As you prepare to join our esteemed defense forces, it’s essential to understand the key Indian Army operations that fill every Indian with pride. You should be well-versed in our military’s structure, achievements, weapons, ranks, etc. The Indian armed forces are renowned for participating in various operations, both within and abroad. Beyond national security, our forces are also deeply involved in humanitarian efforts, rescue missions, and anti-terrorism operations.
For good reasons, India’s military is ranked as the 4th most powerful in the world. Our country has consistently made headlines for its successful military operations. To help you stay informed, here are some of the major Indian Army operations you should know about.
1. Operation Polo
In 1948, the Indian Armed Forces carried out a military operation to invade the Nizam-ruled princely state and integrate it into the Indian Union.
2. Operation Vijay
In 1961, the Indian Armed Forces conducted Operation Vijay to annex Goa, which involved a military action to remove Portuguese forces from the region.
3. Operation Steeplechase
In 1971, Indira Gandhi launched an operation against Naxalites. This operation involved paramilitary forces and a brigade of para commandos.
4. During the Bangladesh Liberation War
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 took place during the Bangladesh Liberation War. It is one of the shortest wars, lasting only 13 days.
5. During the Siachen war
The conflict started in 1984 with India’s successful “Operation Meghdoot,” which allowed it to gain control of the entire Siachen Glacier.
6. Operation Blue Star
In June 1984, the Indian military conducted an operation to remove militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his armed followers from the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, Punjab.
7. Operation Woodrose
Following Operation Bluestar, the military operated to “prevent the outbreak of widespread public protest” in Punjab.
8. Operation Meghdoot
Launched on April 13, 1984, this operation aimed to capture the Siachen Glacier in Kashmir. It stands out as it took place on the world’s highest battlefield.
9. Operation Pawan
The Indian Peace Keeping Force initiated this operation to take control of Jaffna in Sri Lanka from the Tamil Tigers. It was followed by two other operations: Operation Viraat and Operation Trishul.
10. Operation Cactus
The 1988 Maldives coup d’état was an attempt by a group of Maldivians, led by Abdullah Luthufi, to overthrow the Maldives government. However, the coup failed due to the intervention of the Indian Army.
Conclusion
The Indian Army has a long and proud history of conducting operations that have safeguarded the nation and brought immense pride to every Indian. From securing our borders to participating in humanitarian missions, the Indian Army’s operations have consistently demonstrated its commitment to the nation and its people. These operations reflect our armed forces’ courage, discipline, and dedication, and they continue to inspire future generations. As we honor these achievements, we are reminded of the critical role the Indian Army plays in maintaining the sovereignty and integrity of our country.
FAQs
Q1: What was Operation Polo?
Ans: Operation Polo was a military operation in 1948 where the Indian Armed Forces annexed the princely state of Hyderabad, ruled by the Nizam, into the Indian Union.
Q2: What was the objective of Operation Vijay in 1961?
Ans: Operation Vijay was conducted to liberate Goa from Portuguese rule and annex it into India.
Q3: What was the significance of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War?
Ans: The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 was significant for liberating Bangladesh. It is also known for being one of the shortest wars in history, lasting only 13 days.
Q4: What was Operation Meghdoot?
Ans: Operation Meghdoot, launched in 1984, was a successful military operation where India gained control over the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
Q5: What was the purpose of Operation Blue Star?
Ans: Operation Blue Star was conducted in June 1984 to remove militant religious leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his armed followers from the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab.
Q6: What followed Operation Blue Star in Punjab?
Ans: Following Operation Blue Star, military operations were conducted to prevent widespread public protests and unrest in Punjab.
Q7: What was Operation Cactus?
Ans: Operation Cactus was the Indian military operation in 1988 to foil a coup attempt in the Maldives, led by Abdullah Luthufi, by intervening and restoring the government.
Q8: What was the objective of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka?
Ans: The IPKF was deployed to take control of Jaffna from the Tamil Tigers, followed by other operations like Operation Viraat and Operation Trishul.
Q9: What was the impact of Operation Polo on the princely state of Hyderabad?
Ans: Operation Polo resulted in the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union, ending the rule of the Nizam and bringing the state under Indian sovereignty.
Q10: How did Operation Vijay change India’s geopolitical landscape?
Ans: Operation Vijay in 1961 marked the end of Portuguese colonial rule in Goa, Daman, and Diu, and led to the incorporation of these territories into India.
