Emphasizing that Operation Sindoor was not an act of revenge, but a new form of justice, prime minister Narendra Modi on Thursday remarked that it was not just an expression of outrage but a display of India's unwavering strength and determination. He asserted that the nation has adopted a bold approach, striking the enemy directly and decisively. “Crushing terrorism is not just a strategy but a principle, this is India, this is the new India,” he stressed.

The PM was addressing a public meeting in Bikaner, where he inaugurated, laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth Rs 26,000 crore.

He welcomed the large gathering at the event, acknowledging the significant participation of people from 18 states and union territories who joined online. He highlighted the presence of several governors, chief ministers, lieutenant governors, and other public representatives. The PM extended his greetings to all esteemed dignitaries and citizens connected from across the country.

Referring to the unwavering spirit of Rajasthan, stating that nothing is greater than the country and its people, Modi condemned the terrorist attack on April 22, in which the assailants targeted innocent lives based on their faith. He remarked that while the bullets were fired in Pahalgam, they wounded the hearts of 140 crore Indians, uniting the nation in resolve against terrorism.

He highlighted the decisive response by India's armed forces, stating that they were given full operational freedom. He noted that in a meticulously executed operation, the three forces collaborated to dismantle Pakistan’s defenses, forcing them into submission. He revealed that in response to the April 22 attack, India struck back within 22 minutes, destroying nine major terrorist hideouts.

“This action demonstrated the nation's strength, proving that when the sacred sindoor turns into firepower, the outcome is definitive,” exclaimed the PM.

Modi recalled his statement earlier in Churu, reaffirming his commitment to the nation: “Swear by this soil, I will not let the country fall, I will not let the country bow.” He declared from Rajasthan that those who attempted to erase the sacred sindoor have been reduced to dust, and those who spilled India’s blood have now paid the price in full. The PM stated that those who assumed India would remain silent are now in hiding, while those who boasted about their weapons now lie buried beneath rubble.

Outlining the three key principles established through Operation Sindoor in India’s fight against terrorism, the PM stated the first principle – any terrorist attack on India would be met with a decisive response, with the timing, method, and terms determined solely by India’s armed forces. Second, he asserted that India would not be intimidated by nuclear threats. Third, he emphasized that India would no longer differentiate between terrorist masterminds and the governments that support them, rejecting Pakistan’s distinction between state and non-state actors. Highlighting ongoing global efforts to expose Pakistan’s role in fostering terrorism, seven distinct groups, comprising leaders from various political parties and foreign policy experts, are actively working to present Pakistan’s true face to the world, he added.

Modi asserted that Pakistan can never win a direct confrontation with India, recalling its repeated failures in past conflicts. He emphasized that, unable to succeed in open battles, Pakistan has long used terrorism as a weapon against India, resorting to violence and creating an atmosphere of fear. He declared that Pakistan had underestimated India’s resolve, stating that under his leadership, the nation stands strong and unwavering. “Any terrorist attack on India would result in severe consequences, with Pakistan paying a heavy price—borne by its military and its economy”, stated Modi.

He stated that upon arriving in Bikaner, he landed at Nal Airport, which Pakistan had attempted to target but failed to inflict any damage. He highlighted that across the border, Pakistan’s Rahim Yar Khan Airbase has been forced to shut down for several days due to India’s precise military strikes, which severely impacted its operations.

The PM firmly declared that there would be neither trade nor talks with Pakistan. He asserted that any discussions would solely revolve around Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He warned that if Pakistan continued exporting terrorists, it would face economic ruin. He reiterated that India would not allow Pakistan access to its rightful share of water and that playing with Indian blood would come at a steep cost. “This resolve is India's commitment, one that no force in the world can shake”, he stressed.

“Both security and prosperity are essential for building a developed India”, emphasised Modi, asserting that this vision can only be realized when every corner of the country is strengthened. He stated that the event serves as an exemplary demonstration of India’s balanced and accelerated growth.