India's Response to the Pahalgam Terrorist Attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unequivocal message following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which resulted in the death of 26 persons, underscores India's firm stance against terrorism.

• PM Modi emphasized that India will actively pursue terrorists and their backers globally.
• The speech, delivered in English, aimed to convey the message internationally, highlighting global diplomatic support for India.

Governmental Actions

• An all-party meeting was convened by the Union government, reflecting national unity.
• Measures against Pakistan included: 
  • Halting trade with Pakistan.
  • Expelling Pakistani officials from the High Commission.
  • Cancelling visas under the Saarc Visa Exemption Scheme.
  • Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, significant as it affects 25% of Pakistan's GDP reliant on the Indus river system.

Diplomatic and Economic Implications

• Pakistan's response to the water treaty suspension was to put the Simla Agreement in abeyance.
• India's potential actions could severely impact the already struggling Pakistani economy.
• Pakistan's GDP in 2024, in nominal terms, was less than in 2022, with a stagnant per capita GDP since 2015.
• India's diplomatic efforts have effectively isolated Pakistan, with diminishing influence in West Asia and with the U.S., especially post-Afghanistan.

Strategic Considerations

India must maintain diplomatic pressure on Pakistan to cease its support for terrorism.

• Pakistan's continued support for terrorism is counterproductive, making its own survival precarious.

Security and Economic Impacts

• India needs to reassess its security and intelligence frameworks to address any shortcomings.
• The attack on Pahalgam targets the economic recovery and normalization efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Restoring confidence across the nation, especially in Jammu and Kashmir, remains pivotal.