LIVE: India's Special Briefing On Operation Sindoor To Begin Shortly

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met the family of Jammu and Kashmir officer killed in Pakistan shelling this morning. Mr Abdullah paid condolences to the family of Dr Raj Kumar Thapa, Additional District Development Commissioner, Rajouri, who lost his life in the line of duty.
"His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The Government stands firmly with his family in this hour of grief," wrote Mr Abdullah on X (former Twitter), along with pictures from the meeting.

Paid my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa, JKAS, ADDC Rajouri who lost his life in the line of duty today due to shelling by Pakistan. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The Government stands firmly with his family in this hour of grief. pic.twitter.com/dnn1ZUDXaS

*URGENT*
HIGH RED ALERT 🚨
Everyone is ordered to immediately to go to their houses.
Markets to be closed and all movement to be stopped.
Urgent, pls note.
IMMEDIATE ENFORCEMENT TO BE ENSURED
DM BARMER

Several posts on social media claim that an Indian pilot ejected from a fighter jet over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The claim is fake, said the Press Information Bureau (PIB) fact-check department.

🚨 Indian Pilot Ejected Over PoK? Here’s the Truth!
Posts on social media claim that an Indian pilot ejected from a fighter jet over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).#PIBFactCheck
❌ This claim is FAKE.
📢 Don’t fall for misinformation. Always verify before sharing.… pic.twitter.com/u12T92qhr2

The terrorist launch pad at Looni in Pakistan's Sialkot was destroyed by the BSF.

#WATCH | The terrorist launch pad at Looni, district Sialkot, Pakistan, opposite Akhnoor area, was completely destroyed by the BSF.
(Source - BSF) pic.twitter.com/TEuS7ZwgAm

In another incident of breach of ceasefire, Pakistan Rangers initiated unprovoked firing on Border Security Force (BSF) posts along the International Border in the Jammu sector late Friday night. The incident began around 9 pm.

In a statement, the BSF's Jammu division confirmed that Indian forces responded in a "commensurate manner", causing significant damage to Pakistani posts and assets across the border.

On 09 May 2025, from about 2100 hrs, Pakistan opened fire on BSF posts in Jammu sector without any provocation.
BSF is responding in commensurate manner causing widespread damage to posts and assets of Pakistan Rangers along the International Boundary. Our resolve to protect…

Several social media posts claim that Pakistan has destroyed an Indian S-400 air defence system. However, according to a PIB fact check, this claim is fake.

"Reports of destruction or any damage to an S-400 system are baseless," it said.

🚨 S-400 Destroyed by Pakistan? Here's the Truth!
Posts circulating on social media claim that Pakistan has destroyed an Indian S-400 air defence system.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This claim is FAKE.
❌ Reports of destruction or any damage to an S-400 system are baseless.… pic.twitter.com/wPLKQSBAqe

The colour of sindoor is not very different from the colour of blood spilt by the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor told a Saudi Arabian news channel while explaining why the name of India's counterstrike, Operation Sindoor, has struck a chord.

Mr Tharoor was speaking with Al Arabiya, a Saudi Arabian news channel, on the India-Pakistan tension when asked why the name, Operation Sindoor, was significant.

Sindoor, he said, is the vermilion mark married women put in the parting of their hair. "The image that was seared into the nation's consciousness after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam was of a newly wedded -- now newly widowed -- bride on her honeymoon kneeling disconsolately by the body of her slain husband, in other words, the terrorist attack had wiped the sindoor of her forehead as only married women wear it," Mr Tharoor said, referring to the heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal, wife of Indian Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who was killed in the terror attack days after his wedding. Twenty-five other people were killed in the attack.

Indian Member of Parliament for Lok Sabha @ShashiTharoor says #India’s “Operation Sindoor” is a powerful name that evokes the grief of a newly widowed bride—turning a symbol of marriage into a reminder of bloodshed and loss. #Pakistan #GNT pic.twitter.com/sWroFJFjMc

In view of the ongoing war-like situation, the Odisha government has cancelled all sanctioned leaves for RDCS, Collectors, and DMS. They are instructed to return to headquarters and resume duty immediately. No further leave will be granted during this period pic.twitter.com/DkX2himdpl

The Pakistani military claims blasts occurred at three air force installations, including the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi. NDTV's Shiv Aroor decodes the importance of these air bases.

India Strikes Back | Pakistani military claims blasts occurred at 3 air force installations, including the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi
NDTV's @ShivAroor joins @maryashakil and decodes the importance of these air bases #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/hPYJqBCxgi

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir on Friday and urged both Pakistan and India to find ways to de-escalate, a US Department of State spokesperson said.

Mr Rubio also offered US assistance in starting constructive talks to avoid future conflicts, Tammy Bruce, the spokesperson said.

Multiple drones were sighted over Amritsar at 5 am. The drones were spotted flying over Khasa Cantt in Amritsar. This comes amid Pakistan's escalations with drone strikes and other munitions along western borders.

"The hostile drones were instantly engaged and destroyed by our air defence units," said the Indian Army in a social media post.

Pakistan’s "blatant" attempt to violate India’s sovereignty and endanger civilians is "unacceptable", said the Army. 

OPERATION SINDOOR
Pakistan’s blatant escalation with drone strikes and other munitions continues along our western borders. In one such incident, today at approximately 5 AM, Multiple enemy armed drones were spotted flying over Khasa Cantt, Amritsar. The hostile drones were… pic.twitter.com/BrfEzrZBuC

Several pro-Pakistan social media accounts are falsely claiming that three fighter jets have crashed in different areas of the Himalayan region. The image being circulated is old, dating back to 2016, said the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

🚨Did 3 IAF Jets Crash in Himalayas? 🚨
Several pro-Pakistan social media accounts are falsely claiming that three fighter jets have crashed in different areas of the Himalayan region.#PIBFactcheck
- This claim is #FAKE
- The image being circulated is old, dating back to… pic.twitter.com/WZ9cBLWXWI

Indian forces have destroyed several Pakistani military posts and a terror launchpad in retaliation as Pakistan continued to escalate the situation, sources said. The launchpad destroyed in the Indian strikes was used to launch tube-launched drones, they added.

The retaliation followed a coordinated wave of drone attacks from Islamabad targeting military infrastructure at 26 locations from Leh in the north to Sir Creek in the south.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday held a meeting with senior health officials of the Delhi government hospitals to review emergency preparedness in the light of the ongoing military conflict between India and Pakistan.

Ms Gupta directed the senior officials of various hospitals to ensure that all medical facilities remain fully prepared for any emergency situation, said a government statement.

She also instructed all government hospitals in Delhi to immediately establish fully equipped emergency wards, formulate SOPs, conduct mock drills and advance stockpiling of supplies, it said.

The chief minister, after the meeting said it is being ensured that there is no shortage of staff or medicines in the hospitals so that they are ready to meet any circumstances.

"Our hospitals should be ready to meet any circumstances and serve people. I got update of the arrangements in the hospitals from the medical directors," she told reporters.

#WATCH | Delhi | CM Rekha Gupta says, "Our government hospitals are all prepared for any situation. We have invited all the MDs and taken updates. A probe into updating on any shortage of staff or medicines is being done. The patients coming in will be treated through Ayushman… https://t.co/ffZcxkb4eX pic.twitter.com/WleKpfrEkY

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday slammed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for approving the immediate disbursement of about USD 1 billion to Pakistan amid heightening tensions with India.

"I'm not sure how the "International Community" thinks the current tension in the subcontinent will be de-escalated when the IMF essentially reimburses Pakistan for all the ordnance it is using to devastate Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar & so many other places," Mr Abdullah posted on X.

I’m not sure how the “International Community” thinks the current tension in the subcontinent will be de-escalated when the IMF essentially reimburses Pakistan for all the ordnance it is using to devastate Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar & so many other places.

सोशल मीडिया पर साझा किए गए एक वीडियो में दावा किया जा रहा है कि भारत ने ननकाना साहिब गुरुद्वारे पर ड्रोन हमला किया है। #PIBFactCheck
❌यह दावा पूरी तरह फर्जी है।
▶️ सांप्रदायिक विद्वेष फैलाने के लिए ऐसे कंटेन्ट बनाए जाते हैं।
▶️ कृपया सतर्क रहें। ऐसे वीडियो फॉरवर्ड न करें।… pic.twitter.com/59omIJx9r6

AIIMS Bhubaneswar has announced the cancellation of all kinds of leave, including vacation and station leave, amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, the news agency ANI has reported citing an official order.

AIIMS Bhubaneswar announced cancellation of all kinds of leave, including vacation and station leave in view of emerging circumstances. pic.twitter.com/4ydoFagWY5

Pakistani Posts and Terrorist Launch Pads from where Tube Launched Drones were also being launched, have been destroyed by the Indian Army positioned near Jammu: Defence Sources

#WATCH | Pakistani Posts and Terrorist Launch Pads from where Tube Launched Drones were also being launched, have been destroyed by the Indian Army positioned near Jammu: Defence Sources
(Source - Defence Sources) pic.twitter.com/7j9YVgmxWw

🚨 Attention: False Claim Circulating Online! 🚨
Social media posts are asserting that a cyber attack by #Pakistan has caused 70% of India's electricity grid to become dysfunctional.#PIBFactCheck
❌This claim is #FAKE.
🛑 Please remain vigilant and do not fall for… pic.twitter.com/gYnyQZAD0y

A senior government official was killed in Rajouri in Pakistan shelling. Shocked by the news, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences. Mr Abdullah remembered Raj Kumar Thapa, Additional District Development Commissioner with the Jammu and Kashmir government, as a "dedicated officer".

