Operation Sindoor is now symbol of women's power: PM Modi in Bhopal

"Operation Sindoor has also become a symbol of the power of our women," said Modi remembering Ahilyabai Holkar, who was the revered queen of Holkar dynasty.

Hailing women's power, he added, "We all know how big a role BSF has played in this operation. From Jammu to Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat borders, a large number of our BSF daughters were handling the situation.

"He gave a befitting reply to the firing from across the border. From the command and control centre to destroying enemy posts, the daughters of BSF have displayed amazing bravery."

Equating sindoor or vermillion with India's bravery, the Prime Minister said, "India is a country of culture and traditions. Sindoor is a symbol of women power in our tradition. Hanumanji, immersed in devotion for Lord Rama, is also wearing vermilion. We offer vermillion in Shakti Puja and this vermillion has now become a symbol of India's bravery."

Modi, who is visiting various states for administrative works, has called Operation Sindoor, which was launched by the Indian Armed Forces on the intervening night of May 6 and 7, as the "biggest and most successful operation" ever in India.

"Operation Sindoor is the biggest and most successful operation in the history of India against terrorists. Where the Pakistani army had not even thought of it, our army razed the terrorist hideouts to the ground. Penetrated hundreds of kilometers inside and mixed with the soil," the Prime Minister, who participated in Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan, added.

"In Pahalgam the terrorists have not only shed the blood of Indians, they have also attacked our culture, they have tried to divide our society. The most important thing is that terrorists have challenged the women power of India."

Modi on Saturday virtually inaugurated the Super Priority Corridor of Indore Metro, Datia and Satna airports.

He also laid the foundation stone of several other developmental works.

Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor was a fierce military operation launched by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on May 7, in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 tourists who were enjoying their vacation at Baisaran Valley, which is referred to as India's Switzerland.

The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

After the Pakistan Army again targeted Indian civilians and resorted to cross-border firing, the Indian Armed Forces retaliated, destroying defence systems of the hostile neighbour.

On Pakistan's appeal, India responded with a ceasefire on May 10 but Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned of fresh retaliation if Islamabad goes astray.