Prologue: “What the Hell Just Happened?”

As of 11:30 PM IST on May 10, 2025, explosions rocked Srinagar—mere hours after Pakistan agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Despite the truce, drone strikes and missile fire resumed, raising a chilling question: Was the ceasefire ever sincere?

The calm after Operation Sindoor was short-lived as explosions rocked Srinagar late Saturday night, despite Pakistan agreeing to a ceasefire earlier in the day. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had confirmed a peace agreement following discussions with Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations just hours before renewed hostilities shattered the fragile silence along the Line of Control.

The Trigger: Blood-Soaked Tourism in Pahalgam

The current escalation traces back to April 22, 2025, when armed terrorists launched a calculated attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In what can only be described as a faith-targeted massacre, 26 Hindu civilians were systematically separated from others and executed. Eyewitness accounts described the horrific scene where married Hindu men were specifically identified by their sindoor-wearing wives before being killed in cold blood. The attack, bearing hallmarks of Pakistan-based terror outfits, was immediately condemned worldwide, though Pakistan vehemently denied any involvement.

The attack represented the deadliest terrorist incident in the Kashmir Valley in over five years. Prime Minister Modi immediately convened an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, declaring that "this barbaric act will not go unanswered."

Initial Diplomatic and Cultural Measures

On April 23, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed. Modi departed from Jeddah late on April 22, skipping an official dinner with Saudi officials, and landed in New Delhi early the next morning. Upon arrival, he immediately convened an emergency meeting at the airport with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and senior officials to assess the situation and determine India’s response. Modi’s unequivocal message was clear: “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice... they will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and it will get even stronger”.

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: A Historic Move

India’s response was methodical and resolute. On April 23, 2025, just a day after the Pahalgam attack, the government announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)-a landmark agreement that had governed water-sharing between India and Pakistan since 1960. This was the first time in the treaty’s history that either country had declared a suspension, marking an unprecedented escalation in bilateral tensions. India invoked Article XII of the treaty, which allows for suspension during national security crises, and declared the abeyance would continue until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism”.

The suspension immediately empowered India to withhold water flow data, halt Pakistani officials’ visits to Indian hydroelectric projects, and pursue new storage infrastructure on the western rivers-Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab-without prior notification to Pakistan. While experts cautioned that India currently lacks the infrastructure to divert or block the majority of water flows, the move signaled a strategic shift with far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s agriculture and hydropower, which are heavily dependent on these rivers.

Cultural Embargo and Digital Purge

Concurrently, India imposed a sweeping cultural embargo targeting Pakistani entertainment. Major Pakistani YouTube channels-including ARY, Har Pal Geo, and Hum TV-were banned, and the digital crackdown extended to the social media accounts of prominent Pakistani celebrities such as Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, and Ali Zafar. Indian users attempting to access these platforms were met with government notifications citing “national security and public order” concerns.

This cultural ban resonated deeply among Indian audiences, who had developed substantial followings for Pakistani dramas like “Zindagi Gulzar Hai,” “Humsafar,” and “Tere Bin,” despite persistent political tensions. The move effectively severed a key avenue of cross-border cultural engagement and was widely felt across India’s digital and entertainment landscape.

Operation Abhyaas: Nationwide Civil Defence Drill

In anticipation of further escalation, India launched Operation Abhyaas, a nationwide civil defence exercise, on May 7, 2025. This was the largest emergency preparedness drill since the 1971 India-Pakistan war, spanning 244 districts and involving coordinated activities such as air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation drills, and public training sessions. Major cities-including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad-participated, with critical infrastructure such as the Madras Atomic Power Station, CSMT station in Mumbai, the RBI building, and Delhi’s IGI airport serving as focal points for security drills.

The operation mobilized thousands of personnel, including civil defence volunteers, police, and emergency responders. In Delhi, 60 air raid sirens were activated across 55 locations, and a 15-minute blackout was executed in the NDMC area, with power restored promptly and essential services like the Prime Minister’s residence and hospital ICUs exempted. The drill tested India’s readiness for hostile scenarios and reinforced public awareness and participation in emergency protocols.

