Northern and Western Commands on May 25, 2025, following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor. The visits to Udhampur in Jammu & Kashmir and Chandimandir Military Station in Haryana underscored the military’s operational excellence and synergy in neutralising terror networks, with General Chauhan emphasising sustained vigilance and inter-service jointness to address evolving threats along India’s sensitive borders.
At Udhampur, General Chauhan met with Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma and senior staff officers, who briefed him on the command’s achievements during Operation Sindoor. The operation, launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, involved precision strikes on nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The Northern Army’s success in dismantling terror networks and protecting military and civilian assets was highlighted, alongside ongoing efforts to rehabilitate civilians in border areas targeted by retaliatory drone and missile attacks on May 8–10. Lt. Gen. Sharma assured the CDS of the command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir while maintaining robust operational and logistical preparedness.
At Chandimandir, Western Army Commander Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar provided a comprehensive overview of the kinetic and non-kinetic responses during Operation Sindoor, detailing the operational environment, defence preparedness, and key outcomes along the Western borders, particularly in Punjab and Jammu. The briefing emphasised technological advancements and enhanced logistics capabilities that bolstered real-time situational awareness and operational efficiency. General Chauhan was also informed about the Western Command’s Veterans’ Care and Medicare facilities, reflecting the Indian Army’s dedication to the welfare of serving and retired personnel.
General Chauhan paid tribute to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Sindoor, lauding their valour, resolve, precision, and discipline. He commended the field formations for their operational excellence and timely execution of tasks under challenging conditions, attributing the operation’s success to the high morale and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army. The CDS stressed the need for continued synergy across the armed services and urged both commands to support civilian rehabilitation efforts in affected border regions, reinforcing the military’s role in nation-building.
The strategic review comes amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control and International Border, following Pakistan’s retaliatory actions after Operation Sindoor. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on May 10 that India and Pakistan agreed to cease all military actions, highlighting India’s firm stance against cross-border terrorism. General Chauhan’s visits reaffirm the armed forces’ readiness to counter such threats while fostering inter-service coordination to maintain national security.
In a related development, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, speaking at the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jamshedpur, hailed the armed forces’ bravery and resolve. He warned that any attempts by countries or terrorist organisations to destabilise India would face consequences more severe than Operation Sindoor. Birla also highlighted India’s progress toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, noting the growing role of MSMEs in strengthening national security through indigenous production and innovation.
The visits and Birla’s remarks underscore India’s dual focus on military preparedness and self-reliance, positioning the nation as a formidable force against terrorism and a leader in defence innovation. General Chauhan’s engagements concluded with deep appreciation for the armed forces’ exemplary conduct, reaffirming the nation’s trust in their ability to safeguard India’s sovereignty and security.
– global bihari bureau
