New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The Train For Your Next Vaishno Devi Visit | Complete Guide

New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The cities connected by the services are New Delhi, Ambala, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, and Katra

Security forces launch search operation in Kathua after movement of terrorists

SRINAGAR: Security forces have launched a massive search operation in the border area of Jammu and Kashmir Kathua district after suspicious movement of three suspected persons was detected. Sources said a joint contingent of Army, police and paramilitary forces launched a search operation in the Bhambada area of Hira Nagar sub-division near the Ujh River in the Rajbagh police station area of Kathua district late on Monday. The search operation was launched after a woman informed the security officials that she saw three armed persons moving in the area, they said. Without taking any chances, the security forces were conducting massive search operations. They were thoroughly conducting the searches to ensure that no one was hiding in the area. Every nook and corner of the area was being searched. No contact has been established and nothing incriminating has been recovered from the area during the operation, a source said. They said, considering the sensitivity of the area due to its connection with the Srinagar-Jammu national highway and the Pathankote highway, security forces were searching every inch of the land. Sources said security forces also pressed drones and other surveillance gadgets for aerial surveillance during the operation. They have also increased patrolling and vigil on the Srinagar-Jammu and Kathua-Pathankote highways. Given the Amarnath yatra, security arrangements on the two key highways in J&K have been beefed up. Over 3.70 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas since the start of the yatraon July 3. After many encounters and terrorist attacks in the Jammu region, including in Kathua in the last few years, security forces have increased deployment and vigil in the entire Jammu region, especially in the border districts and border areas, where there are chances of infiltration.

Amit Shah must take responsibility for 'security lapse' at Pahalgam: Mallikarjun Kharge in RS

NEW DELHI: Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said Home Minister Amit Shah must take responsibility for the security lapse that led to the Pahalgam terror attack, demanding that accountability be fixed and whosoever is responsible should quit. Participating in the Special discussion on India's strong, successful and decisive 'Operation Sindoor' in response to terrorist attack in Pahalgam in the Rajya Sabha, he attacked the government citing Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha's statement admitting to the security lapses that led to the terror attack. Kharge also questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediation and brokering a ceasefire with Pakistan, and asked whether India had accepted a third-party mediation with Pakistan. India's strategic interests were not secured despite Howdy Modi, Namaste Trump, because nobody stood by you despite such deep friendship. No country, not even the US openly condemned Pakistan. This shows nobody supported you..., Kharge said. He asked why India did not object to economic packages for Pakistan by the World Bank and the IMF. The leader of opposition posed four questions to the government, asking why India accepted a ceasefire even when Pakistan was on the backfoot and what are the terms of the ceasefire. He also asked whether US intervened during Operation Sindoor and at whose behest was that done. The Congress president asked whether the operation against Pakistan was halted on the threat of trade, as claimed by Trump repeatedly. Did the US president broker this ceasefire as he is repeatedly claiming, and if so, isn't this against India's no-third party mediation policy?, Kharge said. 'If you have courage': Rahul challenges PM Modi to reject Trump's ceasefire claims in LS Kharge said the government should release a report on the Pahalgam terror attack, as was done after the Kargil war. The Congress president took a jibe at PM Narendra Modi's unscheduled visit to Pakistan in 2015, and said foreign policy is not 'event-baazi', urging the government to formulate a proper policy. Here we (Congress) criticise (Pakistan) and there you go to their daawat and embrace them, Kharge said, using the term Vishwa Guru without naming the PM. Kharge questioned the prime minister's silence when BJP MPs and ministers insult the country's armed forces, and also criticised the BJP for eulogising prime minister Modi and treating him like God, noting that democratically-elected people should be respected but should not be equated to God. He said the government has not drawn any lessons from the repeated terror attacks that have taken place in Kashmir and other parts of the country. Uri and Pathankot terrorist attacks in 2016, Pulwama in 2019 and now Pahalgam in 2025. All these incidents make it clear that there is a recurring intelligence failure and failure in national security, said Kharge. He then posed direct questions to Amit Shah, I would like to ask the home minister, who is responsible for this?... What did you do to rectify the mistake?... I would like to ask the home minister, that who is responsible for this? Vacate your post if you are. If no, what action is the PM taking? Demanding accountability, Kharge said the government should admit its 'lapses' and 'failure' in stopping terror attacks. He asked if Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor's statement on security lapses was aimed at saving the home minister. Jammu Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha himself admitted that Pahalgam was a security lapse and what happened in Pahalgam was unfortunate, innocent people were brutally killed. (Sinha said) I take all responsibility for the incident. However, the home minister must take responsibility for security lapse not the LG, Kharge said. He asked when the accountability will be fixed and also accused the Modi govt of being arrogant, and not responding to letters by opposition. Kharge also questioned how terrorists were able to carry out the Pahalgam attack after entering India, while citing claims of the government that terrorist infrastructure has been crippled in the country. Citing media reports, the Congress president said even as the prime minister was silent, three key security officials made important disclosures. He referred to reports quoting Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan in Singapore saying actical mistakes were made during the first two days of the operation, and sought to know the government's views regarding it. Kharge further cited a report quoting the defence attache in Indonesia as saying that political constraints hampered military decision-making. He said if no Indian fighter jet has been downed, the prime minister should tell the country. He further asked why the prime minister is silent on Trump's claim on ceasefire and the media reports about downed fighter jets. Kharge asked if there was any intelligence about the terror attack in Pahalgam, as Prime Minister Modi cancelled his scheduled visit to Kashmir three days before the attack. Was there intelligence about an attack? If so, why were tourists and pilgrims allowed? the Congress chief asked. He claimed that the government failed to take adequate steps to protect Indians living along border from Pakistan shelling during Operation Sindoor. Kharge said the government should find and eradicate remaining terrorists behind Pahalgam attack. Kharge said the prime minister should have been present at all-party meet instead of campaigning in Bihar, and questioned Modi's sincerity towards national security. Why was PM Modi not present. Where was he? We attend the meeting (on Pahalgam) while the PM does campaigning in Bihar. Is this your (PM's) patriotism?. He (PM) should have sat in both the Houses (of Parliament) today and heard. If you do not have the ability to listen, you are not worthy of occupying that Chair, Kharge said. Nadda irked over Kharge's remarks on PM Modi in RS, says he is 'losing mental balance'; later apologises The Congress president said not a single public sector defence company came up during the present government's rule, while highlighting his party's contribution towards building the nation. Aapne sirf Jhooth ke Karkhaane banaaye lekin public sector (defence PSU) aapne nahin banaaye. Aur wahi public sector ki kahani aap yahan bataa rahe. HAL, BEL which we established ... People are clapping when (govt) they criticise Nehru ji... You do not achieve anything by insulting anyone. Tell the truth, listen to the truth, only then something will come out of this, the Kharge said. He stated that INDIA parties stood strongly behind armed forces action in Operation Sindoor, unanimously lauded them and supported the government in the national interest.

Himachal rains: Three dead, one injured as sudden downpour triggers flood in Mandi

CHANDIGARH: At least three people have died and one injured missing in Mandi town of Himachal Pradesh due to heavy rain overnight. More than 20 vehicles have been submerged and around two dozen houses partially damaged; the Chandigarh-Manali national highway, Chandigarh-Dharamsala, Mandi-Pathankot and Shimla-Mataur highways have been blocked. Sources said that a flash flood struck Mandi district early Tuesday morning. Four members of a family had reportedly come out of their house in the wee hours to shift their vehicle to a safer place, but were swept away in the sudden flood; three have been confirmed dead, while one person suffered a fracture and has been admitted to a local hospital. The incident occured on Jail Road Tungal colony in Mandi town as Sukati nullah overflowed due to sudden heavy rains and caused widespread destruction. The water entered several locations in about five-kilometer area besides the Jail Road, Saini Mohalla and Zonal hospital area. The flashflood washed away dozens of parked vehicles, while muck and debris entered homes and damaged property. Locals were caught off guard by the sudden rise in water levels. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing; teams of SDRF, volunteers and district administration are engaged in clearing debris and are trying to locate the missing person. Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apoorva Devgan said that rescue operations are in full swing and about 15 to 20 people have been rescued. The victims were attempting to move their vehicles to safer locations when they were washed away along with their vehicles. The body of one person was found stuck in an auto-rickshaw, he added. Devgan said that more than dozen people trapped inside their houses were rescued. The rescue teams had to break window panes and doors to rescue them as their houses were filled with mud and silt, he said. The flash floods triggered landslides, blocking the Chandigarh-Manali NH at multiple points, specifically at 4 Miles, 9 Miles near Pandoh and Dwada. Also, the Mandi-Pathankot highway is blocked due to a landslide at the Lavandi Bridge near Jogindernagar. Many other interior roads in the district have also been blocked due to landslides and water-logging. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains blocked the National Highway near Kangra, cutting off the only main road access to Dharamsala, McLeodganj and surrounding areas. Landslides also blocked the Shimla-Mataur National Highway at Old Kangra Ghat and reports of uprooting of trees and electricity have also poured from several parts of the state. The Met office had issued an orange alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Tuesday. It also issued a yellow warning of heavy rains at isolated places in Chamba, Shimla and Sirmaur districts on Tuesday, and Una, Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Wednesday. Since the start of the monsoon season this year from June 20 till July 28, the hill state has suffered a loss of Rs 1523 crore. So far 90 people have died and 35 have gone missing in rain-related incidents and 1320 houses have been fully or partially damaged in the state. A total of 200 roads, including 121 in the disaster-hit Mandi district, were closed for vehicular traffic on Monday night. 62 power distribution transformers and 110 water supply schemes have also been affected across the state, as per the State Emergency Operation Centre. Himachal seeks urgent Central aid as rain-triggered disasters cause Rs 883 crore loss, 109 deaths

Himachal rains: Two dead, one missing as sudden downpour triggers flood in Mandi

CHANDIGARH: At least three people have died and one person has gone missing in Mandi town of Himachal Pradesh due to heavy rain overnight. More than 20 vehicles have been submerged and around two dozen houses partially damaged; the Chandigarh-Manali national highway, Chandigarh-Dharamsala, Mandi-Pathankot and Shimla-Mataur highways have been blocked. Sources said that a flash flood struck Mandi district early Tuesday morning. Four members of a family had reportedly come out of their house in the wee hours to shift their vehicle to a safer place, but were swept away in the sudden flood; the bodies of two persons were recovered, one person is missing, while another person suffered a fracture and has been admitted to a local hospital. The incident occured on Jail Road Tungal colony in Mandi town as Sukati nullah overflowed due to sudden heavy rains and caused widespread destruction. The water entered several locations in about five-kilometer area besides the Jail Road, Saini Mohalla and Zonal hospital area. The flashflood washed away dozens of parked vehicles, while muck and debris entered homes and damaged property. Locals were caught off guard by the sudden rise in water levels. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing; teams of SDRF, volunteers and district administration are engaged in clearing debris and are trying to locate the missing person. Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apoorva Devgan said that rescue operations are in full swing and about 15 to 20 people have been rescued, while one missing person is yet to be located. The victims were attempting to move their vehicles to safer locations when they were washed away along with their vehicles. The body of one person was found stuck in an auto-rickshaw, he added. Devgan said that more than dozen people trapped inside their houses were rescued. The rescue teams had to break window panes and doors to rescue them as their houses were filled with mud and silt, he said. The flash floods triggered landslides, blocking the Chandigarh-Manali NH at multiple points, specifically at 4 Miles, 9 Miles near Pandoh and Dwada. Also, the Mandi-Pathankot highway is blocked due to a landslide at the Lavandi Bridge near Jogindernagar. Many other interior roads in the district have also been blocked due to landslides and water-logging. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains blocked the National Highway near Kangra, cutting off the only main road access to Dharamsala, McLeodganj and surrounding areas. Landslides also blocked the Shimla-Mataur National Highway at Old Kangra Ghat and reports of uprooting of trees and electricity have also poured from several parts of the state. The Met office had issued an orange alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Tuesday. It also issued a yellow warning of heavy rains at isolated places in Chamba, Shimla and Sirmaur districts on Tuesday, and Una, Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Wednesday. Since the start of the monsoon season this year from June 20 till July 28, the hill state has suffered a loss of Rs 1523 crore. So far 90 people have died and 35 have gone missing in rain-related incidents and 1320 houses have been fully or partially damaged in the state. A total of 200 roads, including 121 in the disaster-hit Mandi district, were closed for vehicular traffic on Monday night. 62 power distribution transformers and 110 water supply schemes have also been affected across the state, as per the State Emergency Operation Centre. Himachal seeks urgent Central aid as rain-triggered disasters cause Rs 883 crore loss, 109 deaths

