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Operation Sindoor: Headquarters of terror training in Pakistan, Jaish-e-Muhammad’s Markaz Subhan Allah destroyed by India

OpIndia Staff
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Operation Sindoor: Headquarters of terror training in Pakistan, Jaish-e-Muhammad’s Markaz Subhan Allah destroyed by India

On the intervening night of 6th and 7th May, India launched precision missile strikes on terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistan as part of Operation Sindoor, avenging the recent Pahalgam attack on Hindu pilgrims. Nine targets were hit in the coordinated offensive, all of which were successfully neutralised. One of the most significant targets was Markaz Subhan Allah, which is the operational headquarters of the banned terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.

Headquarters of indoctrination and terror training

Markaz Subhan Allah is located near Karachi Mor on NH-5 and spread over 15 acres. It functioned as JeM’s central hub for training and radicalisation. It has been directly linked to the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing. The terrorists involved in the attack received ideological and combat training within the compound.

The facility hosted around 600 terrorists affiliated with the outfit. It included residences of JeM’s key figures, including its founder Maulana Masood Azhar and his de facto successor Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar. In the past few years, the complex expanded under the watch of the Pakistani government and added facilities for the terrorists living in the compound, including a gym, swimming pool, horse stables, and even an “Al Hijama” centre used for cadre conditioning.

Weapons, rhetoric and international links

It is believed that JeM-affiliated terrorists at this Markaz received weapons smuggled from Afghanistan, including leftover NATO M4 rifles. The site also served as a meeting point for JeM’s Afghan commanders and a launch pad for jihadi attacks, including those carried out by the close relatives of Masood Azhar.

The Markaz was partially funded by Pakistan’s provincial and federal governments and partially by donors from Gulf, African nations, and even from UK. As recently as November 2024, Masood Azhar publicly called for “revenge for Babri Masjid” from within the compound.

By striking such an important location for the terror outfit operating from Pakistan, India has sent a clear message that any attack on India’s sovereignty, its people, and national security will not go unanswered.

Operation Sindoor: The what, where and how of India’s precision missile strikes on Pakistan’s terrorist infrastructure to avenge Pahalgam

OpIndia Staff
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Operation Sindoor: The what, where and how of India’s precision missile strikes on Pakistan’s terrorist infrastructure to avenge Pahalgam

India on Wednesday carried out precision strikes aimed at the terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Nine sites were selected for Operation Sindoor, and all nine were reported to be successful. The operation was named Operation Sindoor to mark the barbarity of the Pahalgam attack by Pakistani terrorists on April 22, where Hindu male tourists were asked their religion and shot down while their wives and children watched.

The Pakistan Army, backed by its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been supporting, financing and sheltering the activities of anti-India terrorist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Hizbul Mujahideen, among others and has systematically coordinated financial, logistics, doctrinal and military support to these outfits including providing direct combat trainings.

These terrorist groups have been provided with infrastructure concealed in government facilities to carry out their operations in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK). Several training camps (Markaz), and Launch Pads of these terror outfits are currently being run near army facilities.

While Launch pads are extensively used for staging / arms training activities, religious indoctrination and other support activities such as funding, propaganda, expansion etc. are being carried out with backing of Pak Establishment in larger facilities that are located well-inside Pakistan.

The Pakistani Army acknowledged the attacks, declaring that Pakistan will retaliate.

Pakistani Army’s alert notice

On target for the precision strike were both the Markaz Taiba (a Lashkar stronghold) in Muridke and the Markaz Subhan Allah (the headquarters of the Jaish) in Bahawalpur. These Markaz not only serve as residences to major commanders of the outfits but also serve as epi-centre for radicalization and various training courses on intelligence, arms handling etc.

Pakistani news channels have reported that the Jaish-e-Muhammad headquarters in Bahawalpur, run from a madarsa, has been completely destroyed, and the sky looks red due to flames.

Additionally, the commanders of terrorist groups have used these facilities (Markaz) to deliver anti-India rhetoric to masses in order to motivate the recruits for Jihad against India such as in Dec, 2024.

Sources have also confirmed the 9 locations were selectively targeted with the aim of destroying this anti-India Terror network. Among the targets for Wednesday’s precision strike were:

1.Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur, operational since 2015, is main centre of JeM for training and indoctrination and serves as operational headquarter of JeM. It is associated with terrorist plannings by JeM including Pulwama attack on Feb 14, 2019. The Markaz consists of residences of JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar, de-facto Chief of JeM Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members of Masood Azhar. Masood Azhar has made several addresses from this facility extolling anti – India rhetoric and appealing to youth to join Islamic Jihad. JeM conducts regular arms, physical and religious training for its cadres at Markaz Subhan Allah.

2. Markaz Taiba, Muridke, established in the year 2000, Markaz Taiba is the ‘alma mater’ and the most important training centre of LeT located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke, Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. The complex holds arms and physical trainings facility, as well as dawa’h and radicalisation for terror entities both from within Pakistan and abroad.

This Markaz enrols around 1000 students in different courses annually thereby highlighting the role of this Markaz in churning out terror entities for LeT annually. Osama Bin Laden had financed Rs 10 million for construction of Mosque & Guest House within the Markaz Taiba complex. At the behest of Pakistan’s ISI, all the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai attack including Ajmal Kasab were imparted ‘Daura-e-Ribbat’ (intelligence training) at this facility. David Coleman Headley & Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke along with Abdul Rehman Sayed @ Pasha, Haroon and Khurram (coconspirators) on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

3.Sarjal / Tehra Kalan, located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan, is main launching facility of Jaishe-Mohammad (JeM) for infiltration of terrorists into JK. As part of concerted strategy of Pak- ISI to conceal terror infrastructure in government buildings, Sarjal facility is being operated from the premises of a Primary Health Center (PHC) in Tehra Kalan Village of Sarjal area. This JeM facility holds special prominence due to its close proximity of around 06 km from IB in Samba Sector of Jammu, J&K.