"Just yesterday he was accompanying the Deputy CM around the district & attended the online meeting I chaired. Today the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they targeted Rajouri town," he wrote.

Devastating news from Rajouri. We have lost a dedicated officer of the J&K Administration Services. Just yesterday he was accompanying the Deputy CM around the district & attended the online meeting I chaired. Today the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they…

G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK and US and the High Representative of the European Union condemn the "egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan."

G7 nations said that further military escalation threatens regional stability. Expressing concern for the safety of civilians on both sides, it called for immediate "de-escalation".

"We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution," the statement read.

A viral image is claiming that an advisory has been issued, advising people to turn off location services on their phones immediately.#PIBFactCheck
- This claim is FAKE
- No such advisory has been issued by the GoI pic.twitter.com/8GmYpKXTkJ

The G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, "strongly condemned" the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and have urged maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. 

"Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides," they said.

Powerful explosions were reported early Saturday across multiple Pakistani air bases, including a critical installation near the capital Islamabad, prompting the Pakistani government to shut down the country's airspace to all civilian and commercial traffic. Multiple explosions were also heard in Srinagar this morning, hours after India repelled Pakistani drone attacks.

The Pakistani military has claimed that the blasts occurred at three air force installations, including the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, a key site less than 10 kilometres from Islamabad and adjacent to the country's military headquarters.

Multiple videos circulating on Pakistani media and social media purportedly show the Nur Khan Air Base on fire following a huge explosion. NDTV could not independently verify these videos. Eyewitnesses described loud, successive blasts followed by a flurry of military activity on the ground.

Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, former Indian Ambassador Vidya Bhushan Soni underlined that India has acted with responsibility and has not undertaken any actions that could be deemed blameworthy.

Speaking to ANI on Friday, Soni stated that Pakistan is a "failed" state that has been acknowledged for decades by all international agencies and world bodies.

A high-level review meeting was conducted under the chairmanship of Pratyaya Amrit, Additional Chief Secretary of Bihar's Disaster Management Department, to assess and enhance civil defence preparedness across the state, amid tensions between India and Pakistan. 

The meeting, held on Friday with Director General of Civil Defence Directorate Paresh Saxena, focused on improving citizen safety measures, especially in border and vulnerable districts during emergencies.

The International Monetary Fund has authorised the "immediate disbursement" of a billion-dollar bailout to Pakistan's troubled economy despite India's "terror sponsorship" objection.

India registered its protest, arguing the funds could be misused, at the board of IMF which met on Friday to review the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) lending programme for Pakistan.

The Indian Army on Friday said the situation was under "close and constant watch" and that there was no cause for panic after Pakistan launched a fresh wave of drone attacks targeting 26 locations. 

The army advised citizens, especially in border areas, to remain indoors, limit unnecessary movement, and strictly follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.

"While there is no need for panic, heightened vigilance and precaution are essential," the spokesperson said.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday chaired a meeting to review relief efforts and preparedness in border districts following intense cross-border shelling.

During the meeting, Mr Abdullah was briefed on evacuation efforts, relief camp arrangements and security measures.

India on Friday opposed IMF's proposal to extend fresh loans of USD 2.3 billion to Pakistan, saying the funds could be misused for financing state-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

New Delhi abstained from voting at the crucial International Monetary Fund meeting, whose outcome was not known till the filing of the story.

As an active and responsible member country, India raised concerns over the efficacy of IMF programmes in case of Pakistan given its poor track record, and also on the possibility of misuse of debt financing funds for state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, the finance ministry said in a statement.

India registered its protest at the board of IMF, which met on Friday to review the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) lending programme (USD 1 billion) and also considered a fresh Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) lending programme (USD 1.3 billion) for Pakistan.

Pakistan on Friday night claimed the International Monetary Fund had authorised the "immediate disbursement" of a billion-dollar bailout to its troubled economy.

The claim was made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office; a statement from the Pak PMO, cited by news agencies Reuters and PTI, said Mr Sharif had "expressed satisfaction over the approval of a $1 billion... by the IMF and the failure of India's high-handed tactics..."

There has been no statement by the IMF, so far, on sanction of the loan.

The claim, meanwhile, was made as the Pakistani military launched weapon-carrying drones and missiles at western Indian cities and military installations for a third consecutive night.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said US President Donald Trump wants to see the conflict between India and Pakistan de-escalate "as quickly as possible".

India struck nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) under 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. India's strike was a powerful retaliation for the Pahalgam massacre on April 22, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.

"The President has expressed he wants to see this de-escalate as quickly as possible. He understands these are two countries that have been at odds with one another for decades, long before President Trump was here in the Oval Office," Ms Leavitt said.

"This is something that the Secretary of State and, of course, now our national security advisor as well, Marco Rubio, has been very much involved in," Leavitt added.

Pakistan has once again proven that it’s a terrorist state — firing drones into civilian areas of Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Rajasthan. In my own state of Punjab, innocent civilians have been severely injured. The world needs to see how Pakistan is provoking India. Shameful and…

Three people were injured in Punjab's Ferozepur in a drone attack carried out by Pakistan. The SSP of Ferozepur, Bhupinder Singh Sandhu said, "We received information about 3 people being injured. They have burn injuries. Doctors will treat them. Most of the drones have been neutralised by the army."

#WATCH | Punjab: On a family who got injured in Pakistani drone attack, SSP Ferozepur, Bhupinder Singh Sidhu says, "We received information about 3 people being injured. They have burn injuries. Doctors will treat them. Most of the drones have been neutralised by the army..." pic.twitter.com/lsAnfsRlSU

A Pakistan Airlines flight, PIA306, is flying very close to the international border. The flight took off from Karachi and is headed to Lahore. 

India has called out Pakistan for using civilian flights as a shield while it sneakily tried to launch drones on India last night and a day before that. Pakistan used the unsuspecting civilian aircraft flying in its airspace as shields, the government said in a press briefing today. 

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appealed to the people of Jammu to "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 & we will get through this together," he added.

A blackout was enforced and siren heard after artillery firing and explosion in Jammu.

Blackout in Jammu now. Sirens can be heard across the city. pic.twitter.com/TE0X2LYzQ8

India's former top diplomat Ruchira Kamboj has demolished Pakistan's lies on the global stage that it has no connection with terror attacks in India.

Ms Kamboj, the former permanent representative and ambassador of India to the United Nations, told NDTV today that Pakistan stood exposed "before the full glare of the international media" as the sponsor and enabler of terrorism.

"At the very outset, Pakistan has made India's task simpler by openly admitting before the full glare of the international media that they are the financiers, perpetrators and abettors of terrorism," she said.

Ms Kamboj's comments come as Indian diplomats and the leadership engaged in hectic communication with the global community at the United Nations to inform them of Pakistan's hand in state-sponsored terrorism.

"In the recent [informal] meeting of the UN Security Council, Pakistan did not get any support. On the contrary they were grilled at the meeting, and the question of accountability was raised. Nobody believed in Pakistan's narrative," she told NDTV, explaining India's huge win at the UN.

According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met a group of armed forces veterans today. He had an extensive interaction with the veterans on various issues on the current situation 

This included former Air Force Chiefs, Army Chiefs, Navy Chiefs and other veterans who have extensively served the country.

Peoples Conference Chairman Sajad Gani Lone has invited all those who were affected by shelling in J&K's Kupwara to stay at his office-cum-residence at Handwara. 

I very humbly invite all those who are affected by shelling in District Kupwara to stay at my office cum residence at Handwara.
It is a large place and I am sure it can accommodate many families. These are tough times and together we will face them.
Hopefully by tommorow we…

Given the prevailing situation at the international border, the Telangana government on Friday announced the establishment of a 24x7 control room in the national capital.

The control room has been set up at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi to provide timely assistance, information, and support to residents of the state currently living in border areas, an official release said.

The facility will operate around the clock to ensure uninterrupted support, it said.

The control room can be reached via landline at 011-23380556. All concerned individuals are encouraged to reach out as needed, the release added

Amid the escalation of tensions with Pakistan and indiscriminate firing from the neighbouring country across the Line of Control (LoC), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Friday said that the services of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor have been suspended until further notice.

"In light of the current security situation, the services of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor have been suspended until further directions," Mr Misri said while addressing a joint press briefing in the national capital.

The Kartarpur Corridor links Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, the final resting place of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev, to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. The visa-free 4.7-kilometre-long corridor connects the Indian border to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. It became operational in 2019.

After the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, India has shut its side of the Kartarpur Corridor.

In the special briefing today, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri talked about the connection between the strikes on Jaish-e-Muhammed headquarters in Pakistan and the murder of Wall Street Journal journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002.

Bahawalpur, located in Pakistan's Punjab province, is the headquarters of Jaish-e-Muhammed, a designated terrorist outfit run by Maulana Masood Azhar. The terrorist was behind the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack, the Pulwama attacks, and the 2001 Parliament attack. The group is also behind the killing of Wall Street Journal journalist Daniel Pearl, who was beheaded in 2002 in Pakistan while covering a story on the links between Al Qaeda and Pakistan in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the US.

