Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Adampur Air Base in Jalandhar on Tuesday, where he interacted with Indian Air Force personnel and lauded their bravery and professionalism, days after hostilities between India and Pakistan came to a halt.
During his visit, PM Modi was briefed by Air Force officials about the recent developments and operations. Sharing his experience in a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote, “Earlier this morning, I went to AFS Adampur and met our brave air warriors and soldiers. It was a very special experience to be with those who epitomise courage, determination and fearlessness. India is eternally grateful to our armed forces for everything they do for our nation.”
The Adampur Air Base played a key role in Operation Sindoor, a multi-dimensional offensive launched on May 7 targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists.
Speaking on the operation, Air Marshal AK Bharti, Director General Air Operations, clarified that India’s military objective was specifically to target terrorist elements, not the Pakistani military or civilians.
“Our fight is with the terrorists, not with the Pakistan military or civilians. We were precise in our targeting,” he said at a press briefing.
Air Marshal Bharti also highlighted the technological and operational superiority demonstrated during the strikes, stating, “Our counter systems and trained air defence operators are fully capable. Our indigenous defence capabilities have proven their effectiveness. You have seen with your own eyes the consequences we have delivered.”
On Monday, PM Modi addressed the nation, emphasizing that Operation Sindoor marks a new phase in India’s fight against terrorism.
“After the surgical strike and air strike, Operation Sindoor is now India’s declared policy against terrorism. A new benchmark and new normal have been set,” he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to respond forcefully to any future terrorist threats, underscoring two key principles:
- India will respond on its own terms to any attack and will strike at every source of terrorism.
- India will not yield to nuclear blackmail, and will decisively neutralize terrorist hideouts concealed under its cover.
Operation Sindoor resulted in the elimination of over 100 terrorists and targeted 11 airbases within Pakistan, significantly damaging their infrastructure. The operation, conducted across air, land, and sea domains, was executed with calibrated restraint, focusing on military objectives and minimising civilian casualties.
PM Modi’s visit to Adampur underscored the government’s recognition of the valour, precision, and strategic effectiveness of the Indian Armed Forces in defending the nation against cross-border terrorism.