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National Current Affairs of India, Important for competitive Exams.

New Tatkal Booking Rules: Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory from 15 July 2025

From 15 July 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will be mandatory for booking online Tatkal tickets via the IRCTC website and app. The move aims to promote fair and transparent booking practices.

For Tatkal tickets booked at PRC counters or by authorised agents, OTP verification will be done using the mobile number provided at the time of booking.

To prevent misuse, IRCTC agents will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window:

  • 10:00–10:30 AM for AC classes
  • 11:00–11:30 AM for non-AC classes
    The Centre for Railways Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been instructed to implement these changes and inform all departments accordingly.

India Achieves Zero Power Shortage as Peak Demand Hits Record 241 GW

On 10 June 2025, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal announced that India met its peak power demand of 241 GW with zero shortage — a major milestone in the country’s energy sector. He highlighted that during 2024–25, India added its highest-ever generation capacity of 34 GW, including 29.5 GW from renewable sources.

Over the last 11 years under the Narendra Modi government, the power sector has made unprecedented progress, with a focus on service, good governance, and welfare. By the end of 2025, non-fossil energy sources are expected to exceed 50% of India’s total energy capacity.

The length of transmission lines has grown from 2.91 lakh circuit kilometers to 4.94 lakh circuit kilometers, significantly strengthening energy infrastructure.

Peak power demand has almost doubled from 130 GW to 250 GW in 11 years, with a forecast of 270 GW by year-end. At the same time, energy shortages have dropped sharply from 4.2% in 2013 to 0.1% last year.

Recent data shows a zero gap between power demand and supply, signaling India’s movement towards becoming a power-surplus nation.

India’s First Underwater Museum to Be Developed Around INS Guldar in Maharashtra

India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef will be developed around the decommissioned warship INS Guldar near Nivati Rocks at Vengurla in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis virtually attended the project initiation.

The centrally supported initiative aims to promote marine conservation and tourism, featuring scuba diving and future submarine tours. The Union Tourism Ministry has approved ₹46.91 crore for the project.

INS Guldar, a 1,120-ton warship, was decommissioned in January 2024 and handed over to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. After completing environmental cleaning, the ship will be scuttled to serve as an underwater museum and coral reef site.

NHAI Releases First-Ever Asset Monetization Strategy for Road Sector

To unlock the value of operational National Highway assets and boost Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched its first-ever ‘Asset Monetization Strategy for the Road Sector’ on 9 June 2025.

  • The strategy provides a structured framework to mobilize capital through Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and securitization models.
  • These instruments have already helped NHAI raise over ₹1.4 lakh crore across 6,100 km of highways under the National Monetisation Pipeline.
  • It is built on three core pillars:
    1. Value maximization of road assets
    2. Transparency and investor information dissemination
    3. Market development and broader investor participation

NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav emphasized that the strategy ensures financial sustainability and private sector involvement, enhancing road asset quality and longevity.

Member Finance, N.R.V.V.M.K. Rajendra Kumar, added that the document fosters structured, transparent monetisation, boosting investor confidence.

The strategy supports the Government of India’s Asset Monetisation Plan (2025–30) and marks a shift to sustainable, market-driven infrastructure financing.

🔗 Read the full strategy: NHAI Asset Monetization Strategy Document

Indian Navy’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), ‘Arnala’

The Indian Navy will commission its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), Arnala, on 18 June 2025 at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.

  • Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, will preside over the ceremony.
  • Vice Adm Rajesh Pendharkar will host the event.

Key Highlights:

  • Arnala is the first of 16 ASW-SWC ships designed and built under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Built by GRSE, Kolkata, in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders, under PPP model.
  • Delivered to the Navy on 08 May 2025.
  • Named after the historic Arnala Fort, symbolizing maritime strength and heritage.

Technical & Strategic Significance:

  • Over 80% indigenous content, with systems from BEL, L&T, Mahindra Defence, MEIL, and 55+ MSMEs involved.
  • Capable of Subsurface Surveillance, Search and Rescue, and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations.
  • 77.6 m in length, 1490+ tonnes, and first Indian Naval ship with Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion.

