Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday emphasized that the rapid response and strong defence capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces enabled India to give a fitting reply to Pakistan through Operation Sindoor. Describing the operation as an “88-hour trailer,” he stated that the forces are fully prepared to “teach Pakistan how to act responsibly as a neighbouring country” if similar situations arise in the future. Speaking at the curtain-raiser event of the Chanakya Defence Dialogues in New Delhi, General Dwivedi said, “Operation Sindoor was only a trailer that lasted 88 hours. We are ready for any future scenario. If Pakistan creates an opportunity, we will show it how a neighbour should behave.”

Highlighting the lessons learned from the operation, he identified three key areas: seamless integration among forces, ensuring adequate supplies for prolonged conflict, and enabling prompt decision-making at every command level. He noted that operations leave valuable learnings, particularly the need to take swift, timely decisions throughout the chain of command.

On joint operations, General Dwivedi stressed that modern warfare is multi-domain and requires complete coordination among the Army, Navy, Air Force, CAPF, and other agencies. “The Army alone cannot fight today’s battles; all forces must operate together,” he said. He also underlined the importance of maintaining long-term food and ammunition reserves, stating that future conflicts could last months or even years. “This time the battle lasted 88 hours; next time it could continue for four months or even four years. We must ensure we have sufficient supplies and weapons to sustain such operations,” he added.

Referring to the country’s “new normal” after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, the COAS said India will not hesitate to act against nations that attempt to hinder its progress, and will not give in to any form of “blackmail.” He reiterated that talks and terrorism cannot occur simultaneously, and that India will treat terrorists and their supporters in the same manner until a peaceful approach is adopted. General Dwivedi also pointed to the improved security environment in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370, noting a significant decline in terrorist activities and greater political clarity in the region.

The Chanakya Defence Dialogues, a major international seminar organized by the Indian Army, aims to bring together policymakers, strategists, defence experts, veterans, scientists, and academics from India and abroad to discuss India’s strategic path and development priorities. This year’s theme is “Reform to Transform: Sashakt, Surakshit, aur Viksit Bharat.” While General Dwivedi addressed the opening event, the main sessions will be held from November 27 to 28 in New Delhi.