Social Media Is Abuzz of Pak Army Chief 'Missing' After Pahalgam Attack

The ongoing speculation about Pakistan Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir's whereabouts has intensified amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025.

Social media platforms have been flooded with unconfirmed reports suggesting General Munir is either in hiding or has fled the country, sparking a wave of online discussions and hashtags. While Pakistani officials have attempted to dismiss these claims, the controversy highlights the volatile state of India-Pakistan relations following one of the deadliest attacks in recent years, which killed 26 people including two foreign nationals.

The speculation about General Asim Munir's alleged disappearance began circulating shortly after India's diplomatic offensive following the Pahalgam attack. Various unconfirmed reports surfaced in Indian media claiming that the Pakistan Army Chief had gone "missing in action" (MIA).

These reports suggest that General Munir has either fled Pakistan with his family or gone underground into a bunker in Rawalpindi. The rumours quickly gained traction on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where the hashtag #MunirOut began trending widely.

The online speculation has been fuelled by General Munir's apparent absence from public view and media appearances in the days following the attack. Users on both sides of the border have been actively discussing and questioning the Pakistan Army Chief's whereabouts, with the hashtag gaining significant momentum. Many posts under the hashtag suggest that General Munir and his family have fled the country amid the rising tensions with India.

The online discussion about General Munir's alleged disappearance comes against a backdrop of broader criticism of Pakistan's military leadership. Even before these specific rumours, there had been growing resentment against the military establishment, particularly among supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023. The Pahalgam incident appears to have become a flashpoint for this discontent.

Social media users, particularly those aligned with Imran Khan, have been at the forefront of criticizing General Munir. One user with the handle @sufisal summarized the sentiment by posting: "Remove Munir, free Imran Khan, and save Pakistan". The criticism extends beyond just General Munir's alleged disappearance to include broader grievances about military overreach, authoritarian rule, and political vendetta.

As speculation intensified, the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office moved quickly to counter the rumours by posting a group photograph on social media featuring Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and General Munir attending an event at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Abbottabad. The PMO's caption explicitly stated: "Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir (NIM) and officers of PMA Kakul in a group photo with the graduating officers of 151st Long Course at PMA Kakul, Abbottabad. April 26, 2025".

The timing of the post and the explicit mention of the date have drawn attention and scepticism from observers. Some social media users questioned whether the photograph was authentic, with one user even claiming it was an "AI-generated false photo" specifically created to counter the speculation about General Munir's absence. The Pakistan government's unusual step of specifically dating the photograph has been interpreted by many as a direct response to the rumours, rather than standard practice.

The controversy has been complicated by an apparent information war playing out on social media. Pakistani fact-checkers have identified fabricated documents allegedly showing mass resignations within the Pakistan Army following the Pahalgam attack. One such document claimed to be a letter from Corps Commander Peshawar to General Munir reporting "an alarming situation" with "a wave of resignations, the scale of which is unprecedented in recent history". Another fabricated letter purportedly from the Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DGISPR) referenced "huge requests for resignation and desertion among army personnel".

These fabricated documents appear to be part of a broader pattern of misinformation circulating on both sides of the border. The Pakistani government has also reportedly been engaging in its own misinformation campaigns, including false claims that the Northern Army Commander of India, Lt. Gen. MV Suchindra Kumar, had been removed from his post following the Pahalgam attack. India's Press Information Bureau fact-checking arm has flagged these claims as false.

The speculation about General Munir comes amid severely strained relations between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, including two foreign nationals. Indian intelligence reports have reportedly linked Pakistan-based terror groups to the attack, specifically The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The attack has prompted India to take unprecedented diplomatic measures against Pakistan. In a historic first, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, a water-sharing agreement that had survived multiple conflicts between the two nations. Additionally, India has revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals and closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing.

The Pahalgam attack occurred just days after General Munir made provocative statements about Kashmir during an Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad on April 16. During this address, General Munir described Kashmir as Pakistan's "jugular vein," stating: "Our stance is absolutely clear, it was our jugular vein, it will be our jugular vein, we will not forget it. We will not leave our Kashmiri brothers in their heroic struggle". This rhetoric has been cited by Indian officials as further evidence of Pakistan's hostile stance.

The attack has also become a focal point for internal Pakistani politics. Following the incident, two powerful decision-making committees of the Indian government met to discuss India's response to what it has characterized as Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism. The Indian government has been fact-checking Pakistani propaganda and countering misinformation campaigns on social media.

The controversy around General Munir's whereabouts exemplifies the role of social media in modern information warfare between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Coordinated campaigns appear to be operating on both sides. Some accounts aligned with Pakistan's state narrative launched a counteroffensive against critics of General Munir, pushing hashtags like #ModiKeHaamiSabHarami (roughly translating to "Modi's supporters are all illegitimate"), with over 9,000 posts using this hashtag published within a 24-hour period.

The same accounts have also been spreading anti-India hashtags such as #PAFReadyToRespond and #IndiaEmptyThreats, generating more than 15,000 posts combined within a single day. This coordinated activity suggests organised efforts to control the narrative around the crisis.