Decisive Measures Amid Escalating Tensions

India’s actions following the Pahalgam attack were swift, coordinated, and resolute. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the imposition of a cultural embargo, and the execution of Operation Abhyaas collectively demonstrated New Delhi’s determination to respond forcefully to cross-border terrorism and prepare the nation for any potential escalation. Each measure, enacted within days of the attack, underscored the government’s commitment to national security and its willingness to leverage diplomatic, economic, cultural, and civil defence tools in pursuit of that objective.

Operation Sindoor: Symbolism in Military Precision

Operation Sindoor was not merely a military response; it was a statement of national resolve, meticulously crafted to resonate with both strategic precision and deep cultural symbolism.

Cultural Resonance: The Power of Sindoor

The operation’s codename, “Sindoor,” invoked the vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women-a deliberate tribute to the victims of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 civilians, many of them men, were murdered. By choosing this name, India signaled that it would not forget the women who lost their sindoor-their marital status-through acts of terrorism. The message was clear: the pain of these families would not be ignored, and justice would be pursued with unwavering determination.

Precision Strikes: May 7, 2025

On May 7, 2025, India executed precision strikes against nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was characterized by its speed and accuracy: 24 missiles were launched in just 25 minutes. The targets included the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke, Jaish-e-Mohammed’s base in Bahawalpur, and multiple sites in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, and Bhimber.

• Weapons Used: Rafale jets armed with SCALP missiles, BrahMos cruise missiles, and SkyStriker drones were deployed, demonstrating India’s technological edge and operational readiness.
• Casualties: Over 70 terrorists were reported killed, including high-profile figures such as Hafiz Muhammed Jameel and Mohammad Yusuf Azhar, both brothers-in-law of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. The mastermind of the Kandahar plane hijack, Abdul Rauf Azhar, was also confirmed killed in the strikes.
• Target Selection: All nine sites were chosen based on credible intelligence linking them to cross-border terrorism. No Pakistani military installations or civilian areas were targeted, underscoring the operation’s focus and restraint.

Unifying the Nation: Women at the Helm

In a move laden with symbolism, the government appointed Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force to brief the nation on the operation. Colonel Qureshi, a Muslim officer from a family with deep military roots, and Wing Commander Singh, a Hindu and a distinguished helicopter pilot, stood together-projecting unity across religious and gender lines.

• Press Briefing: Colonel Qureshi addressed the media in Hindi, while Wing Commander Singh delivered the same information in English, ensuring the message reached a broad audience. Their presence was a powerful demonstration that India’s response was not just military, but also social and symbolic: “We are first Indians and then Hindus or Muslims. I am very proud of Sofiya,” said Taj Mohammad, Colonel Qureshi’s father.
• Official Position: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, present at the briefing, emphasized that India’s response was “calibrated, precise, and targeted exclusively at terrorist infrastructure, not civilian populations”.

Aftermath and Escalation

The strikes prompted immediate attempts by Pakistan to retaliate with drones and missiles targeting Indian cities, which were largely intercepted by Indian air defenses. In response, India neutralized Pakistani air defense systems, including one in Lahore, while maintaining its stance of not targeting civilian or military installations unless provoked.

Decisive Message

Operation Sindoor stands as a decisive fusion of military precision and cultural symbolism. Through its name, its execution, and the faces chosen to represent it, India delivered an unambiguous message: the nation will not be cowed by terror, and its unity-across faiths and genders-is its greatest strength.

Pakistan’s Retaliatory Attack After Operation Sindoor

Timeline and Sequence of Events:

Night of May 8–9, 2025:

Following India’s Operation Sindoor precision strikes on May 7, Pakistan launched a major retaliatory attack during the night of May 8–9. The offensive began after 1:40 am and continued through the early hours of May 9.

Duration:

The main wave of attacks spanned several hours, with the heaviest barrage occurring overnight and into the morning of May 9. Sporadic drone and missile strikes, as well as artillery shelling, continued into May 10, including a notable escalation on the night of May 9–10.

Methods and Targets:

• Pakistan focused on a wide array of Indian military and dual-use sites:
• Airbases in Punjab (Udhampur, Adampur, Pathankot, Bathinda)
• Army hospitals in Srinagar, Avantipur, and Udhampur
• Military infrastructure, airfields, storage sites, and some civilian facilities.

Specific Weapons Used

• Drones and Loitering Munitions: Pakistan deployed a large swarm of drones-estimated at 300–400, including Chinese and Turkish-origin models-targeting military installations and infrastructure across India’s western border. Loitering munitions (kamikaze drones) were also used, particularly against targets in Jammu.

