Did the War Really End on May 10? Insights from Gen Upendra Dwivedi on Operation Sindoor

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Operation Sindoor extended beyond its 88-hour recognition.
- Strategic decisions were critical to the operation's success.
- The book honors the valiant efforts of the Indian Army.
- Consultations with veterans played a crucial role.
- The emotional significance of the LoC battles is often overlooked.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) The Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi unveiled ‘Operation Sindoor: The Untold Story of India’s Deep Strikes Inside Pakistan’, a book by Lt Gen (retd) KJS Dhillon, at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. This book details India’s pivotal multi-domain operation along the Line of Control (LoC) that occurred earlier this year. During the launch, Gen Dwivedi emphasized that the operation extended beyond the commonly acknowledged 88-hour timeframe.
“You may believe that the war concluded on May 10. No. It persisted for an extended period as numerous decisions needed to be made. Determining when to commence, when to cease, and how to allocate time, space, and resources were all under continual evaluation,” he remarked.
He disclosed that the Army engaged in extensive consultations with veterans on April 22-23 to explore various strategic alternatives. “I consulted multiple veterans on August 22-23. Many presented exceptional ideas, but they had to be integrated in a way that aligned with national interests. Every action and every deliberate inaction carried long-term consequences,” the Army Chief stated.
Reflecting on the operational synergy, he noted, “The Indian Army functioned like a synchronized wave. In those 88 hours, everyone was aligned and aware of their directives.”
Gen Dwivedi asserted that the book serves more than just a military narrative.
“It’s not merely an account of a military operation but a tribute to the valor, professionalism, and unwavering spirit of the Indian Army and the nation,” he stated.
He also highlighted the often-overlooked importance of the LoC battles.
“We have become so accustomed to this type of conflict that we often overlook its significance — the emotions, losses, gains, and challenges involved. And as you know, when the list emerged from the opposing side detailing those awarded posthumously, I can assert that much of the credit belongs to the Line of Control (LoC).
The book aims to capture these untold elements, preserving the lessons and spirit of Operation Sindoor for future generations.