Jammu & kashmir / The Economic Times
General Anil Chauhan highlighted India's progress over Pakistan across various sectors due to long-term strategies, despite initial disadvantages. He emphasized India's diplomatic efforts and the need for reciprocal cooperation. Furthermore, he engaged with US INDOPACOM Commander Admiral Paparo to enhance defense collaboration and discussed regional security with Brazil, reinforcing commitment to a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The Counter-Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) unit of the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted searches at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley in connection with an ongoing terror link investigation, according to the officials on Friday.
General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff, is set to visit Singapore for the Shangri-La Dialogue, a key Asian security summit. He will engage in bilateral meetings with defence leaders from numerous countries, including Australia, France, and the United States.
The all-party delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor arrived in Georgetown, Guyana, where it was received with great fervour and enthusiasm by the members of the Indian diaspora. Upon arrival, Tharoor congratulated the people of Guyana in advance for their Independence day celebrations, and shared the purpose of the visit of the all-party delegation.
Nitin Gadkari spoke at an event via video conference. Gadkari cited Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Ahilyabai Holkar's teachings. He shared a conversation with a British PM about societal challenges. Gadkari praised Ahilyabai Holkar's dedication to societal issues. Her vision promoted infrastructure and tourism rooted in Indian values.
Tariq Hamid Karra reported that Poonch district suffered the most from recent Pakistani shelling, prompting Rahul Gandhi's visit to show solidarity. Syed Naseer Hussain condemned the attacks on religious sites and questioned the US-mediated ceasefire, highlighting public disappointment. A Trinamool Congress delegation also visited Poonch, expressing support for the affected families and emphasizing the need for peace.
The CBI has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir governor Satyapal Malik and five others concerning alleged corruption in the Rs 2,200-crore Kiru hydropower project. Malik claims he was offered a bribe to clear the project. The chargesheet names officials from Chenab Valley Power Projects and Patel Engineering Limited, alleging irregularities in awarding the tender.
The Supreme Court has asked the Central government for a response regarding the implementation of heatwave action plans. This follows a petition highlighting over 700 heatwave deaths last year. The court wants to know why national guidelines aren't being followed. The petition also requests better forecasting, early warning systems, and helplines.
Ashoka University expressed relief as the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, arrested for social media posts related to Operation Sindoor. The court directed the Haryana DGP to form a Special Investigation Team to investigate the case, while restraining Mahmudabad from further online posts on the India-Pakistan conflict.
The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has announced that its Chairperson, Mamata Banerjee, has nominated National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee to represent the party in an all-party delegation for India's global outreach against terrorism.
Following discussions with US President Donald Trump and European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed uncertainty regarding Russia's commitment to a ceasefire, citing a lack of trust. Despite Ukraine's readiness for unconditional ceasefire talks, as proposed by Trump, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Russia to demonstrate genuine commitment through tangible actions to end the war.
During recent conflicts, the Indian Army effectively used its indigenous air defense systems. The early warning radar system successfully detected and destroyed enemy drones and aircraft. The Akashteer system played a vital role in Operation Sindoor, neutralizing enemy drones. Upgraded L-70 Air Defence Guns also achieved a 100% success rate.
In Shopian, a joint operation by the Indian Army, SOG, and CRPF led to the apprehension of two terrorist associates, recovering weapons and ammunition. Following this, three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed in an encounter in the Shukroo forest area of Keller.
The Supreme Court declined to review new petitions against the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025. The court cited a desire for publicity as a reason. A previous case is scheduled for May 20, where interim relief will be discussed. The Solicitor General objected to the repeated filings. The Centre has assured no waqf properties will be denotified until May 5.
Following the Pahalgam terror strike, Maharashtra Cyber identified seven APT groups launching over 1.5 million cyber attacks on Indian critical infrastructure, with 150 succeeding. These attacks, originating from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Middle East, involved malware, DDoS, and website defacement. A report, Road of Sindoor, details Pakistan-allied groups' hybrid warfare, including misinformation, prompting warnings against spreading fake news.
