Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled India's 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC), describing them as a decisive response to the pain caused by repeated terror attacks and a defining example of the country's counter-terrorism policy.

Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi said India has made its position clear that terrorism will be met with a "strong and decisive response". He also reiterated that the country follows a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

The prime minister said the Indian Army carried out the surgical strikes on September 28-29, 2016, targeting terror hideouts across the LoC after a terror attack on an Army camp in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir.

Recalling the operation, Modi said Indian soldiers crossed the LoC and took action against terrorism, describing their actions as something that "left the world stunned".

He said the surgical strikes presented a "bold new example" of India's counter-terrorism policy before the international community.

According to Modi, India had endured the pain of terrorist attacks for a long time, and the surgical strikes represented the country's decisive response to that experience.

"The surgical strike presented a bold new example of India's counter-terrorism policy right in front of the entire world," he said.

Modi urges citizens to take part in Census

During the address, Modi also spoke about the ongoing Census exercise, calling it a national responsibility in which every citizen has a role to play.

He urged people to make use of the online enumeration facility available as part of the Census exercise.

Focus on India's anti-drug campaign

Modi also highlighted the government's campaign against narcotics, saying young people across India are coming together to spread awareness about the dangers of drugs.

Referring to the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan or Drug-Free Youth Campaign, he said young people are using creative campaigns and activities to spread the message against addiction.

He said millions of young people across the country have taken a pledge to stay away from drugs and have also committed themselves to encouraging others to do the same.

Modi pays tribute to Ashok Singhal

During the broadcast, Modi also remembered late VHP leader Ashok Singhal on his birth anniversary.

He described Singhal as someone who lived an ascetic life while remaining engaged in society.

Modi also recalled Singhal's role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, saying the direction he gave to the movement and the energy he brought to it contributed to what he described as the grand temple in Ayodhya taking shape.

With PTI inputs