While the actual whereabouts of General Asim Munir remain subject to speculation, the viral spread of the #MunirOut trend highlights the volatile information environment surrounding India-Pakistan relations in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. The Pakistan government's response, featuring an explicitly dated photograph, suggests concern about the impact of these rumours on public perception both domestically and internationally.

As tensions continue to escalate between the nuclear-armed neighbours, with India taking unprecedented diplomatic measures including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the speculation around General Munir's status reflects broader anxieties about potential military confrontation. The spread of misinformation and propaganda on both sides underscores the complex nature of modern information warfare and its role in shaping public perception during geopolitical crises.

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PM Modi Chairs CCS Meeting A Day After Giving Army 'Full Freedom' To Decide Military Response

The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, marked one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with 26 people-mostly Hindu tourists-killed and at least 20 injured in the Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir.

The attackers, reportedly five militants armed with automatic rifles and dressed in military-style uniforms, singled out victims by religion, asking them to recite Islamic verses or checking for circumcision before opening fire at close range.

The brutality of the attack, including the targeted killing of non-Muslims and a local Muslim who tried to resist, sent shockwaves across the nation and reignited tensions between India and Pakistan.

In the immediate aftermath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a series of high-level security meetings, including two sessions of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA), underscoring the gravity of the situation. The CCS, which includes the ministers of defence, home, finance, and external affairs, was tasked with formulating India’s military, diplomatic, and economic response.

During these meetings, PM Modi granted the armed forces “full operational freedom” to determine the mode, targets, and timing of any retaliatory action, signalling a decisive and potentially imminent military response. This approach mirrors India’s previous responses to major terror attacks, such as the surgical strikes after Uri in 2016 and the Balakot airstrike following Pulwama in 2019, where action was taken after a period of strategic preparation.

The Indian government’s response extended beyond military readiness. Diplomatic ties with Pakistan were sharply downgraded: the Indus Waters Treaty was suspended, Pakistani diplomats were expelled, and the Attari-Wagah border was closed. India also launched a diplomatic campaign to build international support, briefing diplomats from over 25 countries and drawing parallels between the Pahalgam attack and the scale of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Messages of solidarity poured in from more than 130 countries, and the government sought to ensure domestic political unity by convening an all-party meeting, which saw opposition leaders express full support for whatever action the government deemed necessary.

Investigations into the attack quickly pointed to cross-border involvement. Intelligence agencies identified suspects linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, and one attacker was reportedly a former Pakistani special forces commando now aligned with the group. The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be an offshoot of LeT, initially claimed responsibility, citing opposition to demographic changes in Kashmir, but later retracted the claim. Authorities have also detained several local over ground workers suspected of providing logistical support.

As India deliberates its next steps, the military remains on high alert along the border, and surveillance in Jammu and Kashmir has been intensified to prevent further attacks. The timing of any retaliatory strike is expected to be carefully chosen to maximise impact and minimise risk, with the government balancing the need for a strong response against the imperative to avoid uncontrolled escalation.

Meanwhile, Pakistan faces its own internal turmoil, with reports of low morale within the military, political instability following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and widespread public dissent. These factors could potentially limit Pakistan’s ability to respond effectively to any escalation.

The decisions taken by India’s top leadership in the coming days will be pivotal, not only for delivering justice to the victims but also for shaping regional stability and India’s international standing. The nation watches closely, united in grief and resolve, as its leaders chart a course through one of the most challenging security crises in recent years.

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Supreme Court To Hear Petition On Pahalgam Terror Attack Tomorrow

The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear a significant petition on May 1, 2025, concerning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists.

The petition, filed by three residents of the Union Territory-Fatesh Kumar Shahu, Mohammad Junaid, and Vicky Kumar-seeks the formation of a judicial commission, to be headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, to investigate the circumstances and accountability surrounding the attack.

Additionally, the petitioners have requested that the Supreme Court direct the central government to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure thorough accountability and to prepare an action plan for enhancing the safety of citizens, particularly tourists, in the region.

The attack, which occurred on April 22 in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, was one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. Armed assailants opened fire on tourists in a popular meadow accessible only by foot or horseback, resulting in widespread panic and significant casualties, including both Indian nationals and a foreign tourist from Nepal.

The incident has triggered a strong response from Indian authorities, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) deploying a 45-member team to the site to conduct a forensic and technical investigation, including 3D mapping and crime scene reconstruction based on eyewitness accounts and forensic data.

In the aftermath, security forces have intensified anti-terror operations across the Kashmir valley, while the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened to discuss the attack and broader security issues. 

The government has granted the armed forces operational freedom to respond to the attack and has taken diplomatic measures against Pakistan, including warnings over repeated ceasefire violations and reviewing agreements such as the Indus Water Treaty. The attack has also heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, prompting international concern and calls for restraint.

The Supreme Court, in an earlier statement, condemned the attack as a "diabolical act of mindless violence" and observed two minutes of silence in solidarity with the victims and their families.

The upcoming hearing will be closely watched, as it addresses not only the immediate investigation into the Pahalgam attack but also the broader issues of accountability, security planning, and protection of civilians in conflict-prone tourist areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

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Punjab Government To Deploy Anti-Drone System On Pakistan Border

Amid escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border, the Punjab government has announced the deployment of an advanced anti-drone system along the border adjoining Pakistan.

