India's New Approach Towards Terrorism

Prime Minister's Firm Stand

In an address in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared India's unwavering commitment to confronting terrorism. Emphasizing global accountability, he stated India's intent to track and punish terrorists, reflecting a strong stance post the Pahalgam attack.

Operation Sindoor

• India launched 'Operation Sindoor' targeting nine terrorist locations in Pakistan, including entities like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahiddin.
• Five of these targets were in Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), while four were in Pakistan's Punjab province.
• India's response was characterized as "focused", "measured", and "non-escalatory", avoiding Pakistani military establishments.
• Subsequent operations targeted 11 Pakistani military bases, prompting Pakistan to request a ceasefire.

Evolving Strategy: The 'New Normal'

The Prime Minister articulated a shift in India's approach, reflecting a "new normal" in India-Pakistan relations.

• Traditional Indian responses included halting dialogue and sensitizing the international community about Pakistan's use of terrorism.
• Significant changes followed the 2016 attack on Uri and the 2019 Pulwama incident, with surgical strikes and air raids on terrorist camps.

Key Elements of the New Doctrine

• No Unpunished Terrorist Acts: India commits to punishing all terrorist acts, imposing costs on Pakistan.
• Decoupling from Nuclear Escalation: India's response will not be inhibited by nuclear escalation threats.
• Accountability: Pakistan cannot deflect responsibility by blaming non-state actors.

Strategic and Technological Advancements

• India's strategy involves enhanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
• Precision weaponry and drones minimize collateral damage, as evidenced during Operation Sindoor.

Self-Reliance and Global Positioning

India asserts a self-reliant stance in its fight against terrorism, emphasizing industry synergy with armed forces. The nation prioritizes its unity and security, independent of global support.

Trade and Relations Framework

India's cooperation on water sharing and trade is contingent on Pakistan's cessation of terrorism. Dialogue will only progress with the abjuring of terrorism and return of POJK to India.

Conclusion

Under Prime Minister Modi, India demonstrates confidence and strategic clarity in handling terrorism, ready to secure its place in a complex global order.