This facility serves as the base for the digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists. It also serves as the launching base for drones by which arms/ammunition/narcotics and warlike stores are dropped into Indian territory. JeM terrorists Mohammad Adnan Ali @ Doctor and Kashif Jan regularly visit this facility and JeM de-facto chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar supervises overall operations of this facility. This facility is actively being used by JeM to infiltrate terrorists and for smuggling arms & ammunition into India.

4. Mehmoona Joya Facility, Sialkot: As another example of Pak-ISI establishing terror facilities in government buildings, Mehmoona Joya facility of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) is located in premises of Bhutta Kotli Govt. This facility is used for infiltration of HM cadres into Jammu region of JK. HM cadres are also given training for terrorist operations and handling of weapons by the senior commanders at this facility. Mohd. Irfan Khan also known as Irfan Tanda is commander of this HM facility. Around 20 – 25 terrorists are usually present at this facility at any point of time overseeing infiltration bids and terrorist operations in India.

5. Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala, Bhimber, located at outskirts of Barnala town on Kote Jamel road, is prominent Marjaz of LeT in PoJK and is used for infiltration of LeT terrorists and arms/ammunition into Poonch – RajauriReasi sector. This Markaz is also utilized as staging centre for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. It can accommodate 100 -150 cadres. LeT terror operatives Qasim Gujjar @ Mahrore, Qasim Khanda and Anas Jarar operate from this Markaz and reside in its vicinity. Operational commanders of LeT visit this Markaz for organizing and supervising terrorist activities of LeT / Jamaat-ud-Dawa /Jammu & Kashmir United Movement.

6. Markaz Abbas, Kotli, is an important terror facility of JeM located in Kotli. Hafiz Abdul Shakoor @ Qari Zarrar, ‘shura member’ of JeM Council and close associate of JeM top commander Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, is head of this Markaz. Qari Zarrar is directly involved in planning and execution of terrorist attacks in J&K and is wanted by National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India. Markaz Abbas can accommodate around 100 – 125 JeM cadres. JeM’s terror activities including infiltration of cadres from the Poonch – Rajouri sectors are planned and executed from this facility.

7. . Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli, PoJK, is one of the oldest facilities of HM. It can accommodate around 150 – 200 HM terrorists. HM terrorists visit this facility particularly for taking arms firing training and specialized physical training. In addition to providing conventional arms / physical training, this Camp specializes in training cadres for BAT/ sniping actions and fighting in hilly area & survival training.

8. Shawai Nallah Camp, Muzaffarabad Shawai Nallah Camp, also known as Bait-ul-Mujahideen, is located near Chelabandi bridge on Muzaffarabad-Neelum Road, Muzaffarabad, PoJK. It is one of the most important camps of LeT. Attackers of 26/11 Mumbai Attack including Ajmal Kasab had received terrorist training in this Camp. This camp is used for recruitment, registration and training of LeT cadres and has been functional since early 2000. It is used as base camp for imparting Daura-e-Aam training, which includes religious indoctrination, physical training, tactical training regarding use of GPS, map reading and arms training for rifles and grenades. Pak-ISI also facilitates by providing trainers of Pak Army to provide weapons training to LeT terrorists. It is a large training camp which can accommodate 200-250 LeT cadres at a time. This camp is also utilized as staging camp for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. LeT terrorists camping here are sent to launching facilities located opposite North Kashmir.

9. Markaz Syedna Bilal, located opposite Red Fort, Muzaffarabad. This facility is used as transit camp for JeM terrorists prior to their launching into JK. At any point of time 50-100 cadres resides in this facility. JeM operational commander and JeM head of PoJK, Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri is in-charge of the facility. Abdullah Jehadi@ Abdullah Kashmiri and Aashiq Nengroo (Indian Fugitive) also operate from this centre. Commandos of Special Service Group (SSG) of Pak Army also impart training to JeM cadres at this facility.

Indian Armed Forces successfully struck these nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI.

The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI.

Reports say that all the Indian aircraft and the pilots who participated in the precision strike are accounted for, and are safe. Though details of the strike are yet to become fully clear, it is reported that it was a tri-service coordination. Assets of Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force were used in coordination to launch and carry out the attacks. Loitering munitions and drones have also been used.

The Indian Ministry of Defence has made it clear that the targets were terrorist camps and no Pakistani military establishments have been hit. A detailed press briefing will be carried out in Delhi later today.

(With inputs from ANI)

‘6 aircrafts downed’, ‘Srinagar airport attacked’, ‘Indian Prisoners of War taken’: Rattled Pakistanis cook up multiple fake news after ‘Operation Sindoor’ destroyed terror camps in the country

OpIndia Staff
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‘6 aircrafts downed’, ‘Srinagar airport attacked’, ‘Indian Prisoners of War taken’: Rattled Pakistanis cook up multiple fake news after ‘Operation Sindoor’ destroyed terror camps in the country

On early morning of May 7, India launched a devastating strike on terror targets inside Pakistan controlled territory. Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujhaideen, Lashkar-e-Taiba terror camps located in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad were hit by missiles from Indian forces. Following the attacks, a rattled Pakistani establishment and Pakistani media floated all sorts of fake news to try and save their face.

Embarrassed at being surprised by Indian forces, Pakistani government-linked media channels and social media accounts began circulating one fake news after another to try and show their domestic audience that Pakistan retaliated against the strikes.