This move comes in direct response to the increasing use of drones by cross-border elements for smuggling weapons, drugs, and explosives into Indian territory-a threat that has intensified in recent months, particularly in districts like Tarn Taran and Amritsar, which have witnessed a high number of drone intrusions and seizures of illicit consignments.

According to official statements from the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office, the anti-drone system is designed to detect, track, and neutralise unauthorised drones entering Indian airspace from Pakistan. 

The technology will enable police and security agencies to immediately identify and destroy drones carrying contraband, thereby thwarting attempts to smuggle weapons and narcotics. The system, which has completed successful trial runs in several border villages, is capable of detecting flying objects within a 10 km radius. Its deployment will be coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Border Security Force (BSF), ensuring an integrated approach to border security.

Punjab Police Chief Gaurav Yadav emphasised that the deployment of this system is expected to begin shortly, with full installation targeted for completion by September or October this year. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the state’s second line of defence and comes after a significant increase in drone-based smuggling incidents. In 2024 alone, the BSF intercepted nearly 294 drones, a sharp rise from previous years, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The announcement also coincides with heightened military activity along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, where there have been continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces following the recent Pahalgam attack.

The Indian Army reported multiple incidents of unprovoked small-arms firing from Pakistani posts across sectors such as Naushera, Sunderbani, Akhnoor, Baramulla, Kupwara, and the Pargwal sector along the International Border. Indian troops have responded swiftly and proportionately to these provocations, marking the sixth consecutive day of such exchanges since April 25-26.

The Punjab government’s deployment of an anti-drone system is a significant step toward curbing cross-border smuggling and enhancing security along the Indo-Pak border. The integration of advanced surveillance and neutralisation technology is expected to provide security forces with the tools to effectively counter the evolving threat posed by drone incursions, while ongoing ceasefire violations at the LoC highlight the broader security challenges facing the region.

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Pakistan's Claim of Forcing Indian Rafale Jets To Retreat: A Detailed Report

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, Pakistan has claimed that its air force compelled four Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale fighter jets to retreat during a patrol near the Line of Control (LoC).

According to reports from Pakistani state media, including Radio Pakistan and PTV News, the incident occurred on the night of April 29-30, 2025, when the Indian jets were conducting patrols within Indian airspace over Jammu and Kashmir, close to the LoC. Pakistani sources assert that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) swiftly detected the presence of these Rafale jets and responded in a manner that "forced" the Indian aircraft to withdraw, describing the IAF pilots as having "panicked" in the face of PAF's action.

The Pakistani narrative has been widely covered by local media, emphasizing that the PAF's "timely" and "diligent" response was a demonstration of military readiness in anticipation of possible Indian military action. This claim was made in the context of heightened security alerts, with Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar publicly stating that Islamabad had "credible intelligence" of an imminent Indian strike within 24-36 hours, allegedly in response to the Pahalgam attack for which India has hinted at cross-border involvement-an allegation Pakistan strongly denies.

Indian media, while confirming that four Rafale jets did patrol the region on the specified night, maintain that the aircraft remained within Indian territorial boundaries and did not cross into Pakistani airspace. Indian sources have characterized the patrol as a routine sortie, and Indian security agencies have not substantiated Pakistan's claims of forcing a retreat or causing panic among IAF pilots. Former Indian Air Force officers have dismissed the Pakistani reports as psychological warfare and propaganda, noting that such claims are not uncommon during periods of heightened tension and are intended to project vigilance and deterrence to domestic and international audiences.

The incident comes against a backdrop of rapidly deteriorating diplomatic relations. Following the Pahalgam attack, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a key water-sharing agreement, and Pakistan responded by threatening to suspend the 1972 Simla Agreement and closing its airspace to Indian flights. Both nations have increased military readiness, with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi granting the armed forces "complete operational freedom" to respond to the attack as deemed appropriate.

In summary, while Pakistan claims to have forced Indian Rafale jets to retreat near the LoC, these assertions are not corroborated by independent sources or Indian authorities. The episode highlights the ongoing information warfare and the precarious security situation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, with both sides trading accusations and preparing for potential escalation.

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ASTRA Air-To-Air Weapon To Be Integrated With Rafale-Marine; Why This Is No Ordinary Missile?

The integration of India's home-grown Astra missile with the newly acquired Rafale-Marine fighter jets represents a significant milestone in India's pursuit of defence self-reliance. As India recently signed a ₹63,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale-Marine jets for deployment on INS Vikrant, the decision to equip these advanced fighters with indigenous Astra MK-1 missiles rather than European alternatives underscores a strategic shift toward domestic weapons systems. This comprehensive report examines the Astra missile's capabilities, development journey, strategic importance, and future variants that position it as a formidable component of India's aerial warfare arsenal.

Development Journey of Project Astra

The development of India's first Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) has been a story of persistence and indigenous innovation spanning over two decades. Project Astra traces its origins to the early 2000s when the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) began preliminary design work using internal resources, even before formal project sanction. This unconventional approach speaks to the strategic importance placed on developing an indigenous air-to-air missile capability.