Punjab government, SGPC spar over parallel events for Guru Tegh Bahadur's 350th martyrdom anniversary

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex representative body of Sikhs, are at daggers drawn over events planned to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur from November 19 to 25 this year. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said that the Punjab government should focus on establishing meaningful memorials in connection with the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadar, instead of creating a confrontational atmosphere by organising parallel religious events. Dhami said the SGPC had already planned a series of events related 350th martyrdom anniversary a year in advance, beginning in April 2025 from Gurdwara Guru Ke Mahal, Amritsar. Since then, events have been organised across various parts of the country. He said that the Punjab governments announcement of parallel eventsoverlapping with those planned by the SGPC at Anandpur Sahibwill cause confusion among the Sangat (community) and goes against long-standing traditions He alleged that the government appears to be deliberately trying to sideline Sikh institutions. Historically, centenary celebrations related to Sikh heritage and history have been led by the Khalsa Panth, with participation from all Sikh sampradas and organisations while the governments supporting them. Dhami questioned why the government has not shown due seriousness towards nearly 12 Sikh centenaries during its tenureincluding the centenary of the Guru Ka Bagh Morcha, the centenary of the Saka Panja Sahib, 200 years of Shaheedi of Akali Baba Phoola Singh, Guru Angad Devs Guruship Day, and the 450th Jyoti Jot Diwas of Guru Amar Das. He recalled how earlier governments cooperated with the Panth in marking the centenaries, establishing major memorials such as Guru Nanak Dev University, Guru Nanak Hospital (Amritsar), and colleges during Guru Nanak Devs 500th Prakash Purab (birth anniversary) in 1969; Virasat-e-Khalsa and Panj Piara Park during the 300th Khalsa Sajna Diwas in 1999 and a historical memorial at Chappar Chiri in 2010 in remembrance of Baba Banda Singh Bahadars victory at Sirhind. However, the current government led by Bhagwant Mann is instead interfering in the jurisdiction of Panthic institutions and organizations, he alleged. Dhami reaffirmed that the SGPC, as the supreme religious body of the Sikh Panth, has already made clear that heads of all governments will be invited to participate in these commemorations, ensuring inclusivity. In such a context, the government's move to announce parallel programs raises serious concerns. Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday had announced a series of events to be organised by the state government to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur. After chairing a meeting, Mann said the events would primarily be held at Anandpur Sahib under the aegis of the state government . He had said that from November 19 to November 25, a series of events will beorganised with deep reverence and respect across the state. In a statement, Mann said these events will primarily take place in Anandpur Sahib under the auspices of the state government. To mark the occasion, CM Mann announced that four grand yatras will begin from different corners of Punjab and converge at Anandpur Sahib. The first will begin on November 21 from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir and pass through Pathankot and Hoshiarpur to reach Anandpur Sahib. Likewise, CM Mann said that the second yatra will start from Gurdaspur and travel through Baba Bakala, Amritsar Sahib, Tarn Taran, and Jalandhar, eventually reaching Anandpur Sahib. He said the third yatra will start from Ferozepur, pass through Moga and Ludhiana to proceed towards Anandpur Sahib and the fourth yatra will also start from Ferozepur and will pass through Faridkot, Bathinda, Barnala, Sangrur, Mansa, and Patiala, and conclude at Anandpur Sahib. The CM had added that light-and-sound shows and poetry sessions based on Guru Sahib's life and sacrifice would be organised in all 23 districts of Punjab. Blaming the SGPCs stance, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, You know the reasons. They do not want to meet us. Through you, we are extending an invitation to them. They can call us or approach the state government.

Hit and run case: 'Didn't know I hit Fauja Singh', says driver held for his death

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, a Canada-returned man, was arrested for fatally hitting 114-year-old marathoner Fauja Singh with a borrowed Fortuner on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. Dhillon, who fled the scene, claimed he was unaware of who he had struck and was scared. Police investigations, including CCTV footage analysis, led to his arrest, and he now faces culpable homicide and rash driving charges.

'Learnt About It From News': Canada-Based Man Held For Hit-And-Run Of Fauja Singh

The tragic incident occurred on Monday in Bias village in Punjabs Jalandhar district, where Fauja Singh was walking along the JalandharPathankot highway.

Driver of SUV that ran over Fauja Singh arrested

The driver of the SUV that fatally struck Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathoner, has been arrested. Amritpal Singh Dhillon, 26, was apprehended and his vehicle seized. The incident occurred on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway in Punjab's Jalandhar district.

NRI Driver Arrested In Fauja Singh Hit-And-Run Case, Fortuner Seized

The man who allegedly rammed his car into 114-year-old marathon runner Fauja Singh on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway has been arrested, police said on Wednesday.

Fortuner That Hit And Killed Marathoner Fauja Singh Identified: Cops

The car which hit 114-year-old marathon runner Fauja Singh on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway and sped away has been identified almost 24 hours after the incident, cops said.

Army firepower to get a boost as US Apache attack helicopters to join next week

NEW DELHI: Adding teeth to the Indian Armys Aviation Corps (AAC), modern Apache attack helicopters will be joining the Unit next week. Confirming the arrivals, sources stated that the first three helicopters are expected to arrive on Sunday or Monday. These will add to the attack capability along the Western borders. This paper broke the story earlier. The Unit was formally raised in March 2024. India and the US signed a contract for the acquisition of six Apaches for the Indian Army during US President Donald Trumps visit to New Delhi in 2020. Before that, the IAF had signed a contract with the US Government and Boeing in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The Apache is said to be the most modern attack helicopter meant to take the place of the existing fleet of Mi-35 choppers for assault and anti-armour operations. The AH-64E Apache is designed and equipped with the latest communications, navigation, sensor and weapon systems. It features an improved Modernised Target Acquisition Designation System, which provides day, night, and all-weather target information, as well as night vision navigation capability. Its Fire Control Radar can classify both air and ground targets and operates effectively in maritime environments. It can also be used for missions such as reconnaissance, security, and peacekeeping operations, in addition to attack operations. The first eight Apache copters were inducted at Pathankot Air Base on September 3, 2019 as part of the Helicopter Unit (HU) 125 Squadron (Gladiators). The second HU 137 Squadron is based out of Jorhat, Assam. The US completed delivery of all 22 Apache attack helicopters to the IAF in July 2020. Contract for 6 helicopters India and the US signed a contract for the acquisition of six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army during US President Donald Trumps visit to New Delhi in 2020. Before that, IAF had signed a contract with the US and Boeing in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters.

114-Year-Old Fauja Singh, Legendary Marathon Runner, Dies In Road Accident On Punjab Highway

Fauja Singh was an iconic runner who earned the title of the world's oldest marathoner. He was hit by a vehicle on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway on Monday.

MLA Ashwani Kumar Sharma appointed as working president of Punjab BJP

The BJP has appointed Ashwani Kumar Sharma, a Punjab MLA representing Pathankot, as the working president of the party's state unit, effective immediately. This decision, made by BJP national president J P Nadda, marks Sharma's return to a leadership role he previously held.

Two IAF personnel drown while bathing in lake near Bhimtal in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: Two Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, part of an eight-member group on a trip from Punjab, tragically drowned while bathing in a lake near Bhimtal, Nainital district, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. Their insistence on taking a dip in the scenic yet treacherous waters led to the fatal incident. According to police sources, two IAF personnel from Pathankot, Punjab, along with six other friends, had arrived in Nainital on Wednesday. They were staying at a hotel in Sundarkhal, Dhari, with a pre-scheduled plan of enjoying the region's natural beauty. Bhimtal's Police Circle Officer, Pramod Sah told the TNIE , On Thursday, the group of eight friends went to Musatal, located between Parital in Belwagaon, Chafi, Bhimtal. Upon reaching Musatal, Sourabh Singh Nayal, Prince Yadav, Sahil, and Vijender decided to bathe and entered the lake without much thought. He continued, While bathing, Prince Yadav and Sahil went into deeper waters and began to drown. Sourabh and Vijender made strenuous efforts to save them, but their attempts were in vain. Following the death of their two friends, Sourabh, Vijender, and four other female friends are inconsolable, weeping uncontrollably. The trip now holds only bitter and heart-wrenching memories for the accompanying personnel. Local eyewitnesses corroborated that the two men lost their lives due to their insistence on bathing. Sub Divisional Magistrate K.N. Goswami and Police Circle Officer Pramod Sah promptly arrived at the scene, gathered full details of the accident, and initiated immediate relief operations. Relatives accompanying the deceased informed the police that they were staying at the Sundarkhal hotel. Police Circle Officer Sah reiterated that warning boards are installed by the police, and action is taken against those entering rivers and lakes. He stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found bathing in the area.

Packaging breakthrough offers fresh hope to litchi farmers in Bihar, boosts Indias export potential

Bihars litchi growers may soon find new markets at home and abroad, thanks to a breakthrough in packaging technology that significantly extends the fruits shelf life. Litchis, typically highly perishable with a shelf life of just five days, pose serious distribution challengesespecially from Bihar, Indias largest litchi-producing state, to southern parts of the country. However, a new innovation using Modified Atmospheric Packaging (MAP) now promises to extend the shelf life by at least 15 days, with the potential to keep the fruit fresh for up to 30 days. The technology recently made headlines when India successfully shipped its first consignment of litchis from Pathankot to Qatar using MAP, allowing shoppers in Qatar to purchase fresh Indian litchisa milestone that showcases the technologys potential. Litchi farmers from Bihar couldnt even send their fruits to South India, said Dr. Sudhansu, Secretary of the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Now, this MAP technology, developed by our scientists at the UFlex lab in Noida, is set to revolutionise the industry. Building on this success, India is now developing a 'Sea Protocol' for litchis to further boost exports by enabling cost-effective sea shipments. Sea transport is not only cheaper but also attracts lower GST compared to air cargo. The Sea Protocol involves specific harvesting timelines, maturity standards, temperature controls during shipping, and ripening guidelines at the destination to maintain fruit quality. We are collaborating with Madagascar, a leading global exporter of litchis, to develop the Sea Protocol, said Dr. Sudhansu. India has already implemented the protocol successfully for bananas exported to the Netherlands and Russia, and is now working to develop similar procedures for pomegranates and mangoes. Bihar alone accounts for nearly 40% of Indias litchi production, followed by West Bengal (12%) and Jharkhand (10%). India is the worlds second-largest litchi producer after China, with other major producers including Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States. Efforts to enhance litchi preservation have drawn political attention as well. During his recent Yatra, Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed concern over the fruits short shelf life and urged ICAR scientists to develop solutions to extend it. With these new technological advancements and international collaborations, India is positioning itself to compete strongly in the global litchi market.