Ballistic Missiles:

• Fatah-I and Fatah-II Missiles: Pakistan fired at least three Al-Fatah ballistic missiles at Indian military installations, including airfields and storage sites in northern India. The Fatah-I has a range of about 140 km, while the Fatah-II can reach up to 400 km. One Fatah-II missile was reportedly intercepted over Haryana’s Sirsa, with debris falling in the area.

These missiles are designed for precision strikes on high-value targets such as command centers, logistics hubs, and air defense systems.

Air-Launched Weapons:

Pakistani fighter jets, including Chinese-built J-10C and F-16s, were used to launch air-to-surface missiles, including PL-15 beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles, though their effectiveness was limited and several missiles were recovered intact in India.

Artillery and Ceasefire Violations:

In addition to aerial and missile attacks, Pakistani forces engaged in heavy artillery and mortar shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), targeting forward Indian positions and villages in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab.

The below table summarizes the escalation, weaponry, targets, and notable outcomes during the India-Pakistan conflict following Operation Sindoor, highlighting the technological and operational interplay on both sides.

India's Decisive Retaliation: Operation Sindoor Intensifies

India’s response to Pakistan’s escalation was immediate and forceful. In the pre-dawn hours of May 10, 2025, the Indian military launched a series of coordinated retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting at least four major Pakistani air bases. Multiple explosions were reported at Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi, Murid air base in Chakwal, and Rafiqui air base in Jhang district, signaling a significant degradation of Pakistan’s air response infrastructure.

Precision Strikes and Advanced Weaponry

Operation Sindoor utilized a combination of precision-guided munitions and standoff weapons, including Rafale fighter jets armed with SCALP missiles, BrahMos cruise missiles, and Indo-Israeli SkyStriker loitering munitions. These strikes were carefully calibrated to target terrorist launch pads and military infrastructure supporting cross-border militancy, while minimizing collateral damage to civilian areas.

A senior defense official emphasized, “Our focus remained on terrorist launch pads and military infrastructure supporting cross-border terrorism.” The operation was described as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” yet its impact was strategically devastating for Pakistan’s operational capabilities.

S-400 'Sudarshan Chakra': Shielding Indian Airspace

Anticipating a Pakistani aerial response, India deployed its advanced S-400 "Sudarshan Chakra" air defense system. This state-of-the-art system, with a detection range of 600 km and engagement capability up to 400 km, was instrumental in intercepting and neutralizing multiple incoming Pakistani drones and missiles during the multi-wave offensive that followed.

Multi-Layered Defense and Ground Operations

Simultaneously, the Indian Army destroyed several Pakistani posts and terrorist launch pads along the Line of Control, particularly those used for deploying tube-launched drones against Indian positions. Surface-to-air missile systems were activated in Srinagar, creating a robust, multi-layered defense network that neutralized further Pakistani offensive actions.

Impact and Strategic Significance

Operation Sindoor marked a turning point in the 2025 India–Pakistan conflict. Indian strikes degraded Pakistan’s ability to mount an effective air response, while the S-400’s successful interception of drones and missiles demonstrated the effectiveness of India’s integrated air defense strategy. According to Indian sources, the operation avoided civilian targets, focusing exclusively on terrorist and military infrastructure, though Pakistani officials disputed these claims and reported civilian casualties.

S-400: India's 'Sudarshan Chakra'

On the night of May 7–8, 2025, as tensions between India and Pakistan reached a critical threshold, the Indian Air Force’s S-400 “Sudarshan Chakra” air defense system was thrust into the spotlight. Pakistan launched a large-scale aerial assault, targeting up to 15 Indian cities and military installations across northern and western India-including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj-with swarms of drones and missiles.

Rapid Activation and Networked Defense

As the first wave of hostile drones and missiles crossed into Indian airspace, the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra was rapidly activated. Integrated with the Indian Air Force’s command and control network, the system’s advanced phased array radars provided 360-degree surveillance, instantly detecting and tracking hundreds of incoming threats from as far as 600 km away. Each S-400 squadron, comprising two batteries with six launchers each, was poised to respond with up to 128 missiles per battery.