This commissioning strengthens India’s coastal defence and naval self-reliance in the Indian Ocean Region.

Chenab Bridge, World’s Highest Railway Arch, Inaugurated by PM Modi in J&K

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir on May 6, 2025, and laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore at Katra.

  • Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project was dedicated to the nation.
    • Cost: Around ₹44,000 crore
    • Length: 272 km
    • Features: Fully electrified, 36 tunnels, and 943 bridges
    • Includes:
      • Chenab BridgeWorld’s highest railway arch bridge
      • Anji Khad BridgeIndia’s first cable-stayed rail bridge
  • Two Vande Bharat Express trains flagged off:
    • From Katra to Srinagar and Srinagar to Katra
    • Regular service began on Saturday
    • Features:
      • Silicone heating pads and heated plumbing to operate in sub-zero temperatures
      • Reduces travel time by nearly 3 hours
      • Offers modern amenities and climate-specific adaptations
  • Foundation stones laid for road projects, enhancing last-mile and border area connectivity.
  • Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence:
    • Foundation stone laid in Katra
    • Project worth: ₹350 crore
    • First medical college in Reasi district, boosting healthcare infrastructure

Census 2027: Two-Phase Enumeration with Caste Data to Begin in India

The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced that Population Census 2027 will be conducted in two phases and will include caste enumeration for the first time. The reference date is set as March 1, 2027, except for Ladakh and snow-bound areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where it will be October 1, 2026.

A notification under Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 will be published in the official gazette on June 16, 2025. The census will follow the provisions of the Census Act, 1948, and Census Rules, 1990.

The last census in 2011 was also conducted in two phases. The 2021 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India to Build Its First Polar Research Vessel Under MoU with Norway’s Kongsberg

On 3 June 2025, India achieved a historic milestone in its maritime and research capabilities as Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and Norwegian firm Kongsberg during the Nor-Shipping 2025 event in Norway. The agreement marks the beginning of construction for India’s first Polar Research Vessel (PRV).

The PRV will support India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and enhance India’s role in climate change research, ocean studies, and polar exploration. Designed by Kongsberg and built by GRSE in Kolkata, the vessel will be equipped with advanced scientific instruments.

Sonowal also presented India’s new MAHASAGAR maritime strategy, upgraded from SAGAR, and highlighted programs like Sagarmala 2.0 and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund to attract global investments. He also engaged with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) to expand collaboration in green shipping, ship recycling, and digital maritime technologies.

UP Government Approves 20% Reservation in Police Jobs for Agniveers

On 3 June 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government approved a 20% reservation for Agniveers in recruitment for the state police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) after their 4-year military service under the Agnipath scheme.

This decision, made during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, applies to roles like constable, mounted police, and fireman. Additionally, age relaxation of up to 3 years will be granted to eligible Agniveers.

This initiative aims to support Agniveers’ transition to civilian life and offer job security. UP Police is set to recruit for around 28,000 posts, significantly benefiting Agniveers. Haryana had earlier implemented a similar reservation policy.

IATA’s 81st Annual General Meeting: A Milestone for Global Aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) hosted its 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) from June 1-3, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India. This prestigious event marked the return of the IATA AGM to India after 42 years, last held in 1983.

Key Highlights:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Address: PM Modi emphasized India’s rapid aviation growth, stating that the country is now the third-largest domestic aviation market.
  • India’s Aviation Transformation: The success of the UDAN scheme has enabled 15 million passengers to experience affordable air travel.
  • Global Participation: Over 1,700 delegates, including airline CEOs, government officials, and industry leaders, attended the event.
  • Future of Aviation: Discussions focused on sustainable aviation fuel, financing decarbonization, and air connectivity.

India’s Role in Global Aviation

PM Modi highlighted India’s three pillars driving aviation growth:
1️⃣ A vast market – Reflecting India’s aspirational society.
2️⃣ Strong talent pool – Innovators in AI, robotics, and clean energy.
3️⃣ Supportive policy ecosystem – Enabling industrial expansion.