The project received official clearance in April 2004, with the Su-30MKI selected as the primary integration platform. Initial development focused on validating performance through ground-based ballistic launches at the Integrated Test Range in Balasore. In May 2003, three such tests were conducted to establish baseline performance parameters, even before formal project approval. By 2011, after years of rigorous testing and refinement, the missile's configuration was frozen, paving the way for intensive air-launch testing in subsequent years.

Between 2014 and 2019, the missile underwent more than 35 air launches and over 150 captive flight trials to ensure operational reliability. The culmination of these efforts came in September 2019, when DRDO conducted five successful flight tests of Astra from Su-30MKI platforms off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha, demonstrating various operational configurations including direct hits on targets at maximum range. Following these successful demonstrations, Astra MK-1 was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2019, marking a significant achievement in India's quest for self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

Technical Capabilities And Specifications

The Astra missile system represents a sophisticated amalgamation of advanced propulsion, guidance, and targeting technologies that position it favourably among global contemporaries. Named "weapon" in Sanskrit, the Astra MK-1 is 3.84 meters long with a diameter of 178 mm and weighs approximately 154 kg, making it one of the smallest missiles developed by DRDO in terms of size and weight. Despite its compact dimensions, it packs formidable capabilities that make it a lethal aerial combat asset.

The missile can reach remarkable speeds of up to Mach 4.5, allowing it to intercept high-speed targets effectively. It can engage aerial targets flying at speeds of up to Mach 1.4 (exceeding 1,729 km/hr) at ranges extending to 110 km in head-on chase mode, while maintaining capability of 20 km in tail-chase mode. This performance envelope varies with launch altitude – when launched from 15 km altitude, it can reach targets at 110 km; from 8 km altitude, the range decreases to 44 km; and at sea level, it maintains effectiveness up to 21 km.

One of Astra's most sophisticated features is its guidance system. The missile employs a multi-stage guidance approach, starting with inertial mid-course guidance driven by a fibre-optic gyroscope, complemented by encrypted data-link updates from the launch aircraft. In the terminal phase, it switches to active radar homing for precise target acquisition. Initially, the missile used a Russian-origin Agat 9B1103M active radar seeker for design validation and live firing trials until 2017. However, in a significant achievement for indigenous technology development, DRDO successfully developed and integrated a fully indigenous Ku-band active radar seeker as a form-fit replacement across all production versions.

The missile carries a 15 kg high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead activated by a proximity fuse, designed to maximize damage potential against aerial targets. Additionally, Astra is equipped with electronic counter-countermeasures to maintain effectiveness even when facing enemy jamming attempts, a critical capability in modern electronic warfare environments.

Strategic Significance And Platform Integration

The Astra missile system's strategic importance extends well beyond its technical capabilities, representing a paradigm shift in India's approach to air defence and combat operations. Its platform-agnostic design philosophy distinguishes it from foreign-origin systems that often come with licensing restrictions, embedded software controls, and compatibility constraints limiting their deployment across different aircraft types. This universal compatibility significantly enhances operational flexibility and reduces logistical complexity in high-intensity conflict scenarios.

Currently, Astra MK-1 has been successfully integrated with the Su-30MKI fleet of the Indian Air Force, demonstrating its compatibility with India's frontline fighters. Integration plans extend to multiple platforms including the TEJAS Mk1A, MiG-29K, and IAF's Rafale fighters. The recent decision to equip the newly acquired Rafale-Marine jets for the Indian Navy with Astra missiles rather than European alternatives like MICA or Meteor underscores the confidence in this indigenous system. Once integration plans are fully executed, Astra is set to become the standard long-range air-to-air missile across almost India's entire fighter fleet, with the exception of the Mirage-2000 which is approaching the end of its operational life.

The cost advantage of Astra presents a compelling case for its widespread adoption. Priced at approximately ₹7-8 crore per unit, it offers significant savings compared to the French Meteor missile which costs around ₹25 crore per unit. This cost-effectiveness facilitates larger procurement volumes, enhancing India's overall air combat potential without proportional budget increases.

In the regional context, Astra provides India with a credible counter to advanced missiles in neighbouring arsenals. China's PL-15 missile, deployed on platforms like the J-20 and J-10C, reportedly offers ranges of 200-250 km (domestic variant) and up to 145 km (export variant). Similarly, Pakistan operates the US-supplied AIM-120C5 with an estimated 100 km range and is reportedly collaborating with China on next-generation BVRAAMs. Against this backdrop, Astra's indigenous development pathway allows for rapid modifications to meet evolving operational requirements without external dependencies or geopolitical constraints.

Future Variants: Astra MK-2 And Gandiva MK-3

The Astra missile program represents an evolutionary approach to weapons development, with advanced variants already in the pipeline to maintain technological parity with global adversaries. Two significant upgrades – Astra MK-2 and MK-3 (codenamed Gandiva) – promise to substantially extend India's air dominance capabilities in the coming decade.