Mr Misri answered a question on the link between Bahawalpur and Daniel Pearl, to which he said, "Bahawalpur is the headquarters of Jaish-e-Muhammed, a terrorist group, proscribed terrorist group by the United Nations...Jaish was directly or indirectly involved in the killing of Daniel Pearl, but the real connection is through Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, a British-Pakistani jihadi, who was arrested in India and later released...and these are all connected figures, individuals."

#WATCH | Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, held an extensive review meeting in Mumbai today. Considering the prevailing situation, the Union Minister took stock of key maritime projects and directed the officials to ensure that the business… pic.twitter.com/97d0IZr7wy

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced measures to tackle any problem arising because of the prevailing situation along the Pakistan border in India's north and west, and also said the state will assess its preparedness for any potential crisis.

Mr Tamang said, "I convened a high-level meeting today attended by the Political Secretary to Chief Minister Shri Jacob Khaling, Cabinet Secretary Shri V.B. Pathak, Chief Secretary Shri R. Telang, Director General of Police (DGP) Shri Akshay Sachdeva and Heads of Departments (HODs) including officials from Health, Power, Food & Civil Supplies, Roads & Bridges, Land & Revenue departments, Sikkim Police and DCs & SPs of all districts."

The Chief Minister issued directives to every department. The Power Department must conduct emergency drills and raise public awareness on blackout preparedness.

The indigenously developed Akash missile system was instrumental in neutralising missiles and drones and protecting cities in west India when Pakistan attacked Thursday night.

The Akash system - a surface-to-air system designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously - was developed over 15 years by Dr Prahlada Ramarao, a former DRDO scientist.

"It is the happiest day of life... seeing my baby work so accurately and beautifully in shooting down incoming enemy aerial targets," an elated Dr Ramarao told NDTV. He said he had tears in his eyes when he saw "it worked beyond expectations... engaging incoming targets effectively".

Now 78 years old, he was the youngest Project Director for the Akash programme when he was handpicked by India's 'missile man' and former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. 

#TravelAdvisory
Following a notification from aviation authorities on continued closure of multiple airports in India, Air India flights to and from the following stations – Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar and Rajkot – are being cancelled till…

In the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan, the Chandigarh administration has issued various guidelines for the public, including familiarising them with the emergency siren signals.

Chandigarh Deputy Commissioner (DC) Nishant Kumar Yadav issued an order on Friday, directing that all shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants, clubs and shops (except medical stores) shall remain closed from 7 pm on May 9 till 6 am on May 10.

The DC also issued an order prohibiting the bursting of any kind of fireworks, firecrackers or the like by the public during marriages, religious festivals and celebrations or any other kind of activities in the jurisdiction of UT Chandigarh.

This order shall remain in force from May 9 and shall be effective till July 7.

The noise made by such firecrackers can create panic amongst the public and may lead to deterioration of the law and order situation, according to the order.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Friday condemned the May 8 attacks by Pakistan targeting multiple locations in India, including Amritsar, dismissing as "preposterous and outrageous" the claim by Islamabad that India was attacking its own territories.

He also condemned Pakistan's attempt to spread disinformation about a drone strike on the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara, calling it a blatant lie.

Addressing a press briefing on Friday, Mr Misri said, "Instead of owning up to its actions, Pakistan made the preposterous and outrageous claims that it is the Indian armed forces that are targeting its own cities like Amritsar and trying to blame Pakistan."

"That we would attack our ciites is the kind of deranged fantasy that only the Pakistani state can come up with, perhaps they do it because they are well versed in as their histroy would show," he said.

"Pakistan spread disinformation that India targeted the Nankama Sahib Gurdwara through a drone attack, which is yet another blatant lie... Pakistan is trying desperately to impart a communal hue to the situation with an intention to create a communal discord...," the Foreign Secretary said.

Government watchdog CCPA has issued notices to 13 e-commerce players like Amazon and Flipkart for illegal sale of walkie-talkie devices on their platforms amid rising India-Pakistan tensions.

In an official statement on Friday, the government said the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued 13 notices to leading digital marketplaces against the illegal listing and sale of walkie-talkies on e-commerce platforms.

These platforms are Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, OLX, TradeIndia, Facebook, Indiamart, VardaanMart, Jiomart, Krishnamart, Chimiya, Talk Pro Walie Talkie and MaskMan toys.

The crackdown focuses on the sale of walkie-talkies without proper frequency disclosure, licensing information, or Equipment Type Approval (ETA), constituting a violation of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Amid India-Pakistan military conflict, Odisha has tightened security along its coast and around key installations such as the missile testing centre in Chandipur and the Jagannath temple in Puri, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said.

Both the defence facility and the 12th-century shrine are near the coastline.

Though the coastal state is far from the Pakistan border, there is a threat perception from the Bay of Bengal, Mr Majhi said.

The Odisha government, in collaboration with the Centre, has taken all steps to protect vital installations in the state, the Chief Minister said.

"In the case of Odisha, there is no such threat from Pakistan. However, we have some key installations like the missile testing range at Chandipur, the Puri temple and other places which could be potential targets through water route in the Bay of Bengal. Coastal security is therefore tightened," he said.

The government today accused Pakistan of "targeting places of worship" In India and said several "gurudwaras, convents and temples" along the border in Jammu and Kashmir were damaged by Pakistani shelling.

"We have seen the Pakistani side targeting and shelling the places of worship with a particular design. It included Gurudwaras, convents and temples. This is a new low even for Pakistan," said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in a joint briefing with Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.

Actor Kamal Haasan, today, rescheduled the audio launch for his upcoming film Thug Life, scheduled for 16 May amid a state of heightened alert in the country. 

The actor said, "As our soldiers stand firm on the frontlines with unflinching courage in defence of our motherland, I believe it is a time for quiet solidarity, not celebration." The actor said the revised date for the film, directed by Mani Ratnam, will be announced later. He added that "As citizens, it is our duty to respond with restraint and solidarity." 

In the backdrop of the ongoing military conflict between India and Pakistan, a senior official in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said "we should remain hopeful" that the existing situation does not escalate.

Secretary (Economic Relations) in the MEA, Dammu Ravi, said this in response to a query during an event on the impact of any conflict on the economy and the resilience required in such matters, especially in view of the current scenario.

"Security, development and economic growth are highly inter-linked concepts around the world. So, in a conflict situation, the industry will naturally recoil, and keep on one side and take time for the situation to improve," Mr Ravi said.

"We should remain hopeful that the existing conflict does not escalate, and subsides," he said, without naming any country.

The Congress' Uttarakhand unit held a Tiranga Yatra to express solidarity with the armed forces and the Centre's actions against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

The entire country stands firmly behind the Indian Army, said Pradesh Congress Committee president Karan Mahara, who led the Tiranga Yatra (Tricolour March) from the party's state headquarters at Rajpur Road to Darshan Lal Chawk.

The march concluded with Mahara and other Congress leaders garlanding a statue of BR Ambedkar.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi have already announced the entire party stands firmly with the central government and the armed forces, keeping aside all differences in this matter of national security, he said.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired a high-level security review meeting in Mumbai on Friday to assess the state's preparedness and coordination across agencies as the India-Pakistan tension escalated this week to the worst in nearly three decades.  

The meeting brought together top officials from the police, municipal administration, disaster management and state administration to reinforce security and instil public confidence.

Reviewing the current threat landscape, the Chief Minister stressed that Maharashtra, especially Mumbai, remains vigilant and well-prepared. "Whether it is the police, whether it's the Coast Guard or the Navy, everyone is on alert. There are regular exercises and SOPs are in place," he stated, underlining the government's proactive stance.

The Chief Minister issued a comprehensive set of instructions aimed at enhancing readiness at all levels. Districts across the state have been asked to conduct full-scale security drills, and dedicated war rooms will be set up to ensure seamless coordination during emergencies.

While Pakistan was attempting, and failing, to strike military installations in India using missiles and drones for the second night running, the Indian armed forces launched drones at four sites in the country and destroyed an air defence radar. This marks the second successful hit on an air defence system in Pakistan in as many days

Addressing a Ministry of External Affairs-Ministry of Defence Press Conference on Friday, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said that on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, the Pakistani military carried out multiple violations of Indian airspace along the western border with the intent to target military infrastructure. 

Drone intrusions, she said, were attempted at 36 locations from Leh to Sir Creek in Gujarat with 300-400 drones, many of which were brought down by the Indian Armed Forces. 

"The possible purpose of these large-scale aerial intrusions was to test air defence systems and gather intelligence," the Wing Commander said. 

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal has cancelled his visit to Goa in the light of the military conflict between India and Pakistan, party leader Amit Palekar said on Friday.

Addressing a press conference, Mr Palekar, the party's Goa unit president, said Mr Kejriwal has conveyed that he will not be able to visit the coastal state as he would be busy with high-level meetings in Punjab.

"As you all know, the AAP has its government in Punjab and several districts of the state border Pakistan. Incidents of shelling have been reported in these areas," he said.

The Gujarat government on Friday imposed a ban on the use of drones and firecrackers till May 15 in light of the military conflict between India and Pakistan.

The government also warned of taking strict action against those social media users who "spread anti-national sentiments".

"No firecrackers or drones will be allowed in any functions or events until the 15th of this month. Kindly cooperate and follow the guidelines," Gujarat Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi said in a post on X.

Earlier in the day, Mr Sanghavi chaired a meeting with state police officials through video conference in Gandhinagar.

