General Dwivedi says India targeted only terrorist infrastructure; stresses preparedness for evolving security threats
Rewa (Madhya Pradesh):
Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Saturday addressed a gathering in his hometown Rewa, reflecting on India’s recent Operation Sindoor, sharing insights on the future of warfare, and making a pointed remark about US President Donald Trump’s unpredictability.
Speaking at TRS College, General Dwivedi emphasised the growing uncertainty and complexity of global security challenges. “Future challenges are coming — instability, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. You and I are completely clueless about what the future holds,” he said.
“Even Trump doesn’t know…”
In a lighter moment, the Army chief drew laughter when he remarked, “What is Trump doing today? I think even Trump doesn’t know what he is going to do tomorrow.” He explained that challenges in the modern era evolve so rapidly that nations must constantly adapt. “By the time you try to grasp an old challenge, a new one emerges,” he said, adding that these threats span across borders, terrorism, natural disasters, and cyber warfare.
General Dwivedi also highlighted the rise of space warfare, chemical and biological threats, and information warfare, warning that misinformation and rumours have become new weapons. “As you heard in Operation Sindoor — news came that Karachi was attacked. Even we were surprised by where such news originated,” he said.
Operation Sindoor: ‘No innocent civilians targeted’
Speaking to reporters in Rewa, General Dwivedi reiterated that India’s Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was a targeted strike on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled areas following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The four-day operation, which ended on May 10, saw intense cross-border clashes before an understanding to cease military actions was reached.
“Operation Sindoor was successful because we fought with the combined strength of our principles and technology. We made sure no innocent civilians suffered — only terrorists and their handlers were targeted,” he said.
“We exercised restraint”
Addressing students at his alma mater, Rewa Sainik School, General Dwivedi said the Indian forces displayed utmost restraint during the operation. “We attacked only where terrorists were present. We did not strike defence installations or civilian areas. Our forces ensured that no operations took place during prayers or namaz. We achieved our goal and sent a clear message — we are not like them,” he added.
India rejects Trump’s mediation claims
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed to have mediated peace between India and Pakistan. India has strongly denied these assertions, reiterating that all matters concerning Jammu and Kashmir are strictly bilateral and that no third-party mediation is acceptable.