Kashmiri students face travel hardships after evacuation from war-hit Iran

Suhail Bhat SRINAGAR, June 22: Kashmiri students evacuated from war-hit Iran under Operation Sindhu continue to face travel hardships, as yet another bus developed a mechanical fault today, leaving them stranded on Jalandhar-Pathankot highway for over three hours. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp One of the three buses carrying nearly 30 students from Delhi to Kashmir broke down due to a technical snag, causing further distress to the already-exhausted students. A student told Excelsior that the bus developed [] The post Kashmiri students face travel hardships after evacuation from war-hit Iran appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Apache makes precautionary landing

NEW DELHI, June 13: An Apache attack helicopter of the Indian Air Force (IAF) made a precautionary landing in Punjabs Pathankot district while on a routine sortie on Friday, sources said. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Both the pilot and the co-pilot are safe, they added. Images earlier showed the chopper in a field, somewhere in the Pathankot district, after having made the precautionary landing. The chopper had taken off from the Pathankot airbase, a source said, adding [] The post Apache makes precautionary landing appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

IAF helicopter makes emergency landing

An Indian Air Force Apache helicopter executed an emergency landing near Pathankot, Punjab, with the crew reported safe and the aircraft undamaged. This incident follows similar occurrences, including a recent landing in Uttar Pradesh due to a technical issue and a hard landing in Ladakh last year. The IAF inducted 22 of these Boeing-manufactured helicopters between 2019 and 2020.

IAF Apache helicopter makes precautionary landing near Pathankot in Punjab

An Indian Air Force Apache attack helicopter executed a precautionary landing near Pathankot, Punjab, prompting technical inspections. Following the checks, the helicopter was declared serviceable and safely returned to its base. This incident follows a similar precautionary landing by an IAF Apache near Saharanpur last week, and another by a Chetak helicopter near Jamnagar in April.

IAF's Apache Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing In Punjab's Pathankot

An Indian Air Force Apache helicopter made an emergency landing in Pathankot, Punjab. No injuries or damage were reported.

Air Force Chopper Makes Emergency Landing In Pathankot, Second Case In 7 Days

The Indian Air Force (IAF) chopper made an emergency landing in Punjab's Pathankot on Friday.

BSF troops foil Pakistani intruder's attempt to cross the International Border in Pathankot

In another operation on May 24, Border Security Forces neutralised a Pakistani intruder attempting to enter Indian territory in Banaskantha district, Gujarat

BSF Nabs Pakistani Infiltrator Near Border In Punjab's Pathankot

India to move UNSC against 3 terrorists soon

India is preparing to present proposals to the UNSC against three Pakistan-based terrorists linked to JeM and LeT. Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir, Ali Kashif Jan, and Yusuf Muzammil Bhat are implicated in major attacks on Indian soil, including the Pulwama, Pathankot, and Mumbai attacks. Indian agencies have gathered digital evidence and designated them as terrorists under the UAPA.

Two Held With 1.2 Kg Charas In Jammu

Jammu, May 25: Two alleged drug peddlers, including a resident of Punjab, were arrested along with 1.2 kg charas here, an official of Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) said on Sunday. Akshay Dogra of Jammus Bohri area and Arun Manhas of Punjabs Pathankot were moving in a private vehicle when they were intercepted by a team of ANTF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, near Parmandal Morh late Saturday, leading to the recovery of the narcotic substance, he said. The official said that [] The post Two Held With 1.2 Kg Charas In Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Shashi Tharoor Recalls PM Modis Lahore Visit, Pathankot Betrayal: It Was Pakistans Last Chance To

Maximum speed to rapid descent: What IndiGo pilots encountered before safely landing the plane in Srinagar

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar faced severe turbulence and a hailstorm. The pilots navigated challenging conditions after encountering bad weather near Pathankot. They were denied permission to deviate from their course. The crew manually flew the aircraft after autopilot disengaged. The plane landed safely in Srinagar with a damaged nose cone.

IndiGo crew sought to enter Pak airspace, confirms DGCA

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar encountered severe turbulence near Pathankot on Wednesday, prompting the crew to request permission to enter Pakistani airspace to avoid the weather. However, their request was denied. The aircraft, an A321 neo operating flight 6E 2142, experienced hailstorm and turbulence, triggering various warnings and forcing the autopilot to trip. The crew managed to safely land the aircraft in Srinagar after a harrowing experience. The incident is under investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which confirmed there were no injuries to passengers but noted damage to the aircraft's nose radome.

Pakistan rejects IndiGo Srinagar flight crew's request to enter its airspace to avoid turbulence

NEW DELHI: DGCA on Friday said that the crew of Delhi- Srinagar IndiGo flight on Wednesday had sought permission to enter the Pakistan airspace to avoid turbulence but the request was rejected. The IndiGo A321neo aircraft, operating flight 6E 2142, was flying near Pathankot when it ran into extreme weather conditions, including a hailstorm and severe turbulence. According to the DGCA, the flight crew initially sought permission from the Indian Air Forces Northern Control to deviate left toward the International Border to avoid the storm. The request was denied. As the weather worsened, the crew attempted to reroute through Pakistani airspace by contacting Lahore Air Traffic Control. However, this request was also refused. With limited options and the aircraft already in close proximity to the thunderstorm, the crew decided to continue on the same heading and penetrate the weather system to reach Srinagar by the shortest possible route, the DGCA said in a statement. Despite the challenging conditions, there were no injuries reported among the passengers. The aircraft, however, suffered damage to its nose section, specifically the radome, which typically houses weather radar equipment. The DGCA confirmed that the incident is under investigation. (With inputs from PTI)

50 individuals from Punjab under scanner for alleged links to suspects arrested for spying for Pakistan

CHANDIGARH: Around 50 people from various parts of Punjab are under the police scanner as their antecedents are being verified for suspected links to the arrested individuals. Meanwhile, two more individuals from Gurdaspur have been arrested by Punjab Police for allegedly engaging in espionage for Pakistan, bringing the total number of arrests in the past three weeks to eight. Sources revealed that the two individuals, Sukhpreet Singh of Adiyan village and Karanbir Singh of Chandu Wadala, were arrested from Gurdaspur. Police recovered three mobile phones and eight live cartridges of .30 bore from their possession. Preliminary investigations confirmed both the accused were in direct contact with operatives of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and had transmitted sensitive information concerning the Indian Armed Forces. A police official, on condition of anonymity, stated that these 50 individuals currently under scrutiny have not been detained. Most of these individuals who have been questioned had claimed innocence about the secret work of the alleged spies but would only get a clean chit after thorough verification, said a source. The police have launched technical and human intelligence investigations to assess the nature of these individuals associations with the arrested suspects. All these individuals who were in contact with the people allegedly involved in espionage are being verified to dig deep into their activities, the source added. NIA, IB grill YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra for spying for Pakistan; travel details, transactions under scanner Earlier, on May 11, the Punjab Police had arrested a 31-year-old woman, Guzala, and her associate Yameen Mohammad from Malerkotla for allegedly aiding a Pakistani official posted at the High Commission in Delhi. Police said the two were part of a broader espionage network operating in the region. According to officials, Guzala had met Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and became his informant, allegedly sharing details about army activities in exchange for money. Danish instructed Yameen, a passport and visa agent, to transfer funds to Guzala. She reportedly received 10,000 from Yameen and 20,000 directly from Danish. On May 12, Neeraj Kumar, a 28-year-old salesman from Pathankot, was arrested for allegedly issuing SIM cards to unauthorised individuals using fraudulent documentation. The case came to light after Mohit Kumar of Shahpurkandi filed a complaint stating that he had purchased a SIM card from Neeraj in 2020, but later discovered that another SIM had been issued on his documents without his consent. During investigation, it was revealed that the unauthorised SIM card had been active in Pakistan before being deactivated. On May 13, Raqeeb Khan from Roorkee in Uttarakhand, who had been working as a tailor in a shop inside Bathinda Cantonment for the past two years, was arrested for allegedly spying for the neighbouring country. Cantonment officials grew suspicious of his activities and reported him to the police. His phone has been seized and sent for forensic examination. He lived within the shop premises inside the cantonment area. Odisha police question YouTuber Priyanka Senapati over links with spy Jyoti Malhotra During interrogation, Raqeeb reportedly said that he had received calls and voice messages from Pakistani numbers in January this year but claimed he did not engage with them. He also admitted to possessing military documents left behind by Army personnel at his shop. Officials disclosed that Raqeeb was the second civilian linked to espionage from that location, the first being Sunil Kumar, a cobbler and native of Samastipur, Bihar. He was arrested on April 29. Kumar had been working at the Bathinda Cantonment since 2017 and had lived in Dhobiana Basti for over a decade. His brother and uncle are also cobblers in the same area. Kumars bank statement and property details are being analysed, and his mobile phone has also been sent for forensic analysis. The report is awaited, said a police official. On May 3, two men, Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih, were arrested in Amritsar for allegedly photographing and sharing sensitive details of army cantonments and airbases. They were allegedly in contact with ISI through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu alias Happy, an inmate at Amritsar Central Jail. Police believe the duo had direct links with Pakistani intelligence operatives. Sources confirmed that all of the arrested individuals were allegedly in constant contact with the ISI and passed information to the enemy, including details about troop movements and key strategic locations in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

India bypassed Chinese air defence systems, completed Operation Sindoor in 23 minutes

NEW DELHI: In an assertion of the echnological edge of the Indian Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor , supported by indigenous equipment, the government on Wednesday said that Chinese-supplied systems were hoodwinked and the mission was wrapped up in just 23 minutes. The government said, The Indian Air Force bypassed and jammed Pakistan's Chinese-supplied air defence systems, completing the mission in just 23 minutes, demonstrating India's technological edge. Pakistan has a significant inventory of Chinese-origin weapons and systems, including air defence systems, J-10 and JF-17 fighters, submarines, and warships. Operation Sindoor, according to the government, was a calibrated military response to an evolving pattern of asymmetric warfare -- one that increasingly targets unarmed civilians alongside military personnel. On 22 April, terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam , killing 26 unarmed people. India launched a joint tri-services operation on May 7, in which the Army, Air Force and Navy coordinated to destroy terrorist infrastructure without crossing the Line of Control or international boundary. Beyond tactical precision, what stood out was the seamless integration of indigenous hi-tech systems into national defence, said the government. Whether in drone warfare, layered air defence, or electronic warfare, Operation Sindoor marks a milestone in India's journey towards technological self-reliance in military operations, it said. How BrahMos missile strikes forced Pakistan to agree to a ceasefire Air defence capabilities: Tech as the first line of protection On the night of 78 May 2025, Pakistan attempted to engage multiple military targets in northern and western India -- including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj -- using drones and missiles. These were neutralised by the Integrated Counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) Grid and Air Defence systems. Air Defence systems detect, track, and neutralise threats using a network of radars, control centres, artillery, and both aircraft- and ground-based missiles. On the morning of 8 May, the Indian Armed Forces targeted air defence radars and systems at multiple locations in Pakistan. An air defence system at Lahore was neutralised. Battle-proven air defence systems like the Pechora, OSA-AK and LLAD (low-level air defence) guns, along with indigenous systems such as Akash, demonstrated stellar performance. The Akash system Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. It can simultaneously engage multiple targets in group or autonomous mode and includes built-in Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM). The entire system is configured on mobile platforms. Indias air defence umbrella, comprising assets from the Army, Navy, and primarily the Air Force, operated with exceptional synergy. This created an impenetrable shield that foiled multiple Pakistani attempts to retaliate. The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) of the Indian Air Force unified these elements, providing net-centric operational capability vital for modern warfare. Why Pakistan could never have afforded a war with India Offensive actions with pinpoint accuracy Indias offensive strikes targeted key Pakistani air bases -- Noor Khan and Rahimyar Khan -- with surgical precision. Loitering munitions were used to devastating effect, destroying high-value targets such as enemy radar and missile systems. Loitering munitions, also known as suicide drones or kamikaze drones, are weapons systems that hover or circle a target area before attacking. All strikes were executed without the loss of Indian assets. The use of modern indigenous technology, from long-range drones to guided munitions, made these strikes highly effective and politically calibrated. Evidence of neutralised threats Operation Sindoor also produced tangible evidence of neutralised hostile technologies. Recovered debris included fragments of Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles, Turkish-origin UAVs named Yiha or Yeehaw, long-range rockets, quadcopters, and commercial drones. Despite Pakistans use of advanced foreign-supplied weaponry, India's indigenous air defence and electronic warfare systems proved superior. Indias multi-tier defence network successfully prevented Pakistani Air Force attacks on airfields and logistical installations during the night of 910 May, the government said. ISROs strategic role ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) also contributed significantly. At an event on 11 May, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that at least 10 satellites are continuously operating round the clock for strategic purposes, ensuring national security. He noted that India must monitor its 7,000 km coastline and the entire northern region using satellite and drone technology. The making of a Saturday ceasefire: How India, Pakistan pulled back from the brink Indigenous defence industry rising Indias drone industry is on the rise, with the domestic drone market projected to reach USD 11 billion by 2030 - accounting for 12.2 per cent of the global market. This growth is attributed to years of local R&D and policy reform. Since 2021, the ban on imported drones and the introduction of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme have spurred rapid innovation. On Wednesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that defence exports reached Rs 23,600 crore in FY 202425, up from Rs 21,083 crore the previous year. The government's goal is to raise this figure to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029 and make India the worlds largest defence exporter by 2047. According to the government, Operation Sindoor is not just a story of tactical successit is a validation of Indias defence indigenisation policies. Nuclear threat and more: Pakistan's old ruse meets India's new resolve in path to ceasefire

