India is marking ten years since the 2016 surgical strikes, when the Indian Army carried out targeted operations against terror launch pads across the Line of Control. The strikes were launched in the early hours of 29 September 2016.

The operation came days after a terror attack on an army base in Uri killed 19 soldiers. The government later announced that special forces teams had crossed the Line of Control and destroyed launch pads used by terrorists planning attacks on India.

The strikes were widely seen as a turning point in India’s response to cross-border terrorism. They were followed in 2019 by the Balakot air strikes after the Pulwama attack, deepening a policy of military response to terror.

Political leaders across parties have recalled the operation on its tenth anniversary, honouring the soldiers who took part. Events and tributes are being held to remember the sacrifices of the armed forces.

The anniversary comes at a time when cross-border terror remains a key security concern for India, keeping the debate on national security alive.