National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has spoken publicly about the decision-making behind Operation Sindoor, saying India’s tolerance and generosity should not be mistaken for weakness. In his first interview since the military operation, Doval said India was prepared to take risks and respond strongly when required.
Ajit Doval on Operation Sindoor
Speaking in Discovery’s upcoming two-part docuseries Declassified: Operation Sindoor, Doval said the main objective of the 88-hour operation was to destroy enemy camps, particularly those linked to the Pahalgam terror attack.
“We had decided the objective of the operation as the destruction of the enemy camps, particularly those who had been responsible for the Pahalgam attack,” Doval said.
His comments offer a glimpse into the strategic thinking behind India’s military response following the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam.
Doval also delivered a strong message about India’s national security approach. He said the country can take risks and strike hard when necessary, regardless of the possible consequences.
Strong message on India’s security approach
Doval said India’s willingness to remain tolerant should not be interpreted as an inability or unwillingness to respond to threats.
He stressed that India has the ability to take calculated risks and act decisively when its national security is at stake. His remarks underline the government’s stated approach of combining restraint with a willingness to take military action when required.
The docuseries brings together senior military and national security officials to revisit the preparations, decisions and events surrounding Operation Sindoor. It is expected to provide first-hand accounts from people involved in overseeing India’s response.
What happened during Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was launched early on May 7, 2025, weeks after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. Indian forces carried out precision strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan later launched military offensives against India, leading to further Indian counter-offensive operations under the broader Operation Sindoor framework.
The confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours continued for nearly 88 hours. India and Pakistan reached an understanding on the evening of May 10, bringing the immediate military hostilities to an end.
The operation became a significant episode in India-Pakistan relations and drew international attention because of the involvement of two nuclear-armed countries.
Operation Sindoor docuseries: When and where to watch
The upcoming two-part Declassified: Operation Sindoor will focus on the strategic decisions, military preparations and key developments surrounding the operation.
According to Discovery, the series features accounts from senior figures who were directly involved in India’s response. Doval’s interview is particularly significant as it provides his first detailed public comments since the operation.
The docuseries is scheduled to premiere on Saturday at 9 pm on Discovery and the Discovery+ streaming service.
