India will conduct major air exercises along the International Border with Pakistan on May 7 and 8 amid heightened tensions following recent ceasefire violations and the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued for drills primarily in Rajasthan under the South Western Air Command of the IAF. Flights in the area will be suspended during the night exercises. The move comes as Pakistani forces continue unprovoked firing along the LoC, undermining the 2021 ceasefire pact. The exercises underscore India’s readiness as cross-border hostilities spread across multiple districts in Jammu and Kashmir. (PC: PTI)

The Odisha government has clarified that no sacred neem wood from Puri's Jagannath Temple was transported to Digha for idol-making, quelling the recent controversy. The statement follows an internal probe by the temple administration and retraction by a sevayat who previously made the claim. However, Odisha’s Law Minister has objected to the use of the term ‘Dham’ in the name of the newly built temple in Digha, urging West Bengal to reconsider it. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee responded sharply, denying any wrongdoing and accusing critics of spreading falsehoods for political mileage. (PC: Anandabazar Patrika)

On May 6, 2025, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district arrested two terror associates during a routine checkpoint operation. The suspects were found in possession of a pistol, a grenade, and 15 live rounds. This incident follows the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 individuals, primarily tourists, were killed by Pakistan-based terrorists. In response, Indian forces have intensified security measures and retaliated against continued cross-border firing by the Pakistani Army along the Line of Control. The United Nations Security Council convened a closed-door meeting at Pakistan's request to discuss the escalating tensions between the two nations. (PC: India Today )

Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, India will conduct nationwide civil defence drills on May 7 across 259 locations—the first such exercise since 1971. The drills, involving air raid sirens, blackout protocols, and public training, aim to bolster preparedness for potential emergencies. Home Secretary Govind Mohan chaired a meeting with Chief Secretaries and Civil Defence Chiefs to coordinate efforts, focusing on 244 Civil Defence Districts, particularly in border states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, and the Northeast. Citizens are advised to keep torches, candles, and cash ready during the drills. (PC: India Today)

In response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, the Indian government has directed northern and western states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, to conduct civil defense drills on May 7. These exercises will involve activating air raid sirens, implementing blackouts, and training civilians, including students, on safety protocols. Evacuation rehearsals and camouflaging vital installations are also planned. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met Japanese counterpart Nakatani Gen, condemning Pakistan's cross-border terrorism and emphasizing regional security. Japan expressed solidarity with India. These measures aim to bolster civilian preparedness amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control. (PC: PTI & Newsonair)

Tourism in Kashmir faces a severe downturn following a deadly terrorist attack that killed 26 tourists, sparking heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. In response, hotels and houseboats in Indian Kashmir are offering discounts of up to 70% due to massive booking cancellations. Similarly, in Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, tourist hotspots like Neelum Valley have been closed amid fears of an Indian military strike, leaving approximately 370 hotels and guesthouses vacant. The tourism industry, a crucial livelihood for thousands in the region, had seen a revival in recent years with more than 3 million tourists visiting Indian Kashmir and 1.5 million visiting Pakistani Kashmir last year. This resurgence followed a period of reduced militancy and a four-year ceasefire. However, the latest hostilities threaten to reverse these gains. Local business owners on both sides, like houseboat operator Yaseen Tuman and checkpoint vendor Musaddiq Hussain, report a devastating economic impact and call for peace between the two nations. Despite fears, some domestic tourists remain undeterred, believing certain areas are still safe to visit. Nonetheless, the tourism sector anticipates a prolonged slump amid rising geopolitical tensions. (PC: Reuters)

In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has directed several states to conduct security mock drills on May 7, the first of its kind since 1971. These drills will include air raid warning sirens, civilian training, and blackout procedures to prepare for potential hostile attacks. The order comes amid ongoing cross-border firing by Pakistan and India's vow for retribution for the deadly attack in Kashmir. Prime Minister Modi has met top military officials, signaling India's readiness to take decisive action. (PC: ANI)

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, a parliamentary panel on Communications and IT has instructed the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) and Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) ministries to outline actions against social media platforms and influencers allegedly working against national interests. Concerned about online entities inciting violence, the panel seeks details on potential bans under the Information Technology Act. The ministries must submit responses by May 8. This move comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir. (PC: India Today )

After losing her husband, Navy Captain Vinay Narwal, in the Pahalgam terror attack, Himanshi Narwal became a symbol of grief and resilience. But her public appeal for peace, urging against targeting Muslims or Kashmiris, sparked a wave of misogynistic trolling online. Trolls questioned her patriotism, character, and even her right to a government pension. The abuse was so severe that the National Commission for Women intervened. Similar hate was directed at Arathi Menon, another victim’s daughter. Their stories expose the deep-rooted sexism and intolerance women face when they defy public narratives and speak with compassion amid personal tragedy. (PC: India Today)

In response to the escalating Indo-Pak tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack, the Union Home Ministry has ordered a civil defence mock drill across multiple states on May 7. Border states including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Gujarat have been asked to test wartime standard operating procedures (SOPs). The drill includes testing of air raid sirens, training civilians and students in emergency preparedness, implementing crash blackout protocols, camouflaging vital installations, and updating evacuation plans. Officials emphasize the exercise is precautionary and not cause for alarm. The initiative is aimed at educating a generation unfamiliar with wartime realities.