New Delhi, May 4 — Air Chief Marshal A P Singh met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday as part of a high-level review of India’s strategic posture following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which has heightened tensions with Pakistan.
The meeting follows a similar briefing on Saturday by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, who updated the Prime Minister on maritime security and developments in the Arabian Sea, officials said.
Sources familiar with the discussions said both meetings were part of a broader assessment of India’s response options. “The focus is on preparedness and a calibrated approach in light of evolving threats,” one official said.
The backdrop of these deliberations includes India’s 2019 airstrikes in Balakot, Pakistan, launched days after the Pulwama attack, which marked a significant shift in India’s counter-terrorism policy.
Adding to the strategic developments, India signed a key defence pact with France last week to acquire 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities. These jets will complement the 36 Rafales already in service with the Air Force.
International leaders have called for restraint. In an interview with Fox News, U.S. Vice-President JD Vance said, “We hope that India responds to this attack in a way that doesn’t lead to a broader regional conflict.” He also urged Pakistan to cooperate: “Frankly, we also hope that Pakistan, to the extent it is responsible, cooperates with India.”
The Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people including civilians triggered diplomatic, military, and strategic recalibrations in New Delhi.