Airlines asked to resume normal operations at 32 shut airports from May 15

NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday night expressed optimism that airlines would resume their normal operations to the 32 closed airports from May 15. He released a statement to this effect after holding a review meeting with top officials and representatives of all airlines in New Delhi. The Minister said, With the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ending on 15th May, I suggested that airlines resume their normal schedules from the 15th across all 32 airports for which the NOTAM was issued. All airlines responded positively to this suggestion. A Ministry source said, At present, partial operations are taking place. The full-fledged operations will resume from May 15. This was the outcome after the meeting held on Tuesday. The NOTAM to close 32 airports in the North and Western India upto May 15 (5.29 am) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on May 9 as a precautionary step after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7 . A revised NOTAM by AAI said the airports would open for commercial operations from Monday (May 12) but leading airlines like Indigo and Air India had publicly stated they would not operate flights to specific airports on Monday and Tuesday (May 13). This was on account of unconfirmed reports of drone attacks by Pakistan at a few cities. Indigo operated a flight from Delhi to Amritsar but it had to turn back due to a sudden blackout imposed in Amritsar. Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #d32f2f; /* A bold red color */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; box-shadow: 0 0 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px 15px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #c62828; /* A deep red */ color: white; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(odd) { background-color: #fafafa; } tr:hover { background-color: #f1f1f1; } .bold { font-weight: bold; } Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations Airport Location Status Ambala Haryana Closed Hindon UP Closed Naliya Gujarat Closed Sarsawa UP Closed Uttarlai Rajasthan Closed Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir Closed Awantipur Jammu & Kashmir Closed Jammu Jammu & Kashmir Closed Amritsar Punjab Closed Chandigarh Punjab Closed Ludhiana Punjab Closed Patiala Punjab Closed Bhatinda Punjab Closed Adampur Punjab Closed Halwara Punjab Closed Pathankot Punjab Closed Bhuntar Himachal Pradesh Closed Shimla Himachal Pradesh Closed Kangra-Gaggal Himachal Pradesh Closed Kishangarh Rajasthan Closed Thoise Ladakh Closed Leh Ladakh Closed Mundra Gujarat Closed Jamnagar Gujarat Closed Hirasar Gujarat Closed Porbandar Gujarat Closed Keshod Gujarat Closed Kandla Gujarat Closed Bhuj Gujarat Closed Jaisalmer Rajasthan Closed Jodhpur Rajasthan Closed Bikaner Rajasthan Closed Air India Announcement: In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. Indigo Announcement: All flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh are cancelled for Tuesday (May 13). Responses from other airlines are awaited.

Schools in border districts of Punjab remain shut

Colleges and universities also remained shut in Pathankot and Amritsar

Punjab: Schools in Amritsar, Pathankot, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Tarn Taran remain shut

Punjab border districts faced closures. Schools shut down in Amritsar, Pathankot, and other areas. Blackouts occurred in Amritsar and Hoshiarpur. An IndiGo flight to Amritsar returned to Delhi. Drone activity was reported in Jalandhar. Armed forces neutralized a suspected drone. India and Pakistan had previously agreed to halt military actions. Normalcy was returning with markets reopening.

Normalcy returns to border areas of Punjab, but people remain cautious

CHANDIGARH: The border villages of Punjab witnessed a gradual return to normalcy on Monday. Explosions have stopped. Drone sightings have ceased. No more blackouts...Markets teemed with people but schools remained shut two days after the ceasefire announced between India and Pakistan. Nonetheless, people remained cautious. While talking to a cross section of people the common refrain one heard was that, Pakistan cannot be trusted. The state shares a 553-km border with Pakistan. The migrant workers who left the state for their home town at the height of the hostilities are yet to return. It is believed that they will not return for at least a month. This, in turn, is supposed to affect the functioning of business establishments and works such as paddy transplantation. RS Sachdeva, past president of Punjab State Chapter, PHD Chamber of Commerce, said that the migrant workers from states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar left for their home towns out of panic at the height of the hostilities between India and Pakistan. 40 percent of the workers have left the state, he said. Senior farmer leader Prem Singh Bhangu said the absence of workers would affect paddy transplantation in the state. Amritsar, a popular tourist destination, witnessed a decline in arrival of tourists because of the tension. However, the Golden Temple in Amritsar witnessed a resurgence in footfall on Sunday with thousands of devotees arriving to pay obeisance at the holy shrine. There was a huge rush of devotees yesterday at the golden temple, even though full normalcy is yet to return. The footfall seen at the shrine was around 75 per cent of the normal crowd. In the coming days, we expect the numbers to return to usual levels, said Rajinder Singh, manager of the Golden Temple. The local people, especially the morning walkers in border districts like Amritsar, Pathankot and Ferozepur, thanked the country's armed forces. It is because of our forces that you see us fearless here today... Now that a ceasefire has come into effect, let us hope that peace prevails, but Pakistan cannot be trusted if Pakistan again commits any misadventure our armed forces should give them a fitting reply, said Karamjit Kaur who is a teacher at a private school in Amritsar. Tarseem Singh Tung (Retd) Squad Leader said, We hope the ceasefire holds and peace prevails but given the past track record of Pakistan they cannot be trusted. After announcing the ceasefire, Pakistan violated it... Rekha Sharma of Pathankot a border town which had also remained quite tense in view of the situation which prevailed as it had seen multiple drone attacks launched by Pakistan, which were thwarted by the Indian security forces said, here was panic and anxiety among people over the last few days but now normalcy is returning back. Another Amritsar resident, Pritman Singh said after days of tension, things are back to normal. He hoped that peace will prevail. The administrations of all the six border districts have asked people to resume their normal activities and maintain calm. However, the district authorities have requested people not to burst firecrackers or fly drones. Amritsar, Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney along with Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar took a round of the city and its bazaars. `` Thank you to the brave and resilient people of Amritsar. We are incredibly proud of how each one of you responded with bravery, patience, and trust in one another and in the administration. Wishing you a pleasant day-Enjoy your Sunday, DC Sawhney posted on X.

Vande Bharat Spl from Udhampur-Jammu today

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 11: In wake of Jammu airport still closed, Northern Railway has planned a Vande Bharat Special to New Delhi from Udhampur and Jammu tomorrow. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp For convenience of passengers, this Vande Bharat Special train (02462) will depart Udhampur Station at 15:00 (3 PM) hrs on May 12 with enroute stoppages at Jammu, Kathua, Pathankot Cantt etc and finally terminate at New Delhi at 23:45 (11:45 PM). This train will cross [] The post Vande Bharat Spl from Udhampur-Jammu today appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Voluntary blackouts, school closures in five Punjab border districts; rest of state to reopen from Monday

CHANDIGARH: Amid heightened security concerns along the Indo-Pak border, authorities in Punjabs border districts have issued fresh advisories, including voluntary blackouts and the closure of educational institutions. In Ferozepur and Pathankot, the district administrations have urged residents to switch off lights voluntarily at 8 PM and avoid stepping out unless necessary. All educational institutions including schools, colleges, and universitieswill remain shut on Monday in five border districts: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Gurdaspur. An advisory issued by the Ferozepur district administration stated: Dear all, advisories for today: Kindly switch off the lights voluntarily at 8 PM, avoid moving outside unless necessary, stay calm and stay alert to the messages from the district administration. The situation is peaceful currently; intimation will be made in case of any event of threat. Schools will remain closed tomorrow in Ferozepur. Thank you for the cooperation and resilience displayed.Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur. Blackout imposed in Rajasthan's border areas as precautionary measure Sources said that Pathankot district officials have issued similar instructions. Meanwhile, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced that all educational institutions across the rest of the state will reopen on Monday, with regular classes and examinations to resume as per schedule. However, he emphasized that student safety remains paramount. Bains directed all institutions to ensure food, shelter, and essential services for students staying on campus. No student should be forced to leave if they are unable or unwilling to do so due to safety, transport, or personal reasons, he said. The minister added that universities have been instructed to accommodate students who choose to return home, ensuring they are not penalized academically. Examinations may be rescheduled or alternative arrangements made as needed. To streamline support, Bains ordered the appointment of nodal officers and the establishment of helpdesks across institutions to address student concerns swiftly.

Punjab: Schools in five border districts, Sangrur to remain shut on May 12

Chandigarh: Schools in five Punjab districts bordering Pakistan, as well as in Sangrur, will remain closed on Monday, officials said. However, academic institutions in the rest of the state will reopen, they said. The authorities in Pathankot, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur and Tarn Taran districts that lie on the border with Pakistan have ordered schools to Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Preity Zinta apologises to fans for 'curt' behaviour after IPL match suspension amid India-Pakistan tension: 'Said no to...'

The IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals had to be cancelled midway after just 10.1 overs in the light of air raid alerts in Jammu and Pathankot. The IPL match was taking place in the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala.

Situation is normal in Amritsar: Deputy Commissioner

Following days of heightened tensions, normalcy has returned to Amritsar, Ferozpur and Pathankot, with residents resuming daily activities and markets operating as usual. Locals express faith in the Army's ability to respond to ceasefire violations. Similar conditions prevail in Barmer, Rajasthan, where restrictions on public activities have been lifted, and in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba, Kupwara, Poonch and Uri districts.

Blackout back in Punjab after Pak breaches truce

Blackout measures have been imposed in many districts including Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Patiala, Moga, Kapurthala, and Muktsar districts.

