In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of innocent civilians and brave locals, PM Modi delivered a powerful message from Katra, Jammu & Kashmir. His speech, part of his visit on June 4, 2025, was filled with resolve, compassion, and an unflinching promise: terrorism will never succeed in halting India’s developmental journey in J&K.
Modi condemned the attack as a direct assault on “Insaniyat” and “Kashmiriyat”, reaffirming that the government’s focus will remain firm on rebuilding, securing, and developing the union territory. He also commemorated the local heroes who died trying to protect tourists, especially pony handler Syed Adil Hussain Shah
Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Tragic Reminder of Persistent Threats
The April 22 Pahalgam attack shocked the nation when terrorists ambushed a group of tourists and locals in South Kashmir. The incident led to the death of 26 people, including several women and children. The attackers allegedly crossed over from Pakistan, prompting questions about the resurgence of cross-border terrorism in the region.
Read Also: PM Modi Ignites a New Era of Progress in Jammu and Kashmir with ₹46,000 Crore Boost
Source: Hindustan Times
PM Modi, while addressing the crowd in Katra, said,
“The attackers did not just target civilians; they attacked the soul of Jammu and Kashmir. They struck at the spirit of humanity and peace. But India will never bow to terror.”
The Prime Minister honoured individuals like Adil Hussain Shah, who risked his life to rescue tourists. Shah’s horse bore more than 40 bullets during the rescue attempt, highlighting the unshakable courage of Kashmir’s people.
In the wake of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, chaired a meeting of the CCS at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. pic.twitter.com/bZj5gggp5l
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 23, 2025
Source: Narendra Modi
Operation Sindoor: A Swift and Strong Response
In response to the attack, the Indian government launched Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory airstrike that targeted multiple terror camps across the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) region on May 7. Though details of the mission remain classified, sources suggest that the Indian Air Force conducted high-precision strikes using laser-guided munitions and surveillance drones.
PM Modi emphasized the operation as India’s strong reply to terrorism.
“Those who try to derail our progress and hurt our people will face consequences. Operation Sindoor is a message that India will not hesitate,” he said.
This mirrors India’s stance from past operations like Balakot airstrikes post-Pulwama in 2019. The country is making it clear again—terrorism will not be tolerated, and strategic responses are now the new norm.
Operation Sindoor has redefined the fight against terror… setting a new benchmark, a new normal: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/yyHuWBDI5f
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 12, 2025
Source: PMO India
PM Modi Inaugurates ₹46,000 Cr Development Projects
Despite heightened security concerns, Modi used his Katra visit to unveil multiple infrastructure and connectivity projects amounting to over ₹46,000 crore. These include:
- Chenab Railway Arch Bridge: The world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, connecting Katra to Kashmir Valley.
- Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Two Vande Bharat Express trains: One connecting Katra to Srinagar and another from Jammu to Udhampur, significantly boosting tourism and mobility.
- Railway electrification and doubling projects across Jammu and Kashmir.
These projects are part of the Modi government’s broader goal to integrate Jammu & Kashmir with the rest of India not just emotionally, but economically and strategically.
“The bridges of Jammu and Kashmir are not just built with iron and steel—they are made of trust, progress, and the future of our youth,” PM Modi declared.
Kashmiriyat Is Our Strength
During his speech, the Prime Minister used the term Kashmiriyat multiple times. The phrase refers to the centuries-old ethos of communal harmony, inclusivity, and brotherhood in the Kashmir Valley. Modi emphasized that terror forces will never succeed in eroding the composite cultural identity of the region.
“Terrorists want to divide Kashmiris. But the people of this land have always stood united—whether it was in hardship or in celebration,” he said.
This aligns with Modi’s long-term vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas’, especially in sensitive regions like J&K.
The Political and Security Significance
The timing of this speech is crucial. With the 2025 Lok Sabha elections looming, Modi’s presence in Katra sends a clear message of stability, strength, and proactive governance. His visit also reinforces that national security and regional development go hand-in-hand.
Security experts believe that terror outfits, sensing India’s increasing investments in J&K, may escalate their activities. However, the swift execution of Operation Sindoor shows that the Indian government is ready and equipped to act swiftly.
International Reactions and Pakistan’s Denial
As expected, Pakistan denied any involvement in the Pahalgam attack. Their Foreign Office issued a routine statement, calling India’s allegations “baseless” and the subsequent airstrikes “aggressive posturing”.
However, international reactions have largely supported India. Countries like the United States, France, and Australia condemned the terror attack and endorsed India’s right to defend its sovereignty.
PM Modi’s Kashmir Policy: Development With Security
Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the Modi government has promised “Naya Kashmir” — a new era of prosperity and peace. In line with this vision:
- More than 200 development projects worth over ₹1 lakh crore are underway.
- Foreign investment proposals are being considered, especially in the tourism and IT sectors.
- Terror-related incidents have dropped significantly since 2021, though intermittent attacks persist.
The Pahalgam attack was a grim reminder of old challenges, but the government’s response was clear: progress will continue undeterred.
Conclusion
The Pahalgam terror attack may have shaken the nation, but PM Modi’s statements and actions prove that India will not bend under pressure. From swift military responses like Operation Sindoor to large-scale development efforts like the Chenab Bridge, India is sending a bold message: Jammu & Kashmir will rise, stronger and united.
As Modi aptly put it, “We will not stop. We will not bow. We will build.”