Astra MK-2, expected to be operationally ready by 2026, represents a significant advancement over the baseline Mk1 variant. Designed for extended engagement ranges between 140-160 km, it features several technological improvements including a dual-pulse rocket motor for sustained power throughout the flight envelope. The upgraded guidance algorithms and indigenous radio frequency (RF) seeker further enhance its precision and resistance to electronic countermeasures. These improvements will provide Indian fighters with greater stand-off capability, allowing them to engage hostile aircraft while remaining outside the enemy's effective weapons range.

The most ambitious development in the Astra family is the MK-3 variant, named 'Gandiva' after the legendary bow of Arjuna from Indian mythology. Scheduled for induction by 2031, this next-generation missile employs a solid fuel ducted ramjet (SFDR) propulsion system that represents a quantum leap in missile technology. This advanced propulsion allows the missile to sustain speeds of Mach 4.5 throughout its flight path and strike targets over 300 km away, placing it in the class of modern super-BVRAAMs. Such capabilities would surpass many contemporary air-to-air missiles in service globally, including some variants of the American AIM-120 AMRAAM and potentially match or exceed the capabilities of China's PL-15.

The development of these advanced variants demonstrates India's commitment to progressive enhancement of indigenous weapons capabilities rather than one-time development efforts. This approach ensures that the Indian armed forces maintain technological relevance in a rapidly evolving aerial warfare environment characterized by increasing ranges, speeds, and electronic warfare complexity.

Conclusion

The Astra missile system represents a watershed moment in India's journey toward defence self-reliance, offering multiple strategic, operational, and economic advantages that collectively elevate it beyond being just another weapon in India's arsenal. Its indigenous development has overcome significant technological challenges, from sophisticated guidance systems to miniaturized and robust missile hardware, demonstrating India's growing maturity in advanced weapons development.

The decision to integrate Astra with the newly acquired Rafale-Marine fighters highlights the confidence in this home-grown system and signals a broader shift in India's approach to weapons procurement – from outright imports to indigenous solutions complemented by selective foreign acquisitions. This balanced approach enhances strategic autonomy while ensuring access to cutting-edge capabilities. Beyond the immediate tactical advantages in aerial combat, Astra's successful development has created a robust technological foundation and industrial ecosystem that will support future advanced missile programs.

As regional security dynamics continue to evolve, with adversaries deploying increasingly sophisticated aerial platforms and weapons, the continued development and deployment of the Astra family of missiles will be crucial in maintaining India's air defence credibility. With Astra MK-2 and Gandiva MK-3 in the pipeline, India is well-positioned to address emerging aerial threats well into the next decade, cementing its status as a self-reliant power in critical defence technologies.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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First India-Pakistan Aerial Dogfight? India Sends Rafales Near Pak Border, PAF Scrambles Jets

Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated following the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians and triggered a series of diplomatic and military confrontations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

In the wake of this attack, both nations have engaged in tit-for-tat measures, including the suspension of key treaties, expulsion of diplomats, closure of borders, and heightened military alertness.

On the night of April 29-30, 2025, this volatile situation manifested in a high-stakes aerial incident along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. According to multiple reports from both Indian and Pakistani media, four Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale fighter jets conducted a patrol near the LoC, remaining within Indian-administered airspace but operating close to the sensitive frontier region. 

Pakistani sources claim that the presence of these advanced jets triggered an immediate scramble by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), which responded swiftly to the perceived threat. Pakistani state media asserted that the PAF’s "timely" action compelled the Indian Rafales to retreat, suggesting that the IAF jets "panicked and were forced to flee" after being detected.

Indian media, however, characterised the Rafale sortie as a routine patrol conducted entirely within Indian territorial boundaries, denying any incursion across the LoC and downplaying the notion of a direct dogfight or engagement. Nonetheless, the incident has been widely interpreted as a show of force and a signal of readiness by both air forces amid fears of further escalation.

The heightened alert came hours after Pakistan’s Information Minister publicly claimed to possess "credible intelligence" of imminent Indian military action within 24 to 36 hours, a statement that further fuelled anxieties in the region.

While there were no reported violations of airspace or actual aerial combat, the rapid mobilization of jets on both sides underscores the fragility of peace along the Kashmir border and the potential for miscalculation.

The episode highlights the volatility of the current standoff, with both militaries maintaining high readiness and political leaders on both sides facing intense domestic and international pressure to respond decisively to provocations. As of now, no official confirmation has been provided by New Delhi regarding the Pakistani claims, and both sides continue to monitor the situation closely, with the risk of escalation remaining significant.

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'In Touch With Governments of India, Pakistan': US State Department Over Pahalgam Terror Attack

The United States has responded to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir by establishing contact with both the Indian and Pakistani governments as tensions escalate between the two countries. 

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is closely monitoring the situation and plans to speak with the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan "as early as today or tomorrow."

Bruce emphasised that the US is engaging with both governments at multiple levels, not just at the foreign minister level, and is urging all parties to work together for a responsible solution, cautioning both sides against escalating the situation further. Secretary Rubio is also encouraging other world leaders to reach out to both countries to help de-escalate the crisis.

