Image Credit: Integrated Defence Staff
Pakistan Felt Psychological Impact of India’s Strikes – CDS Anil Chauhan
India’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, has stated that India’s long-range precision strikes in May had a strong psychological impact on Pakistan. He confirmed that the military operation, named Operation Sindoor, is still active and has not officially ended.
Strikes Were a Response to Pahalgam Attack
The operation was launched on May 7, 2025, following a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. In retaliation, India carried out targeted strikes on nine terror-linked sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir using long-range weapons such as precision-guided munitions and loitering drones.
Tactical Shifts After Initial Setback
General Chauhan acknowledged that India lost one aircraft early in the engagement but emphasized that Indian forces quickly adjusted tactics. This allowed deeper, more effective strikes on critical targets in the days that followed. Indian officials dismissed exaggerated claims from Pakistan and maintained that Indian forces suffered no further losses.
Strikes Sent Clear Deterrent Message
The strikes were designed not just for military impact but also as a strategic message. Military planners ensured minimal civilian damage and maintained operational discipline. The psychological impact, according to the CDS, served to disrupt confidence within Pakistan’s security establishment.
Modern Warfare and Strategic Significance
Experts believe Operation Sindoor represents a shift in India’s military doctrine, emphasizing precision over escalation. The use of advanced surveillance, long-range assets, and rapid tactical shifts demonstrated India’s preparedness for short, high-impact engagements. While a ceasefire was observed around May 10, the long-term effect of the strikes is seen as a new benchmark in regional military signaling.
