The North News
Katra, June 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that Operation Sindoor will “forever haunt” Pakistan, reflecting on India’s audacious cross-border strike that targeted terrorist camps deep within Pakistani territory. Visiting Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since the operation, Modi marked one month since the mission, describing it as a decisive and unexpected blow to Pakistan’s terror infrastructure.
Modi recalled the night of the operation as a turning point, stating that Pakistan’s military and terror networks were taken by surprise, with their entrenched bases reduced to rubble within minutes. “Whenever Pakistan hears the name Operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its humiliating defeat,” he said, underscoring the psychological impact of the strike.
The Prime Minister condemned Pakistan’s retaliatory violence, highlighting attacks on civilians in Jammu, Poonch, and surrounding districts. He drew attention to the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and religious sites, including temples, mosques, and gurudwaras.
Praising the courage of Jammu and Kashmir’s residents, Modi said their resilience in the face of such aggression had inspired the nation. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to stand firmly with those affected, pledging ongoing support and solidarity.
Prime Minister announced that families who lost loved ones due to cross-border firing have already received appointment letters for government assistance. Recognising the hardship faced by over 2,000 families affected by shelling, Modi affirmed that their pain is the nation’s pain. He stated that financial aid was previously provided for home repairs, ensuring relief for those impacted. The Prime Minister further declared that the Central government has now decided to enhance this support, offering greater assistance to affected families. Prime Minister announced additional financial aid for families whose homes were damaged due to cross-border shelling. He stated that households suffering severe damage will now receive ₹2 lakh, while partially damaged homes will be granted ₹1 lakh in additional assistance, beyond the support already provided earlier. Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to standing by affected families, ensuring continued relief and helping them rebuild their homes and lives.
“The government recognizes border residents as the nation’s frontline protectors”, affirmed the Prime Minister. He said that over the past decade, unprecedented efforts have been made to strengthen development and security in border districts. Highlighting key initiatives, Shri Modi stated that approximately 10,000 new bunkers have been constructed, which played a critical role in safeguarding lives during the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister announced the formation of two new border battalions for the Jammu and Kashmir division, further enhancing security operations in the region. Additionally, he shared that two dedicated Women Battalions have also been successfully established, reinforcing defense capabilities and empowering women in the armed forces.
Highlighting the significant infrastructure development taking place in India’s international border regions, particularly in challenging terrains, the Prime Minister announced that hundreds of crores are being invested to improve connectivity and security. He stated that the Kathua-Jammu Highway is being upgraded into a six-lane expressway, while the Akhnoor-Poonch Highway is undergoing widening to facilitate smoother travel. Under the Vibrant Village Program, development initiatives in border villages have been accelerated, ensuring better living conditions and opportunities for residents.
Modi mentioned that 400 villages in Jammu and Kashmir, previously lacking all-weather connectivity, are now being linked with 1,800 kilometers of newly constructed roads. He announced that the government is allocating over ₹4,200 crore for these infrastructure projects, reinforcing economic growth and regional development in border areas. Prime Minister made a special appeal to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to actively participate in India’s manufacturing revolution.
He emphasized that Operation Sindoor demonstrated the strength of Atmanirbhar Bharat, and today, the world is recognizing India’s defense ecosystem. Attributing this success to the armed forces’ trust in ‘Make in India’, stating that every Indian must now emulate their commitment, the Prime Minister highlighted the Mission Manufacturing initiative, announced in this year’s budget, aimed at accelerating India’s manufacturing sector. He called upon young innovators and entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir to join this mission, stating that India needs their modern thinking, innovation, ideas, and skills to elevate national security and economic growth. Modi remarked that India has emerged as a leading defense exporter over the past decade, and the next goal is to position India among the world’s top defense exporters. He asserted that the faster India moves toward this objective, the more employment opportunities will be generated nationwide, benefiting millions.
Calling upon every Indian to make a commitment to prioritize products made in India, Modi emphasised that these goods are a true reflection of the hard work and dedication of fellow citizens. He asserted that choosing Indian-made products is the real service to the nation, strengthening the economy and empowering workers. The Prime Minister urged that just as the nation honors its armed forces at the borders, it must also uphold the pride of ‘Made in India’ in the market, ensuring that India’s strength is reflected in both defense and commerce.
Prime Minister affirmed that a bright and prosperous future awaits Jammu and Kashmir, as both the Central Government and the state government continue to work together toward development. He emphasized the spirit of collaboration and progress, ensuring that peace and prosperity remain the foundation of this journey. The Prime Minister expressed his unwavering resolve to strengthen the path of growth, driven by the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. He reiterated the commitment to a developed India and a developed Jammu and Kashmir, striving to achieve this vision with determination and unity. Modi concluded by extending his heartfelt congratulations to the people for these remarkable projects, celebrating the spirit of advancement.
The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, V. Somanna and Dr. Jitendra Singh were present among other dignitaries at the event.
