Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, May 15, 2025 – The Srinagar Air Base resonated with patriotic fervor as Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel raised slogans of ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ during a visit by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday. Joined by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Singh’s interaction with the jawans highlighted the IAF’s critical role in Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
Addressing the personnel, Singh praised their bravery and precision in executing Operation Sindoor from May 7-10, which targeted Pakistani terror camps and airbases, including Skardu, Sargodha, and Bholari. The operation disrupted enemy air defenses and inflicted significant damage, with over 50 reported casualties. Inspecting Pakistani shells from recent cross-border shelling, Singh declared, “Operation Sindoor has sent a clear message to our adversaries.” He also raised concerns about Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, calling for stricter international oversight.
The Minister’s visit extended to the Badami Bagh Cantonment, where he honored fallen soldiers, stating, “Their sacrifice strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism.” The electrifying chants at the airbase reflected the IAF’s unwavering commitment to national security amid ongoing tensions in the region.