The meeting was attended by state Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay, Intelligence Bureau officials, Police Commissioners, Range Inspector Generals, district superintendents of police and cyber crime officials, an official release said.

On the ongoing India-Pakistan tension, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said: "We have full faith in the Indian Army, it has taught a lesson to Pakistan multiple times and divided it into two parts (Bangladesh and Pakistan). The Indian Government called an all-party meeting, and in that too, the Opposition expressed solidarity... We stand with whatever decision the army and government take. We want terrorism and separatism uprooted from the country. We will support whatever they do for this." 

#WATCH | Bhagalpur, Bihar | On India-Pakistan tension, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav says, "We have full faith in the Indian Army, it has taught a lesson to Pakistan multiple times and divided it into two parts (Bangladesh and Pakistan). The Indian Government called an all-party… pic.twitter.com/WXmmTfZPqh

Kolkata's Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port has enhanced its security protocols and operational vigilance in the wake of the ongoing military conflict with Pakistan, port officials said.

Security was stepped up following directives from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Directorate General of Shipping.

A high-level security review meeting was virtually conducted by the secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, T K Ramachandran, with all the port officials.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Friday continued to feel the effects of the ongoing conflict in the region with equity investors said to have suffered 820 billion rupees in losses in the last three days, PTI reported.

The market opened, like the last three days, to conflicting sentiments but by close, had recovered more than 700 points.

The benchmark KSE-100 index climbed 799.65, or 0.77 per cent, to stand at 1,04,326.46 from the previous close of 1,03,526.81 at 11:06 am.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has deferred all transfer and posting orders and has postponed training courses for its personnel in view of the escalating military situation with Pakistan, sources on Friday said.

The paramilitary force has also directed more than two dozen of its companies, comprising about 2,400 personnel, to be moved to Jammu and Kashmir for "bolstering" security of the border areas along with the BSF and the Army, they said.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said areas bordering Punjab's Pathankot are on high alert, and police have been directed to issue special instructions to blackout border areas in Himachal Pradesh's Nurpur and Indora when air raid warning sirens are blown.

Mr Sukhu held a meeting with the officials and district heads and said, "There is nothing to panic but we should ensure our safety and fulfil our responsibility and stay alert".

He also appealed to the general public to believe only official information.

Talking to reporters, he said offices of chief secretary, general administration department and control rooms would remain open to assist people and act promptly in times of need.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed officials to be prepared to assist farmers in bordering states with sowing operations to ensure that they do not face difficulties due to the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan.

During a review meeting held at Krishi Bhavan in Delhi, Mr Chouhan said he would speak with the chief ministers of bordering states like Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab regarding requirements in case villages need evacuation.

"Villages are often evacuated during conflict. We are assessing which crops are currently sown there, so we can keep seeds and planting material ready," he said in a statement.

The government will address farmers' needs if sowing is delayed, he added.

The morale of soldiers is high and the Indian Army is ready to deal with any situation, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Friday after visiting villages affected by Pakistani shelling in the Uri sector.

The Jammu & Kashmir administration is ensuring that people in Uri do not face any inconvenience, he added.

"Attempts were made (to attack) but the morale of the forces is very high and they are ready to deal with any situation," Mr Sinha told reporters in Baramulla.

"I went to villages in the border areas that suffered losses. The injured and the families of those who died have been granted ex-gratia. The losses are being ascertained," he said.

As many as 52 students from Tamil Nadu pursuing higher education in Jammu and Kashmir and four others on an educational tour to that state have been stranded owing to the developments across the border and steps were on to bring them home safely, the state government said on Friday.

The students were currently pursuing agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, sericulture, NIFT, and NIT. They expressed difficulty in returning home due to the current tense situation prevailing in that state.

Following requests from them, the state government has made arrangements to bring the students to Tamil Nadu, the government said.

It may be recalled that Chief Minister M K Stalin had arranged for the return of the tourists stranded in Jammu and Kashmir post the April 22 terrorist attack.

A large number of workers from other states working in J&K's Samba have started moving to safer places, after heavy cross-border shelling and attempted drone and missile attacks by Pakistan on Thursday night.

#WATCH | J&K | A large number of workers from other states working in Samba have started moving to safer places after heavy cross-border shelling and attempted drone and missile attacks by Pakistan last night.
On 8-9 May 2025, BSF foiled a major infiltration bid at the… pic.twitter.com/sib19wTP9N

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday warned traders, wholesalers and retailers against hoarding of essential food items and asserted that the government has ample stocks.

"Don't believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DONT PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES," he said in a social media post.

Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DONT PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES.
Traders, wholesalers, retailers or business entities which engage in trading of Essential Commodities are directed… pic.twitter.com/KTK68qw85T

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel tweets, "In view of the prevailing situation, all types of leave for officers and employees of all departments and offices of the state government, as well as Boards, Corporations, Panchayats, Municipal Corporations, and autonomous and grant-in-aid… pic.twitter.com/ADYeMzE1x0

Pakistan targeted religious spots with a particular design, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said. "It is a new low even for Pakistan," he said.

Pakistan's farcical denial of its attempts to target installations in India is another example of its duplicity, he added.

#WATCH | Delhi: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, "... These provocative and escalatory actions taken by Pakistan last night were targeted at Indian cities and civilian infrastructure in addition to military establishments. Indian armed forces responded proportionately,… pic.twitter.com/11bXPv7Jt4

The briefing is once again being headed by Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. 

"Pakistan tried to target military bases and violated ceasefire many times. Pakistan targeted 36 locations in the north. They used Turkey-made drones," Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said. 

"The Indian forces shot done the Pakistani drones. The drones and its debris are being analysed," she added. 

In the mountainous Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, less than ten kilometres from the Line of Control (LoC), the family of 45-year-old Nargis Bano is devastated by her loss. On Thursday night, Ms Bano was killed and two of her relatives were seriously injured when a Pakistani artillery shell hit the vehicle they were travelling in, as they attempted to flee heavy cross-border shelling.

The shell tore through the roof of the car, a Scorpio SUV, approximately 3 kilometres from the family's home in Razarwani village. Witnesses say shrapnel from the blast struck Ms Bano on the head. She died of her injuries while being rushed to a hospital in Baramulla, 40 kilometres away. Two other occupants of the vehicle, identified by relatives as close family members, sustained injuries and were hospitalised.

"She was in a car," said one of Ms Bano's relatives. "Nargis and other members of her family were in a Scorpio trying to escape Pakistani shelling. The car was around 3 km from their house when a shell fell on the car, following which shrapnel went through the roof and hit Nargis on her head." Click here to read more.

The Pakistan government and its Army have found themselves at the receiving end of their citizens and Parliamentarians, after getting beaten in the war of nerves with their Indian counterpart and also losing face globally, over their brazen support to terror.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif faced major embarrassment after a Parliamentarian in his country called him out over his "cowardice", saying the former couldn't stand up to his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi.

The video of the Pakistani lawmaker making personal remarks on the Sharif has gone viral on social media and is evoking many likes and comments.

"Pakistan PM is a coward, he can't even take the name of Narendra Modi," the MP is heard saying in the video.

He made the statement while speaking in Pakistan Parliament, a day after its Army launched a volley of missiles and drones on India, however, utterly failing to hit any intended targets.

Debris resembling parts of a missile was found in a field in Hoshiarpur, while metal parts of some unidentified objects were discovered at two locations in Bathinda, officials said on Friday.

Some villagers in Bathinda also claimed they heard loud explosions and saw lights flashing in the sky on Thursday night, triggering panic in the area.

In Hoshiarpur, metal debris resembling parts of a missile was found on Thursday evening, SP (Investigation) Mukesh Kumar said.

Acting promptly, police informed the Indian Air Force (IAF) after cordoning off the area. A team from the IAF soon reached at the site and conducted a preliminary inspection, the SP said.

In Bathinda, debris of an unidentified object was found in a field in Tungwali village on Friday. "Some objects fell on the field (on Thursday night) followed by a loud explosion, which damaged the windows, doors and a cattle shed of a nearby house," a villager said.

Another villager said a three-foot deep crater was created after the objects fell on the field.

The Maharashtra government has decided to cancel the leaves of top officials in health, disaster management and many other departments in the wake of the current situation, the Chief Minister's Office said on Friday.

Strict action would be taken against those spreading fake news and "helping the enemy", it said.

The decision was made at a meeting, where Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the security measures, the CMO said in a statement.

On the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL), IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal told ANI: "...The tournament has been suspended for a week...The next decision will be taken after assessing the situation" 

On the match in Dharamsala being abandoned yesterday, he said: "As you know, the situation escalated yesterday... To ensure there was no panic and the safety of the public, steps were taken and people were evacuated comfortably..."

#WATCH | Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh | On the suspension of IPL 2025, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal says, "...The tournament has been suspended for a week...The next decision will be taken after assessing the situation"
On the PBKS-DC IPL match in Dharamsala abandoned yesterday,… pic.twitter.com/OrbQbeOwSD

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma reviewed the situation in the state in the wake of the military conflict between India and Pakistan and took feedback from officers in border districts.

Mr Sharma directed the officers to stay alert and ensure proper arrangements in view of the prevailing situation. He will hold a detailed review meeting in the evening with senior officers.

Meanwhile, Jaisalmer District Collector Pratap Singh has directed drone operators in the district to deposit their drones to their nearest police stations on Friday. Sale and bursting of crackers have also been banned.

