THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, JANUARY 13, 2026

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday firmly dismissed speculation of nuclear brinkmanship during Operation Sindoor, stating that there was no discussion on nuclear warfare between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan. Addressing the annual press conference ahead of Army Day on January 15, the Army Chief made it clear that any nuclear rhetoric emanated only from political or public discourse in Pakistan and not from its military leadership.

General Dwivedi underscored that the significant damage inflicted on terror infrastructure and personnel in Pakistan was a result of India’s decisive expansion of the conventional military space. He noted that contrary to earlier perceptions that conflict could quickly escalate from sub-conventional engagements to the nuclear domain, India’s calibrated response demonstrated the effectiveness and depth of conventional operations. The Army’s actions, particularly in response to intense firing in Jammu and Kashmir, enabled the elimination of nearly 100 Pakistani personnel, he said.

Highlighting the preparedness of the armed forces, the Army Chief revealed that during the crucial 88-hour window of Operation Sindoor, India’s mobilisation was such that ground operations could have been launched instantly had Pakistan committed any miscalculation. This robust posture, he said, sent a clear message of deterrence while maintaining strategic stability.

General Dwivedi also cautioned that the terror threat has not been fully neutralised. He disclosed that eight terrorist camps remain active, including two near the International Border and six across the Line of Control, and security forces are maintaining constant surveillance. Emphasising India’s readiness, he asserted that any repeat of hostile actions would be met with an appropriate and decisive response.

While noting that forward troop movements initiated during Operation Sindoor have been gradually reduced by both sides, the Army Chief stressed that vigilance remains uncompromised. With Operation Sindoor still ongoing, he said, the Army’s “eyes and ears” remain fully alert, ensuring that India retains the initiative and the capability to act whenever required.