'Use of terror an integral part of Pak DNA, military doctrine'

How do you view the execution of Operation Sindoor by the Armed forces?

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It has become necessary to take action against Pakistan because they have been continuing the proxy war for a long time and this was one of the red lines they crossed in Pahalgam. I call it a red line — after that, we had to take action.

So, we took very strong action, and this time the approach was a whole-of-nation effort. It wasn't just the Armed Forces; we began with political and diplomatic steps. We initiated action on the Indus Waters Treaty, which is both an economic and political tool. Then we launched Operation Sindoor, a kinetic action.

We had already taken earlier steps like the surgical strikes in 2016 and Operation Balakot, yet they continued. This time, a much stronger response was necessary to send a clear message. I see Operation Sindoor as very successful — a firm and emphatic message demonstrating both our political will and our military confidence and capability.

The Kargil war happened when you were the Army Chief. What is the difference then and now?