Several Pakistani handles claimed that Pakistani forces have hit Srinagar Airport in response. While claiming so, they shared a video from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Pakistan Defence Minister was at the forefront of spreading misinformation as he claimed that Pakistan has taken 3 Indians prisoners during the night. However, he later fact-checked himself and retracted his own claim.

He later claimed that Indian soldiers are abandoning their posts. However, he did not offer any proof to back that claim either.

Leading Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir made perhaps the most hilarious claims as he kept increasing the number of Indian Air Force Jets downed by Pakistan every few minutes, eventually settling for 6.

Several posts also claimed that Pakistan had retaliated by launching missile strikes at 15 locations inside India. Some even posted that an Indian Army Brigade Headquarters had been destroyed.

While in the fog of war, it is not always easy to discern the truth, but if it is coming from a Pakistani mouth, one can be certain it is a lie.

Meanwhile, Indian authorities confirmed that everyone involved in the Operation Sindoor is safe and sound.

Ailing children converted to Christianity with false promise of healing: 10 families in Chhattisgarh expose missionary deception, revert to Sanatan Dharma

OpIndia Staff
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Ailing children converted to Christianity with false promise of healing: 10 families in Chhattisgarh expose missionary deception, revert to Sanatan Dharma

In a significant development from Kondagaon district in Chhattisgarh, several tribal families who had earlier converted to Christianity under the influence of missionaries are now returning to their ancestral Sanatan Dharma. On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, ten families from Pitichua village in Baderajpur block, Keshkal Assembly constituency, renounced Christianity and embraced their native faith in a “Ghar Wapsi” ceremony. Among them were three children.

These families revealed that they were lured into conversion with false promises of healing. The missionaries claimed that “holy water” and prayer could cure diseases. One of the returning members, Gaindlal Markam, shared his experience: his young son was suffering from a respiratory illness, and after several failed visits to doctors, someone directed them to Christian missionaries.

“They prayed over us, gave us water to drink, and for a while, my son seemed better,” Gaindlal recounted. “But the illness soon returned. That’s when we realized we had been misled.”

The missionaries handed them Bibles and instructed them to follow Christian practices, but Gaindlal says these changes brought no lasting improvement in their lives.

Shankar Markam, block president of the tribal society, strongly criticized the missionaries, stating, “They exploit the innocence of tribal people, offering false hope of healing, financial aid, and problem-solving—all as a pretext to convert. It’s a well-planned trap.”

He welcomed both the caste census by the central government and the Chhattisgarh government’s proposed anti-conversion law, saying such measures will curb the unchecked activities of missionaries and help preserve tribal roots and identity.

Another returning individual shared how converting to Christianity led to social isolation. “We faced exclusion from community events and traditional rituals like weddings. It caused us immense stress,” he said. After nearly 18 months, his family chose to return to Sanatan Dharma, a decision that brought them peace and was warmly welcomed by their community.

Senior tribal leader Rangeelal Markam leveled serious allegations against the missionaries, saying, “They prey on the uneducated and poor. They fool people in the name of holy water and prayer. But the truth is, neither their prayers heal nor do they change lives.” He emphasized that the tribal community is now waking up and actively working to bring their people back to their original faith.

It is worth noting that the Chhattisgarh government, under CM Vishnu Deo Sai, is taking a tough stance against forced religious conversions and is preparing to introduce a strict new law to curb illegal conversions. Tribal leaders believe this step will play a key role in protecting their culture and identity.

IWT, Triple Talaq, Congress’ vote bank politics, and more: 5 takeaways from PM Modi’s speech at ABP India at 2047 Summit

OpIndia Staff
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IWT, Triple Talaq, Congress’ vote bank politics, and more: 5 takeaways from PM Modi’s speech at ABP India at 2047 Summit

On Tuesday, May 6, Prime Minister Modi took a pointed dig at the Congress-led governments of the past, accusing them of prioritizing political convenience over national interest. He stated that decisions during their tenure were often driven by concerns about how the world would react or how vote banks would respond, rather than what was best for the country.

In his speech at the ABP India At 2047 Summit, PM Modi stressed the importance of prioritizing national interest and having unwavering confidence in the nation’s potential to achieve great goals. He contrasted his government’s approach with that of the Congress, which he claimed was overly focused on maintaining power and appeasing vote banks, often at the expense of necessary reforms.

Here are five key points PM Modi touched upon:

Congress governments’ policies driven by fear of public reaction and vote bank politics:

PM Modi criticized the Congress for a decades-long policy approach that he said often ran counter to the spirit of true national development. He argued that key decisions were often made based on political expediency—concerns like, “Can we retain power?” or “Will this upset our electoral base?” These fears, he claimed, hindered progress, with critical reforms often being stalled for political reasons. True development, he said, can only be achieved when the guiding principle is ‘Nation First.’

Regressive practices like Triple Talaq avoided for vote bank reasons:

PM Modi pointed out how issues like Triple Talaq and Waqf Law reforms were deliberately avoided due to concerns over upsetting vote banks. He emphasized that under his leadership, these long-overdue changes were finally implemented, benefiting women, the poor, and Pasmanda Muslims. He cited the example of Triple Talaq, which he said had ruined countless lives, especially those of women. His government, he noted, passed laws to protect these women’s rights, despite political opposition.

India’s water resources will now serve the nation’s interests:

PM Modi addressed the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty following the Pahalgam massacre, highlighting India’s changing approach to its rivers. He explained that for decades, India’s water resources were used to fuel conflicts, with water flowing aimlessly beyond its borders. However, under his leadership, India has begun redirecting its water resources to serve the nation’s benefit, ensuring preservation and productive use for the welfare of the people.