Instructions were given to close markets by 5 pm. Black out will start at 6 pm for a period of 12 hours. Residents have been asked to cover the doors and windows of the houses so that no light is visible.

Hostels and libraries were also closed.

The Defence Ministry on Friday activated 14 of 32 infantry battalions of the Territorial Army - India's auxiliary military force - for deployment across the country till 2028.

The Territorial Army is being called out for 'heightened readiness and strategic reinforcement', sources told NDTV. The order, from the ministry's Department of Military Affairs, comes amid rapidly escalating military tension between India and Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack.

Man-for-man India has a distinct advantage over the Pak army.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India has around 14.75 lakh active military personnel and over 16 lakh in the paramilitary forces. Pak, meanwhile, has less than seven lakh military personnel on active deployment and a paramilitary force of 2.9 lakh.

Air raid sirens were heard in the national capital on Friday as part of a mock drill amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, and two waves of missile and drone attacks from across the border.

In a statement before the drill, the Delhi government said the Directorate of Civil Defence would be testing Air Raid Sirens installed at the Public Works Department (PWD) headquarters at ITO and asked people not to panic.

"The testing will commence at 3.00 PM and be carried out for a period of 15-20 minutes. Accordingly, it is requested that adequate publicity may be made through social and electronic media so that general public are advised to stay calm and not to panic during the said exercise," the statement said. 

District Magistrate (Central) G Sudhakar also urged people to remain calm and not be alarmed when they hear the sirens.

The drill began at 3 pm and sirens were sounded at least twice.

PWD Minister Parvesh Verma said 40-50 more such sirens will be installed across the national capital, each of which will cover an area of 8 km. 

Former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla spoke to NDTV and said Pakistan is giving India "an opportunity to treat them a lesson" that they have not had in some time, amid rising tensions between the two countries following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. "They are going down a slippery path to self-destruction," he said.

Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the state is prepared and has taken all measures as per the "war book".

"All the security forces, be it police, coast guard or navy, are on alert mode. Regular exercises are carried out, SOPs are set. We have done everything needed according to the War Book. We are also going to review the internal security and have also called for a meeting...," said Mr Fadnavis while speaking to the media. 

#WATCH | Mumbai | On India-Pakistan tension, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "All the security forces, be it police, coast guard or navy, are on alert mode. Regular exercises are carried out, SOPs are set. We have done everything needed according to the War Book. We are… pic.twitter.com/juJ7B9NWvE

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha met army personnel in Uri and asked them, "How is the josh?"

#WATCH | Jammu & Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha meets Army personnel in Uri and asks them, "How is the josh?" pic.twitter.com/4Y9DKjibVF

In the mountainous Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, less than ten kilometres from the Line of Control (LoC), the family of 45-year-old Nargis Bano is devastated by her loss. On Thursday night, Ms Bano was killed and two of her relatives were seriously injured when a Pakistani artillery shell hit the vehicle they were travelling in, as they attempted to flee heavy cross-border shelling.

The shell tore through the roof of the car, a Scorpio SUV, approximately 3 kilometres from the family's home in Razarwani village. Witnesses say shrapnel from the blast struck Ms Bano on the head. She died of her injuries while being rushed to a hospital in Baramulla, 40 kilometres away. Two other occupants of the vehicle, identified by relatives as close family members, sustained injuries and were hospitalised.

"She was in a car," said one of Ms Bano's relatives. "Nargis and other members of her family were in a Scorpio trying to escape Pakistani shelling. The car was around 3 km from their house when a shell fell on the car, following which shrapnel went through the roof and hit Nargis on her head."

Read the full story here.

#WATCH | Delhi | On India-Pakistan tension, Congress leader & former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot says, "Pakistan's every attack is being intercepted... We are proud of the courage and valour of our armed forces because they gave out a message that we are not targeting civilian or… pic.twitter.com/laHCZlFvT8

A viral post made from National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's alleged Facebook account was doing rounds of the internet. The post said that Pakistan is preparing for cyber attack. However, a fact check by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified that not just the post but account is also fake.
"The National Security Advisor does not have an official Facebook account. Citizens are advised to exercise caution and not engage with any impostor or fake profiles claiming to represent them," said PIB. The centre urged citizens to rely only on official sources for authentic information.

Is NSA Ajit Doval on Facebook⁉️#PIBFactCheck
🛑 This Facebook account is FAKE
✅ The National Security Advisor does NOT have an official Facebook account.
✅Citizens are advised to exercise caution and not engage with any impostor or fake profiles claiming to represent… pic.twitter.com/N6WNw4f4H5

138 flights arriving to and departing from Delhi were cancelled today. This includes 129 domestic and 9 international flights. A detailed breakdown:

Earlier on May 8, about 90 flights departing/arriving from Delhi were cancelled.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders.

"While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the Nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country. The BCCI remains firmly committed to support all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation," the BCCI said in a statement.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti broke down over the deaths of children during unprovoked firing by Pakistan, and called for political intervention to resolve the fresh tensions that have gripped India and the neighbouring country.

Chief of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in J&K, Ms Mufti expressed concerns over the military actions by India and Pakistan, saying it is often children and women who are often caught in the crossfire.

"I saw twins playing at one moment and saw their bodies soaked in blood the next. What is the fault of these children and women who are simply getting caught in the crossfire?" she said.

"It is their (children killed in firing) age to play... For how long will this go on? For how long will the people of Jammu & Kashmir, especially those living in the border areas, suffer? For how long will our mothers' laps go empty," she added, as she turned emotional and broke down briefly.

#WATCH | Srinagar, J&K | On India-Pakistan tensions, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti says, "What is the fault of the children and women that they are getting trapped in this crossfire?... Military action treats symptoms, not the root cause. It never provides a solution or peace. Both… pic.twitter.com/n6lCwYlwuj

Actor Anushka Sharma, who hails from an Army family, praised forces for protecting us like heroes. In a post on Instagram, she wrote, "Eternally grateful to our Indian Armed Forces for protecting us through these times like the heroes that they are. Heartfelt gratitude to the sacrifices they and their families have made. Jai Hind."

Cricketer Virat Kohli too shared a message for the Indian Army, saluting them for fiercely protecting the country in these difficult times.

"We are forever indebted to our heroes for their unwavering bravery and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifices they and their families make for our great nation. Jai Hind."

#TravelAdvisory
In view of an order by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security on enhanced measures at airports, passengers across India are advised to arrive at their respective airports at least 3 hours prior to scheduled departure to ensure smooth check-in and boarding.…

Congress' Jairam Ramesh once again came out in support of the Indian Army at a time when India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads against each other. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Ramesh said, "History is witness... whenever someone has challenged the self-respect and self-esteem of India, we have given them a befitting reply."He said once again India has been challenged, with our tolerance and patience being tested. The terrorists have ruthlessly killed our innocent people, they will have to pay the price for this, he added.

"Every single Congress worker stands with the country's army in this difficult time. We are taking out a 'Jai Hind Yatra' across the country today in support of our brave soldiers," he added.

इतिहास गवाह है... जब-जब किसी ने हिंदुस्तान के आत्मसम्मान और स्वाभिमान को ललकारा है, हमने उसे मुंहतोड़ जवाब दिया है।
जब इस मिट्टी की रक्षा के लिए अपने खून का एक-एक कतरा कुर्बान करने का जज्बा लिए हमारे जवान हुंकार भरते हैं, तो दुश्मन का कलेजा सिहर उठता है।
एक बार फिर हमें ललकारा…

Had a phone call with UK Foreign Secretary @DavidLammy this afternoon.
Our discussions centered around countering terrorism, for which there must be zero-tolerance.
🇮🇳 🇬🇧

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah plays cricket with a young boy at the camp set up for locals affected by Pakistan shelling in Samba.

#WATCH | Jammu & Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah plays cricket with a young boy at the camp set up for locals affected by Pakistan shelling in Samba pic.twitter.com/L3QuvAFonT

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan assured the country that ample food was available for consumption. He said that the nation's agricultural reserves were at full capacity.

"As the agriculture department, our responsibility is to ensure food security. Our agricultural reserves are full. Whether wheat, rice or other grains, we have sufficient quantities. The soldiers are posted on the border, and farmers are in the fields. Scientists stand with them. We have curated a scheme to develop new dimensions of the production of Kharif crops. It is our responsibility to work with the farmers in the fields and increase production," Chauhan told reporters in a press conference.

#WATCH | Delhi | Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan says, "...We will not spare the terrorists; we attacked the terror hotspots but not the civilians...As the agriculture department, our responsibility is to ensure food security. Our agricultural reserves are full. Whether… pic.twitter.com/3qq607ylQ0

Union Health Minister J P Nadda reviewed health infrastructure preparedness across hospitals in the country amid the ongoing India-Pakistan military conflict, official sources said.

During the meeting, senior officials of the health ministry briefed him about the preparedness of health facilities and informed him that complete monitoring is being done from the control centre.

Mr Nadda and his team assessed the readiness of hospitals and health facilities across the country, the sources.

Actress Aishwarya Raj experienced the effects of war on Thursday night. After returning to her hotel in Jaisalmer following a day of shooting for her latest film 'Half', directed by Samjad, she witnessed the sounds and fireballs appearing in the skies.

Speaking to the media over phone from Jaisalmer on Friday she said, "At first felt it was some sort of a mock drill of the Indian Armed Forces. Later only I realized that the sound heard and the lights in the sky were shells flying around."

