General Pande: How 'Dharamyudh' Principles Guided India's Triumph in Operation Sindoor (1971 War)

In a captivating address at the Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh, General Manoj Pande, Chief of Army Staff, illuminated the profound ethical framework that guided India's decisive victory in the 1971 war, known by its operational codename 'Operation Sindoor'. Speaking on the poignant theme of 'Leadership, Legacy, and Lessons Learnt', General Pande asserted that the conflict was fought strictly adhering to the venerable principles of 'Dharamyudh' – a righteous war.

General Pande underscored that 'Dharamyudh' is far more than just a battle; it's a moral imperative, characterized by the judicious application of minimum force and an unwavering commitment to protect non-combatants.

He powerfully articulated that the 1971 war represented a clash between 'dharma' (righteousness) and 'adharma' (unrighteousness), with India taking the righteous path, ensuring ethical conduct at every stage of the engagement. This foundational ethos dictated India's military strategy, ensuring that while the objective was victory, it was never at the cost of human dignity or international humanitarian law.

The Army Chief further elaborated on the meticulous planning and execution that prioritized the safety and well-being of the civilian population.

This commitment extended beyond mere rhetoric, manifesting in the operational guidelines that ensured the protection of women, children, and unarmed citizens. The emphasis was consistently on maintaining a clear distinction between combatants and non-combatants, a hallmark of ethical warfare that stands in stark contrast to conflicts marred by indiscriminate violence.

Referencing the exemplary leadership of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, General Pande highlighted how professional ethics were not just an aspiration but an ingrained part of the Indian Army's operational philosophy during that era.

Manekshaw's vision and strategic acumen were complemented by an unyielding moral compass, which shaped the conduct of troops and commanders alike. This legacy of ethical leadership continues to inspire and define the Indian military's approach to conflict resolution.

Beyond the battlefield, General Pande emphasized the Indian Army's pivotal role in nation-building and its unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional values.

He positioned the armed forces as guardians of national integrity and democratic principles, constantly striving for excellence, professionalism, and ethical conduct. The victory in 1971, which led to the birth of Bangladesh, was not merely a military triumph but a testament to India's commitment to justice, human rights, and regional stability.

It demonstrated how a nation could achieve strategic objectives while remaining steadfast to its core values, setting a global precedent for military conduct.