Self-reliance in defence:

Emphasizing India’s strides towards self-reliance, particularly in the defence sector, PM Modi declared that India, once seen as merely a market for foreign weapons, is now a rising global leader in defence manufacturing. He proudly pointed to India’s growing defence exports, which now reach over 100 countries. He also highlighted the significance of homegrown assets such as INS Vikrant, INS Surat, and INS Nilgiri, showcasing India’s growing prowess in defence technology.

Digital revolution in India:

PM Modi underscored that every step towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 is vital, and he reflected on the remarkable progress of Digital India. Despite initial skepticism, India’s digital revolution is now an integral part of daily life. The availability of affordable data and Made-in-India smartphones has made technology accessible to millions, even in rural areas. He shared the example of YouTube, which has paid Indian content creators over Rs 21,000 crore, highlighting how digital platforms have become a vital source of creativity and income for millions of Indians.

Union Bank under scrutiny for Rs 7.25 crore book order linked to sacked ex-IMF official

OpIndia Staff
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Union Bank under scrutiny for Rs 7.25 crore book order linked to sacked ex-IMF official

Union Bank of India has found itself embroiled in controversy over its ₹7.25 crore purchase of nearly two lakh copies of India@100: Envisioning Tomorrow’s Economic Powerhouse, written by former Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy V Subramanian. Notably, Subramanian was recently sacked by the Government of India from his post at the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The move to purchase such a large number of copies is claimed to be aimed at promoting economic awareness as part of the bank’s centenary-linked initiatives. However, it has triggered calls for a probe by employee unions, and even the bank’s board has raised eyebrows over the decision.

The book deal involved the purchase of 1,89,450 paperback copies priced at ₹100 and 10,422 hardcovers at ₹597. Distribution of the book was intended through the 10 zonal offices to customers, schools, libraries and corporates. However, the scale and cost of the order raised concerns, especially after Subramanian was sacked from the IMF. By the time concerns were raised, half of the payment had already been made.

‘Wasteful expenditure must be probed’

The All India Union Bank Employees’ Association (AIUBEA) has called for an internal investigation into the deal. N Shankar, general secretary of the association, said in a statement, “With the news item of alleged impropriety over promotion of the book purchased by the bank… it has become the responsibility of the bank to ascertain how far the authority who has approved the expenditure has colluded in promoting the alleged impropriety.”

He added, “The bank has also to disclose whether proper procedure was followed in this high-value purchase, and what benefits, if any, were achieved through this mass distribution.”

Suspension, audit, and silence

The general manager of the bank, Giriraj Mishra, who was overseeing the deal, was suspended in December 2024 following internal objections and the refusal of Executive Director Nitesh Ranjan to ratify the expenditure.

However, bank chairperson A Manimekhalai later said in a statement that she had authorised the purchase, suggesting it was done without directing any rule-breaking. A KPMG audit was commissioned in January, but its findings remain undisclosed.

The union believes that Mishra is being made a scapegoat in the matter and has insisted on accountability from higher authorities within the bank. Union Bank is yet to publicly respond to the matter.

Former IAS officer who exposed Rs 1 lakh crore granite scam seeks protection from Madras HC after DMK govt withdraws security

OpIndia Staff
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Former IAS officer who exposed Rs 1 lakh crore granite scam seeks protection from Madras HC after DMK govt withdraws security

U Sagayam, a retired IAS officer, has written to the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, seeking protection after the DMK government in Tamil Nadu withdrew his security. The retired IAS officer who investigated the large-scale illegal granite mining said that there is a serious threat to his life post-withdrawal of his security in May 2023.

Back in 2014, the High Court appointed U Sagayam as Special Officer to investigate illegal granite mining. In his investigation, Sagayam uncovered a powerful mining mafia operating in and around Melur in the Madurai district since 1990. The illegal activities had inflicted a loss of over Rs 1 lakh crore to the state’s exchequer.  In November 2014, U Sagayam submitted his 600-page report before the court.

“No action was taken on this report for two months until social activists exposed it, shocking the state, leading to the government taking action and cases were filed. I have received a second summons on one case, which was registered in the Vikramangalam Police Station. I was provided with an armed guard as escort from 2016 to May 202,3 which has been removed lately by the Tamil Nadu government, due to which I fear threat,” Sagayam said in his letter to Madras HC CJI and other authorities.

Explaining the rationale behind seeking protection two after security withdrawal, Sagayam cited the murders of social activist Jagabar Ali from Pudukottai district and whistleblower Zakir Hussain in Tirunelveli. He also mentioned receiving two death threats.

“I received two death threats in the form of a letter during my tenure, stating that I will be chopped and thrown into the mines and that my wife and children will be chopped into pieces and thrown into the mines. I filed a complaint with the Tallakulam Police, but till now I don’t know what action has been taken,” the former IAS officer said.

Sagayam penned a separate letter to the Special Public Prosecutor of the Special Court dealing with offences related to Mines and Minerals.

“I am of the considered opinion that the decision taken by some police officers under the pretext of a committee to withdraw the security provided to me was clearly biased, flawed and unfair as they did not take into consideration the nexus and track record of the stakeholders in the granite mining arena, the nature of the crimes committed, the scale and magnitude of the irregularities resorted to and resultant pecuniary loss to Government Exchequer, which I brought to fore and the impact caused by my action in this regard. I have initially taken up this issue with the Chief Secretary andthe Director General of Police for restoring the security withdrawn. They have not realistically understood the gravity of the issue as the threat perception is clearly subjective. And as a result, they did not respond positively in this regard,” Sagayam wrote.

“We as representatives of Civil Society should bow our heads in utter shame that we could not prevent such murder and loss of precious lives of the noble and selfless crusaders for common cause who are otherwise the sole breadwinner of their family. It is bitter but true that we all should admit beyond the meaningless and petty party politics that the law-abiding citizens, social activists and whistle blowers are living under constant threat and fear,” he continued.