Looking Ahead

With 240 million passengers flying annually, India’s aviation sector is projected to reach 500 million passengers by 2030. The summit reinforced India’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation in aviation.

Indian Army Conducts Field Trials Of Next-Gen Indigenous Defence Technologies

On 1 June 2025, the Indian Army began trials of next-generation defence technologies at key sites across the country, including Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath. These trials, conducted under near-combat conditions with electronic warfare simulations, are meant to rigorously test the performance of new systems.

Air defence demonstrations are also being held in Agra and Gopalpur.

Technologies being tested include:

  • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
  • UAV-launched Precision-Guided Munitions
  • Loitering Munitions
  • Low-Level Lightweight Radars
  • Electronic Warfare Platforms
  • Vertical-launch Drones

These systems are developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with active participation from multiple defence industry partners. The goal is to ensure rapid integration of emerging battlefield technologies.

India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise “Nomadic Elephant 2025” Begins in Ulaanbaatar

The 17th edition of the India-Mongolia joint military exercise, Nomadic Elephant, began on 31 May 2025 at the Special Forces Training Centre in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and will continue until 13 June 2025.

Key dignitaries at the opening ceremony included India’s Ambassador to Mongolia Atul Malhari Gotsurve and Major General Lkhagvasuren Ganselem of Mongolia. Both expressed hopes that the joint training would deepen defence ties and improve operational cooperation between the two nations.

This year’s exercise features:

  • Counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous terrain.
  • Training for UN peacekeeping operations, simulating real-world multinational scenarios.

The expanded scope reflects increased defence cooperation and aims to boost interoperability, coordination, and mutual trust between the armed forces of India and Mongolia.

Historic First: Women Cadets Commissioned at NDA’s 148th Passing Out Parade

On 30 May 2025, the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune conducted the Passing Out Parade of its 148th course at Khetarpal Ground, marking a historic milestone with the commissioning of the first-ever batch of women cadets into the Indian Armed Forces.

The event was graced by General V.K. Singh (Retd.), Governor of Mizoram and former Chief of Army Staff, along with NDA Commandant Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar. General Singh described the occasion as a matter of national pride and a step forward in gender inclusion and military modernization.

Honours awarded at the event:

  • 🥇 President’s Gold Medal – Cadet Prince Raj
  • 🥈 Silver Medal – Cadet Udayveer Singh Negi
  • 🥉 Bronze Medal – Cadet Tejas Bhat
  • 🏆 Chief of Staff Banner – Golf Squadron

The parade was attended by dignitaries, families, and senior military officials, celebrating both tradition and a new chapter in the NDA’s legacy.

Three High Court Judges Elevated to Supreme Court

On 29 May 2025, The central government has approved the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation to elevate three High Court judges to the Supreme Court of India.
The appointed judges are:

  • Justice NV Anjaria, Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court
  • Justice Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court
  • Justice AS Chandurkar, Judge of the Bombay High Court

The announcement was made by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the President of India has signed off on the appointments after consultation with the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai.

The Collegium had made the recommendation during its meeting on 26 May 2025.

Career Highlights:

  • Justice NV Anjaria: Began his practice at Gujarat High Court in 1988; became a permanent judge in 2013; appointed Chief Justice of Karnataka HC in 2024.
  • Justice Vijay Bishnoi: Started his legal career in 1989; became permanent judge of Rajasthan HC in 2015; appointed CJ of Gauhati HC in 2024.
  • Justice AS Chandurkar: Began practicing in 1988; became Additional Judge of Bombay HC in 2013.

MSP Hiked for 14 Kharif Crops for 2025–26 Season

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved an increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025–26 marketing season. The move aims to enhance farmers’ income, encourage crop diversification, and reduce import dependence.