Layered Interception in Real-Time

Within minutes, the S-400’s command center prioritized targets and launched a mix of missiles tailored to intercept threats at varying ranges and altitudes. Using a combination of inertial, active, and passive homing technologies, the system engaged and destroyed multiple drones and missiles mid-air, neutralizing the bulk of the Pakistani offensive before any could reach their intended targets. The S-400’s resilience to electronic warfare and jamming ensured uninterrupted operations even as Pakistan attempted to saturate Indian defenses with simultaneous attacks.

Multi-System Integration and Total Airspace Protection

The S-400 did not act alone. It worked in concert with India’s other air defense assets, including Barak-8 and Akash missile systems, forming a multi-layered shield that covered both military and civilian sites. The integrated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid further enhanced detection and interception, while surface-to-air missile batteries in cities like Srinagar and Amritsar provided additional layers of protection.

Aftermath and Strategic Impact

By dawn, the debris of intercepted drones and missiles was being recovered across several states, providing tangible proof of the scale and effectiveness of the Pakistani attack-and the Indian response. No major Indian military or civilian infrastructure suffered significant damage, and the attempted escalation was decisively foiled. The performance of the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra was described as a “game changer,” with Indian defense officials noting that its presence forced Pakistan to relocate its F-16 fleet to more distant bases to avoid detection and engagement.

Broader Significance

The events of May 7–8, 2025, marked the S-400’s first major real-world test in Indian service. The system’s ability to track up to 300 targets simultaneously, its rapid response time, and its layered missile arsenal underscored India’s technological edge and strategic readiness. The successful deployment of the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra not only shielded Indian airspace but also redefined the region’s strategic calculus, establishing a credible deterrent against both conventional and asymmetric aerial threats.

“The high-stakes deployment marked a pivotal moment in India’s air defence capability and sent a strong strategic signal to adversaries,” reported The Financial Express.

The S-400’s performance during this critical night solidified its reputation as the backbone of India’s air defense, ensuring operational dominance and airspace security at a time of maximum peril.

National Security Measures and Domestic Impact During the India-Pakistan Crisis

As military operations escalated under Operation Sindoor, India enacted sweeping national security measures that had immediate and far-reaching effects on civilian life, transportation, and public events.

Airspace and Airport Closures:

Civil Aviation Suspension:

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Airports Authority of India (AAI) ordered the temporary suspension of all civil flight operations at 32 airports across northern and western India from May 9 to 05:29 IST on May 15, 2025. This included major airports in Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, and others.

Operational Details:

• Over 400 flights per day were cancelled, with IndiGo alone reporting 165 daily cancellations.
• Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo offered full refunds or one-time waivers for rescheduling to affected passengers.
• The closure also involved 25 segments of Air Traffic Service (ATS) routes within the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions, forcing airlines to plan alternate routings.
• The NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued by aviation authorities explicitly cited operational and security reasons for the closures.

Public Events and Civilian Life

Indian Premier League (IPL) Postponement:

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) postponed all remaining IPL matches, citing “national security priorities.” This decision reflected the seriousness of the situation and the need to avoid large public gatherings during a period of heightened risk.

Nationwide High Alert:

A high alert was declared across the country. Security was intensified at all critical installations, government buildings, and transportation hubs, with visible deployment of additional personnel and surveillance measures.

Government Coordination and Crisis Management

Crisis Management Committee Activation:

The Home Ministry activated its Crisis Management Committee, ensuring close coordination between military, intelligence, and civilian authorities for real-time response and decision-making.

Civil Defence Drills:

On May 7, a nationwide civil defence mock drill was conducted in 244 districts. This involved blackout protocols, air raid sirens, evacuation drills, and mobilization of civil defence volunteers to prepare the public for potential escalation and test readiness for wartime emergencies.

Legal and Institutional Framework

Disaster Management (Amendment) Act, 2025:

The new Act, effective from April 9, 2025, strengthened the powers of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities to coordinate disaster and crisis response, including the statutory status for the National Crisis Management Committee and High Level Committee.

Domestic Impact

• Travel Disruptions:

Passengers faced widespread disruptions, with airlines and authorities advising travelers to check for updates and reschedule as needed. Refunds and waivers helped mitigate financial loss, but the closure created significant inconvenience and uncertainty for thousands.

• Economic and Social Effects:

The suspension of flights and postponement of major sporting events had ripple effects on business, tourism, and daily life, particularly in affected regions.