Meanwhile, Melur villagers and several activists have also demanded protection for U Sagayam. On Monday (5th May), a letter was submitted to Madurai collection M.S. Sangeetha demanding restoration of security for the retired IAS.

Adani Foundation chairperson Dr Priti Adani conferred second honorary doctorate for pioneering social impact

OpIndia Staff
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Adani Foundation chairperson Dr Priti Adani conferred second honorary doctorate for pioneering social impact

In a resounding recognition of her lifelong dedication to public service and nation-building, Dr. Priti Adani, Chairperson of the Adani Foundation, has been awarded a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa by the Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (DMIHER), Wardha. The conferment, presented during the university’s 16th convocation ceremony, marks her second honorary doctorate, reaffirming her stature as one of India’s foremost champions of social change.

Dr. Adani received the honor from the Honourable Chancellor of DMIHER, Mr. Datta Meghe, where she also graced the ceremony as Guest of Honour. Expressing her gratitude, Dr. Adani stated, “I am honored to accept this doctorate. It firmly reaffirms my core belief that ‘सेवा साधना है, सेवा प्रार्थना है और सेवा ही परमात्मा है.’” Her words reflect the spiritual commitment she brings to her mission of empowering communities through sustainable development.

A qualified dental surgeon who chose a path less trodden, Dr. Adani transitioned from clinical practice to public service in the mid-1990s. She has since redefined the landscape of corporate social responsibility in India. As the visionary leader of the Adani Foundation since its inception in 1996, she has overseen the organization’s expansion across 21 states and 6,769 villages, touching the lives of more than 9.1 million people.

The Foundation’s initiatives span five critical domains: education, health and nutrition, sustainable livelihoods, climate action, and community development. Under Dr. Adani’s stewardship, these efforts have not only improved quality of life for India’s most marginalized citizens but have also aligned closely with both national development priorities and global Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Adani’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition over the years. In addition to this latest honor from DMIHER, she was previously awarded an honorary doctorate by Gujarat Law Society University in 2020. Her accolades include the Banas Ratna Award by the Rotary Club of Palanpur (2019) and the FICCI FLO Award of Excellence for Social Impact (2022).

As India continues to grapple with vast social and developmental challenges, leaders like Dr. Priti Adani exemplify the power of compassion paired with vision. Her second honorary doctorate is not merely a personal milestone—it is a testament to the transformative role that dedicated individuals can play in nation-building.

Air sirens, blackouts and bunker drills: India to conduct nationwide Civil Defense Drill on May 7 amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. All you need to know

Rukma Rathore
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Air sirens, blackouts and bunker drills: India to conduct nationwide Civil Defense Drill on May 7 amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. All you need to know

On 7th May, India will hold a national civil defense mock practice to assess emergency preparation in the wake of the Pakistan-sponsored Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu tourists and injured several more in the Baisaran Valley. 244 districts nationwide have received instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to take part in the exercise, which would mimic wartime situations like evacuation protocols, air raid sirens and blackouts.

Air raid sirens will be activated in multiple regions nationwide as citizens engage in simulated drills designed to enhance their self-defense capabilities in the event of conflict. This marks the first occurrence of its kind since 1971, when India freed Bangladesh from the repressive hold of Pakistan. Now, the same has been implemented by the central government due to increasing tensions with India’s hostile neighbour.

An abrupt power outage, concealment of essential plants and installations and updated evacuation strategies along with their practice are part of the additional preparations. They will take place at more than 250 sites throughout 33 states and union territories, including Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Goa among others.

Their primarily aim to gauge the readiness of governmental and civilian entities in scenarios involving war, missile assaults, or aerial attacks. The drills simulate real-life scenarios: emergency responders operate in real-time, civilians practice sheltering methods, city lights are turned off, and air raid sirens are sounded. They are designed to enhance awareness and preparedness, thereby preventing confusion, reducing fear and saving lives.

The drill might involve traffic diversions, temporary blackouts or suspensions of mobile signals. Furthermore, authorities could rehearse evacuations or make public pronouncements. Police and paramilitary troops might recreate a scenario similar to warfare in specific areas.

According to officials, the drill is not an indication of an impending conflict but rather is a part of a long-standing framework established by the Civil Defence Rules 1968, regulations that date back to the Cold War which are being adjusted to account for modern threats. India’s ability to respond rapidly and collectively in the face of a war-like situation would be tested during the exercise.

What are civil defense areas

The civil defence districts, specifically defined zones in charge of planning and carrying out emergency response plans, are at the heart of this concerted effort. These districts are essential for organizing local reactions, training volunteers and guaranteeing smooth coordination between security personnel and civilians in times of emergency. These areas are in charge of planning, executing and improving civil defense activities such evacuation procedures, air raid drills, blackout exercises and public awareness campaigns.

The Government of India actively rolls out civil defense projects in areas designated as civil defense districts. They serve as operational and administrative centers for contingency operations in the event of major terror attacks, airstrikes, missile strikes or wars as well as are responsible for coordinating responses including various government and civilian agencies, organizing resources and training volunteers and civilians.

Their responsibilities encompass: training and mobilizing volunteers, conducting blackout and evacuation drills, managing collaboration with Home Guards, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), police and local authoritiesas well as executing public awareness programs alongside shelter planning. The civil defence districts are chosen according to assessments of their strategic significance and susceptibility. The classification considers multiple factors:

  • Proximity to international borders: The districts in Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir are given priority as they are on the front lines.
  • Existence of essential infrastructure: This includes regions with communication networks, ports, refineries, power grids, and defense installations.
  • Metropolitan density and population risk: Large urban areas are more likely to be targeted, necessitating careful planning for relocation and awareness campaigns.
  • Coastal sensitivity: Coastal territories, notably those at risk from maritime threats, are recognized for their essential role in defense strategy.

