New Delhi, Aug 16: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday said Operation Sindoor sent a clear and firm message to terrorists and their sponsors that India has the capability and resolve to strike back with precision, and that those behind terror acts will face consequences irrespective of where they seek shelter.
The President hailed the Indian Armed Forces for their “unmatched valour and professionalism” and recalled the first anniversary of the cross-border operation, which was carried out in May 2025 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
“The operation demonstrated India’s determination to respond to terrorism with force and finality. Terrorists and their backers cannot take shelter in foreign lands and assume they are beyond the reach of our security forces,” she said.
President Murmu said the operation was not just a military action but a statement of India’s growing strategic autonomy and its zero-tolerance policy towards cross-border terrorism.
Describing the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as an important decision taken in the national interest, the President said the move was aimed at safeguarding the concerns of farmers and formed part of India’s comprehensive response to evolving security dynamics in the region.
On the internal security front, President Murmu expressed satisfaction over the progress made in curbing Naxal violence. She said areas once affected by Left-wing extremism were now witnessing development and growing public confidence, reflecting the success of coordinated security and welfare efforts.
The President also addressed concerns over paper leaks and examination irregularities, saying the government was implementing systemic reforms to ensure transparency and fairness in competitive tests. She called students the “architects of India’s future” and stressed the need to protect their interests.
She noted that India’s youth were increasingly choosing entrepreneurship and self-employment, contributing to the country’s fast-growing startup ecosystem. She also underlined the importance of sports in building discipline and confidence, pointing to initiatives like Khelo India that were helping nurture young talent.
The President highlighted India’s rapid expansion in digital infrastructure, renewable energy, highways, railways and aviation, saying these developments were creating new opportunities and strengthening the foundation for long-term economic growth.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to global peace and cooperation under the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the President said the country would continue to engage with the world while firmly protecting its national interests.
She expressed confidence that India was on track to achieve the goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, driven by the energy of its youth, greater participation of women, technological innovation, and inclusive growth.
“With collective resolve and determination, India will emerge as a stronger, more prosperous nation and continue to play a leading role on the world stage,” she said. (KNS)