• Public Communication:

Authorities and airlines maintained regular advisories to keep the public informed, emphasizing that these measures were precautionary and prioritized citizen safety.

In summary:

India’s comprehensive security measures during the crisis included unprecedented airport closures, suspension of major public events, nationwide alerts, and the activation of crisis management protocols. These actions, while disruptive, were designed to safeguard civilian lives and maintain national security amid ongoing military operations and heightened cross-border threats.

Pakistan's Cyber Warfare

Following its inability to match India’s conventional military response, Pakistan launched a coordinated cyber warfare campaign on May 10, 2025, as part of its broader counter-offensive, Operation Bunyanun Marsoos. This marked the largest and most sophisticated cyber attack in the history of India-Pakistan conflict, targeting both government and critical infrastructure systems.

Scope and Targets of the Cyber Attack

Government and Defense Websites:

Pakistani hackers successfully compromised and defaced numerous high-profile Indian websites, including:

• The official Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) website
• Crime Research Investigation Agency
• Mahanagar Telecommunication Company Limited (MTNL)
• Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML)
• All India Naval Technical Supervisory Staff Association

In addition, critical defense sector websites such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Border Security Forces (BSF) were also targeted, with sensitive data from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Indian Air Force, and Maharashtra Election Commission leaked online.

Surveillance Infrastructure:

Over 2,500 surveillance cameras across India were hacked, disrupting security monitoring and exposing vulnerabilities in public safety systems.

Critical Infrastructure – Power Grid:

The most severe impact was reported on the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited, where hackers caused widespread power outages and erased records of commercial and domestic meters. While Pakistani military sources claimed that up to 70% of India’s power grid was paralyzed, Indian authorities and fact-checking agencies denied the extent of this claim, confirming that while localized outages occurred, there was no nationwide grid collapse.

Methods and Malware Used

Malware Deployment:

The cyber attack utilized advanced malware, including “tasksche.exe” (a fake Windows file used to deploy spyware or ransomware) and “Dance of the Hillary” (a deceptive file masquerading as legitimate software), to infiltrate and disrupt Indian systems.

Data Leaks and Defacement:

Hackers wiped content from several websites and leaked sensitive personal and defense data, amplifying the psychological and operational impact of the attack.

Impact and Verification

Power Outages:

Major blackouts were reported in Maharashtra and some other regions, but claims of a 70% national grid failure were refuted by Indian authorities. The outages, especially in Maharashtra, were confirmed to have disrupted services for millions and erased crucial meter records.

Website and Data Compromise:

The attack resulted in the temporary shutdown or defacement of dozens of Indian government and defense-related websites, and the exposure of sensitive data from UIDAI, HAL, BSF, and others.

Public and Institutional Response:

The cyber offensive highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s digital and critical infrastructure, prompting emergency responses and reviews of cyber defense protocols.

Context and Significance

This cyber attack represented a significant escalation in the use of non-kinetic warfare between India and Pakistan. While the physical damage was contained by rapid response and denial of exaggerated claims, the incident underscored the growing threat of cyber warfare to national security and essential services in the digital age.

“Operation Bunyanun Marsoos was Pakistan’s coordinated military and cyber counterattack on India in May 2025 after Indian airstrikes. The operation revealed a new-age warfare approach involving missiles, drones, and cyber strikes aimed at weakening Indian defense infrastructure and public systems.”

In summary:

Pakistan’s cyber retaliation on May 10, 2025, disrupted key Indian websites, leaked sensitive data, compromised thousands of surveillance cameras, and caused significant-though not nationwide-power outages, especially in Maharashtra. Indian authorities confirmed the attacks but denied claims of catastrophic national grid failure, reflecting both the seriousness of the threat and the effectiveness of India’s crisis management and cyber defense response.

Economic Devastation: Pakistan Seeks International Bailout

The 48-hour conflict with India in early May 2025 delivered a severe blow to Pakistan’s already fragile economy, triggering a cascade of financial and market crises that forced Islamabad to urgently seek international assistance.

Immediate Economic Fallout

Stock Market Crash:

The Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE-100) experienced its steepest decline in history, plunging 12% over two days following India’s launch of Operation Sindoor. On May 8, the index dropped by 6,500 points, and by May 9, it had fallen more than 16% from its April peak, erasing roughly Rs 1.3 trillion in investor wealth. Panic selling was widespread, and the Pakistani stock market’s official website became inaccessible amid the turmoil.