These categories guarantee that the nation’s most critical and vulnerable regions are equipped to manage crises with the least amount of disorder and the greatest amount of coordination. Directorate General (DG) Vivek Srivastava conveyed, “We have been doing these civil defence drills in districts on a regular basis but this time it will be pan-India. The exercise could spread out over a couple of days,” in an interview with CNN-News18. The purpose of the mock drills, according to the authorities, was to assist India in reviewing the civil defense SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) in case of an emergency rather than to incite fear.

Main objective of mock drills

The mock drills will involve a large network of volunteers and staff, including district administrations for coordination, home guards and civil defense wardens for on-the-ground execution. Students, NYKS, NCC and NSS for community support and outreach. Police and paramilitary forces for simulation and enforcement. States and Union Territories will submit “Action Taken Reports” following the drill that review performance and suggest modifications. Its main objective is:

  • To evaluate the efficency of air raid warning systems.
  • Hotline and radio communication links with the Indian Air Force are operationalized.
  • To evaluate how well control rooms and shadow control rooms function.
  • Instruction on civil defense topics for students, citizens, and others to ensure they can defend themselves in the case of an enemy assault.
  • The availability of crash blackout measures.
  • Early camouflage of essential plants and installations.
  • To confirm that civil defense services, such as depot management, firefighting, rescue operations, and warden services, have been activated and are responding.
  • To assess the application of crash blackout procedures.
  • To determine how well evacuation preparations are created and carried out.

Modern exercises still employ civil defense techniques, despite their origins in Cold War fears about aerial and nuclear warfare, because missile attacks and aerial threats are remain relevant, evacuations and blackouts are still crucial readiness tools, and communication breakdowns and civilian panic continue to be potential outcomes. The government has modified traditional procedures using contemporary instruments and technologies, incorporating media coordination, real-time monitoring and smartphone alerts.

There is historical significance to this civil defense exercise as well as it was last conducted ahead of to the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Civilians were taught how to cover windows, seek cover, and defend themselves from airstrikes during these drills.

What will happen during mock drills

According to the Civil Defense Act, each district’s nodal authority for civil defense is either the district collector or the district magistrate (DM) who will review the list of civil defense volunteers beginning on 7th May and update the names and phone numbers that will be available in case of an emergency. Vulnerable districts across India have been designated, according to an official, and the collectors will conduct the drill there.

A senior official who is in charge of civil defence stated, “This will be to test the operational efficacy in vulnerable districts and train civilians. It is a multi stake holder exercise that will be undertaken.” A senior officer mentioned, “The list should be at the ready disposal of the DM to deploy the volunteers in times of emergency. It is a requirement under the Geneva convention to protect civilians in times of war.”

The officer further remarked, “So we must empower them, train them to protect themselves. The last such training was in 1999 and before that in 1971. Most young people of this generation are unaware of such a situation. Hence the necessity of the drill.” The directive stated that the practice will concentrate on several crucial tasks meant to improve civil defense capabilities in both urban and rural locations.

  • Activation of air raid sirens: The purpose of testing the sirens is to assess the efficacy of public alert systems, which are essential for warning citizens of approaching aerial dangers. A civil defence official pointed out, “It is the first step which warns civilians in an emergency situation. The Air Force sounds the alert and each district must ensure that its air raid warning sirens are functioning properly.”
  • Bunkers: Civilians must seek shelter in a protected location in certain forward divisions. The community bunkers have already begun to be prepared in these regions which are situated near the frontline in case of conflict, such as Uri in Kashmir. Students in places like Arnia, which are on the international border, have already rehearsed emergency evacuation drills. The exercises will verify that the evacuation plan has been updated and bunkers, trenches, etc. have been cleaned.
  • Crash blackouts: Communities will participate in blackout drills which involve turning down all visible lights to lessen exposure to nighttime airstrikes. Officials explained, “If a blackout siren is sounded, the standard operating procedure must be followed. The drill will assess whether the sirens are working and how effectively people respond. All stakeholders should be well-versed with the SOP.”
  • Camouflage exercises: Camouflage drills will be conducted on critical infrastructure, including military stations, communication centers, and power plants, to mimic hiding from aircraft monitoring.
  • Evacuation drills: The exercise will simulate the transfer of individuals from high-risk areas to safer locations in order to examine evacuation plans.
  • Safety of vital installations: According to civil defense personnel, the act codifies a list of essential installations. These could include hospitals, paramilitary facilities, defense, and strategically significant facilities. Officials outlined, “There is no scope for interpretation here. The list will be available to all concerned and as soon as the order comes everyone will have to work together to ensure that the vital installations as mentioned in the list are protected.”
  • Civil Defence training: Awareness seminars will be held at schools, universities, offices and community centers, instructing citizens on how to locate shelter, administer basic first aid, and maintain composure in the event of an emergency. The goal is to acquaint hospital employees, students and civilians with civil defense volunteers so that they understand what they should do in an emergency. When the drills take place, officials in these institutions will talk about evacuation arrangements.

India punishes Pakistan after Pahalgam attack

The exercise’s timing is directly related to growing naimosity with Pakistan, particularly after the Pahalgam attack. The drill is seen as a reaction to mounting national security concerns, as Pakistan has been consistently breaking the ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir along the Line of Control (LoC). The Indian government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi swore to punish the conspirators and anyone involved “beyond their imagination” by pursuing them to the “ends of the earth.”

Meanwhile, a rattled Pakistan reacted with its customary rhetoric, which included racial overtones, victimization and blame games, even threatening nuclear attack on India. The nation asserted that it was a false flag operation and requested a private session at the United Nations Security Council. However, its fabrications found no audience.