This diplomatic intervention comes in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, where five armed militants targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley, resulting in the deaths of 26 people-mostly Hindu civilians-and injuring many others. The attack, the deadliest of its kind in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has been attributed by India to Pakistan-sponsored terrorists.

In response, India has taken a series of strong countermeasures against Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired high-level security meetings, including the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), where it was decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 until Pakistan credibly ends its support for cross-border terrorism.

Additionally, India has expelled Pakistani diplomats by declaring them persona non grata, cancelled visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, and ordered Pakistani officials to leave the country within 48 hours. The integrated Attari Check Post has also been closed.

Prime Minister Modi has expressed complete faith in the Indian Armed Forces, granting them full operational freedom to determine the mode, targets, and timing of India's response to the attack. The government has signaled its resolve to deliver a decisive blow to terrorism, with national security and military leadership actively involved in the decision-making process.

The attack has also drawn condemnation from the Supreme Court of India and sparked widespread outrage across the country, further intensifying diplomatic and military tensions in the region. The US and the international community are closely watching developments, emphasizing the need for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.

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Pakistan’s Terror Trail: From Kashmir To Kabul And Beyond

Pakistan’s role as a sponsor, shelter, and exporter of terrorism has repeatedly come under global scrutiny, most recently following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. For decades, Pakistan’s territory has served as a launchpad for cross-border terrorism, insurgency, and the spread of extremist ideology, destabilizing not only South Asia but also regions far beyond its borders.

Admissions And Evidence of State Sponsorship

Multiple senior Pakistani officials have openly acknowledged the state’s involvement in supporting terrorist groups. In 2018, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif suggested that the Pakistani government played a role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which were orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based Islamist terrorist group.

General Pervez Musharraf, who led Pakistan after a 1999 coup, admitted that his forces trained militant groups to fight India in Kashmir, turning a blind eye to their activities as a strategic ploy to pressure India into negotiations and internationalise the Kashmir issue. Most recently, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif candidly admitted that Pakistan had funded and supported terrorist groups for decades, often at the behest of the United States and Western powers.

The ISI And The Global Terror Network

Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency is widely documented as the architect behind the country’s terror infrastructure.

The ISI has provided funding, training, and safe havens to the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network, enabling deadly attacks such as the 2008 Indian Embassy bombing and the 2011 assault on the US Embassy in Kabul. Senior journalists and analysts have highlighted that such operations were sanctioned at the highest levels of Pakistani intelligence, not merely the work of rogue agents.

Pakistan’s Terror Trail Extends Well Beyond Its Immediate neighbours:

Afghanistan: The Taliban and Haqqani Network, with ISI support, have orchestrated numerous attacks on Afghan civilians, government targets, and international forces.

Russia: In April 2025, investigations into the Moscow concert hall attack uncovered possible logistical or ideological links to Pakistani networks, highlighting the global reach of Pakistan-based terror groups.

Iran: Pakistan-based Sunni extremist group Jaish ul-Adl has repeatedly attacked Iranian security forces. In retaliation, Iran conducted missile and drone strikes inside Pakistan in January 2024, targeting Jaish ul-Adl hideouts. Iran has consistently accused Pakistan of harboring Sunni militants responsible for cross-border attacks.

United Kingdom: The 2005 London bombings were linked to indoctrination and training received in Pakistan, with three of the bombers spending significant time in the country prior to the attack.

Bangladesh: Pakistan’s ISI has been accused of funding and training Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), responsible for the 2016 Dhaka café attack. Bangladeshi authorities have expelled Pakistani diplomats for direct involvement in transferring funds to JMB operatives.

Terror Training Infrastructure

Pakistan hosts a network of terror training camps across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Waziristan, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These camps, operated by groups such as LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen, and ISIS-Khorasan, serve as hubs for radicalization, weapons training, and suicide mission preparation. Ex-Pakistani Army personnel often assist in training, lending military expertise to enhance operational lethality.

The US State Department has repeatedly identified Pakistan as a country that continues to serve as a safe haven for regionally focused terrorist groups. The European Foundation for South Asian Studies has highlighted the deeply entrenched relationship between Pakistan’s military establishment, the ISI, and radical religious leaders, creating an “unholy alliance” that perpetuates terrorism.

High-Profile Cases And Systemic Failures

The 2011 US raid that killed Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, just a short distance from Pakistan’s Military Academy, exposed systemic failures in Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and raised suspicions of ISI collusion. Pakistani leaders have also admitted that figures like bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri were once considered “heroes” during the Soviet-Afghan war, only later becoming liabilities.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s track record in sponsoring, sheltering, and exporting terrorism is long-standing, well-documented, and deeply entrenched in its military-intelligence apparatus. Its terror trail extends from Kashmir to Kabul, Tehran to London, and even Moscow, making it one of the most dangerous and destabilizing forces in the global fight against terrorism. Despite international pressure and periodic denials, Pakistan’s complicity in fostering terrorism remains a grave concern for regional and global security.

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Pakistan is Allegedly Evacuating Terror Camps in PoK

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam massacre, which claimed 26 lives in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan is reportedly evacuating and relocating terror camps across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This move comes as Indian security forces intensify counter-terror operations, shutting down tourist sites and parks while hunting for those responsible for the attack.

