JU organizes panel discussion on “Operation Sindoor: The Future of India’s Deterrence”

Jammu August 13: The Department of Strategic and Regional Studies (DSRS), University of Jammu today organized a Panel Discussion on “Operation Sindoor: The Future of India’s Deterrence” in the seminar hall of the DSRS.

The programme opened with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a tribute to Bharat Mata by Chief Guest Dr. S.P. Vaid, former Director General of Police, J&K, alongside DSRS Director Prof. Virender Koundal, former DGP Sh. Kuldeep Khoda, retired Brigadier Pankaj Chib, and senior journalist Sh. Pradeep Datta.

Presiding over the session, Dr. Vaid described Operation Sindoor as a defining moment in India’s security narrative, blending conventional and non-conventional warfare, and called for greater public awareness on defence issues.

In his address, Sh. Kuldeep Khoda identified four major factors for the sustenance of Pakistan-supported terrorism: active and passive support, funding, infiltration, and source. He further explained how India has started to focus on 'source' from 2016 onwards, particularly after launching the surgical strikes across the LoC. Sh. Khoda also discussed Pakistan’s strategy during the Pulwama and Pahalgam terrorist attacks. Thereupon, India responded to Pakistan by identifying nine targets and launching the Operation Sindoor. India’s Operation Sindoor, he maintained, not only exposed Pakistan but also set precedence for future deterrence.

Brigadier Pankaj Chib examined Pakistan’s nuclear strategy referring to the recent statement of Pakistan’s Army Chief’s, General Asif Munir, about the nuclear threat, the status of the Indus Water Treaty, and Kashmir as a jugular vein of Pakistan. The key focus of Brigadier Pankaj’s presentation was Pakistan’s nuclear strategy and to present itself as an irrational power which can take any untypical decision that include launching nuclear strikes against India. Brigadier Pankaj urged Indian policymakers to work toward the long-term goal of Pakistan’s denuclearization to resolve the Kashmir issue.

From a media standpoint, Sh. Pradeep Datta beamed his viewpoint on the global agenda of terrorism and its collaborative nexus against India. Further, he lauded Modi government’s stand against Pakistan by launching multiple operations inside Pakistani territory and demolishing terrorist infrastructure.

The panel concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session moderated by Dr. Vaid, followed by his closing remarks.

Earlier, welcoming the guests, Prof. Virender Koundal, introduced the theme of the discussion, underlining its relevance in the evolving security landscape.

Among the attendees were Prof. Sunita Devi (HoD, Economics), Prof. Dushyant Kumar Rai (Department of Journalism), Mr. Sant Kumar (Senior Journalist), DSRS faculty, eminent academicians, and students from across departments. Dr. Mohd. Monir Alam delivered the vote of thanks, while Ms. Manvi Raina conducted the proceedings.

Earlier in the day, faculty and students hoisted National Flag atop the building, marking the occasion with patriotic fervour.