Return of the native in Punjab border villages

CHANDIGARH : Following a ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan , those fleeing or who have fled the border villages of Punjab have started returning to their homes. Punjab, which shares an over 500-kilometre border with Pakistan, has a volatile history with the neighbour. After tensions between the two countries intensified, many had left the region though there was no official evacuation order from district administrations. Earlier, many especially women and children were seen shifting out of their villages with their beds, home appliances, and sacks on grains lodged atop wagons pulled by tractors. Some even moved the cattle they reared. Most were headed to their relatives homes in the hinterlands, far away from the border. It is learned that they are already home or are on the return journey. Speaking to TNIE , Surjit Singh Bhoora, vice president of Border Area Kisan Union, said that it was the sighting of drones which the Indian Army later shot down that prompted many to flee, especially those from villages close to the border. Now, with the recent development, many are returning home, he added, though there was no clarity on how many had left. Inqulab Singh, who hails from Pakka Chisti village in Fazilka district, located a mere one-kilometre from the international border in Punjab, said, Almost 80 per cent of the people here had left. Pakistan ceasefire breach triggers blackouts, security measures in border areas of Punjab, Haryana But now, Im getting calls from several of them. They have learned the news of the ceasefire announcement and are returning home. Inqulabs family, whom he had sent away into the hinterlands of Fazilka, too, is now returning, he said. The people from neighboring villages such as Chuhri Wala Chishti, Beriwala and Nur Muhammad, who, too, had moved out, will also be returning, Inqulab added. Subash Sharma, who hails from Bareka village, said that none had moved out. This was despite his village being about a kilometre from the Zero Line. The same was the case in Thaman village in Gurdaspur, located just three kilometres away from the international border. But there was certainly panic, Gurdeep Singh, a villager here, says. Both Inqulab and Subash confirmed that there were indeed no orders from the district administrators to evacuate. The latter said it was his villagers who had earlier asked him to move out, but he was determined to stay. Now, Im thankful that everything is all over, Subash added. It was life as usual only until a few days ago, Bhoora pointed out. People went about their routine work. Later, though, they were in panic. Now, hopefully, life will resume as usual. The 553-kilometre-long international border stretches across six districts of Punjab Ferozepur, Fazilka, Taran Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot and Amritsar. Approximately 45,000 acres of land are across the fence, thus creating a unique challenge for the border farmers. DIsplaced by fear The 553-km long international border stretches across six districts of Punjab Ferozepur, Fazilka, Taran Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot and Amritsar. The people of border villages had moved out carrying their beds, home appliances, and sacks on grains lodged atop wagons pulled by tractors. Some even moved their cattle

Jammus twin shields in times of War

Ankit Sharma In the late hours of 08 May, the Jammu region faced a significant threat as Pakistan launched a coordinated drone and missile attack targeting key military installations in Jammu, Udhampur and Pathankot. The Indian Armed Forces responded swiftly, successfully neutralising over 50 drones and intercepting multiple missiles, ensuring no casualties or material damage occurred. This act of aggression is a stark reminder of the times we live in, where threats are not just physical, but also psychological and [] The post Jammus twin shields in times of War appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Punjab's hopes for normalcy dimmed by fresh violations

Initial hope flickered in Punjab's border districts following India and Pakistan's ceasefire agreement, but late-night violations quickly revived anxiety. Blackouts and air sirens, previously constant, resumed in areas like Amritsar and Pathankot. Despite incidents like a drone attack in Ferozepur, residents maintain a resilient spirit, though farmers face challenges due to transport disruptions caused by the ongoing tensions.

Blackout Reimposed In Several Punjab Districts As Precautionary Measure

Chandigarh, May 10: Punjab reimposed blackout measures in several districts as a precautionary measure after withdrawing it earlier on Saturday. Blackout measures have been imposed in Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Patiala, Moga and Muktsar districts. The development comes about two hours after district authorities in Punjab withdrew blackout measures and restrictive orders after India and Pakistan agreed to an immediate ceasefire. Deputy Commissioner (Amritsar) Sakshi Sahwney said, Since there are reports of ceasefire violation, we will remain on alert [] The post Blackout Reimposed In Several Punjab Districts As Precautionary Measure appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Complete blackout enforced in Pathankot

A total blackout has been enforced in Punjab's Pathankot.

Operation Sindoor India Pakistan Live: Complete Blackout in Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Jaisalmer as Pakistan violates 'stoppage of fire' agreement

'What the hell just happened!': Explosions heard in Srinagar just hours after ceasefire

Loud explosions have been heard in Srinagar hours after India and Pakistan agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire , ending days of heavy tension and military action between the two countries. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed hearing explosions across Srinagar. This is no ceasefire. The air defence units in the middle of Srinagar just opened up, Abdullah said in a post on X. Complete blackout has been enforced in Jammu, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Jailsalmer and Barmer. This is no ceasefire. The air defence units in the middle of Srinagar just opened up. pic.twitter.com/HjRh2V3iNW Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) May 10, 2025 Earlier, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed peace had been sealed after an evening call by the Pakistan Director General of Military Operations (DGMO). The Director General of Military Operations of Pakistan called the Director General of Military Operations of India at 1535 hours IST earlier today. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time today, Misri announced. The top military officials would speak again on May 12, Misri added. Following the announcement, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar posted on X saying, India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so, he further wrote. Why Pakistan could never have afforded a war with India

India shuts down Pakistan's false claims in press conference after ceasefire agreement

Following the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan , the Indian defence forces officials held a press conference clarifying multiple claims made by Pakistan. The press conference was addressed by Commodore Raghu R Nair, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sofia Qureshi. Pakistan claimed that it damaged our S400 and Brahmos missile base with its JF 17, which is completely wrong, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said during the press conference. Secondly, it also ran a misinformation campaign that our airfields in Sirsa, Jammu, Pathankot, Bhatinda, Nalia and Bhuj were damaged, and its misinformation is also completely wrong, she stressed. Thirdly, according to Pakistan's misinformation campaign, our ammunition depots in Chandigarh and Vyas were damaged, which is also completely wrong, she added. She also said that Pakistan made false allegations that the Indian Army damaged mosques. I want to make it very clear that India is a secular nation and our army is a very beautiful reflection of the constitutional value of India, she said. The Pakistani side had spread false claims that the Indian military targeted mosques during its retaliatory mission following Pahalgam terror attack . Commodore Raghu R Nair announced that an understanding had been reached to halt all military activities across land, air and sea. Indian Army, Navy and Air Forces have been instructed to adhere to this understanding, he said. Detailing the impact of recent operations, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said Pakistan had suffered significant losses following its unprovoked attack on Indian installations. Over the past few days, as we have seen, Pakistan has suffered very heavy and unsustainable losses after it has given us an unprovoked attack on our installations. It has suffered losses in both land and air. There has been extensive damage to the crucial Pakistani air bases Skardu, Jacobabad and Bholari, she said. HIGHLIGHTS | Ceasefire reached between India and Pakistan She further added, In addition, a loss of AD weapon systems and radar made the defence of Pakistani airspace untenable. Across the Line of Control, extensive and precise damage to military infrastructure, command control centres, and logistic installations, in addition to that, two military personnel had led to a complete breakdown of its defensive and offensive capability and also Pakistani morale. Reaffirming Indias stance, Commodore Nair emphasised the country's preparedness despite the ceasefire. While the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force will be adhering to the understanding, we remain fully prepared and vigilant and committed to defending the sovereignty and integrity of the motherland. Every misadventure by Pakistan has been met with strength. Every future escalation will invite a decisive response. We remain fully operationally ready to launch whatever operations may be required in defence of the nation, he asserted.

Gujarat on high-alert: Ports, airports shut down, blackout imposed in Kutch, 71 villages of Patan district

AHMEDABAD: As a high-alert precaution, blackouts has been imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka bordering Gujarat's Patan district besides Kutch district on Saturday, while operations at Deen Dayal Port Kandla and Mundra Adani Port have been suspended until further notice, sources said. Eight airports across Gujarat Bhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Rajkot, and Porbandar have been closed as a precautionary measure and will remain shut until May 14. In Jamnagar, the District Collector announced that an emergency situation has been declared following a forecast warning from Air Force Station Jamnagar, prompting authorities to sound sirens and urge citizens to remain indoors and seek safe shelter. According to a news agency, the Western Railway has suspended night trains traveling to Rajasthan via Bhuj in Gujarat due to security concerns. Several trains have either been halted midway or cancelled. The Jamnagar Collector said, The administration has requested all citizens to implement the blackout declared in Jamnagar district from 8:00 PM tonight to 6:00 AM tomorrow. In view of the prevailing war situation, everyone is once again urged to remain completely alert, avoid unnecessary movement, and stay in safe places. A warning siren has been sounded for Jamnagar district. Citizens are advised to take shelter and refrain from moving in public places. The administration is fully prepared to meet any eventuality. The Patan Collector said on social media platform X, As a precautionary measure, a blackout will be imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka, bordering Patan district, today. All citizens are urged to avoid rumors and follow the instructions provided by the administration. Markets shut in Pathankot after explosion-like sounds; air sirens ring out in Punjab districts The Kutch Collector said, A blackout has been declared in Kutch district from 7 PM tonight to 6 AM tomorrow. The district administration requests everyone to implement it voluntarily. In a review meeting held via video conference on Saturday, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel assured that the state government has sufficient stocks of essential commodities, medicines, fuel, and other supplies. The meeting, attended by administrative officials from all districts, emphasized that border districts could directly contact the state government for additional resources if needed. CM Patel also directed that secretaries assigned to border districts offer guidance to local administrations. The meeting, held at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar, included Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi and Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi. It focused on the safety of citizens, especially in border areas, with CM Patel reviewing preparedness in districts like Banaskantha, Kutch, Patan, and Jamnagar. To ensure effective communication, the CM instructed officials to ready satellite phones, wireless systems, and walkie-talkies. He also directed the strengthening of evacuation plans for vulnerable border villages, with accessible shelters and transport arrangements for smooth relocations. Additionally, Patel called for the Road Construction Department to remain on high alert in border districts, ensuring quick road repairs if necessary. Updates from various departments highlighted ongoing efforts: food stock levels are being monitored, while health services are bolstered with medical staff and ambulances stationed at key locations. Blood donation camps are being organized to secure sufficient blood supplies. Terror launchpad in Pakistan opposite Jammu's Akhnoor sector destroyed: BSF

Markets shut in Pathankot after explosion-like sounds; air sirens ring out in Punjab districts

