Sindoor, a symbol of resilience

Operation Sindoor stands as a landmark in India’s fight against terror. In the hours before dawn on May 7, justice descended — swift, precise and resolute. And in a gesture as symbolic as it was strategic, two Indian women officers stepped forward to address the world — not to mourn, but to declare. Their words were not just a press briefing; they were a proclamation — this is how a sovereign nation answers terror: not with chaos, but with clarity; not with vengeance, but with valour. Operation Sindoor was a mission of precision and principle. Not a thread of disorder. Only a quiet, thunderous truth delivered to those who choose terror over peace.

Rohini Sharma, Dharamsala

Pak factory of radicals

Apropos of ‘Tighten the noose around Pakistan’; Operation Sindoor destroyed terrorist bases in PoK and Pakistan but that setback may not be long-term, considering the perennial supply of radicalised youths in that country. Pakistan has not only raised terrorists who target India but has also harboured fundamentalists like Osama bin Laden, the most wanted terrorist of the West. Pakistan will have to change its inherent character if it is to be perceived differently. India has reached out to other countries and global fora which must use their leverage to coerce Pakistan to act responsibly and stop perpetrating terrorism and focus on its progress.

SS Paul, Nadia

Honouring relationships

Refer to ‘Not just a name’; Operation Sindoor is a testament to how symbolism can amplify the impact of military actions. By addressing not just physical security but emotional and cultural wounds, the operation exemplified a nuanced approach to counter-terrorism. It reminded the world that India’s resolve is not just about eliminating threats but also about honouring the values and relationships that bind its people together. In the face of terror, the nation responded with strength, empathy and a commitment to dignity — both on the battlefield and off it.

Gaurav Badhwar, Rohtak

Pak not seeing writing on wall

This refers to ‘Pahalgam payback’; notwithstanding India’s measured and non-escalatory operation against Pakistan’s unabated nurturing of terrorism, it may still be naive to expect this rogue state to see the writing on the wall and fall in line. Old habits die hard. Pakistan deserves persistent lessons of retribution for calling the bluff of its Prime Minister, who has shamelessly termed the decimation of its terror-nurturing hubs as a cowardly act by India.

SK Gupta, by mail

UK-India trade deal beneficial

Refer to ‘India, UK seal ‘landmark’ FTA’; it is a historic event, for which both PMs deserve credit. The FTA was much needed after the uncertainty created by Trump’s tariff policy. The agreement will yield manifold increase in bilateral trade. As far as tariffs are concerned, most exports from India to the UK will face near-zero duty on many items. And in reciprocal exchange, India will slash tariffs on most British products. Another good aspect of this deal is the Double Contribution Convention that both countries have agreed on. This means that Indian workers in the UK and vice versa won’t have to make social security contributions there for the first three years. Hopefully, this will result in bigger remittances. The FTA will ease mobility for many professionals. India must move fast on similar trade deals with the EU, the US and Australia.

SK Panesar, by mail

Rohit Sharma, a true legend

Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket. A true legend of the game, Rohit has been an exceptional ambassador of the sport with his calm demeanour, tactical acumen and unmatched stroke play across formats. His decision to step away from Tests, coming shortly after his T20I retirement and continued commitment to ODIs, reflects a thoughtful approach to both personal form and team dynamics.

Vandana, Chandigarh

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