India-Pakistan Tensions: India and Pakistan have been locked in a tense rivalry since their inception in 1947. Over the decades, Pakistan’s provocations have forced India to respond with at least 11 major military operations, each showcasing India’s resolve and military might.
The latest, Operation Sindoor, has left Pakistan humiliated on the global stage. Despite repeated defeats, Pakistan’s habits remain unchanged, prompting India to take action time and again. Here’s a look at these defining operations that have shaped the India-Pakistan conflict, written in a way that every Indian can connect with.
1. Operation Riddle (1965): The First Big Blow
Back in 1965, Pakistan tried to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir with Operation Gibraltar and Grand Slam. India hit back hard with Operation Riddle. On September 6, 1965, our brave soldiers stormed Lahore and Kasur, shaking the Pakistani army to its core. The enemy was caught off guard, and India proved it wouldn’t sit quietly.
2. Operation Ablaze (1965): Ready for War
That same year, India launched Operation Ablaze, a strategic move to strengthen our presence along the western border. While it didn’t lead to direct combat, it sent a clear message: India was prepared for anything. These two operations forced the Soviet Union to step in, leading to the Tashkent Agreement.
3. Operation Cactus Lily (1971): Birth of Bangladesh
In 1971, during the Bangladesh Liberation War, India launched Operation Cactus Lily. Our army and air force crossed the Meghna River, outmaneuvering Pakistani forces and marching toward Dhaka. This was a game-changer, showing India’s ability to fight on multiple fronts.
4. Operation Trident (1971): Navy’s Deadly Strike
The Indian Navy stole the show with Operation Trident, attacking Karachi port on December 4-5, 1971. Two devastating strikes crippled Pakistan’s naval strength, proving our navy was a force to reckon with.
5. Operation Python (1971): Finishing the Job
Hot on the heels of Trident, Operation Python saw the navy strike Karachi again, this time using anti-ship missiles for the first time. These three operations—Cactus Lily, Trident, and Python—broke Pakistan’s back, leading to its surrender and the creation of Bangladesh.
6. Operation Meghdoot (1984): Conquering Siachen
In April 1984, Pakistan’s misadventures in Siachen prompted Operation Meghdoot. With the Indian Air Force’s help, our troops captured key peaks in the world’s highest battlefield. This gave India a strategic edge, and we still hold the upper hand there today.
7. Operation Vijay (1999): Reclaiming Kargil
In May 1999, Pakistani intruders secretly occupied Kargil’s peaks. India responded with Operation Vijay, a fierce campaign that drove them out. This operation became a symbol of our soldiers’ courage and sacrifice.
8. Operation White Sea (1999): Air Force in Action
During the Kargil War, the Indian Air Force launched Operation White Sea, pounding Pakistani positions with airstrikes. It was the first time since 1971 that our air force was used on such a large scale. Together, Vijay and White Sea forced Pakistan to retreat in disgrace.
9. Surgical Strike (2016): Hitting Terror at Its Core
After the Uri attack, India conducted a Surgical Strike in 2016. Our special forces crossed into Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and destroyed terrorist camps. For the first time, India openly declared its strike, sending a bold message: we’ll hunt down terrorists anywhere.
10. Operation Bandar (2019): Balakot Airstrike
Following the Pulwama attack, India launched Operation Bandar on February 26, 2019. Our air force flew 80 km into Pakistan and bombed Jaish-e-Mohammed’s terror camps in Balakot. This was the first airstrike across the Line of Control (LoC) since 1971, showing the world that “New India” won’t hesitate to act.
11. Operation Sindoor (2025): A Global Embarrassment for Pakistan
On the night of April 6-7, 2025, India executed Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. Without crossing the LoC or international border, our forces used missiles, drones, and bombs to destroy terror infrastructure, including targets 100 km away in Bahawalpur. For the first time, Pakistan admitted the strike’s impact, with Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Azhar Masood confessing that 14 people, including 10 of his family, were killed. The world is now talking about India’s precision and power.
The Bigger Picture
Each of these operations—whether on land, sea, or air—has shown India’s growing strength and zero-tolerance policy toward Pakistan’s provocations. From creating Bangladesh to securing Siachen and striking deep inside enemy territory, India has repeatedly taught Pakistan a lesson. Yet, Pakistan’s refusal to change its ways keeps the cycle going. Operation Sindoor is the latest reminder that India will not back down when it comes to protecting its sovereignty.
As Indians, we take pride in our armed forces’ courage and capability. These operations aren’t just military victories—they’re a testament to our nation’s spirit. But the question remains: will Pakistan ever learn?
