In the early hours of May 7, the Indian Armed Forces launched a precise and measured military response against cross-border terrorism. Codenamed Operation Sindoor, the mission targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), delivering a clear message: India will not stand idle in the face of terror.

What made this operation different wasn't just the accuracy of the strikes or the intelligence behind them. It was who addressed the world afterward. Standing beside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, two experienced women officers in the Indian Army and Air Force respectively. Together, they delivered the government's official statement on the operation, marking a powerful shift in how India projects its military resolve.

Codenamed Operation Sindoor, the mission targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), delivering a clear message: India will not stand idle in the face of terror

The operation came days after the brutal April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam region, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national. The probe into the attack revealed clear links to Pakistan-based terrorist outfits. The Indian response was swift and strategic, aimed at dismantling launch pads and logistical bases used by terrorists.

According to unconfirmed sources, backed by solid intelligence and surveillance, the strikes were carried out using Rafale fighter jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs. These weapons allowed deep penetration into hostile territory with minimal risk of collateral damage. Importantly, no Pakistani military installations or civil bases were targeted, reinforcing India's intent: to fight terrorism, not provoke conflict.

The Briefing was a Statement in Itself

The presence of women officers, Col. Qureshi and Wg Cdr Singh at the media briefing was no coincidence. Their calm, clear, and confident delivery wasn't just informative – it was symbolic. It reflected a new era where India's armed forces are represented by competence and clarity, regardless of gender.

"These were targeted strikes against terrorist infrastructure. We operated with precision and restraint," said Col. Qureshi.

"Operation Sindoor was not just about retribution. It was about deterrence and delivering justice to those responsible," added Wing Commander Singh.

Standing beside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, two experienced women officers in the Indian Army and Air Force respectively

Both officers are well-respected within military circles. Col. Qureshi has a record of leadership in infantry operations and international deployments, while Wg Cdr Singh brings deep operational experience from the Air Force's intelligence and mission planning divisions.

The Name and What It Stands For

The operation's name, Sindoor, draws from deep Indian cultural identity. Sindoor, the vermillion powder applied by married women on their foreheads, symbolizes matrimony and the sanctity of commitment. The Prime Minister personally chose this name for the retaliatory strike, signalling a deliberate and resolute response following the tragic murder of innocent civilians.

Despite mounting evidence, Pakistan denied involvement, following its usual playbook of dismissals and counter-accusations. Meanwhile, Indian agencies have compiled a dossier tracing the attackers' movements and handlers, with inputs from eyewitnesses, intercepted communication, and satellite monitoring.

The operation aligns with the UN Security Council's April 25 statement calling for accountability for the perpetrators and financiers of the Baisaran attack. The world must exercise zero tolerance. India's action was in line with international expectations for proportionate and lawful responses to terrorism.

The Prime Minister personally chose this name for the retaliatory strike, signalling a deliberate and resolute response following the tragic murder of innocent civilians

More than a military success, Operation Sindoor has reshaped how India communicates its defence posture. Operation Sindoor may be remembered as a textbook case of a precise and effective military response to terror. But it will also be remembered for the image that followed: two officers, speaking not just for a mission, but for a nation. India didn't just strike back. It stepped forward–with resolve, dignity, and the voice of its daughters in uniform.