As India considers its options for countermeasures against the terror assault, the prime minister has been having a number of high-level meetings, including with Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and defense officials.

However, India has also made significant decisions and continue to explore important measures to hold Islamabad accountable for conducting cross-border terrorism. Pakistan appears to have suffered a serious setback in its plan to “bleed India by a thousand cuts” and weaken the country through ongoing proxy war, particularly by aiding terrorism and jihad in Jammu and Kashmir.

Hours after the brutal assault, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his trip to Saudi Arabia and headed back to New Delhi where he held many important meetings with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Amit Shah also departed for Jammu and Kashmir shortly after the attack and met with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. India is actively pursuing steps to choke Pakistan in response to its participation in the spreading of terrorism in India.

Indus Waters Treaty suspended: The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty which is a crucial water-sharing pact managed by the World Bank that regulates the distribution of the Indus River system was suspended by India, to exert diplomatic pressure. This calculated action put an end to collaboration on river water management and marked a change in India’s stance toward bilateral pacts with Pakistan. Afterward, Pakistan announced suspension of 1972 Simla Agreement.

Closure of the Wagah-Attari Border: The Wagah-Attari border crossing, a key point for trade and civilian passage between India and Pakistan, has been closed for an indefinite period. Additionally, the formal Beating Retreat ceremony has been discontinued. The goal is to further isolate Pakistan and reaffirm India’s refusal to engage in regular activities in the face of terrorism.

Scaling back diplomatic relations: The extent of official engagement between India and Pakistan was substantially lowered after the formal downgrading of the diplomatic ties which comprised of halting diplomatic outreach, recalling Indian diplomats and removing senior Pakistani officials.

Classifying Pakistani military diplomats as persona non grata: The centre pronounced several Pakistani military diplomats and intelligence officials as persona non grata. They have faced allegations of participating in actions that conflict with their diplomatic status, such as espionage.

Revoking Saarc and other existing visas for Pakistani nationals: Citing concerns over national security, India has cancelled all of the visas that are currently in effect for Pakistani nationals including those granted under the Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) framework. The decision, which impedes commercial trips, academic visits and cultural exchanges, is intended to minimize any security risks by limiting the entry of Pakistanis in the country.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced, “Any SVES (Saarc Visa Exemption Scheme) visas issued in the past to Pakistani nationals are deemed cancelled. Any Pakistani national currently in India under SVES visa has 48 hours to leave India.”

Prohibition of airspace access for Pakistani airlines: All Pakistani commercial aircraft have been forced to travel longer routes and incur higher fuel and operating costs due to the closure of Indian airspace. This action has both symbolic and financial ramifications, as it disrupts Pakistan’s international air connectivity.

Commercial relations severed: The import and export of goods has been suspended by the central government, which has entirely cut formal trade links with Pakistan. This covers trade between two countries directly as well as with third countries via the United Arab Emirates or Singapore. Cross-border and informal trade through Jammu and Kashmir has also been blocked. The action is anticipated to put economic pressure on some Pakistani sectors.

Shipping services halted: There is no longer any shipping or logistical activity between India and Pakistan. This covers joint marine agreements, cargo ships and container trade. Notification has been sent to ports of Gujarat and Maharashtra that occasionally handled shipments from the neighbouring nation. The decision is seen as an essential geopolitical measure to isolate Pakistan on several economic fronts and also has an impact on trade, humanitarian shipments and port earnings.

Postal operations discontinued: All postal services between India and Pakistan including letters, packages and diplomatic parcels, have been ceased. This disrupts regular diplomatic correspondence and has an impact on civilian communication. The action is intended to apply pressure by severing all unnecessary communication channels and indicating a complete collapse in mutual confidence.

Stricter regulations on Pakistani social media and media content: The government has started to crackdown on broadcast and digital content with Pakistani origins. Social media pages connected to Pakistani propaganda are suspended, YouTube videos are taken down, Pakistani media outlets are restricted and online streaming services are warned against hosting such content. The action is perceived as an effort to prevent storylines that could undermine national morale or internal security and to stop false information, provocation or the glorifying of terrorism.

Informing the UNSC Members about Pakistan’s role: Members of the United Nations Security Council, with the exception of China and Pakistan, have received confidential briefings from India regarding Islamabad’s backing of terrorist organizations. The diplomatic initiative aimed to establish a consensus over Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism and to internationalize the matter. India used intelligence reports and data collected from the Pahalgam attack site to support its position internationally.

India enhances its storage capacity at two hydroelectric plants: According to people familiar with the matter, the Narendra Modi government is moving to boost storage capacity at two hydroelectric projects in Kashmir’s Himalayan area, reported Reuters. With this move, India is taking its first significant step beyond the parameters of the Indus Waters Treaty which has been in effect since 1960 despite three wars and other tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries.

India demands Asian Development Bank to lower aid to Pakistan: New Delhi has called on the Asian Development Bank to cut back on its support for Pakistan. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) held its 58th Annual Meeting in Milan, where among other things, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman asked its President Masato Kanda lower grants to Pakistan.

Houses of terrorists demolished: Security personnel have destroyed at least nine homes owned by relatives of people wanted for terrorism in the valley as part of their crackdown on terror. The home of Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Adil Ahmad Thoker, who is believed to have been engaged in the Pahalgam attack, was the first to be demolished. The homes of other suuspects in Kupwara, Bandipora and Pulwama were also destroyed. Additionally, those who sympathize with terrorists are also being nabbed.

Regular ceasefire voilations, BSF solider kidnapped

While Pakistan cries wolf on gloal stage, its army has been violating the ceasefire by firing small arms without provocation from locations on the other side of the Line of Control. The Indian Army retaliated to the gunfire in the areas across from Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir. This is the 12th night in a row that similar acts of aggression have transpired.

