Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, a photo from the 1965 India-Pakistan War has resurfaced on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Shared by the account @IndiaHistorypic, the photo highlights a significant moment during the conflict, captioned: “Indian forces advancing towards Lahore on the Ichogil Canal Road in Pakistan. India had also captured the Haji Pir Pass, but in a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri agreed to return it after Pakistan’s plea.”

1965 War: The Indian Army’s Progress and Pakistan’s Plea for Peace

In the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War, India made significant territorial gains. By September 1965, Indian forces had nearly reached Lahore, and Pakistan was on the brink of losing the city. However, the conflict came to an end after United Nations intervention on September 23, leading to a ceasefire and the eventual Tashkent Agreement. Despite having the upper hand, India chose to return the Haji Pir Pass to Pakistan, as a gesture of goodwill and peace.

Comparing Military Power: India vs. Pakistan

Looking at the current military balance between the two countries, India is far ahead of Pakistan. India’s defense budget for 2025-26 is projected at $79 billion, compared to Pakistan’s mere $8 billion. This means India spends almost ten times more on its military compared to Pakistan.

India boasts a sophisticated defense infrastructure with assets such as Rafale fighter jets, the S-400 missile defense system, and successful tests of the Agni-5 missile with MIRV capabilities, which can target multiple locations simultaneously. According to the Federation of American Scientists, India has approximately 180 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan possesses around 170.

On the other hand, Pakistan's ongoing economic challenges limit its ability to modernize its military, causing it to lag behind India in terms of advanced weaponry and strategic assets.