Armed Forces Confirm Over 100 Terrorists and 35–40 Pakistani Soldiers Killed in Retaliatory Action
In a powerful and coordinated military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces have neutralized over 100 terrorists, including high-profile operatives involved in the 1999 IC-814 hijacking and the 2019 Pulwama attack. The tri-services briefing held on Sunday revealed key outcomes of Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory campaign conducted between May 7 and May 10.
Here are the five key takeaways from the armed forces’ official briefing:
1. Over 100 Terrorists Eliminated in Precision Strikes
India launched targeted air and artillery strikes on nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These operations were designed to dismantle active terror hubs and were based on accurate intelligence. Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, who led the briefing, confirmed the deaths of over 100 terrorists in these strikes.
“These strikes across the nine terror hubs left more than 100 terrorists killed,” Lt Gen Ghai stated.
2. IC-814 Hijackers, Pulwama Attack Plotters Killed
Among those neutralized were Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudasir Ahmed — all involved in major terror acts against India. Azhar was linked to the infamous IC-814 hijacking of 1999, while Rauf and Ahmed played critical roles in orchestrating the Pulwama suicide bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel in 2019.
3. Heavy Pakistani Army Losses: 35–40 Soldiers Dead
During intense cross-border artillery exchanges, Indian forces inflicted major casualties on the Pakistani Army, killing between 35 to 40 soldiers along the Line of Control. Lt Gen Ghai noted that several Pakistani military installations and ammunition dumps were also targeted.
“The Pakistan Army has reported 35 to 40 personnel lost in artillery and small arms firing,” he confirmed.
4. India Lost 5 Brave Soldiers in Operation Sindoor
While India achieved tactical success, the nation also mourns the loss of five Indian soldiers. These soldiers were martyred in various encounters and engagements during the operation. No Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel or aircraft were lost, and all pilots returned safely.
“Their sacrifices shall always be remembered,” Lt Gen Ghai said, paying tribute to the fallen heroes.
5. Pakistani Fighter Jets Downed, IAF Maintains Air Superiority
According to Air Marshal AK Bharti, the IAF shot down multiple Pakistani jets during aerial skirmishes. Although the precise number is undisclosed, India confirmed that none of the enemy aircraft managed to breach Indian airspace during the operation.
“We have downed a few Pakistani planes… though we do not wish to hazard a number at this stage,” said Air Marshal Bharti.
India Sends a Clear Message
The tri-services leadership emphasized that India’s response was measured, precise, and non-escalatory, aimed solely at dismantling terror infrastructure. However, they warned that any future cross-border aggression would be met with decisive force.
“Any threat to our sovereignty or the safety of our citizens will be answered firmly,” Vice Admiral AN Pramod added.
Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant retaliatory actions by Indian forces in recent years, showcasing India’s preparedness to defend its borders and eliminate threats to national security.
