Congress flags unemployment and poverty as lingering challenges

Opposition leaders in India, Mallikarjun Kharge and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, have highlighted the ongoing challenges of unemployment and poverty in the country. Speaking in Parliament, Chowdhury said India lags behind in the human development index, ranks 131 among 189 nations, and has a significantly unequal distribution of wealth. Kharge stressed the importance of protecting democracy and preserving constitutional values and ideals. Former Union minister Maneka Gandhi praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to empower women and prevent female foeticide.

BSF foils major infiltration bid along IB in JK's Samba amid hostilities with Pakistan

The BSF thwarted a significant infiltration attempt by suspected terrorists along the International Border in Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, late on May 8, 2025. The incident coincided with India's response to Pakistan's military actions targeting various locations. Officials are conducting a thorough search to assess the situation further.

Ban on visitors, tighter checks for passengers at airports

Amid heightened tensions, BCAS mandates stricter airport security protocols. Visitors banned, check-in closes 75 minutes early. Additional passenger checks at boarding gates. 24 northern airports closed, causing flight cancellations. Airlines urge passengers to arrive three hours before departure.

Air traffic in Mumbai surges as carriers re-route flights

Mumbai's air traffic controllers manage a 60% surge in flights after India-Pakistan tensions, with 24 northern airports closed. Over 250 flights canceled, routes rerouted through Mumbai's airspace, significantly increasing flight times and operational complexity.

India foils Pakistani attack on military bases day after Operation Sindoor

India repelled multiple Pakistani drone and missile strikes across western border regions, targeting military bases in Jammu, Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Retaliatory actions followed India's Operation Sindoor, with both nuclear-armed nations engaging in unprecedented hostilities.

Pakistani jet shot down by Indian forces near Punjab's Pathankot: Report

Indian air defence shot down a Pakistani jet near Pathankot amid escalating tensions. India intercepted multiple missile and drone attacks, targeting Pakistani air defence systems in response to recent border aggression and shelling.

UP man, 20, arrested for putting Pak flag as display picture on WhatsApp

A 20-year-old man in Meerut was arrested for displaying a Pakistan flag on his WhatsApp profile, sparking local tensions. Police seized his mobile phone, registering a case amid heightened India-Pakistan border security concerns.

As India-Pak tensions escalate, Rubio calls Jaishankar and Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called India's Jaishankar and Pakistan's PM Sharif, urging de-escalation after cross-border strikes following the Pahalgam terror attack. International partners express solidarity and call for dialogue and restraint.

Blackout in Jaisalmer after India intercepts Pakistan drone attack

Massive explosions were reported in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, causing a blackout in western districts near Pakistan. The sounds lasted nearly an hour, prompting police patrols and public panic. Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan following Indian precision strikes targeting terror launchpads in response to a recent deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces are on high alert.

Jammu and Kashmir government closes schools, colleges, universities for 2 days as India-Pak tension rises

The Jammu and Kashmir government has closed all educational institutions for two days due to security concerns following heightened tensions with Pakistan. Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced the closure amid reports of thwarted drone and missile attacks on Indian installations. This follows recent military actions in response to a deadly terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians.

Punjab govt closes all schools and colleges for next three days amid India-Pakistan tensions

Punjab government closes all educational institutions for three days due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Schools and colleges in border districts are shut, police leaves cancelled, and military remains on high alert following retaliatory actions and missile interceptions.

EAM Jaishankar speaks to Secretary Rubio, EU's Kallas

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas about rising tensions with Pakistan. Jaishankar emphasized India's commitment to counter cross-border terrorism and maintain a measured response. The US and EU urged both nations to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue to protect civilian lives.

What Indian military said after foiling Pakistan's missile, drone attack. Full statement

India thwarted a potential missile and drone attack from Pakistan, with explosions heard in Jaisalmer and Jammu. The defense ministry assured readiness to protect sovereignty. Security forces are on high alert following recent cross-border tensions, impacting even IPL matches.

Blackout hits Kutch, Banaskantha amid rising India-Pakistan border tensions

A total blackout was implemented in parts of Kutch and Banaskantha districts in Gujarat due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. This precautionary measure follows Indian missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan. Additionally, wreckage of a drone-like object was discovered near Khavda village, though its origin remains unclear.

Are schools open today? Check which states have announced a holiday on May 8

Several north Indian states have announced emergency measures following a thwarted Pakistani attack on military bases. Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have closed schools, cancelled leaves, enforced blackouts, and heightened security near border regions.

Will IPL 2025 be suspended amid India-Pak tensions? Chairman says this

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal says tournament's continuation depends on reviewing the ongoing India-Pakistan military situation. A match in Dharamshala was stopped after drone attacks, with stadium evacuated and no definitive government directive received.