She further continued, "It was really scary after realizing that it was not a drill but the real fight. It was after switching on the TV set in the hotel room , did I realize that things are scary."

The World Bank on Friday distanced itself from speculation that it will "fix" decades of political and military tension between India and Pakistan. A message from World Bank chief Ajay Banga, shared by the Indian government, said, "We have no role to play beyond (that of) a facilitator."

"There is a lot of speculation in the media about how the World Bank will step in and fix the problem... but it is all bunk. The World Bank's role is merely as a facilitator," Mr Banga said.

Pakistan shot down Indian drones. FACT CHECK: FALSE

No Pakistani activity in Jammu and Kashmir. FACT CHECK: FALSE

Pakistani civilians died in a strike. FACT CHECK: NO CREDIBLE PROOF

Amid the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, a huge flood of disinformation has emerged from Pakistani media and government-linked social media handles. They have systematically twisted facts, misled their audiences, and shielded terror actors behind a facade of patriotic propaganda. Many of these media platforms circulated baseless narratives alleging retaliatory attacks by Pakistan on Indian soil. Others posed as an uncritical extension of the state and military apparatus.

Read to know how Pakistani media twisted the truth and fact checks.

India is in control of its airspace which is protected by an advanced air defence network 'capable of detecting, jamming, and eliminating threats before they breach' - this is the unequivocal message to Pakistan and hostile non-state actors, sources told NDTV Friday.

The message came after the Air Force repulsed two waves of drone and missile attacks by Pak targeting Indian military installations in Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Punjab.

Pakistani social media handles are claiming that a Sukhoi Su-30MKI was shot down in Muzaffarabad, capturing an Indian Pilot alive. According to a fact check by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the claim is false.

The fact check clarifies that the Sukhoi Su-30MKI of the Indian Air Force crashed at Undre Vasti of Kulwadi village near Pune-Ahamad Nagar highway in Maharashtra on October 14, 2014.

Fake News Alert ‼️
Pakistani social media handles are claiming that a Sukhoi Su-30MKI was shot down in Muzaffarabad, capturing an Indian Pilot alive.#PIBFactCheck
✅ This Sukhoi SU-30MKI of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed at Undre Vasti of Kulwadi village near Pune-Ahamad… pic.twitter.com/Fr5GITYQzL

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visits Uri to meet security forces, locals and review the ground situation.

#WATCH | J&K LG Manoj Sinha visits Uri to meet security forces and review the ground situation, also meets locals
Pakistan had targeted civilian areas in the Uri sector, last night pic.twitter.com/0LS46d1Ybx

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and discussed the state's preparedness as a border state amid the India-Pakistan conflict.

"The Prime Minister obtained details about the adequate steps taken by the state government for the safety and security of citizens, especially in sensitive districts like Kutch, Banaskantha, Patan, Jamnagar, which are bordered by Pakistan," informed Chief Minister.

માનનીય વડાપ્રધાન શ્રી @NarendraModi એ મારી સાથે ટેલિફોનિક વાતચીત કરીને સરહદ પર સર્જાયેલી પ્રવર્તમાન તણાવની સ્થિતિમાં ગુજરાતની સરહદી રાજ્ય તરીકેની સજ્જતા તથા રાજ્ય સરકાર દ્વારા હાથ ધરાયેલા આગોતરા આયોજનની વિગતો મેળવી હતી અને આ સંદર્ભમાં જરૂરી માર્ગદર્શન આપ્યું હતું.…

Vinay Kwatra, the Indian Ambassador to the US, firmly corrected a senior CNN anchor during a live interview after he referred to parts of Kashmir as "Indian-administered."

"First of all, I'm sorry, but let me correct you," Mr Kwatra told Wolf Blitzer. "The entire Jammu and Kashmir is integral to the Indian part of India. The only issue to be resolved there is the return of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir."
Wolf Blitzer's comment came while discussing reports of explosions in the region. Responding to that, Mr Kwatra said that while India received reports of some activity, "We don't have the operational details relating to that."

India’s Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Kwatra, spoke eloquently with @CNN on Pakistan’s terrorism in Kashmir, detailing how Pakistan escalates conflict with India. Listen to his articulate remarks. pic.twitter.com/AHVZ5U2VNk

To avoid any terror or drone attack in Ambala, the district will observe blackout from 8pm to 6am everyday, until further notice, read an order from Ajay Singh Tomar, IAS, District Magistrate, Ambala.

Mr Tomar has banned the use of inverter, aenerator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc. from sunset to sunrise (that is 8 pm to 6 am).

"However, these may be used for indoor use on condition that all door and windows are fully covered by thick curtain, so as to ensure no lights comes out.

With growing tensions between India and Pakistan, there is an increase in the number of fake videos, claiming to depict some or the other aspect of missile attacks by India and Pakistan on each other. In a latest, video game footage is being shared as a video showing a heavy MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems) barrage.

According to a fact check by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the said video has been online for three years and has no connection to the current India-Pakistan situation.

🚨 Pakistan Propaganda Alert!
A video showing a heavy MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems) barrage is being falsely shared as a real Pakistani attack on India.#PIBFactCheck
✅ The video is from a video game and has been online for over 3 years.
✅ It has no connection to… pic.twitter.com/VXAE93YfXs

The civil defence directorate will carry out testing of an air raid siren installed atop the multistorey PWD building in Delhi's ITO on Friday afternoon, according to an official statement.

The testing will start at 3 pm and will be carried out for 15-20 minutes, it said.

Panic spread among villagers in Jaisalmer's Kishan Ghat after they found a bomb-like object outside their houses on Friday morning, prompting the authorities to step in.

"We could hear the siren all night. Around 9pm, all we could see were sparks and objects falling from the sky. We heard a loud sound that appeared to have come from outside the house but were too scared to leave. As we came out of our house this morning, we found this bomb-like object," Chandan, a villager, said.

Chandan's neighbour, Mukesh, said the villagers immediately alerted the police, who in return informed the army. "The army men arrived 30 minutes later. They cordoned off the area and asked us not to touch it," Mukesh said.

Women raised concerns over such missile and drone strikes, saying children often tend to get tempted to touch such bomb-like objects out of curiosity.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a high-level meeting at South Block, New Delhi, to review the security situation along the western border and operational preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh attended the meeting.

People leave with their belonging for safe places following shelling by Pakistani troops, in Gingal area of Uri in Baramulla district.

India is at war with the terrorists and will bring justice to victims of the Pahalgam attack by holding the "lowlifes, subhuman monsters" accountable, Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra has said, underscoring that in no world would these terrorists be allowed a free pass.

"The frame and the template in which we look at is the terror template. April 22 was the most heinous terrorist act," Mr Kwatra said in an interview to CNN on Thursday.

"It is nobody's case to say that these terrorists should be given a free pass, and that's precisely what we did day before yesterday, held them accountable, brought them to justice," Mr Kwatra said.

"We are at war with the terrorists, and we will, as I said, bring justice to the victims and hold them accountable," he added. "Our foremost objective in this was (to) hold these lowlifes, subhuman monsters accountable and bring justice to the victims."

#IndianOil has ample fuel stocks across the country and our supply lines are operating smoothly.
There is no need for panic buying—fuel and LPG is readily available at all our outlets.
Help us serve you better by staying calm and avoiding unnecessary rush. This will keep our…

Border Security Force (BSF) foiled an infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba. The infiltration bid was neutralised by the BSF, killing seven terrorists, backed by Pakistan rangers.

"In the intervening night of May 8 and 9, an infiltration attempt by a big group of terrorists was tried, which was detected by the surveillance grid. This infiltration bid was supported by fire from Pak Rangers post Dhandhar. Alert troops of BSF neutralised the infiltration bid, killing at least 7 terrorists and caused extensive damage to the Pak Post Dhandhar."

A bomb-like object was found in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer on Friday morning, hours after sounds of massive explosions echoed through the city amid a wave of missile and drone strikes targeting military installations by Pakistan in the state.

The IPL jamboree was brought to a screeching halt in Dharamsala on Thursday by air raid alerts in neighbouring cities, forcing the league's administrators to pause and review the "evolving" and escalating military confrontation between India and Pakistan that threatens to derail the current season. The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was cancelled midway following air raid alerts in Jammu and Pathankot, putting the entire league at risk of being called off.

"We are reviewing the situation right now. It is an evolving situation. We haven't received any directive from the government. Obviously the decision will be taken keeping all the logistics in mind," IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told PTI when asked whether the league will continue amid the conflict that started with a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.

The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) shared a picture with the emblems of the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy and Indian Army. The picture was captioned "Jai Hind". This comes amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor launched by India against Pakistan, early Wednesday.

जय हिंद pic.twitter.com/Wdjb5xarf6

Air raid alert sounded in Panchkula, a satellite city of Chandigarh. Dr Sumita Misra, Home Secretary, Haryana asked citizens to stay indoors, away from balconies amid air warnings.

Tricity - air warnings are on- pl stay indoors , away from balconies, minimise movement outside. #Chandigarh #Panchkula

All schools in Panchkula will remain closed today and tomorrow.