Intelligence sources indicate that two of the attackers were Pakistani nationals, with one, Hashim Musa, being a former SSG para-commando linked to several deadly ambushes. As Indian agencies zeroed in on 42 active terror launch pads and training centres in PoK, the Pakistan Army began shifting terrorists from key locations-such as Kel, Dudhnial, Athmuqam, Jura, and others-into army shelters and bunkers to shield them from potential Indian retaliation.

The urgency behind these evacuations is driven by fears of a strong Indian military response. Indian intelligence has been closely monitoring these camps for months, and the recent attack has prompted high-level meetings in New Delhi, with the Prime Minister reportedly granting operational freedom to the armed forces to respond as they see fit.

The Pakistan Army has declared a high alert along the Line of Control, anticipating possible Indian strikes. The sudden repositioning of terrorists is seen as a desperate attempt to protect Pakistan’s terror infrastructure from Indian surveillance and pre-emptive action, especially as public and political pressure mounts in India following the massacre.

Pakistan’s long-standing practice of sponsoring and sheltering terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed is well documented, with these camps serving as hubs for radicalization and weapons training.

Intelligence estimates suggest that 150 to 200 trained terrorists are currently stationed in PoK camps, ready for infiltration attempts into Jammu and Kashmir. The evacuation of these camps underscores Islamabad’s concern over the exposure and vulnerability of its terror assets in the face of heightened Indian security operations and the possibility of targeted military action.

Agencies

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World Leaders Calls S Jaishankar, Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has received widespread international support and strong condemnation from global leaders following the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where Pakistan-sponsored terrorists killed 26 people, mostly tourists, and injured many others.

In response, Jaishankar reiterated India’s unwavering resolve to bring the perpetrators, planners, and backers of the attack to justice, emphasizing the importance of accountability and lawful pursuit of justice.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres personally called Jaishankar, unequivocally condemning the attack and stressing the need for justice and accountability. Guterres also expressed concern over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, urging both sides to avoid confrontation and offering his good offices to support de-escalation efforts. Jaishankar, in his public statement, appreciated the Secretary-General’s clear stance and reaffirmed India’s determination to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Several other world leaders and foreign ministers extended their solidarity and support to India. Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the UAE, spoke with Jaishankar about the urgent need to counter terrorism in all its forms.

Foreign ministers from Sierra Leone, Algeria, Guyana, Slovenia, Panama, Cyprus, Greece, and Somalia also reached out, expressing strong condemnation of the attack and voicing support for India’s fight against terrorism. Jaishankar thanked each of them for their solidarity and discussed the broader need for international cooperation against terrorism.

In the aftermath of the attack, India has taken significant diplomatic and strategic measures against Pakistan. These include suspending the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, expelling Pakistani diplomats, closing the integrated Attari Check Post, and downgrading diplomatic ties.

These steps were decided during high-level meetings chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has vowed the “harshest response” and granted the armed forces operational freedom to determine the timing and scale of India’s reaction.

The Pahalgam attack, considered the deadliest in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has not only intensified India-Pakistan tensions but also galvanized international support for India’s position on cross-border terrorism. While Pakistan has denied involvement and called for a neutral investigation, the global consensus-reflected in the calls and statements to Jaishankar-has been one of unequivocal condemnation of the attack and support for India’s right to seek justice.

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Three Killed, Three Injured In Blast At DRDO-Linked Rocket Propellant Unit In Yadadri

Three workers were killed and three others injured in a powerful explosion at the propellant mixing unit of Premier Explosives Limited in Katepalli village, Yadadri Bhongir district, Telangana, on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred when six workers were inside the unit, which is linked to major defence establishments, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The blast reportedly took place during the mixing of two highly reactive propellants-hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) and dioctyl adipate (DOA). Preliminary investigations suggest that mishandling of these chemical materials may have triggered the explosion, though the exact cause is yet to be determined and is under forensic examination by officials from the Factories department and a Clues Team.

The force of the explosion was so intense that it caused the entire structure to collapse, reducing it to rubble. The deceased have been identified as Gunuguntla Sandeep Kumar, Ch. Devi Charan, and Kalvala Naresh, with Naresh succumbing to his injuries while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Hyderabad. The injured workers-Chanda Mahender, Srikanth, and N. Mahesh-were initially treated at a local hospital before being shifted to Hyderabad for advanced care.

Rescue operations were launched immediately, with earthmovers and fire tenders deployed to clear debris and search for survivors. By the time fire personnel arrived, the flames had subsided, but the structure was already completely destroyed. The tragedy has sparked protests by villagers at the factory gate, who allege negligence and poor safety standards, pointing out that this is the second major accident at a Premier Explosives facility in recent weeks.

Premier Explosives Limited is a key supplier of solid propellants for several prestigious missile programs, including Akash, Astra, and LRSAM, and serves both defence and commercial sectors.

The company’s operations are critical to India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, heightening the significance of the incident. Following the blast, the Yadadri police registered a case against the company management and have initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances leading to the accident. The site remains cordoned off as authorities continue their probe and rescue teams work to ensure no one remains trapped in the debris.

