JAMMU: ‘Operation Sindoor’ sent a powerful message to terrorists and their patrons that new India is assertive, resolute and will no longer be a victim of terrorism, but respond with strength and strategy, defence minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday.Singh, who is on a two-day visit to Jammu, made the remarks while interacting with soldiers at the Northern Command, Udhampur. He will take part in the International Yoga Day at Northern Command on Saturday.The defence minister described ‘Operation Sindoor’ as not just a military action, but a warning to the terrorists across the border and their masters that India will give a befitting reply if its unity and integrity is harmed. “Operation Sindoor is not over yet. This is just a pause. I want to tell this to my neighboring country,” he added.Singh commended the precision, coordination and courage of the armed forces and intelligence agencies in destroying terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, asserting that India’s change in policy towards terrorism is a result of this unmatched valour and dedication.The nation will forever remain indebted to the services rendered by the armed forces, he said.Later, while attending the ‘barakhana’ organised on the Yoga Day eve, the Union minister urged the army personnel to focus on physical and mental well-being, underlining the importance of strength and wellness in a soldier’s life. “If you are strong, our borders will be strong. When the borders are strong, India will be strong,” he said.A colourful cultural programme showcasing Khukri dance, bhangra, kalaripayattu and jhanz patak was also organised as part of the event.Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Northern Command chief Lt-Gen Pratik Sharma and other senior officers were present on the occasion.