Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Indian diaspora at the 'Melbourne Meets Modi' event on Thursday, 9 July, declared that India's precision strikes on terror camps during Operation Sindoor had reverberated across the globe — a demonstration, he said, of the credibility and capability of India's defence platforms. The address, attended also by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, covered India's military resolve, its humanitarian outreach, and the rise of the Make in India brand on the world stage.

Operation Sindoor: A Global Signal

Modi invoked Operation Sindoor directly, framing it as a live demonstration of India's military capability. 'The world is witnessing the capability and credibility of India's defence platforms. You must have seen the demo during Operation Sindoor. The explosions that were taking place at terrorist bases, their echoes were heard across the world,' he told the gathering. He asked the audience whether they felt proud of the action taken against terrorist camps — a question that drew loud cheers and applause.

This is the latest in a series of public references Modi has made to Operation Sindoor since the military action, consistently positioning it as a turning point in India's strategic posture. The Melbourne address marks the first time he has highlighted it before a large overseas Indian audience in Australia.

Make in India: From Domestic Push to Global Brand

Modi also used the platform to underscore India's economic transformation, asserting that 'Make in India' has evolved into a globally recognised brand over the past 12 years. 'In the last 12 years, Make in India has become a global brand. Our mobile phones, electronics have reached worldwide. Our automobiles and pharmaceutical products have expanded their footprint globally,' he said.

The claim reflects India's growing export presence — the country has emerged as one of the world's largest mobile phone exporters, and its pharmaceutical sector supplies a significant share of global generic medicines. The statement also carries political weight, as the Make in India initiative has been a flagship of the Modi government since 2014.

India's Humanitarian Reach: Venezuela, Turkey, Myanmar, Sri Lanka

Modi devoted a significant portion of his address to India's humanitarian operations, positioning the country as a first responder that acts without regard to geography or nationality. He cited relief operations in Venezuela following a recent earthquake, noting: 'We did not look at the distance; instead, we viewed Venezuela's suffering as our own. India launched relief and rescue operations, sending aid and experts as swiftly as possible. Our medical teams acted immediately. It gives me great satisfaction that many lives were saved.'

He also referenced Operation Brahma in Myanmar, Operation Sagar Bandhu following a cyclone in Sri Lanka, and earlier relief efforts in Turkey and Syria after earthquakes. 'When India extends a helping hand, it does not look at passports; when India sends aid, it does not look at the colour of the passport. That is why the world places such great trust in India,' he said.

The framing is consistent with India's broader Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) diplomatic messaging, and positions New Delhi as a net security and humanitarian provider in its region and beyond.

Modi and Albanese: A Bond Across Cricket Stadiums

Modi expressed warm appreciation for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended the Melbourne event — a gesture Modi noted as completing a full circle from their joint appearance at an Indian community event in Sydney in 2023. 'From Ahmedabad, home to the world's largest cricket stadium, to Melbourne, with its iconic stadium — we have been together at both places,' Modi said, adding that Albanese 'captures the hearts and minds of Indians' whenever he speaks. The bilateral warmth on display reflects the deepening of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has gained momentum across defence, trade, and education in recent years.

What to Watch

Modi's Melbourne remarks are likely to reinforce diplomatic signalling around Operation Sindoor as India continues to shape the international narrative on its counter-terror posture. Meanwhile, the Make in India pitch to the diaspora comes ahead of expected trade and investment discussions during the broader Australia visit. How Canberra responds to India's defence positioning — particularly in the context of the Quad — will be worth tracking in the days ahead.