CHANDIGARH: Pathankot in Punjab went into alert mode on Saturday after explosion-like sounds were heard in the border district, with the local authorities ordering closure of markets in the region as a precautionary measure. After a night of bristling tension, people woke up to explosion-like sounds in Pathankot and Jalandhar districts, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur amid a sharp upturn in the military conflict between India and Pakistan. Punjab shares a 532-km border with Pakistan. The district authorities in Pathankot has set up a control room, which will function round-the-clock for the convenience of the people, officials said. Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal has urged people that if any material or object falls from the sky, they should inform the nearest police station or contact the control room. It has been observed that some people pick up such items and they take them, which can prove dangerous, Uppal said, as he warned of legal action against such persons. He also asked people that if any such material is found lying on the ground, they should neither go near it nor touch it. Besides Pathankot, people also heard explosion-like sounds in Jalandhar district on Saturday morning, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur, officials said. In Haryana's Sirsa too, some locals claimed they heard blast-like sounds after midnight. A police officer from Sirsa said debris of an unidentified metallic object landed in the fields of a village shortly past midnight. We were sleeping when we heard a loud sound. In the morning, we found that a metallic object had fallen in the fields. Later, defence personnel came and collected the debris, a villager said. Border areas of Gujarat on high alert, Indian Army downs suspected Pakistani drone at Kutch The debris of an unidentified projectile which landed amid the military conflict between India and Pakistan, being taken away, in Sirsa, Haryana, Saturday, May 10, 2025. An unidentified projectile also landed in a residential area at Kanganiwal village in Jalandhar district early Saturday, officials said. The locals said a migrant labourer was injured in the incident, while a few houses in the area also sustained damages. Parts of the unidentified object were lying in the area, they said. I was standing near a window when some object hit a water tank (of a house) around 1.30 am, shattering glasses of 4-5 houses before landing, a woman from the area said. A migrant labourer who suffered injuries on his arm was taken to the hospital, she said. Satinder Kumar, a local, said, The water tank of our house was damaged, while many window panes were also shattered. There was smoke all around. Another local resident, Muskan, too said a big explosion took place at night that forced several people to come out of their homes. One car was damaged...We were all scared, she said. Sharing her experience, Surjit Kaur said a red-coloured light flashed in the sky which was followed by a big explosion. Water tanks of some other houses in the area were also damaged, she said. Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal has urged people to avoid large gatherings or crowding as part of the precautionary measures. He also urged people to avoid moving out in the open or in tall buildings, besides ordering closure of markets in Jalandhar Cantt and Adampur. Malls and high-rise commercial buildings in the rest of the district will remain closed today, Aggarwal said, asking people to stay calm. Akshita Gupta, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Phagwara, said an advisory has been issued to keep all marketplaces, barring medical stores, closed in Phagwara city on Saturday. Malls and commercial high-rises in the rest of the district will also remain closed, officials said. In Kapurthala too, all the commercial establishments remained closed on Saturday. Debris of unidentified objects were also found at some places at Beas in Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Pathankot and Tarn Taran districts, officials said. An unidentified object fell in a field between Khalyan and Sahni villages in Phagwara district early Saturday, officials said. Locals said an explosion-like sound was heard at 2.40 am from the fields of Major Singh at Khalyan village towards Sahni. The impact of the unidentified object created a crater about 7-8 feet deep and 12-14 feet wide in the field, the officials said. Similarly, an unidentified projectile fell in a field at Chhichhra village in Gurdaspur district early Saturday, leaving a crater. The strikes followed after Pakistan launched a fresh wave of drone attacks targeting 26 locations in India -- from Jammu and Kashmir to Gujarat -- for the second night on Friday. According to officials, the security forces thwarted multiple drone attacks launched by Pakistan in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka and Amritsar districts. In Ferozepur, three members of a family were injured on Friday night after a crashing projectile from a Pakistani drone destroyed by the Indian air defence system landed at their house at Khai Pheme Ke village, setting the structure and a car on fire. Tensions between India and Pakistan soared significantly after the Indian armed forces on Wednesday conducted precision strikes targeting terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that had cross-border linkages. Pakistan moving troops in forward areas, launched strikes at multiple locations: Indian govt

Pakistan moving troops in forward areas, launched strikes at multiple locations: Indian govt

NEW DELHI: Pakistan's military is observed to be moving its troops to forward areas, India said on Saturday, terming it a provocative move as the two countries continued attacking each other's military facilities, dangerously escalating the ongoing conflict. The Pakistan military is observed to be moving their troops to border areas, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said at a press briefing along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Officials said that Pakistan has also deployed heavy weaponry to target both Indian military and civilian areas, adding that the Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared for any eventuality. Wing Commander Singh said India was committed to on-escalation provided that Pakistan reciprocates. The officials also stated that Pakistan has been carrying out escalatory actions, predominantly using heavy-calibre weapons, missiles, and fighter jets to target military sites along the Western front. They added that the attacks have also included cowardly strikes on civilian infrastructure, including schools as well as medical facilities in Srinagar, Avantipura and Udhampur, terming it a deploarable act. Around 400 drones used to target military bases, places of worship: Centre on Pakistani escalation Col Qureshi explained that the Pakistan military is using unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), long-range weapons, and other heavy equipment, attempting to hit more than 26 locations across India along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC). The targets included airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Adhampur, and Nalia. Pakistan military has resorted to unprofessional actions, targeting civil airbases in Srinagar, Awantipur, and Jammu, as well as schools and civilian infrastructure in an irresponsible manner, she said. At the LoC and IB, their fighter jets attempted to intrude at over 26 locations. The Indian Armed Forces neutralised most of the attempts. However, there was some damage at air force stations in Udhampur, Pathankot, Bhuj, and Bathinda, Colonel Qureshi said. Pakistan used a high-speed missile to target the Punjab airbase at 1.40 am, she added. Wing Commander Singh confirmed that India targeted Pakistani military assets in a retaliatory action and rejected Islamabad's claims of briging down India's S-400 air defence system. In a swift and calibrated response, Indian Armed Forces carried out precision strikes only at identified military targets. Pakistan has also engaged in a continued misinformation campaign, claiming destruction of the Indian S-400 system and airfields at Suratgarh and Sirsa. India unequivocally rejects these false claims, she said. Pakistans military bases in Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian were targeted through air-launched precision ammunition and fighter jets. The radar site in Pasrur and the aviation base in Sialkot were also hit with precision strikes. India ensured minimal collateral damage during these actions. Sialkot base was also targeted with precision weapons, Wing Commander Singh said. Pakistans use of civil flights as shields was highlighted during the briefing, with officials accusing Islamabad of taking cover behind civilian aircrafts. It is a matter of concern that taking the cover of civilian aircraft taking off from Lahore, Pakistan misused international air routes. So that they can hide their activities. Such tactics compelled Indian air defence system to act with great patience while ensuring civilian security, Col Qureshi said. India hits three Pakistan airbases in retaliatory strikes Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Misri reiterated Pakistans disinformation campaign, which falsely claimed the destruction of Indias S-400 system at Adhampur, the Brahmos Cruise Missile Base at Nagrota, and the Chandigarh Ordnance Depot. Wing Commander Singh also reported that at the Line of Control, drones and artillery are being used by the Pakistan Army to target areas such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, and Akhnoor. India has delivered a befitting response, causing significant damage to Pakistans military infrastructure, she said. Foreign Secretary Misri underscored that India does not wish to escalate the situation, provided Pakistan also behaves responsibly. Officials said Pakistans military continues to use multiple threat vectors, including long-range weapons, loitering munitions, and drones, to intrude into Indian airspace. They added that Pakistans air intrusion and harassment attacks targeted 26 locations along the LoC and IB, including Indian Air Force bases in Adhampur, Nalia, and Bhuj. Indias response has been swift and calibrated, with Pakistans technical infrastructure, command and control centres, radar positions in Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, Farkhor, and Sialkot being targeted with precision strikes, causing minimal collateral damage. Misri emphasised, We must not be misled by the tissue of lies being spread by Pakistan. Their consistent attempts to sow discord among communities in India continue to fail. He also confirmed that Additional Development Commissioner Rajkumar Thapa had been killed in a pakistani shelling in J&K's Rajouri on early Saturday morning. Terming Pakistans claims of Indian missiles targeting Shri Amritsar Sahib as ludicrous, Misri said, These attempts are doomed to fail. At the end of the briefing, Foreign Secretary Misri indicated that the situation remains fluid, adding, We are dealing with an evolving situation, and updates will follow.

India-Pakistan war: Know which cities were targeted by Pakistan and neutralised by India so far, check full list here

Amid rising tension between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of External Affairs detailed Pakistan's aggression along the western border and LoC. In a joint press conference by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said that the attacks, spanning over 26 locations, attempted airspace infiltration from Srinagar to Naliya, using drones, long-range weapons, UCAVs, loitering ammunition, and fighter jets to target Indian military structures. Despite sustaining damage to airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Adampur, Bhuj, and Bathinda, and injuring personnel, Indian forces successfully retaliated, the MEA said. The use of high-speed missiles and unprofessional targeting of non-military areas like hospitals and schools were particularly condemned. While Pakistan continued striking, the Indian Army successfully neutralised attempted strikes on various locations across the country, preventing them from reaching their targets.

Pakistani drone attacks thwarted in Punjab; three of family injured in Ferozepur

Authorities enforced blackouts at many places, including Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Fazilka, Muktsar and Sangrur

Unidentified Object Explodes In Jalandhar Village; Air Sirens Ring Out In Amritsar, Hoshiarpur

CHANDIGARH, May 10: After a night of bristling tension, people woke up to explosion-like sounds in Punjabs Pathankot and Jalandhar districts, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur districts, as the military conflict between India and Pakistan took a sharp upturn, officials said. In Haryanas Sirsa too, some locals claimed they heard blast-like sounds after midnight. An unidentified projectile landed in a residential area at Kanganiwal village in Punjabs Jalandhar district early Saturday, officials said. The locals [] The post Unidentified Object Explodes In Jalandhar Village; Air Sirens Ring Out In Amritsar, Hoshiarpur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Scared Pakistan takes this BIG decision after India accuses it of using civilian flights as shields

The locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet and Lakhi Nala.

Pakistan says India fired missiles at 3 air bases inside country, Pakistani retaliation underway

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, May 10, 2025 (AP) Pakistan said India fired missiles at three air bases inside the country Saturday but most of the missiles were intercepted and that retaliatory strikes on India were underway. Its the latest escalation in a conflict triggered by a massacre last month that India blames on Pakistan. The Pakistani military said it used medium-range Fateh missiles to target an Indian missile storage facility and airbases in Pathankot and Udhampur. Army spokesman, Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif, said Pakistans air force assets were safe following the Indian strikes, adding that some of the Indian missiles also

Explosion-Like Sounds Heard in Punjab's Pathankot

Authorities enforced a blackout in Pathankot on Friday night and urged residents to stay indoors

Three of family injured in Pakistani drone attack in Punjab, blackout in six border districts of state

CHANDIGARH: Three members of a family were injured in a village in Ferozepur as Pakistan launched drones into border districts of Punjab on Friday night. Multiple explosions were heard as the drones were neutralized. A widespread blackout was enforced in six border districts: Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Fazilka and Tarn Taran. Sources said that drones were sighted in Jammu and Samba in Jammu and Kashmir and Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka in Punjab. One drone fell on a house in Khai Feme Ke village injuring three members of a family. They were identified as Monu Singh son of Lakhwinder Singh. Sukhwinder Kaur, the wife of Lakhwinder. They were rushed to a private hospital. A senior officer on condition of anonymity said, There was a heavy drone attack in Ferozepur and a drone was neutralized. As it fell down in a ball of fire, it hit a house in Khai Feme Ke village near Ferozepur. Three of a family have burn injuries and were rushed a hospital. The lady was cooking food at that time and has maximum burn injuries, while her husband and son have also been burnt. Sources said the village is situated close to the army cantonment, and the drone attack was perhaps aimed to hit the army installation there but it landed in the village. Earlier, the Pakistan Army launched a series of drones in this border town on Friday evening. Several red coloured flying objects (swarm drones) could be seen coming one after another. Massive drone attacks also targetted the Srinagar airport and Awantipora airfield in south Kashmir on Friday evening. In addition to these locations, drones have been sighted at 26 locations ranging the Baramulla in the North to Bhuj in the South, along both the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan. These include suspected armed drones posing potential threats to civilian and military targets, according to an army statement. The locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet and Lakhi Nala. As per information, some of these drones were carrying explosvies and a few of them were meant for surveillance. Meanwhile, Army personnel have taken over the security of important bridges and other strategic installations in Ferozepur city. Deputy Commissioner of Ferozepur Deepshikha Sharma said that teams have been dispatched to the village where the house was damaged. Sources said that complete blackouts were imposed in the six border districts of the state at 8 pm as sirens went on and the authorities switched off the power supply. Besides the border districts, a blackout was also imposed in Hoshiarpur. Locals claim that sounds of explosions were heard in Ferozepur, Amritsar and Pathankot. On Thursday night too, there was a blackout in most of the districts in the state and electricity was back only on Friday morning around 5.30 am. Why military strategists are questioning Pakistan's abilities after Operation Sindoor The Airport Authority has extended the suspension period for all types of flights till May 15 at Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport, Amritsar. In a statement issued here, the Airport Authority said, It is intimated to all concerned that suspension of all commercial/civil domestic and international flight operations from Amritsar Airport is further extended till 05.30 hrs on 15.05.2025. The ban has also been extended at Chandigarh airport. In Haryana, the Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests. The use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite a terror/drone attack, the order reads. However, these may be used for indoor use on condition that all doors and windows are fully covered by thick curtains, so as to ensure no lights come out. In view of the emergent situation and shortage of time, this order is being passed ex-parte and is being addressed to the general public, it said. Any person found guilty of violating of the order shall be prosecuted and punished as per the law under Section 223 of the BNSS, it added. An advisory issued by Bilaspur District Magistrate Rahul Kumar appealed to the residents to ensure a complete blackout in their respective areas to minimise risks in the event of a potential aerial attack. Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh shares a boundary with Punjab which is on high alert following the escalating tensions with Pakistan. As per the guidelines issued by the district administration, all lights, both outdoor and indoor, must be turned off during night hours, while citizens have been advised to remain in sheltered locations and avoid unnecessary travel. Also, vehicular movement should be halted at night to facilitate the smooth functioning of security forces in case of any emergency. Pakistani drone attack on Pokhran foiled; Rajasthan border on red alert, blackout enforced This advisory has been issued in public interest. The administration requests strict compliance from all residents. Restraint and vigilance are the strongest shields in such situations, it said. Meanwhile, all educational institutions were shut in Una district on Friday for, which a notification was issued late on Thursday night. The Chandigarh administration has directed all shops selling non-essential items, such as clothing, eating joints, hotels, restaurants, and malls, to close starting at 7 pm. Shops selling essential items, including medicines, are exempt from the directive and can remain open. According to Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, the order is in effect for Friday only, and shops can resume their usual operations in the morning. Meanwhile, on Friday morning, the Chandigarh administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. In the neighbouring Mohali, cinema halls and shopping malls will remain closed daily from 8 pm to 6 am until further notice. India confronting challenge of terrorism, shared threat to international community: EAM Jaishankar

