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Context:

India’s counter-terrorism strategy has shifted towards assertive, self-reliant, and targeted military responses.

Background

On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked Pahalgam, killing 26 civilians, mostly tourists, in a barbaric act where victims were shot in front of their families. This attack, linked to Pakistan-based groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

On May 6-7, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking nine terror camps in Pakistan and POJK (Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir). The operation targets groups like LeT, JeM, and HIM, killing over 100 terrorists. India’s strikes are accurate, using drones and missiles to avoid civilian casualties, as confirmed by satellite imagery.   

Pakistan escalates tensions by launching drones and artillery along the border. India counters by striking 11 Pakistani air bases, including Nur Khan, Rafiqui, and Bholari, damaging 20% of Pakistan’s air force and killing personnel.

On May 10, Pakistan’s military, reeling from losses, requested a ceasefire through Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) talks. India agrees but warns that the operation is “paused, not ended.”

The “New Normal” Doctrine

In his national address on May 12, 2025, Indian Prime Minister outlines India’s new counter-terrorism strategy, calling it the “new normal.” This doctrine has three key pillars:

• Decisive Retaliation => India will respond to any terrorist attack with swift, strong action, targeting terror hubs directly. No place in Pakistan, including its heartland, is off-limits. The PM emphasizes that India will strike “on its own terms,” refusing to be restrained by global pressure.
• No Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail => Pakistan has often used its nuclear arsenal to deter Indian action, threatening escalation. The PM calls this bluff, stating India will not be threatened. Operation Sindoor’s precision strikes show India can act decisively without triggering nuclear conflict, delinking conventional and nuclear escalation.
• No Distinction Between Terrorists and Sponsors => India will hold Pakistan’s government and military accountable for terrorism, rejecting the excuse that terrorists are “non-state actors.” PM highlights Pakistani military officers attending terrorists’ funerals, with coffins draped in Pakistan’s flag, is the clear proof of state sponsorship.

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Source: 

THE HINDU