Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan conducted a significant visit on Sunday to the Indian Army’s Northern Command in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Western Command at Chandimandir Military Station, Haryana. The visit aimed to review the operational and strategic aspects of Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to terror attacks in the region. During his visit, General Chauhan interacted extensively with Army Commanders and senior staff officers who had played a pivotal role in planning and executing the operation.

At the Northern Command headquarters in Udhampur, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Lt Gen Pratik Sharma briefed the CDS on the success of the Northern Army in neutralizing terror networks and adversary assets that supported terrorism. He detailed the countermeasures taken to protect both military assets and the civilian population during Operation Sindoor. The briefing also included information on the rehabilitation efforts for civilians in border areas targeted by adversaries. Lt Gen Sharma assured the CDS of the Northern Army’s continued operational readiness and logistical preparedness. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding borders and highlighted ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.

In Haryana, at Chandimandir Military Station, Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, provided the CDS with a detailed overview of the kinetic and non-kinetic punitive responses executed during Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the operational environment, defense preparedness, and key outcomes of the operation, stressing the prevailing security situation along the Western borders. Lt Gen Katiyar also discussed the technological advancements and enhanced logistics capabilities that have contributed to improved operational efficiency and real-time situational awareness, strengthening the Western Army’s military capability.

The CDS was also briefed about the Veterans’ Care and Medicare facilities extended to both serving and retired personnel, reflecting the Indian Army’s commitment to the welfare of those who serve the nation.

General Anil Chauhan paid tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Sindoor, praising their valor, resolve, precision, and discipline. He acknowledged the operational excellence demonstrated by the forces guarding the Northern and Western borders in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab. The CDS also commended the overall synergy and timely completion of operational tasks despite challenging conditions, urging the forces to assist in rehabilitating civilians affected by adversarial actions.

The visit concluded with General Chauhan expressing deep appreciation for the exemplary conduct and successful execution of military operations, reaffirming the nation’s trust in the Indian Armed Forces. He attributed the success in achieving national security objectives to the high morale, discipline, and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army personnel.

Operation Sindoor involved precision strikes conducted by India on nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7, as a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Following these strikes, Pakistan attempted to retaliate by attacking Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10. However, the Indian forces strongly countered these attempts. Subsequently, on May 10, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that India and Pakistan had reached an understanding to immediately cease all firing and military actions on land, air, and sea, signaling a temporary de-escalation in hostilities.

This visit and review by the CDS underscore the Indian Army’s preparedness and resolve to defend the nation, maintain operational readiness, and support affected civilians while continuing to combat terrorism effectively along sensitive border areas.