A letter is being shared on Social Media claiming that Chief of the Army Staff Gen V.K. Narayan has sent a confidential letter regarding military preparedness to the Army officer of Northern Command. #PIBFactCheck
✅ This letter is completely Fake.
✅ Gen. V.K. Narayan is… pic.twitter.com/OvDxaql3kz

Most Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) use something called a shaped charge. This is a special type of explosive that focuses all its power in one direction, strong enough to punch through thick tank armour.
Some modern ATGMs use tandem warheads. This means they have two explosions. The first blast hits and activates the tank's outer protection, called explosive reactive armour (ERA). ERA is designed to stop missiles by exploding outward. The second blast follows right after and breaks through the tank's main armour underneath.
ATGMs are built to work both during the day and at night, making them useful in all kinds of conditions. Some of them also have a 'top-attack' mode, which means they can hit the tank from above where they are most vulnerable.

Many modern ATGMs have something called a dual-mode seeker, which helps them find and follow their target more accurately.

The Indian Army has used Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) to destroy several Pakistani military posts across the Line of Control (LoC), defence sources said this morning.

An Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) is a weapon system designed to destroy heavily armoured vehicles, especially tanks. These missiles are "guided," meaning they can be steered or locked onto a target, making it accurate compared to older anti-tank weapons.

They can be fired from the shoulder, from tripods, or from vehicles and aircraft. Their key advantage is that they allow soldiers to engage armoured threats from a safe distance.

Here is the latest update on the status of several trains:

Cancelled

1. Train No. 14895, Bhagat ki Kothi - Barmer

2. ⁠Train No. 14896, Barmer - Bhagat ki Kothi

3. ⁠Train No. 04880, Munabav - Barmer

4. ⁠Train No. 54881, Barmer - Munabav

Partially Cancelled

1. Train No. 12468, Jaipur- Jaisalmer, short terminate at Bikaner

2. ⁠Train No. 12467. Jaisalmer - Jaipur, originate from Bikaner

Rescheduled

1. Train No. 14661, Barmer - Jammu Tawi

2. ⁠Train No. 74840, Barmer - Bhagat ki Kothi

3. ⁠Train No. 15013, Jaisalmer - Kathgodam

4. ⁠Train No. 14807, Jodhpur- Dadar

5. ⁠Train No. 14864, Jodhpur- Varanasi

In view of the "tense and security situation" in the country, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), postponed the remaining exams of CA Final, Intermediate and PQC Examinations May 2025 scheduled from May 9 - 14. 

Institute of Chartered Accountants of India - ICAI tweets, "Important Announcement-In view of the tense security situation in the Country, the remaining papers of CA Final, Intermediate & PQC Examinations [International Taxation–Assessment Test (INTT AT)] May 2025 from 9th May 2025 to 14th May 2025 stand postponed"

Important Announcement-In view of the tense security situation in the Country, the remaining papers of CA Final, Intermediate & PQC Examinations [International Taxation–Assessment Test (INTT AT)] May 2025 from 9th May 2025 to 14th May 2025 stand postponed.https://t.co/EIS52g5gRz pic.twitter.com/06WvolgR7s

A former US Air Force Pilot, who claims to have flown with both Indian and Pakistani pilots, has said that if the tensions between the two countries escalate post Operation Sindoor, his "money is on the Indians". On early Wednesday, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist bases in Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam attack. On Thursday, India also thwarted Pakistan's attempts to target 15 places in the country.

Amidst the rising tensions, Dale Starks, a retired US Air Force Pilot and an expert A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot, said in a post on X that if asked to pick between the two, he would put his money on the Indians. 

"I've flown with both Indian and Pakistani fighter pilots during my career. I'll just say my money's on the Indians if this continues to escalate," Mr Stark wrote.

Amid the increasing tension between India and Pakistan, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Maharashtra State Branch has directed doctors and medical institutions across the state to be prepared for emergency medical services.

Due to the tense situation with Pakistan, all doctors and hospitals have been asked to be alert and prepared.

Instructions to keep essential medicines, life-saving equipment, beds and medical staff ready. Each branch has been asked to form a disaster management team with senior doctors and volunteers.

The medical team has been asked to remain in constant touch with the administration.

A state-level control room has also been set up to monitor the situation and give instructions.

India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, held up what he described as undeniable evidence of Pakistan's complicity in sponsoring terrorism both within its own soil and across the border in India. Speaking to Sky News amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr Doraiswami presented a poster-sized image showing top Pakistani military brass alongside Hafiz Abdur Rauf, a US-sanctioned terrorist and brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, attending the funeral of terrorists killed by India under Operation Sindoor.

Behind Rauf in the image were uniformed Pakistani military officers. Pakistani flags were draped over the coffins of terrorists.

IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, on Thursday was called off despite no natural hindrances like rain. The official word from the broadcasters of the IPL 2025 was 'significant technical failure' after the floodlights stopped working and the spectators were evacuated. Later, it was revealed that the match was cancelled as a "precautionary step" after India intercepted missile strikes from Pakistan. 

In the midst of this, a video of a cheerleader, who was present at the HPCA Stadium, has gone viral. "The whole stadium, in the middle of the game, was evacuated. It was very scary. Everyone was screaming that there were bombs coming. It still is very scary. We want to really go out of Dharamsala. I hope IPL people are going to look after us. I don't know why I'm not crying; maybe I'm still in shock on what is happening," she said in the viral video on her way out of the ground.

IPL Cheerleader Shares What Happened At Dharamshala#IndiaPakistanWar #IndianArmy#OperationSindoor2 #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/bkAdUD8kxa

Air siren warning sounded in Chandigarh following an air warning received from the air force station of a possible drone attack. Residents have been advised to stay indoors.

"An air warning has been received from the Air Force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded," Deputy Commissioner of Chandigarh said.

*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

Twenty-four airports across the country were shut on Thursday amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, after the latter launched fresh missile and drone attacks in the Indian territory.

Chairman and Managing Director of SpiceJet, Ajay Singh, extended his gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for their "extraordinary bravery and unwavering valour" displayed during Operation Sindoor, India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22. Mr Singh that India has sent a clear message that "our resolve against terrorism is unyielding, and our commitment to justice for every Indian is absolute."

"SpiceJet salutes the Armed Forces for scripting a new chapter of courage and determination," he added.

❓Explosion at Jammu Air Force Base? Here's the truth!
An old image is being circulated with false claims of multiple explosions at the Jammu Air Force Base in India.#PIBFactCheck
✅ This image is from the Kabul Airport blast in August 2021.
✅ Here’s a report from that… pic.twitter.com/y99zbukBGM

The Chandigarh administration cancelled all leaves of all medical officers, instructing them to be available 24/7 for emergency duty. According to an official order signed by the Mission Director of the National Health Mission in Chandigarh, all medical officer incharges and staff posted at AAMs (Ayushman Arogya Mandirs) and UAAMs (Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs) in Chandigarh have been instructed to be available on phone 24/7 and promptly answer calls. The order threatens strict disciplinary action in case the order isn't followed.

"Any kind of leave stands cancelled with immediate effect till further orders," the order noted.

"Be prepared for emergency duty 24/7. If called for duty anywhere and at any time, they should immediately report for duty," it added.

A video from the ground shows a car damaged by the Pakistan army during last night's missile attack on India. Sharpnels were recovered from the spot.

#WATCH | Uri, Jammu and Kashmir: Civilian cars targeted by the Pakistan Army as they continue to violate the ceasefire; bullets/sharpnels also found. pic.twitter.com/r8J8bJTvBQ

Visuals from the ground show burnt and broken houses and shops in a border village of Jammu and Kashmir after Pakistan resorted to heavy shelling on Thursday night.

#WATCH | Burnt and damaged civilian houses and shops in a border village of Jammu & Kashmir after Pakistan resorted to heavy shelling last night
(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/ZClcxAnPiK

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma calls to conclude the festive season and cancel all remaining Bihu festivals scheduled from May 10 onwards. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Sarma recognised the joyful celebration of Bihu across Assam and thanked everyone for their participation. However, he noted that it is time we bring it to a close.

"Over the past month, we have joyfully celebrated Bihu across Assam through numerous cultural events. I sincerely thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation and contributions. However, the time has now come to conclude this festive season. I humbly appeal that all remaining Bihu functions scheduled from 10th May onwards be kindly cancelled. Let us bring this vibrant celebration to a graceful close, with the same unity and spirit in which it was celebrated," he wrote.

Over the past month, we have joyfully celebrated Bihu across Assam through numerous cultural events. I sincerely thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation and contributions.
However, the time has now come to conclude this festive season. I humbly appeal that all…

A coordinated series of military escalations along the India-Pakistan frontier Thursday evening marked one of the most intense military face-offs between the two nuclear-armed neighbours in recent years.
As defensive manoeuvres continued out on the ground and in the air, an equally aggressive misinformation and disinformation campaign unfolded online from Pakistan. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit identified and debunked a series of misleading and false claims that surfaced on social media, many originating from Pakistani handles or being amplified by Indian users unaware of their inauthenticity.

Check here.

The Indian Army has shared the first-ever visual of a Pakistani military post being destroyed in Indian airstrikes across the Line of Control as Pakistan troops resumed cross-border firing hours after their missile and drones targeted at India were foiled.

It is not known in which sector the military post was destroyed, but it signals that the Indian Army is giving an effective reply to the continuous ceasefire violations.

Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after Operation Sindoor, former Pentagon official Michael Rubin has defended New Delhi's military response to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack and criticised Pakistan for its alleged role in "sponsoring terror". According to Mr Rubin, the US should "unequivocally" side with India.

