From Diplomatic Notes to Deterrence: India's New Policy

For years Pakistan avoided direct consequences for terrorist groups it was accused of supporting, while India continued to send formal protest notes after each attack. The 2016 operation changed that calculus. By delivering a clear message that terrorist launch pads would be destroyed, New Delhi moved from a posture of diplomatic protest to a proactive deterrence stance. Subsequent operations such as the Balakot air strike and Operation Sindoor reinforced this shift, showing that India is prepared to respond with force when its troops are targeted.