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Eve of 79th Independence Day address underscores unity, self-reliance in defence

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday praised the nation’s decisive response to the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir, describing the successful Operation Sindoor as a milestone in both India’s defence capability and the global campaign against terrorism.

In her address to the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, the President condemned the “cowardly and utterly inhuman” killing of innocent holidaymakers, declaring that the armed forces had displayed “strategic clarity and technical capability” in destroying terrorist infrastructure across the border. “Steely Resolve, Landmark Impact”
Calling Operation Sindoor a “landmark event” in humanity’s fight against terrorism, President Murmu said: “I believe Operation Sindoor will go down in history as an example in humanity’s fight against terrorism. Our armed forces destroyed terrorist hubs across the border with steely resolve.”

The President said the nation’s unity was the most fitting answer to those seeking to sow division. She cited the multi-party delegations of Members of Parliament who engaged with foreign governments to explain India’s position on cross-border terrorism, reflecting collective political will.

Clear Global Message
Murmu noted that the world had recognised India’s balanced stance: “We will not be the aggressor, but we will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens.”

Boost for Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence
The President linked the operational success to the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, saying that indigenous defence manufacturing had reached a “critical level” enabling self-sufficiency in meeting many security needs.“The outcome has proved that we are on the right path. These are landmark achievements in India’s defence history since Independence,” she said. Operation Sindoor, carried out in response to the Pahalgam attack, has been widely regarded as one of the most decisive cross-border counter-terrorism actions in recent years.