"The United States has previously designated individual terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, but we haven't designated Pakistan itself as a state sponsor of terror. It's time to stop designating the tentacles of the octopus and designate its head. The United States should side unequivocally with India," the senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute said.

#WATCH | Washington, DC | Former Pentagon official and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, Michael Rubin, says, "... The United States has previously designated individual terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, but we haven't designated Pakistan itself as a… pic.twitter.com/Ki6OJ3kBVn

Firing has resumed across the Line of Control (LoC) hours after India thwarted a wave of missile and drone attacks from Pakistan targeting military stations and other cities. India is retaliating effectively against the Pakistani hostilities.

Blackout continues in Srinagar and other cities. A complete blackout has been in place in Jammu as well.

Punjab has closed all schools in its six border districts. In Chandigarh, the common capital for Punjab and Haryana, all schools have been closed till Saturday. Rajasthan has also closed schools and colleges in several districts. This morning, two Delhi schools - DPS RK Puram and DPS Mathura Road - also informed that they will remain shut.

A video is widely being shared on social media with the claim that Pakistan has launched a missile attack on India in retaliation. According to a PIB fact check, the video is of the explosive attack that took place in Beirut, Lebanon, in 2020.

An #old video is being shared on #SocialMedia with the claim that #Pakistan has launched a missile attack on India in retaliation. #PIBFactCheck
✅ The video being shared is of the explosive attack that took place in Beirut, Lebanon in the year 2020
✅ Don't fall for the… pic.twitter.com/G8nIIdn6FG

Pakistan Armed Forces launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along the Western Border on the intervening night of May 8 and 9, 2025. Pak troops also resorted to numerous ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army informed on Friday morning.

"The drone attacks were effectively repulsed and befitting reply was given to the ceasefire violations. Indian Army remains committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Nation. All nefarious designs will be responded with force," the Indian Army said.

OPERATION SINDOOR
Pakistan Armed Forces launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along entire Western Border on the intervening night of 08 and 09 May 2025. Pak troops also resorted to numerous cease fire violations (CFVs) along the Line of Control in Jammu and… pic.twitter.com/9YcW2hSwi5

Nepal has voiced support by standing with "all in the fight against terrorism", expressing concern over increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 people were killed, including a Nepali citizen.

"During this tragic period, Nepal and India stood in solidarity, united in shared grief and suffering. It may be recalled that Nepal had immediately and unequivocally condemned the barbaric terrorist attack, consistent with its resolute stance against all forms of terrorism," the foreign ministry statement read.

"Nepal stands together with all in the fight against terrorism. In line with its principled position, Nepal shall not allow any inimical forces to use its soil against its neighbouring countries," it added.

Press Release. @Arzuranadeuba @amritrai555 @krishnadhakal07 pic.twitter.com/vQiUa8siCE

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has fact-checked a video claiming an attack on an Indian post by the Pakistan Army. However, there is no unit called "20 Raj Battalion" in the Indian Army. The widely shared video is fake.

"The claim is completely false, and the video is staged. There is no unit called “20 Raj Battalion" in the Indian Army. This is part of a coordinated propaganda campaign aimed at creating panic and misleading the public," PIB said.

🚨 Staged Video Alert 🚨
Fake video is being circulated by Pakistani handles alleging that an Indian Post was destroyed by the #Pakistani Army
🔍 #PIBFactCheck:
✅ The claim is completely false, and the video is staged
❌ There is no unit called “20 Raj Battalion" in the… pic.twitter.com/959rc9OrTH

In a post on Facebook, the District Public Relations Officer of Amritsar requested all citizens to stay indoors and away from windows. The citizens have also been asked to turn off the lights and put the curtains.

"No need to panic, a siren will go off now and we will message again when it is cleared. Please don't worry, our armed forces are on duty and we need to stay indoors to support them. There's no need to panic. Just stay indoors," the statement read.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma presided over a high-level meeting regarding security arrangements. Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr Sharma instructed on security arrangements across the state, especially in the border districts. The Chief Minister also instructed on cancelling the leave of all government employees.

मुख्यमंत्री श्री भजनलाल शर्मा ने मुख्यमंत्री निवास पर सुरक्षा व्यवस्था के संबंध में आयोजित उच्च स्तरीय बैठक की अध्यक्षता की। उन्होंने सीमा पर उत्पन्न हुई तनावपूर्ण परिस्थितियों के मद्देनजर, प्रदेशभर विशेषकर सीमावर्ती जिलों की सुरक्षा व्यवस्था के संबंध में निर्देश दिए। मुख्यमंत्री… pic.twitter.com/RNnOsmxP1l

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has fact-checked a video claiming an attack on Gujarat's Hazira Port by Pakistan. "This is an unrelated video confirmed to depict an oil tanker explosion. The video is dated July 7, 2021," PIB said.

This video is widely circulating on social media with a claim that Hazira Port in #Gujarat has been attacked #PIBFactCheck
* This is an unrelated video confirmed to depict an oil tanker explosion. The video is dated July 7, 2021.
* Do not share this video. Refer the link… pic.twitter.com/nlQwgVAj3k

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a picture from his morning drive, stating he is on the way to Jammu to take stock of the situation "after last night's failed Pakistani drone attack" directed at Jammu city and other parts of the division.

Driving to Jammu now to take stock of the situation after last night’s failed Pakistani drone attack directed at Jammu city & other parts of the division. pic.twitter.com/8f8PLA6Vgg

DPS Mathura Road and DPS RK Puram schools in Delhi have informed that they will remain shut today in view of the tense situation.

"Dear Parent, keeping in view the current tense situation, the school, including office, will remain closed today i.e., 9-5-2025. Weekly test for classes 6-10 & 12 and other activities postponed till further orders. Stay safe," said a notification by DPS Mathura Road.

"It is hereby informed that Delhi Public School RK Puram, East of Kailash and Vasant Vihar will remain closed on Friday, May 9, 2025. All concerned are informed to make a note of the above accordingly. It is directed to all the Departmental Heads/Coordinators /In-charges to disseminate the information to their team members also," said DPS RK Puram.

Pakistan has resumed firing at multiple points across the Line of Control early morning. Indian Army is giving a befitting reply. There is still a blackout in Srinagar as well as other cities.

Huge explosions were heard early Friday morning in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch sector amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. 

According to News agency ANI, the explosions, heard near the Line of Control (LoC), occurred as a complete blackout was enforced across Jammu and Kashmir.

#WATCH | Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir: Explosions heard near Line of Control (LoC)
(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/vk346SUPxQ

Pakistan's ambassador to the U.S. said on Thursday that India and Pakistan have had contacts at the level of their respective National Security Councils (NSC), when asked if the nuclear-armed Asian neighbors had any ongoing lines of conversation.

The ambassador, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, made the comments in an interview with CNN.

US Vice President said the India-Pakistan conflict is "fundamentally not our business" though he called for a de-escalation in the ongoing tension between the two countries. 

"What we can do is try to encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit, but we're not going to get involved in the middle of war that's fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America's ability to control it. You know, America can't tell the Indians to lay down their arms. We can't tell the Pakistanis to lay down their arms. And so, we're going to continue to pursue this thing through diplomatic channels," Mr Vance told Fox News.

India will respond in a "measured" manner to all terrorist attacks targeting its territory and citizens, but will not take kindly to any attempt by Pakistan to escalate military tension, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told United States State Secretary Marco Rubio in a call late Thursday.

He also said India appreciated the US' commitment to work together to combat terrorism.

"Underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation," Mr Jaishankar posted on X after the call.

Mr Rubio, who spoke to Pak Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on a separate call, emphasised the need "immediate de-escalation" of military tension, a State Department spokesperson said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma held a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) after tensions at the border with Pakistan.

#WATCH | Jaipur: Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma held a high-level meeting at CMO regarding the tension that arose on the border. Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, DG Intelligence and ADG Law and Order attended the meeting. pic.twitter.com/PxR0ho44D3

Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, DG Intelligence and ADG Law and Order attended the meeting.

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has fact-checked a video claiming a "drone strike" on Jalandhar. PIB said, "This is an unrelated video of a farm fire."

Drone Attack in Jalandhar⁉️
This drone strike video from #Jalandhar is widely circulating on social media#PIBFactCheck
* This is an unrelated video of a farm fire. The video has the time 7:39 PM, while the drone attack began later.
* Do not share this video. See the… pic.twitter.com/IRBjq2KOTQ

Many fake videos are being circulated on social media, and PIB has fact-checked these claims as tensions between India and Pakistan are at their peak.

All schools, colleges and educational institutions, except the Medical colleges, in Jammu province will remain closed on Friday. 

All Schools, Colleges & educational institutions (private as well as Government) in the Jammu province except the Medical colleges shall remain closed tomorrow on 9th May in view of the prevailing situation.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri today said that India responded through precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan to the "original escalation" - April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam" - by Islamabad.

"We are only responding to the original escalations. Our response has been targeted, precise, controlled and measured. No military targets have been selected. Only the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan has been hit," he said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma monitored the situation from his office on Thursday after explosions were heard in Jaisalmer.

Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa, ministers Sumit Godara and Jogaram Patel, BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Madan Rathore, Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, Director General of Police UR Sahoo and other senior officials were also present.

A fake video is being circulated by some social media handles alleging that an Indian Post was destroyed by the Pakistani Army.