Key MSP Increases (Per Quintal):

  • Nigerseed: ₹820 (highest increase)
  • Ragi: ₹596
  • Cotton: ₹589
  • Sesamum: ₹579
  • Paddy (staple crop): ₹69
  • Tur (Arhar): ₹450
  • Urad: ₹400
  • Moong: ₹86
  • Groundnut: ₹480
  • Sunflower seed: ₹441
  • Soybean: ₹436

India’s Crop Calendar:

  • Kharif: Sown in June-July, harvested in Oct-Nov
  • Rabi: Sown in Oct-Nov, harvested Jan onwards
  • Summer: Grown between Rabi and Kharif seasons

The MSP hike is part of a broader strategy to promote pulses, oilseeds, and nutri-cereals (Shree Anna), supporting both nutritional security and farmer welfare.

Padma Awards 2025: 69 Eminent Personalities Honoured at Rashtrapati Bhavan

On 27 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards to 69 distinguished individuals at the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The awards included:

  • Padma Vibhushan – 3 recipients
  • Padma Bhushan – 9 recipients
  • Padma Shri – 57 recipients

Padma Vibhushan Awardees:

  • Justice (Retd.) Jagdish Singh Khehar – Public Affairs
  • Kumudini Lakhia – Arts
  • Sharda Sinha (posthumously) – Folk Music

Padma Bhushan Awardees:

  • Jatin Goswami, Kailash Nath Dixit, Sadhvi Ritambhara – Various fields
  • Bibek Debroy (posthumously) – Economics

Padma Shri Awardees:

  • Ajay Bhatt – Inventor of USB technology (Science & Engineering)
  • Dr. Neerja Bhatla – Research in cervical cancer prevention
  • Sant Ram Deswal – Literature & Education
  • Manda Krishna Madiga, Syed Ainul Hasan, Prashant Prakash, Nagendra Nath Roy – Various fields
  • Hugh Gantzer and Colleen Gantzer (posthumously) – Joint recipients

The Padma Awards, among the highest civilian honors in India, are conferred across disciplines such as art, social work, public affairs, science, medicine, education, sports, and civil service. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Ministers also attended the ceremony.

Earlier in April, 71 Padma Awards were conferred at the first investiture ceremony for 2025.

PM Modi Inaugurates Advanced Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Dahod, Gujarat

On 26 May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a state-of-the-art Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Dahod, Gujarat, marking a major boost to India’s railway infrastructure and freight capacity. He also flagged off the first electric locomotive produced at the facility.

Accompanied by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, PM Modi emphasized that the Dahod plant, aligned with his vision for world-class travel infrastructure, will manufacture 9,000 HP electric locomotives for both domestic use and export.

These advanced locomotives, equipped with regenerative braking systems, will enhance freight efficiency and promote energy conservation.

Supreme Court Directs Cadre Review of CAPFs Within Six Months

On 24 May 2025, the Supreme Court of India directed that a long-pending cadre review be conducted for all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)—including the ITBP, BSF, CRPF, CISF, and SSB—within six months. This review was originally due in 2021 but had been delayed.

A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan instructed the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to take appropriate action within three months of receiving the action-taken report from the Ministry of Home Affairs concerning cadre review, service rules, and recruitment rules.

The court issued these directions in response to pleas seeking Non Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU), cadre restructuring, and the removal of IPS officer deputation in CAPFs.

The Court emphasized the critical role of CAPFs in ensuring border security and handling internal security, and highlighted the challenges involved in coordination with state governments and police forces.

Rising North East Investors Summit 2025

The Rising North East Investors Summit 2025, held in New Delhi on May 23-24, aims to attract global and domestic investments into India’s North Eastern Region (NER). Organized by MDoNER, NEC, and FICCI, the event provides a platform for investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore opportunities in sectors like tourism, agro-processing, IT, infrastructure, and renewable energy.

With ministerial sessions, B2B & B2G meetings, and startup showcases, the summit fosters collaboration and positions Northeast India as a hub for sustainable development and strategic investments. The event is expected to drive economic growth, strengthen alliances, and unlock the region’s vast potential.

PM Modi Addresses 78th World Health Assembly: Highlights India’s Global Health Vision

On May 20, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva via videoconferencing. Emphasizing the theme “One World for Health”, he reiterated India’s commitment to an inclusive and collaborative global health model, aligning it with India’s own vision of “One Earth, One Health.”

