India Hit Nine Targets in Pakistan During Operation Sindoor, Says NSA Ajit Doval
India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Friday revealed key details about Operation Sindoor, a swift and precise military mission that targeted nine terrorist bases inside Pakistan. Speaking at the 62nd convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Doval said the entire operation was completed in just 23 minutes, without any collateral damage or civilian harm.
“We knew exactly where the terrorists were, and we struck only those locations — nothing more, nothing less,” Doval told the audience, which responded with applause. According to him, the operation began at exactly 1:05 a.m. and wrapped up by 1:28 a.m. “In that short span of time, we achieved what we set out to do. Every target we aimed for, we hit. Not one was missed,” he said.
Doval also addressed the international reaction following the operation. He dismissed claims made by some foreign media outlets suggesting Indian casualties or damage caused by Pakistani retaliation. “These days, there are satellites observing everything across the world. If even a windowpane in India had been broken, someone would have published the photo,” he said firmly, underlining the zero-damage outcome on the Indian side.
While the mission’s strategic success made headlines, Doval was particularly proud of the fact that Operation Sindoor was powered largely by indigenous defence technology. “The real pride comes from how much of the operation was carried out using systems developed in India,” he said. Among the homegrown technologies used were the BrahMos missile system, integrated air command and control infrastructure, advanced radar systems, and real-time battlefield surveillance tools — all playing critical roles in ensuring the mission’s accuracy and effectiveness.
The NSA used the occasion to stress the importance of innovation and self-reliance, particularly in critical sectors like defence and communication. Addressing the graduating students, he encouraged them to contribute to India’s growing technological strength. “You all are stepping into a world of opportunities. By the time India celebrates 100 years of independence, most of you will be leaders in your respective fields. What you choose to do today will shape the country’s future,” he told the students.
He particularly emphasized the importance of investing in and developing expertise in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. “These technologies are going to change the world in ways we can’t even imagine yet. India needs to not just keep up, but lead in these domains,” he said.
Doval’s message was clear: the future of national security, economic growth, and technological sovereignty lies in the hands of the country’s young minds. His speech, while rooted in the success of a high-stakes military operation, turned into a passionate appeal to build a stronger, self-reliant India through innovation, education, and vision.
As the audience of students, faculty, and dignitaries listened closely, the NSA’s words resonated with both pride in what had been achieved and hope for what lies ahead.