Pakistani drones sighted again in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Defence Sources

Sirens echo acrossJammuas blasts trigger blackout; CM Omar posts urgent advisory on social media Jammu, May 9: Pakistani drones were sighted in the Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot sectors on Friday, according to defence sources. Red streaks were visible and explosions were heard in the Samba sector of Jammu as Indias Air Defence intercepted multiple Pakistani [] The post Pakistani drones sighted again in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Defence Sources appeared first on Northlines .

India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 systems, Akash missiles to thwart Pak attempts to hit Indian cities

New Delhi, May 9: India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 Triumph air defence systems, Akash surface-to-air missiles and indigenously developed anti-drone equipment in thwarting Pakistans attempts to hit 15 Indian cities on Wednesday night, official sources said on Friday. Pakistani military attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, [] The post India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 systems, Akash missiles to thwart Pak attempts to hit Indian cities appeared first on Northlines .

Drone attacks on Srinagar airport, Awantipora air base thwarted: Officials

Authorities thwarted drone attacks targeting Srinagar airport and Awantipora air base. Similar drone sightings occurred in Baramulla, Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Udhampur and Nagrota. Indian military initiated countermeasures, shooting down drones in Baramulla. Mosque loudspeakers in Srinagar urged residents to switch off lights. These incidents followed Indian strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and PoK after the Pahalgam attack.

India thwarts Pak drone attacks again in Jammu, Pathankot

Meanwhile, a precautionary blackout has been enforfced in the multiple areas amid the esclating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Drones In J&K, Rajasthan, Blackout In Several Cities: What We Know So Far

Pakistan has launched another attack tonight at many areas in northern India. Drones have been sighted over Jammu, Pathankot, Samba, Jaisalmer, and Barmer, according to initial reports.

India Intercepts Pakistani Drones In Multiple J&K Locations, Pathankot; Blackout In Jaisalmer

India-Pakistan Conflict: Blackout In Several Punjab Districts; Loud Explosions Heard In Pathankot, Ferozepur

Air raid sirens were sounded in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar and Hoshiarpur districts.

India Pakistan Tension: Blackout in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer

India Pakistan Tension: In Rajasthan, Jaisalmer has been under blackout. A complete blackout has been ordered in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Rajouri, Udhampur, Akhnoor and other areas and in Ambala and Panchkula area of Haryana.

Pakistani Drones Sighted In Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Sources

New Delhi, May 9: Pakistani drones were sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot sector on Friday, according to defence sources. Red streaks could be seen and explosions were heard in Samba sector of Jammu as Indias air defence intercepted Pakistani drones amid blackout. Meanwhile a precautionary blackout has been enforfced in the multiple areas amid the esclating tensions between India and Pakistan. Complete blackout has been enforced, Akhnoor and Udhampur region of Jammu and Kashmir; Ambala and Panchkula area of Haryana. [] The post Pakistani Drones Sighted In Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Sources appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pakistani drones intercepted in Pathankot, Jammu amid rising tensions

As the tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, the Indian Armed Forces successfully intercepted Pakistani drones in Pathankot, Jammu, and Samba on Friday evening, May 9. The blasts were heard across the city amid the blackout, creating panic among residents. In Srinagar, mosque loudspeakers urged residents to switch off their lights for safety. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Punjab to procure its own anti-drone systems for border security

CHANDIGARH: In a significant move amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday announced that the state government would procure its own anti-drone systems for surveillance and defence along the international border. After a cabinet meeting, Mann said nine anti-drone systems would be deployed across the 532-km-long border stretch from Pathankot to Abohar. We will buy our own anti-drone system as we have six border districts. Anti-drone systems are designed to detect, track, and neutralise unauthorised drones. We are already in the process of purchasing such systems. The BSF has already got some anti-drone systems, he said. However, he did not disclose the amount sanctioned for the procurement. Mann further stated that cabinet ministers from the border districts would remain stationed in their respective areas to ensure there was no hoarding or black-marketing of essential commodities. They will ensure that no hoarding or black-marketing takes place. I want to tell people that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol and diesel in the state. If anyone is black-marketing, you can complain to the deputy commissioner of your area, he said. Ministers from the border districts, including Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Lal Chand Kataruchak and Laljit Bhullar, would stay put along with other cabinet colleagues to monitor and review the situation. We are in regular touch with our DCs in the six border districts. The posts of Tehsildars and Kanungos in all border districts have been filled. They need to be in regular touch with the armed forces, he added, reiterating that the situation was under control and there was no need for the public to panic. The Punjab cabinet also reviewed the preparedness of emergency services in the state, including hospitals and fire stations, and took stock of the available ration and essential supplies. In another key decision, the state government announced the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for employees who joined service in or before 2014. Expanding the scope of the Farishtey Scheme, the cabinet approved the inclusion of war and terror-affected victims under its ambit. A spokesperson from the Chief Ministers Office said, In order to provide immediate hassle-free medical treatment to victims of war and terrorist activities in government or empanelled private hospitals in the state, and to encourage the general public to bring the victims to the nearest government or empanelled hospitals, coverage under the Farishtey Scheme 2024 has been expanded. The inclusion aims to ensure comprehensive support and relief to individuals affected by such extraordinary hardships. Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Dr Ravjot Singh issued strict orders cancelling all leaves of Fire Brigade personnel and directed their 24x7 deployment at sensitive locations across Punjab. He said, War is a major emergency and the Fire Brigade plays a crucial role in such situations. He instructed officials to conduct mock drills, ensure all equipment is functional, and maintain constant coordination with Army authorities for a swift response. Officials were also asked to stay on high alert with their phones active at all times.

Drones Intercepted In Jammu, Samba And Pathankot, Explosion Heard In Pokhran

Jammu city plunged into darkness on Friday after blasts were heard in the region and alarms sounded, officials said.

Explosions heard as India's air defence downs Pakistan drones amid blackout in Jammu: Reports

Pakistan has resumed shelling and there are also reports of a drone having been downed amidst a blackout in Jammu. There were also reports of drone being engages in Samba, Pathankot and Jammu. Heavy shelling was also reported in Uri. A woman identified as Nargis Begum had been killed when a Pakistani shell hit a vehicle near Mohura in Uri on Thursday. CM Omar Abdullah, who is in Jammu, tweeted that intermittent sounds of blasts, probably heavy artillery, can now be heard from where I am. The bombing has started again tonight in Jammu. Another night in our fight against terrorism. But we stand strongMata Vaishno Devi is with us, and so are our brave Indian Armed Forces. Prayers for everyone's safety. Jai Hind, @spvaid , Former DGP of J&K, posted on X. #Jammu pic.twitter.com/IkbH3OadEA The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) May 9, 2025 Omar also made an earnest appeal o everyone in and around Jammu please stay off the streets, stay at home or at the nearest place you can comfortably stay at for the next few hours. Ignore rumours, don't spread unsubstantiated or unverified stories and we will get through this together, the CM appealed. An uneasy calm had prevailed on Friday in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, and other parts of the Valley following major escalation in India-Pakistan tension by Thursday night's (May 8, 2025) failed missile and drone attacks by Pakistan army in Jammu. In a major escalation, Pakistani forces had launched coordinated drone and missile attacks targeting civilian areas and military installations in Jammu on Thursday night. The Indian air defence systems responded swiftly, successfully intercepting and neutralising all eight missiles and multiple drones aimed at key targets, including the Jammu airport. 300 to 400 Turkish drones with civilian planes as cover to hit 36 sites, some of them religious centres. This was how Pakistan violated Indian airspace on the night of 89 May, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Armed Forces had said in their briefing on Friday.

Total blackout in Pathankot as escalations with Pakistan continue

Jammu and Kashmir's Pathankot has observed a total blackout as escalations between India and Pakistan continue.

India Pakistan Tension: Blackout in Samba, Pakistani drones sighted

India Pakistan Tension: After Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Uri, it continued to operate alongside LoC as drones were sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot sector, according to Defence sources.

Pakistani drones sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Ferozepur sectors: Defence Sources

Pakistani drones sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Ferozepur sectors: Defence Sources The post Pakistani drones sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Ferozepur sectors: Defence Sources appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India-Pakistan tensions continue: Blasts, sirens heard in Jammu, Punjab for second straight day

Tensions have escalated along the Indo-Pakistan border, with Jammu experiencing sirens and blasts amidst a complete blackout. Pakistani drones were sighted in Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot, exacerbating the already tense situation. These events follow Pakistan's increased firing across the Line of Control, resulting in casualties and injuries, and India's retaliation through Operation Sindoor, targeting terror launchpads.

'Bomb-like' iron piece falls in Kariyal village near Pathankot border, forms a crater

A mysterious, bomb-like iron object was discovered in Kariyal village, Kangra district, after villagers reported hearing explosions and witnessing a burning, rocket-like object falling from the sky. The impact created a crater in a paved road, prompting police to take possession of the unidentified metal piece. The incident occurred near Nurpur and Pathankot, raising concerns among local residents.