Currency Collapse:

The Pakistani rupee hit historic lows against major currencies, reflecting a collapse in investor confidence and mounting pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Bond Market Turmoil:

Pakistan’s international bonds also suffered sharp losses, with the 2036 maturity falling over 1 cent to 73.8 cents on the dollar, as global investors reacted to the conflict and the country’s deepening financial instability.

Infrastructure Damage:

Preliminary estimates placed the cost of infrastructure damage from Indian strikes on military installations at over $3 billion, further straining public finances.

IMF Bailout: 28th Loan in 35 Years

Emergency Appeal:

In the wake of these shocks, Pakistan urgently appealed to international institutions for emergency funding.

IMF Response:

On May 9, 2025, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board approved a $1 billion loan tranche under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF), marking Pakistan’s 28th IMF loan in 35 years. The IMF also approved a $1.3 billion tranche under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

Indian Objections:

India abstained from the IMF vote, raising strong objections that repeated bailouts risked enabling Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism and questioning the effectiveness of IMF oversight. Indian officials argued that Pakistan’s poor track record with past IMF programs undermined the credibility of such international lending.

US Pressure:

Reports indicated that the United States pressured Pakistan to agree to a ceasefire with India before the IMF funds were released, linking financial aid to de-escalation on the ground.

Broader Economic and Political Impact

Market Sentiment:

The economic devastation and reliance on international bailouts highlighted the vulnerability of Pakistan’s financial system and its dependence on external support during crises.

Public and Political Reaction:

Economic analysts and former officials, such as former Finance Secretary Rajiv Kumar, underscored the irony and risk of international loans indirectly enabling Pakistan’s military adventurism and questioned the sustainability of this pattern.

Contrast with India:

While Pakistan’s markets and currency suffered historic losses, India’s Sensex index was only marginally affected, underlining the disparity in economic resilience between the two countries.

Summary:

The brief but intense conflict with India pushed Pakistan’s economy to the brink, triggering a stock market crash, currency collapse, and billions in infrastructure losses. In response, Pakistan secured its 28th IMF bailout since 1990-a $1 billion loan-despite Indian objections and global concerns about the repeated cycle of borrowing and military escalation. The episode starkly exposed Pakistan’s economic fragility and the geopolitical complexities of international financial assistance during conflict.

The False Ceasefire: Diplomatic Duplicity

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, after four days of intense military exchanges between India and Pakistan, diplomatic channels-heavily facilitated by the United States and involving several other nations-produced what appeared to be a breakthrough. At approximately 6:30 PM IST, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations had reached out to his Indian counterpart, proposing an immediate cessation of hostilities. Misri emphasized that India had made it clear any further violations would be met with consequences more severe than those already experienced by Pakistan.

The ceasefire, effective from 5:00 PM IST, was celebrated in both countries and in the disputed Kashmir region, where residents expressed relief after days of fear and violence. Both sides agreed to halt all land, air, and naval operations, and military communication hotlines were reactivated. International mediators, led by the US, hailed the agreement as a diplomatic success, with President Donald Trump publicly congratulating both nations and Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirming the deal.

However, the optimism was short-lived. Within four hours, reports emerged of renewed drone incursions and artillery fire in the Poonch and Uri sectors. By 11:30 PM, explosions were clearly audible in Srinagar and Jammu, with projectiles and flashes lighting up the night sky-unmistakable evidence of Pakistan’s violation of the very ceasefire it had proposed earlier that evening. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri promptly condemned the breaches, stating, “For the past few hours, there have been consistent breaches of the agreement established earlier today between the military operations chiefs of both nations,” and warned that India’s armed forces had been ordered to respond decisively to any further infringements.

Pakistani officials, meanwhile, denied any violations, but the reality on the ground-confirmed by authorities, residents, and independent media-was clear: the ceasefire had been broken almost immediately after it was announced. This episode underscored the fragility of diplomatic agreements in the face of deep-seated mistrust and ongoing hostilities, leaving the region once again on edge and the prospects for lasting peace uncertain.

What Comes Next: Regional Stability at Stake

With Pakistan violating its own ceasefire proposal within hours, the region faces a precarious and volatile future. Military analysts, including General (Retd.) Bipin Rawat, anticipate that India will intensify operations against terrorist infrastructure if provoked further. 

