Operation Sindoor and beyond: Think about the Pakistan challenge, long-term

The aptly named Operation Sindoor was essential and inevitable. The Pahalgam attack crossed many lines. Pakistan's link was beyond doubt. Prime Minister Narendra Modi clearly laid down the objective and gave full operational freedom to the Indian Armed Forces to execute it. For all the strategic restraint, the government's resolve, backed by strong national unity, has been unwavering. There was an expectation of visible retaliatory outcomes. The operation was specifically aimed at the terrorists and their infrastructure, while avoiding collateral civilian damage. It is also consistent with a nation's right to defend itself. Military operations, especially against a capable adversary,…