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Rajnath Singh To Represent India At Moscow's Victory Day Parade: Sources

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will represent India at the upcoming Victory Day Parade in Moscow on May 9, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

This decision comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi received an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin but has opted not to attend, reportedly due to heightened security concerns following a recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. The Kremlin confirmed that India would not be represented at the highest level, with Defence Minister Singh attending in the Prime Minister’s stead.

The Victory Day Parade, held annually on Red Square, is a major event in Russia, showcasing military strength and commemorating the end of World War II in Europe. This year’s parade is particularly significant as it marks eight decades since the historic victory, with about 20 foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, expected to attend. Russia has also announced a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10 to coincide with the celebrations.

Rajnath Singh’s participation underscores the ongoing strategic partnership between India and Russia. Singh last visited Russia in December 2023 for the commissioning of the Indian Navy’s INS Tushil in Kaliningrad, where he also paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow and interacted with the Indian community. The INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth-guided missile frigate, is part of a broader Indo-Russian naval collaboration.

Diplomatic engagements between the two countries remain robust. Russian President Putin is expected to visit India later this year, following an invitation extended by Prime Minister Modi during his last visit to Russia in July 2024 for the annual India-Russia summit. These high-level exchanges reflect the depth of bilateral ties, even as both nations navigate complex geopolitical and security challenges.

Rajnath Singh’s representation at Moscow’s Victory Day Parade highlights India’s respect for the historical significance of the event and its enduring relationship with Russia, while also balancing domestic security priorities in the wake of recent terror incidents.

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Bangladesh High Court Grants Bail To Chinmoy Krishna Das In Sedition Case

The Bangladesh High Court has granted bail to spiritual leader and former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in a high-profile sedition case, as reported by The Daily Star and confirmed by multiple news outlets. The order was issued on Wednesday by a bench comprising Justice Md Atoar Rahman and Justice Md Ali Reza, following nearly six months of Das’s incarceration.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, who serves as the spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on November 25 last year, after being accused of insulting the national flag of Bangladesh during a rally in Chittagong on October 25, 2024. The case, which also named 18 others, was filed by Firoz Khan, a former local BNP leader, at the Kotwali Police Station in Chattogram.

Das’s arrest and subsequent detention sparked significant public attention and outrage, particularly among minority Hindu communities in Bangladesh and abroad, as it was seen in the context of broader crackdowns following political changes in the country.

After his arrest, Das’s bail applications were twice rejected by the Chittagong Metropolitan Sessions Court, despite his defence team’s arguments that he deeply respected the motherland and was not a traitor, equating his reverence for Bangladesh to that of a mother. The hearings were held under tight security, and the prosecution was led by Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Advocate Mofizur Haque Bhuiyan.

In February, the High Court had directed the government to explain within two weeks why Das should not be granted bail, following a petition from his lawyer Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, who cited Das’s deteriorating health and prolonged detention without trial. The bail was finally granted after the scheduled hearing, and Das is expected to be released unless the Supreme Court’s Appellate Division stays the High Court’s order.

The case has been closely watched by the public and rights groups, as Das is a prominent advocate for the rights of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. His arrest and the subsequent legal proceedings have highlighted ongoing concerns about religious freedom and minority rights in the country.

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'600 North Korean Soldiers Killed Fighting For Russia': Seoul Spy Agency

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has reported that approximately 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed and around 4,700 injured while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, according to multiple briefings to lawmakers and media reports on April 30, 2025.

This marks one of the first official and public acknowledgments of North Korea’s direct military involvement in the Ukraine conflict, following recent confirmations from both Pyongyang and Moscow.

The NIS disclosed that North Korea deployed an estimated 15,000 to 18,000 troops to Russia in two phases, with the majority stationed in the border region of Kursk. The deployment was reportedly in line with a mutual defense treaty and described by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a "sacred mission" to strengthen ties with Moscow.

North Korea’s state media claimed its forces played a crucial role in helping Russian troops "completely liberate" the Kursk region, a claim echoed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who publicly thanked North Korean soldiers for their "heroism, excellent training and dedication" and vowed that Russia would "never forget the heroism of the DPRK special forces".

Of the casualties, roughly 2,000 injured North Korean soldiers have been repatriated to North Korea this year, where they are reportedly held in isolation in Pyongyang and other locations. The bodies of those killed were cremated locally in Russia before being returned to North Korea.

In exchange for its military support, North Korea is believed to have received significant military and technological assistance from Russia, including reconnaissance satellite technology, drones, electronic warfare systems, and SA-22 surface-to-air missiles.

The two countries are also reportedly discussing broader cooperation to modernize North Korea’s industries across sectors such as aviation, energy, and tourism, with around 15,000 North Korean workers also sent to Russia as part of this collaboration.

Despite the high casualty rate, South Korean intelligence noted that North Korean troops have shown improvements in combat effectiveness over the past six months, attributed to their use of advanced weaponry and training alongside Russian forces. However, reports have also emerged of disciplinary issues among North Korean troops, including excessive drinking and theft.

This development underscores the deepening military and strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia, with both sides now openly acknowledging their alliance and cooperation in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

ANI

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