Rawat’s warning is clear: “Pakistan's duplicity leaves India with no choice but to expand operations against terror infrastructure. The message must be unequivocal – terrorism against India carries catastrophic consequences.”

Indian Military Posture

As of midnight, May 10, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces remain on the highest alert. 

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has articulated India’s stance: “India seeks peace, but not at the cost of our citizens' lives. Pakistan must decide whether it wants dialogue or destruction. The choice is entirely theirs, but our response to terrorism will never be ambiguous.”

 Forces are fully operationally ready, with all branches-the Army, Navy, and Air Force-on standby to respond decisively to any further Pakistani provocation.

International Reaction

• United States: The U.S. State Department has publicly supported India’s right to self-defense against terrorism, while urging both sides to exercise maximum restraint to protect civilian populations.
• China: Traditionally Pakistan’s staunch ally, China issued a notably measured statement, calling for “dialogue and restraint from all parties,” signaling a reluctance to endorse further escalation.
• Diplomatic Engagement: The U.S. has been actively mediating, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance engaging directly with leaders in both countries. Talks are scheduled to resume on May 12, with the aim of establishing a more durable peace framework.

Ceasefire Fragility and Risks

Despite the formal ceasefire agreement announced at 5:00 PM IST on May 10, hostilities resumed within hours, with fresh drone incursions and artillery fire reported in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Uri sectors. Explosions in Srinagar by 11:30 PM confirmed the ceasefire’s collapse. The Indian Army has already retaliated by destroying terrorist launchpads along the Line of Control in response to Pakistan’s continued drone and mortar attacks.

Civilian and Political Impact

The resumption of hostilities has resulted in additional casualties, including the deaths of a senior Jammu and Kashmir government official and two security officers among seven killed, with over 25 injured in the latest round of Pakistani shelling. The Indian government’s resolve remains firm, with a high alert nationwide and ongoing coordination between military, intelligence, and civilian authorities.

Outlook: Escalation or Dialogue?

The next 48 hours are critical. While international mediators push for renewed talks and de-escalation, India’s military and political leadership have drawn clear red lines. Any further provocation by Pakistan will likely be met with intensified Indian strikes on terror infrastructure and supporting military assets. The risk of escalation remains high, especially if civilian casualties mount or if either side perceives a strategic advantage in continued hostilities.

“Every misadventure by Pakistan has been met with strength. Every future escalation will invite a decisive response. We remain fully operationally ready to launch whatever operations may be required in defence of the nation,” affirmed Commodore Nair.

In summary: Regional stability hangs in the balance. While diplomatic channels remain open and international pressure for peace is mounting, the situation on the ground is tense and unpredictable. The coming days will determine whether the subcontinent moves toward de-escalation and dialogue, or spirals into a broader and more destructive conflict.

While We Sleep in Peace: A Grateful Salute to India’s Armed Forces

“India’s armed forces stand united-on land, in the air, and at sea. Our resolve is unbreakable, our response measured, and our commitment to the nation absolute.” - Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Every night, as millions of Indians rest easy in their homes, our armed forces stand vigilant on the frontlines-often in darkness, silence, and danger-so that we may live without fear. The past week has been a stark reminder of their unwavering commitment and sacrifice.

Relentless Vigil and Precision Response

• After the barbaric Pahalgam attack, our Army, Air Force, and Navy launched Operation Sindoor, carrying out focused, precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
• Even as Pakistan responded with heavy shelling, drone attacks, and missile strikes across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, Indian forces intercepted and neutralized these threats, including six kamikaze drones over Kutch.
• Blackouts were enforced in border cities, but the armed forces maintained a strong vigil, ensuring civilian safety and preventing further loss of life.

Coordinated Bravery Across Land, Air, and Sea

• The Army’s swift ground assaults destroyed terror launch pads and repelled infiltration attempts, while alert sentries thwarted possible intrusions-even sustaining injuries in the line of duty.
• The Air Force dominated the skies, neutralizing enemy drones and missiles, and targeting hostile air defense systems deep inside enemy territory.
• The Navy secured our maritime borders, deterring any escalation from the sea and maintaining operational readiness.

A Nation’s Shield-Every Hour, Every Night

While sirens blared and explosions echoed in border towns, most of India slept-protected by the courage, discipline, and technology of our armed forces.