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, poised to become the first Buddhist Chief Justice of India on May 14, has declined any post-retirement assignments, affirming the Constitution's supremacy over Parliament and judiciary. He expressed the Supreme Court's solidarity with the nation during crises, referencing the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent actions.
Additional District Development Commissioner Raj Kumar Thapa tragically died due to cross-border shelling by Pakistan in Rajouri. Political and administrative leaders, including Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary, paid their respects at a tribute ceremony in Jammu. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed condolences to Thapa's family, acknowledging his service and sacrifice.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh convened a meeting to enhance security at technical and scientific installations in border areas of J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, including IMD facilities in Srinagar and Leh. The focus is on bolstering preparedness at CSIR, DBT, IMD, and Earth Sciences institutions, emphasizing coordination with local authorities and implementing emergency response SOPs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level meeting after Pakistan violated an agreement. The agreement was to stop military action. India stated Pakistan violated the understanding soon after it took effect. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reported repeated violations. India's armed forces responded appropriately. Multiple blasts rocked Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir.
BSF Sub Inspector Md Imteyaz died in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Jammu's R S Pura area. DG BSF and all ranks paid tribute to him. India reported Pakistan violated the ceasefire understanding reached earlier. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri condemned the violations. Indian Armed Forces were instructed to respond strongly to any further violations along the border.
An army trooper sustained injuries during a brief exchange of fire with a suspected terrorist outside a camp in Nagrota. Authorities initiated a massive search operation to secure the area. The incident occurred late Saturday evening. Police dismissed reports of terrorists in the R S Pura sector as baseless.
Amid escalating tensions, Saudi Arabia is actively working to mediate between India and Pakistan. Al-Jubeir visited both nations to encourage dialogue and de-escalation following reported Indian strikes on terrorist infrastructure and alleged Pakistani retaliatory drone attacks. The focus is on resolving disputes through diplomatic channels to prevent further military confrontations.
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.
Amid escalating military conflict, Home Minister Amit Shah assessed the security landscape along the India-Pakistan border and at Indian airports. This review follows a foiled infiltration attempt in Jammu where the BSF neutralized terrorists and destroyed a Pakistan Rangers post. Security enhancements at airports, managed by the CISF, were also evaluated in response to heightened tensions.
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.
Following a failed Pakistani drone attack targeting Jammu city, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is heading to the region to assess the situation. Residents reported a night of blackout and gunfire, with Indian forces successfully neutralizing the drones.
Adel Aljubeir, Saudi Arabia's Minister, is in India for discussions. He met with S Jaishankar to address India-Pakistan tensions. This visit follows Indian strikes on terror infrastructures. India took action after the Pahalgam attack, targeting JeM and LeT bases. Vikram Misri stated the strikes were proportionate. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also in New Delhi for talks.
In response to unprovoked firing by the Pakistan Army, the Indian Army retaliated proportionately across the Line of Control in Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, and Akhnoor sectors. This escalation follows increased ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The recent firing has impacted civilian areas, causing damage and casualties.
Following the Indian Army's precise strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK under Operation Sindoor, ceasefire violations are being closely monitored. The army is on high alert, with formations given operational freedom to respond to Pakistani artillery targeting Indian civilians.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed states bordering Pakistan and Nepal to vigilantly monitor and act against anti-national propaganda on social media. He emphasized coordination between local administration, army, and paramilitary forces, urging states to prevent public fear and spread awareness against rumors. Shah also stressed seamless communication and strengthened security at vulnerable points.
Sheikh Sajjad Gul, the head of Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy TRF, is identified as the mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 fatalities. Operating from Pakistan under LeT's protection, Gul has orchestrated numerous terror attacks in Kashmir between 2020 and 2024.
Following the tragic terrorist attack in Baisaran meadow that killed 26 people, the CRPF Director General has demanded a detailed report from the commanding officer of the Pahalgam unit regarding the incident and the unit's response.
Heavy rainfall caused the Chenab River's water level to rise in the Akhnoor sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Simultaneously, Delhi experienced severe waterlogging and traffic disruptions due to heavy rain, prompting Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to highlight the collaborative efforts of the central, Delhi, and local governments to address infrastructure issues.