Key highlights of his address include:

  • Inclusive Health Model: PM Modi highlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, now covering 580 million+ people, including those above 70 years.
  • Digital Healthcare: He showcased India’s digital initiatives like Health IDs, telemedicine (340 million+ consultations), and vaccine tracking systems.
  • Affordable Medicines: Mentioned Jan Aushadhi Kendras, offering quality, low-cost medicines.
  • Support to Global South: PM reaffirmed India’s solidarity with developing nations, offering its health models as replicable and scalable solutions.
  • Promotion of Yoga: Invited nations to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
  • Pandemic Preparedness: Applauded the WHO Pandemic Treaty (INB Treaty) as a milestone for future health security.

PM Modi concluded by emphasizing global cooperation, inclusivity, and resilience as the pillars of a healthier world.

Seven All-Party Delegations to Visit 32 Nations under Operation Sindoor

As part of Operation Sindoor, India is sending seven All-Party parliamentary delegations to 32 countries, showcasing a united political front against terrorism. A total of 59 Members of Parliament, along with retired diplomats, will participate in this diplomatic outreach.

Delegation 1 (led by Baijayant Panda, BJP):
Visiting Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Algeria
Includes Ghulam Nabi Azad, Nishikant Dubey, Asaduddin Owaisi

Delegation 2 (led by Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP):
Visiting UK, France, Germany, EU, Italy, Denmark
Includes Amar Singh, Priyanka Chaturvedi, M J Akbar

Delegation 3 (led by Sanjay Kumar Jha, JDU):
Visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore
Includes Yusuf Pathan, John Brittas, Salman Khurshid

Delegation 4 (led by Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena):
Visiting UAE, Liberia, Congo, Sierra Leone
Includes Bansuri Swaraj, Sasmit Patra, E.T. Mohammed Basheer, S.S. Ahluwalia

Delegation 5 (led by Shashi Tharoor, Congress):
Visiting US, Panama, Guyana, Brazil, Colombia
Includes Sarfaraz Ahmad, Shambhavi, GM Harish Balayogi, Murli Deora

Delegation 6 (led by Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, DMK):
Visiting Spain, Greece, Slovenia, Latvia, Russia
Includes Mian Altaf Ahmed, Rajeev Rai, Prem Chand Gupta

Delegation 7 (led by Supriya Sule, NCP-SCP):
Visiting Egypt, Qatar, Ethiopia, South Africa
Includes Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Anurag Singh Thakur, V Muraleedharan, Manish Tewari

This major diplomatic outreach reflects India’s bipartisan commitment to counter global terrorism and enhance international cooperation.

Govt Revokes Security Clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Over National Security Concerns

On May 15, 2025, the Indian government revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd., a Turkish ground handling firm, with immediate effect, citing national security concerns. Turkey and Azerbaijan backed Pakistan and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps.

  • The clearance had been granted by the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) in November 2022.
  • Celebi Aviation was operating in nine Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa, Cochin, and Kannur, providing passenger handling, cargo services, aerobridge management, and other airport-related services.

Following the directive:

  • Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has terminated its association with Celebi entities at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
  • Alternative ground handling services are being coordinated with AISATS and Bird Group.
  • For cargo operations, DIAL is onboarding a pre-approved cargo handler to avoid disruption.
  • All Celebi employees at IGIA will be retained by the new employer under existing terms and conditions to ensure smooth transition and operational continuity.

BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw detained by Pakistan rangers returns to India

BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was detained by Pakistan Rangers on April 23, 2025, after accidentally crossing the international border in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector, has been safely returned to India on May 14, 2025.

According to BSF sources, the handover took place peacefully at the Attari Joint Check Post in Amritsar, following established protocols. Shaw had been guarding farmers near the border fence when the incident occurred.

CBSE Declares Class 10 and 12 Results for 2025; Girls Outshine Boys Again

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) declared the Class 10 and Class 12 board exam results on 13 May 2025.

In Class 12, the pass percentage is 88.39%, an increase of 0.41 percentage points from last year.