Their actions are not just about retaliation; they are about ensuring that terror and war do not touch our daily lives.

“For the soldier, peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of vigilance.”

As we go about our routines, let us remember: our peaceful nights are earned by their sleepless ones. To every soldier, airman, sailor, and sentry-India owes you a debt of gratitude that words can scarcely repay.

Conclusion: A Watershed Moment

The aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor have fundamentally transformed the landscape of Indo-Pak relations and regional security in South Asia. In a span of days, the conflict moved from diplomatic expulsions and treaty suspensions to precision military strikes, cyber warfare, and the most severe escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in decades.

Paradigm Shift in Policy and Doctrine

Operation Sindoor marked a decisive departure from India’s long-standing doctrine of strategic restraint. For decades, India’s approach to cross-border terrorism was defined by calibrated responses designed to avoid full-scale war, particularly with nuclear-armed adversaries. However, as former Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal observed, “Operation Sindoor may mark the final abandonment of India’s strategic restraint doctrine. Pakistan’s calculation that nuclear deterrence provides cover for terrorist proxies has proven catastrophically wrong.”

India’s strikes were described as “measured, focused, and non-escalatory,” deliberately targeting terrorist infrastructure while avoiding Pakistani military and civilian assets. Yet, the scale, speed, and public messaging of Operation Sindoor signaled a new threshold: future terror attacks will be met with overwhelming retaliation at the source, and India will dictate the terms of any subsequent dialogue.

Comprehensive Nature of the Conflict

This conflict extended far beyond traditional military engagement:

• Diplomatic Fallout: India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled diplomats, and closed borders.
• Cultural and Economic Measures: Bans on Pakistani media and the postponement of major public events underscored the depth of the rupture.
• Cyber Warfare: Pakistan’s digital retaliation targeted critical Indian infrastructure, causing power outages and data breaches, revealing new vulnerabilities and the evolving nature of hybrid warfare.
• International Mediation: The United States played a key role in brokering a ceasefire, but the agreement was fragile and quickly violated, exposing the limits of external pressure and the primacy of bilateral mechanisms.

The Fragile Ceasefire and Ongoing Risks

Despite a US-mediated ceasefire announced at 5:00 p.m. IST on May 10, violations by Pakistan-including drone incursions and artillery fire-were reported within hours, shattering hopes for immediate de-escalation. Indian leaders made it clear that any further provocation would invite consequences “far more severe than what Pakistan has already experienced.”

Regional and Global Implications

The events of May 2025 have redrawn red lines in South Asia. India’s new response matrix is unambiguous: terrorism will be punished at its source, and strategic restraint will no longer serve as a shield for proxy warfare. The international community, while urging restraint, has largely recognized India’s right to self-defense and the need for a new security architecture in the region.

A Defining Turning Point

As the region stands at the brink, the next 24 hours will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can restore stability or if South Asia will face its gravest military confrontation in a generation. One fact is now indisputable: India’s tolerance for cross-border terrorism has reached its definitive end, and the strategic calculus for both nations-and the world-has changed irreversibly.

As the dust of conflict settles, one truth stands firm: peace cannot thrive where betrayal and terror persist. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” Yet, when faced with unprovoked aggression, India’s resolve to protect its citizens remains unshaken - a beacon of strength and justice in turbulent times.

.    .    .

Sources:

• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-pakistan-agree-to-unconditional-ceasefire-indus-water-treaty-to-remain-in-abeyance/articleshow/121060568.cms
• https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/operation-sindoor-terrorists-killed-india-strikes-pakistan-pak-terror-camp-bahawalpur-lashkar-2720720-2025-05-07
  
• https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indias-home-built-d4-
  system-is-killing-pakistani-drones-all-about-it-8379576
  
• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pib-debunks-fake-claim-that-pakistani-forces-destroyed-indias-s-400-defence-system/articleshow/121047970.cms
  
• https://bharatshakti.in/akash-to-s-400-the-arsenal-behind-
  indias-air-defence-dominance/
  
• https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/imf-approves-1-billion-disbursement-to-pakistan-says-pm-shehbaz-sharifs-"office-101746811364379.html
  
• https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/10/india-and-pakistan-agree-ceasefire-what-does-it-mean
  
• https://www.reuters.com/world/india/pakistan-says-three-air-bases-targeted-by-indian-missiles-2025-05-10/