The Border Security Force (BSF)drones from separate locations along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab, adding to the growing number of unmanned aerial vehicles intercepted along the international boundary.
The United States has approved a USD 131 million military hardware and logistic support package for India, enhancing strategic ties. This foreign military sale supports the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness program. The deal includes sea-vision software, remote software, analytic support, and related logistics, bolstering India's maritime capabilities and strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region.
Farooq Abdullah, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference chief, condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, citing security and intelligence failures and Pakistan's destabilisation efforts. He criticised Pakistan's propaganda and General Asim Munir's two-nation theory remarks, while supporting PM Modi's response to the attack.
The National Investigation Agency is now leading the probe into the Pahalgam terror attack. NIA Director General Sadanand Date visited Pahalgam. The agency has registered a fresh FIR. It follows a claim of responsibility by the Resistance Front. Intelligence agencies have identified 14 local terrorists. They are aiding foreign terrorists. Security forces are conducting operations in South Kashmir.
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, a senior police officer assessed security at popular tourist spots near Jammu. Deputy Inspector General Shridhar Patil visited Patnitop, Nathatop, and Sanasar, reviewing safety measures with police, civil officers, and tourism representatives. Discussions included enhanced coordination, improved surveillance, and maintaining law and order to ensure visitor safety during the peak season.
Adarsh Raut, a young man from Maharashtra, recounted a chilling encounter in Kashmir a day before the Pahalgam terror attack. He claims one of the suspected attackers questioned him about his religion at a food stall.
Ahead of Rahul Gandhi's visit to Amethi, provocative posters branding him as a supporter of terror surfaced across the city, escalating political tensions despite heightened security measures. Gandhi's itinerary includes visits to Raebareli and Amethi, where he will inaugurate facilities and meet with party workers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the government's commitment to modernizing the education system to prepare youth for India's future. He highlighted the significant increase in gross expenditure on R&D, aiming to make India a global leader in future technologies.
Following the Pahalgam attack, the Centre ordered Pakistani nationals to leave India. Madhya Pradesh faces a dilemma regarding nine children with Pakistani fathers and Indian mothers. They also seek clarity on a Pakistani man's visa application. Some Pakistani nationals have already left, while others are under scrutiny. The Centre warns of arrests for those who overstay.
The Indian Air Force is set for a leadership reshuffle as Air Marshal Narmadeshwar Tiwari steps in as the new Vice Chief, succeeding Air Marshal SP Dharkar on May 1. Simultaneously, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit will assume the role of CISC, taking over from Lt Gen JP Matthew.
The Indian Army retaliated against unprovoked small arms fire from the Pakistan Army across the Line of Control in Kupwara and Poonch districts on April 27-28, following similar incidents on the night prior in Tutmari Gali and Rampur sectors.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. Expressing solidarity with the victims and governments of India and Nepal, the UNSC emphasized the urgent need to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Pahalgam terror attack: Authorities demolished the houses of Adil Thokar and Asif Shaikh, linked to the deadly Pahalgam attack, in Anantnag and Awantipora. Thokar, allegedly instrumental in the attack that killed 26 people, had reportedly received terror training in Pakistan. He is also accused of guiding Pakistani terrorists involved in the assault on Baisaran Meadow, a popular tourist destination.
Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, the Union government is likely to convene an all-party meeting on April 24, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Prime Minister Modi, after cutting short his Saudi Arabia visit, led a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting. Rajnath Singh vowed to punish the perpetrators, while J&K CM Omar Abdullah also called for an all-party meeting.
Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of innocent tourists, efforts are underway to repatriate victims and ensure the safe return of other tourists. Government officials are coordinating assistance, and additional flights have been arranged from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai.
BJP leader Anurag Thakur hailed the 'One Nation, One Election' Bill as transformative and in the national interest, citing potential savings in time and money. A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is set to begin all-state visits starting with Maharashtra on May 17 to gather opinions. The JPC is also launching a website for public input, ensuring transparency.