  • Girls outperformed boys by 5.94 percentage points, with over 91% passing.
  • Transgender students achieved a 100% pass rate.
  • Total students appeared: 16,92,794

In Class 10, the pass percentage is 93.66%, up by 0.06 percentage points compared to last year.

  • Girls again performed better, with 95% passing, 2.37 percentage points higher than boys.
  • Total students appeared: 23,71,939

The results are accessible via the official CBSE website and other digital platforms.

India-Pakistan DGMO Talks Focus on Ceasefire Commitment and Troop Reduction

On 12 May 2025, Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO)-level talks were held between India and Pakistan. According to a statement from the Indian Army, both sides discussed maintaining the commitment to avoid any firing or aggressive actions against each other.

It was also agreed to consider immediate steps for troop reduction along the borders and forward areas, aiming to de-escalate tensions and promote peace.

India to Reopen 32 Airports After Ceasefire

On 12 May 2025, the Centre issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to reopen 32 airports that had been shut since 9 May due to cross-border drone and missile attacks following the Pahalgam massacre, in which 26 tourists were killed by terrorists.

The airports to gradually reopen include: Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar, Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, and Bhuj.

Though a ceasefire was announced at the request of the Pakistan DGMO, the Indian government is proceeding cautiously.

According to the Indian Army, the night remained largely peaceful, with no incidents reported—a first in recent days.

The reopening signals a de-escalation in hostilities, especially after India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ to avenge the massacre.

The move is expected to restore normalcy in flight operations, which had been widely disrupted.

Indian Army Destroys Pakistani Posts, Thwarts Drone Attacks Across 26 Locations

The Indian Army destroyed Pakistani posts and a terrorist launch pad near Jammu, from where tube-launched drones were being deployed. In addition, Indian Defence Forces successfully thwarted drone attacks at 26 locations from Baramulla to Bhuj, targeting areas along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC).

The attacks involved suspected armed drones, posing threats to both civilian and military targets. Key locations targeted included Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Jammu, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, and others. In Ferozepur, one drone caused damage to a house and injured three civilians, who are now stable.

The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert, using counter-drone systems to neutralize threats and urging citizens in border areas to stay indoors and follow safety advisories.

Army Chief Empowered to Mobilize Territorial Army Personnel for Three Years

The Central Government has empowered the Chief of the Army Staff to call out officers and personnel of the Territorial Army for essential guard duties or to support the regular army. This authority is granted under the Territorial Army Rule 1948.

According to a gazette notification by the Ministry of Defence, 14 out of 32 Infantry Battalions of the Territorial Army have been embodied in commands including the Southern, Eastern, Western, Central, Northern, South Western, Andaman & Nicobar Command, and the Army Training Command (ARTRAC).

This order is valid for a period of three years, until February 9, 2028.

32 Airports Temporarily Closed Across North and West India Till May 15

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced the temporary closure of 32 airports in northern and western India for all civil flight operations until May 15.

Key affected airports include Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jammu, Srinagar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Jaisalmer, and Pathankot. Additionally, 25 Air Traffic Service (ATS) route segments in the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions will be closed.

Airlines have been advised to use alternate routes to minimize disruptions. The closure is for operational reasons and is being coordinated with relevant authorities to ensure safety.

Nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drills Conducted on May 7, 2025

On May 7, 2025, India conducted a nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill, codenamed Operation Abhyas, across 244 districts. This large-scale exercise was organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to enhance emergency preparedness amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Purpose and Execution

The drills aimed to test and improve civil defence mechanisms, including:

  • Air raid warning sirens and blackout protocols.
  • Evacuation drills for civilians.
  • Training sessions for students and volunteers.
  • Coordination exercises involving police, fire services, and disaster response teams.

Historical Significance

This was the largest civil defence drill since 1971, when India conducted similar exercises during the Indo-Pakistani war. The recent drills were prompted by security concerns following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives.

Public Participation and Impact

Thousands of civil defence volunteers, NCC cadets, NSS members, and Home Guards took part in the drills. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad implemented blackout simulations and evacuation rehearsals to assess readiness.

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