A defence spokesperson in Jammu informed, “During the night of May 5-6, Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked small-arms fire across the LoC in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor. The Indian Army responded promptly and proportionately.” Five of the seven border districts in Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed fire exchanges. There haven’t been any reports of firings near the International Border in the districts of Samba and Kathua.

The ceasefire agreement signed in February 2021, which is now mainly seen as ineffectual due to Pakistan’s numerous violations across the 740-kilometre-long LoC, is further undermined by the most recent wave of cross-border breaches. The latest violation commenced in the Kashmir valley’s northern districts of Kupwara and Baramulla before moving south to Rajouri, Poonch, Akhnoor, and the Pargwal subdivision near the International Border in the district of Jammu. Five border districts, Baramulla, Kupwara, Poonch, Rajouri, and Jammu were also impacted by the same.

Pakistani troops have been attacking Indian positions along the Line of Control (LoC) since the evening of 24th April, just hours after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in reaction to the terror strike in Pahalgam. The ceasefire violations started in the Kashmir valley and swiftly spread to the Jammu area.

Moreover, Pakistan Rangers recently detained a Border Security Force (BSF) soldier who unintentionally crossed the International Border (IB) in the Ferozepur area of Punjab. 182nd BSF battalion constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, was on duty near farmland near the Indo-Pak border. He was arrested by the Pakistan Rangers when he accidentally crossed the Indian boundary fence and entered Pakistani territory.

He had his service rifle with him and was dressed in uniform. He was traveling with farmers when he went to take a nap in the shade and was caught by Pakistani troops. The representatives of the Indian Army and Pakistan Rangers convened a flag meeting to settle the dispute and ensure the soldier’s release. He hasn’t been returned yet, though, and measures are reportedly underway to assure his safe and prompt return. “We are waiting for directions from the higher-ups,” the Pakistani side parroted repeatedly.

However, after a few days, the Border Security Force (BSF) in Rajasthan apprehended a Pakistani Ranger, a member of the nation’s paramilitary force, along the India-Pakistan border. This came almost a fortnight after the arrest of Shaw. The ranger has been captured by the Rajasthan frontier of the force.

Pahalgam terror attack

On 22nd April, terrorists supported by Pakistan executed 26 Hindu tourists in Pahalgam after verifying their religious identity. The assaliants inquired about their names, identity cards and even made them remove their pants to confirm their faith. They were further asked to recite Islamic verses after which the non-Muslims were mercilessly killed. The family members of the victims, along with numerous eyewitnesses established the same.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have published sketches of three terrorists and have announced a reward of Rs 20 lakh for any information leading to their capture. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of LeT based in Pakistan, initially claimed responsibility for the attack but later alleged that a “coordinated cyber intrusion” had caused an unauthorized message to be released on one of their digital channels.

The attackers reportedly received elite military training in Pakistan, despite the country’s predicatable denial of any involvement in the attack. The Pakistani Special Service Group’s training enabled them to successfully excute their terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. A para-commando in Pakistan’s Special Service Group, Hashim Musa was one of the three terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam attack.

He eventually became a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba and has since participated in other terrorist assaults as well. He arrived in India in 2023. His involvement in at least six terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir since then includes the October 2024 incident in the Ganderbal region, which took seven lives and the attack in Baramullah, which killed four security officers. Security forces have initiated a full-scale operation to find him as they suspect he is hidden somewhere in the forests of south Kashmir.

Considering Pakistan’s overt involvement in the attack, India is readying itself to respond effectively to a nation that has been endangering the lives of innocent Indian citizens for decades. The recent unprecedented measures represent actions aimed at punishing the Islamic Republic for its malicious intentions concerning India.

Israeil Mohammad hunted for Hindu victims at photocopy centre frequented by school girls: Posed as ‘Shiva Sharma’ to trap them; objectionable videos found on phone

OpIndia Staff
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Israeil Mohammad hunted for Hindu victims at photocopy centre frequented by school girls: Posed as ‘Shiva Sharma’ to trap them; objectionable videos found on phone

A disturbing case of love jihad has now surfaced in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, following similar incidents in Bhopal and Indore. A man identified as Israeil Mohammad Khan, a resident of Gunnor village in Panna district, reportedly posed as a Hindu youth named Shiva Sharma on social media to befriend Hindu girls and lure them into romantic relationships.

The deception came to light in a rather unexpected way—when Israeil visited a cyber café to photocopy his Aadhaar card. He made an online payment of ₹15, which revealed his real name. The discrepancy between his payment details and the name on the Aadhaar—Shiva Sharma—raised suspicion. The cyber café owner alerted local Hindu activists, who confronted Israeil and handed him over to the police.

Initially booked under Section 319 for using forged documents, the case took a darker turn when police found objectionable photos of several young women on Israeil’s phone. This prompted authorities to bring in the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). Their preliminary investigation has uncovered evidence supporting allegations of love jihad, and the case is now being investigated from that angle.

According to ATS sources, Israeil had developed illicit relations with three women and was chatting with at least 12 more using a fake Hindu identity. He frequently visited a mosque in Gunnor, and investigators are now probing his associations there.

The investigation also revealed that Israeil used to gather personal details of Hindu girls from a photocopy shop owned by a Muslim man in Damoh. Many school and college-going girls visited the shop to make copies of their documents, giving him easy access to names and contact numbers. He then approached them on social media under the fake identity of Shiva Sharma, eventually coercing them into sharing private photos and videos.

Despite the evidence, no formal complaint has been filed by any victim so far, police officials confirmed. CSP Abhishek Tiwari stated that the authorities are prepared to take further action if any of the girls come forward.

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