NCERT introduces module on Operation Sindoor for school students

School students across India will now learn about the country’s counter-terror response through a new NCERT module on Operation Sindoor, which was launched after the Pahalgam attack earlier this year.

The material, designed for classes 3 to 12, highlights India’s defense preparedness, technological advances, and growing global standing.

According to NCERT, the objective is to help children understand how India tackles terror threats and how defense, diplomacy, and inter-ministerial coordination are vital to national security.

The module for secondary classes briefly recalls Pakistan’s past attempts to destabilize peace in India, including the Uri attack in 2016 and the Pulwama attack in 2019, before turning to Operation Sindoor.

It calls the mission "India's strong and clear response to the cowardly attack" on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22 that claimed 26 lives.

"The terrorists' goal was to create fear and religious tension," the text says.

The content also emphasizes how locals reacted after the attack. "The local population stood up and spoke against the terrorists. Their response breaks stereotypes and shows the real voice of peace-loving people," it mentions.

Detailing the mission, the module states, "On 7 May 2025 at 0105 hrs, India launched a strategic military mission 'Operation Sindoor'... it was a precision strike. The Indian armed forces targeted terror hideouts and training centers in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This was a planned, strategic move demonstrating India's sovereignty and resolve."

It adds that the Indian Army and Air Force coordinated closely in the operation.

"Seven camps were destroyed by the Army, and two - Muridke and Bahawalpur - were hit by the Air Force," it notes.

The teaching material highlights the planning phase between April 22 and May 7, underscoring the synergy between the Chief of Defence Staff and the Army, Navy, and Air Force chiefs.

The module also points out Pakistan’s escalation on May 8, when it targeted Indian air bases, logistic hubs, forward posts, and army headquarters along the Line of Control, some with drones. India’s defense systems were credited with foiling the assault.

"Our integrated air defense grid and counter-UAS grid were already in place. These systems, like the S-400, MRSAM, AKASH, and traditional air defense guns, proved highly effective," it states.

India then carried out a calibrated response, striking selected Pakistani air defense systems and sensor networks with precision munitions.

"Operation Sindoor was designed to be a precise and responsible answer to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. The goal wasn't just retaliation; it was strategic deterrence," the module explains.

Versions prepared for primary and middle school students give simpler accounts of the mission, while the more detailed secondary module includes Prime Minister Narendra Modi praising the Armed Forces’ decisive action.