Around 400 drones used to target military bases, places of worship: Centre on Pakistani escalation

India said on Friday that Pakistan violated its airspace on the night of 89 May, striking 36 sitesincluding military installations and places of worshipin a stark escalation of cross-border hostilities. Speaking at a Ministry of External Affairs briefing, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said Pakistan used 300 to 400 drones to target India on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. Around 300 to 400 drones were used (by Pakistan) to attempt infiltration at 36 locations... Forensic investigation of the wreckage of the drones is being done. Initial reports suggest that they are Turkish Asisguard Songar drones, she said. The Indian forces shot down the Pakistani drones. The drones and its debris are being analysed, she added. Officials said one Pakistani armed unmanned aerial vehicle had been sent to target Bathinda military station and that the attempt was foiled. They added that Indian armed forces had shot down the Pakistani drones using both kinetic and non-kinetic means. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that places of worship had also been targeted, terming it a ew low for Islamabad. Pakistani side targeted places of worship with a particular design... it is a new low even for Pakistan, he said. The Foreign Secretary added that Pakistani cross-border firing had hit a Christian missionary school in Poonch, killing two children. We do have some information about this extremely regrettable and condemnable incident. During heavy shelling across the Line of Control in the early morning of 7th May, a shell fired from Pakistan landed just behind the Christ School run by the Kamalites of the Mary Immaculate Congregation in Poonch. Tragically, the shell fired from Pakistan hit the home of two students of the Christ School, Misri said. Misri also criticised Pakistan for not closing its airspace and accused Islamabad of using civilian air traffic as a shield. Pakistan did not close its airspace and used civilian air traffic as a shield. Pakistani airlines were seen flying over Karachi and Lahore. There were heavy losses to the Pakistani army as India retaliated, he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said the non-closure of Pakistans airspace posed a danger to unsuspecting civilian airliners, including international flights flying near the international border between India and Pakistan. The screenshot we showed displays the data from the Flight Radar 24 application during a high air defence alert situation in the Punjab sector. As you can see, the airspace on the Indian side is completely devoid of civil air traffic due to our declared closure. However, civil airlines continue to fly the route between Karachi and Lahore, she added. She also said the Indian Air Force had demonstrated considerable restraint in its response, ensuring the safety of international civil carriers. Notably, India on Thursday night swiftly thwarted Pakistans fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missilesincluding in Jammu, Udhampur and Pathankot, among other border areasafter foiling similar bids at 15 locations in the northern and western regions of the country, as tensions soared between the two nations amid fears of a wider conflict.

Markets tumble as India-Pak conflict flares up; Sensex, Nifty tank over 1 pc

Mumbai, May 9 (PTI) Stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty tumbled over 1 per cent each on Friday as tensions soared between India and Pakistan, fuelling fears of a wider conflict. Extending its previous days decline, the 30-share BSE benchmark gauge tanked 880.34 points or 1.10 per cent to settle at 79,454.47, in a largely range-bound trading. The NSE Nifty dropped 265.80 points or 1.10 per cent to 24,008. India on Thursday night swiftly thwarted Pakistans fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu and Pathankot, after foiling similar bids at 15 places in

Debris resembling parts of missile found in Hoshiarpur, Bathinda in Punjab; tension prevails in border villages

CHANDIGARH: Amid soaring tension between India and Pakistan, debris resembling parts of a missile was found in the fields near Kamahi Devi village in Hoshiarpur district. Such objects were found at three more places in Bathinda district of Punjab. The metal debris was found Thursday evening and appeared akin to a missile. Acting promptly, the villagers informed the police. The Indian Air Force (IAF) was also informed. Thereafter, the area was cordoned off. An IAF team arrived at the spot and conducted preliminary investigation before collecting the debris, sources said. Debris resembling that of missiles were also found near Bir Talab Basti number 4 area in Bathinda, at Gehri Baghi village in the district. Also, a house in Tungwali village sustained minor damage during the incident reported last night as the windows and door panes were shattered due to an explosion. A shed in the house was also damaged. The police reached the site early on Friday morning. The villagers said that such minor incidents are common in war-like situations. Local MLA Master Jagsir Singh who visited the area praised the courage of the villagers. Meanwhile on Friday morning the Chandigarh Administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. An air warning has been received from the air force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, an official statement issued by the Chandigarh administration said. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. Uneasy calm in J&K as India-Pakistan tensions escalate, border residents move to safer places The people across the state especially border districts Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Taran Taran and Pathankot had a tense night following complete blackout. Meanwhile, the SAS Nagar district administration on Friday began installing new air raid sirens with 30 requisitioned for Kharar and 20 for Zirakpur and Dera Bassi. The state government has allocated emergency funds to all the deputy commissioners across the state to address exigencies with the option to request additional funds as required in view of the prevailing situation. Also, the government has cancelled the leaves of all IAS and PCS officers in the state with immediate effect. In view of the prevailing situation and preparedness for the emergency response system, it has been decided that no officer shall proceed on any kind of leave or leave their station of posting without explicit approval of the Chief Secretary Punjab. All the leaves approved so far stand cancelled. Meticulous compliance may be ensured failing which suitable action under relevant rules shall be initiated, stated a letter issued by Punjab, secretary personnel, Gurpreet Kaur Sapra. The Punjab police has already cancelled the leave of its personnel. The Punjab Government has asked the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to immediately transfer the wheat that has been bought in the border districts of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka. A concerted effort has been put in to speed up the lifting of wheat from the six border districts of the state. Sources said that the government has informed the FCI officials to check the destination where the wheat needs to be sent and also check the availability of rakes for transporting the wheat. As on date, on an average about 15 rail rakes of wheat a day is moved from Punjab to the recipient states. Rajasthan remains on edge after drone attacks; blackout to be enforced in all border districts Meanwhile the Punjab Police has deployed specialized forces, including SOG Hits, SSG, and Ghatak teams, accompanied by bulletproof vehicles. Also in coordination with the BSF, 73 well-equipped nakas have been set-up at strategic points, enhancing the second line of defence. The Village Defence Committees (VDCs) have also been formed throughout the border areas to support local security measures. Apart from this, 14 additional companies of Punjab Armed Police have been deployed in border districts and state-level control rooms along with district-level control rooms have been established to ensure seamless communication and coordination among all security forces, said sources. In the neighboring Haryana, Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard were issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer. The administration also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours for public safety and strategic interests. And whereas, use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite any terror/drone attack in District Ambala, the order said. The order was issued under Section 163 (Power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. IPL suspended for one week amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan

Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma Hail Indian Armed Forces Amid Tensions With Pakistan

India on Thursday night swiftly thwarted Pakistan's attempts to strike its military bases with drones and missiles including in Jammu and Pathankot after foiling similar bids at 15 places in northern and western regions of the country

Rajnath reviews security situation with Chief of Defence Staff, 3 service chiefs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed national security with top military leaders after Pakistan's attempts to target Indian military installations were repelled. India neutralized Pakistan's efforts to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur with missiles and drones. The Indian armed forces remain fully prepared to defend the nation's sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens.

Rajnath Singh reviews security situation with CDS, three service chiefs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a high-level meeting on Friday to review the national security situation with top military officials, following a series of attempted attacks by Pakistan on Indian military installations . The meeting included Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi. They carried out a detailed assessment of the evolving security environment. The review came just a day after Indian forces successfully repelled multiple Pakistani attempts to strike key military stations using missiles and drones. Targets included locations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and several other strategic areas. Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling; woman killed, four injured Officials confirmed that Indian armed forces effectively intercepted the incoming threats, neutralising drones and missiles launched by Pakistan. India is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people, the Defence Ministry said in a statement. This latest wave of aggression from Pakistan followed a similar failed attempt less than 24 hours earlier. On Thursday, the Defence Ministry revealed that Indian forces had foiled attacks on military installations in 15 cities across northern and western India. The locations targeted in that attempt included Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj.

Punjab: Leave of IAS, PCS officers cancelled amid India-Pakistan tensions Pakistan

Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Punjab government has cancelled all leaves for IAS and PCS officers. This order affects officers across the state. Punjab Police had already cancelled leave for its personnel. The directive, issued by Gurpreet Kaur Sapra, Secretary Personnel, is effective immediately. Blackouts were enforced in several cities including Pathankot and Amritsar.

India downs Pakistan's elite fighter jet, takes F-16 pilot into custody

NEW DELHI: Amid high tensions between India and Pakistan , a Pakistani F-16 pilot is reported to have been taken into custody after an Indian Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system shot down the fighter jet, which had taken off from Pakistan's Sargodha Air Base. There are unconfirmed reports of the downing of Pakistans JF-17a fourth-generation, lightweight, single-engine, multirole combat aircraft amid the ongoing Operation Sindoor by the Indian armed forces in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack , which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, including a Nepalese citizen. Meanwhile, a Chinese-made PL-15 active radar-guided air-to-air (AAM) long-range missile was recovered in Hoshiarpur, Punjab. The missile is believed to have been fired from a JF-17. The downing of Pakistans fighter jets comes amid a barrage of drone and missile attacks launched from Pakistan, which targeted military bases in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampurareas in close proximity to the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). India repels attack on military bases in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur The threats were swiftly neutralized by the Indian armed forces using kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities in line with established standard operating procedures (SOPs). No casualties or material losses were reported. India remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people, stated an official release from the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) and Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Thursday. India struck and dismantled nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) at midnight on May 7 under Operation Sindoor. Indias response to Pakistans misadventure has been measured and appropriate.

Chopra, Rohit, Sehwag Back Indian Armed Forces Amid Escalating Conflict With Pakistan

New Delhi, May 9: Indias sporting icons, including Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu, and Rohit Sharma, have come out in strong support of the countrys armed forces for their strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan, hailing them as the soul of our nation. India on Thursday night swiftly thwarted Pakistans attempts to strike its military bases with drones and missiles including in Jammu and Pathankot after foiling similar bids at 15 places in northern and western regions of the country, as [] The post Chopra, Rohit, Sehwag Back Indian Armed Forces Amid Escalating Conflict With Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

'Bomb-like' object recovered in Jaisalmer's Kishanghat area after Thursday's cross-border firing

JAIPUR: A bomb-like object was found in the Kishanghat area of Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district on Friday morning, prompting swift action by the local police and air force. According to the police, the object was found near a nursery in the colony of the Jogis, located in front of Kishanghat under the Kotwali police station area. Kotwali SHO Prem Daan said it seems to be a bomb-like object. Experts from the army are on their way Kishanghat to defuse it. It it currently not known if it is live or destroyed, he said. VIDEO | Rajasthan: Debris of unidentified object found in Jaisalmer's Kishan Ghat area. Security personnel at the spot. More details awaited. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz ) #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/aGVD2gBSIt Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 9, 2025 Arjun Nath, a local, spotted the object and immediately informed Kishanghat Sarpanch representative Kalyan Ram, who then alerted authorities. Following this, teams from the local police and the Indian Air Force arrived at the scene, they said. The area has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure and further investigation is underway. The object resembled parts of a drone that was launched by Pakistan on Jaisalmer on Thursday night around 10.30 pm. However, official confirmation is awaited. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and follow safety instructions as security measures have been intensified in the region. Notably, on Thursday night India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj.

Air raid sirens in Chandigarh, residents urged to stay indoors; Mohali, Patiala issue alerts

The Chandigarh administration sounded an air raid siren on Friday, urging residents to stay indoors, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated. The alert was lifted about an hour later. An air warning has been received from the air force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, the administration said in an official statement. *ALERT* An Air warning has been received from Air force station of possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies. DC Chandigarh Chandigarh Admn (@chandigarh_admn) May 9, 2025 Chandigarh serves as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana. Authorities in neighbouring districts also took precautionary measures. The Panchkula district administration sounded a similar siren and advised people to remain indoors. Meanwhile, officials in Punjab's Mohali district, which borders Chandigarh, issued an alert for nearby residents. There is an alert in some areas of Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in the bordering sectors to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes, the Mohali administration said in a message. There is an alert in some areas of UT Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in bordering sectors as well to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes. Specifically sectors 45-47. Mohali Administration DC Mohali (@dcmohali) May 9, 2025 Further south, the Patiala district administration also urged caution. Please avoid stepping out unless it is absolutely necessary. All educational institutions in the district are closed until further notice. Residents are strongly advised to stay indoors and away from balconies, rooftops, and open areas, its advisory stated, asking the public to contact the control room in case of an emergency. A similar air siren was sounded in Chandigarh on Thursday night as India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj. The renewed attempts by the Pakistani forces came after the Indian armed forces on Wednesday carried out precise missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor' in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Punjab orders closure of all schools, colleges for next three days amid rising border tensions

India Pakistan War | Pathankot Witnesses Absolute Normalcy Post Attacks | Pahalgam Attack | News18

| Pathankot witnessed absolute normalcy this morning with routine life unaffected, tension continued in Poonch where heavy shelling was reported near the Lo n18oc_india News18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube