Operation Sindoor: Full list of 9 terror sites targeted by Indian Army in Pakistan, PoK

Under 'Operation Sindoor,' the Indian Armed Forces targeted nine terror facilities linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These strikes, conducted after the Pahalgam massacre, aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure used for planning attacks against India. The targeted locations included Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur and Syedna Bilal Camp in Muzaffarabad.Under 'Operation Sindoor,' the Indian Armed Forces targeted nine terror facilities linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These strikes, conducted after the Pahalgam massacre, aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure used for planning attacks against India. The targeted locations included Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur and Syedna Bilal Camp in Muzaffarabad.2025-05-08T07:15:14.000Z{}Thu, 08 May 2025 07:15:14 GMT

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Following the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian government, Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, voiced his support for the Indian Armed Forces. He conveyed a message of solidarity on Twitter, emphasizing national unity. Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.Following the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian government, Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, voiced his support for the Indian Armed Forces. He conveyed a message of solidarity on Twitter, emphasizing national unity. Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.2025-05-08T05:42:42.000Z{}Thu, 08 May 2025 05:42:42 GMT

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India Nightly News Update - Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 - 10:16 PM IST

Here are the top stories developing across India as of 10:16 PM Indian Standard Time:

 * Operation Sindoor: India Strikes Terror Camps in Pakistan and PoK: In a significant development, India has confirmed launching Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This action comes in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22nd. The operation, executed by a coordinated effort of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, reportedly targeted nine key locations linked to LeT and JeM. India has stated that the strikes were precise and focused on terrorist training camps, recruitment centers, and launchpads, with no Pakistani military installations targeted. Pakistan has condemned the strikes and claimed retaliation, a claim yet to be fully verified by Indian authorities. Security across India has been heightened, with airports in northern India briefly closed and states bordering Pakistan on high alert.

 * Government Addresses Economic Concerns Amid Global Fluctuations: The Ministry of Finance today addressed concerns regarding potential impacts of global economic volatility on the Indian economy. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured the nation that India's macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong, citing healthy foreign exchange reserves and a stable growth trajectory. She announced a series of measures aimed at bolstering domestic demand and supporting key sectors. Further details on these measures are expected in a press briefing scheduled for tomorrow morning.

 * Heatwave Conditions Continue in Parts of North and Central India: While some parts of the country have experienced pre-monsoon showers, severe heatwave conditions persist in several states across North and Central India, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for these regions, advising people to take necessary precautions and avoid outdoor activities during peak hours. Several heat-related fatalities have been reported, prompting state governments to implement emergency measures, including setting up cooling centers and ensuring the availability of water and medical assistance.

 * Lok Sabha Elections 2025: Campaigning Intensifies Ahead of Final Phases: With the final phases of the Lok Sabha elections just weeks away, political campaigning has reached a fever pitch across the country. Major political parties are holding rallies and roadshows to woo voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued advisories to candidates and parties to adhere to the Model Code of Conduct and maintain decorum during their campaigns. Security arrangements are being tightened in constituencies going to polls in the upcoming phases.

 * Debate on National Education Policy Implementation Continues: Discussions and debates surrounding the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 are ongoing across various states. While some states have made significant progress in aligning their education systems with the new policy, others are facing challenges related to resource allocation and teacher training. The Ministry of Education held a virtual meeting with state education ministers today to review the progress and address implementation hurdles.

 * Supreme Court Hearing on Electoral Bonds Case Adjourned: The Supreme Court today heard petitions seeking a review of its earlier judgment on the electoral bonds scheme. The hearing was adjourned until next week, with the court asking petitioners to submit additional clarifications on their arguments. The case remains a subject of intense public and political scrutiny.

 * Indian Scientists Achieve Breakthrough in Renewable Energy Storage: Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, have announced a significant breakthrough in developing a cost-effective and efficient method for storing renewable energy. Their research, published in a leading international journal, details a novel material that can significantly enhance the lifespan and capacity of energy storage devices. This development has the potential to boost India's renewable energy goals.

 * Assam Focus: Preparations Underway for Rongali Bihu Celebrations: Here in Assam, the atmosphere is gradually building up for the Rongali Bihu (Bohag Bihu) celebrations, which mark the Assamese New Year. While the main festivities concluded in April, various cultural events and community gatherings are still being organized across the state. The state government has announced special initiatives to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage associated with Bihu.

 * Traffic Disruptions Expected in Major Cities Due to Late-Night Protests: Several major cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, are likely to experience traffic disruptions tonight due to planned late-night protests by various social and labor organizations. Commuters are advised to check traffic advisories before traveling.

 * Indian Boxers Secure Multiple Medals at Asian Championship: Indian boxers have put up a strong performance at the ongoing Asian Boxing Championship, securing several medals across different weight categories. The final matches are scheduled for later this week, and India is hoping for more podium finishes.

This is a brief overview of the major news developments in India as of 10:16 PM IST. For more detailed information, please stay tuned to your trusted news sources.

Operation Sindoor: India Retaliates After Pahalgam Terror Attack

In a swift and decisive response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22nd, 2025, the Indian armed forces launched a coordinated operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor, in the early hours of Wednesday, May 7th, 2025.

The operation involved precision missile strikes targeting nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) identified as key terrorist infrastructure sites. These sites were reportedly linked to prominent terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), the groups believed to be responsible for the Pahalgam attack that tragically claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

Key Highlights of Operation Sindoor:

 * Retaliation for Pahalgam Attack: The operation was a direct response to the barbaric terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the death of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. The name "Sindoor" is reportedly symbolic, representing national mourning and resolve, particularly for the young couples who were among the victims.

 * Coordinated Tri-Services Action: In a significant move, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly executed the operation, marking the first time since the 1971 war that all three defense services have been used in a coordinated strike against targets in Pakistan.

 * Precision Strikes: The Indian military emphasized that the strikes were precise and targeted, focusing solely on terrorist infrastructure such as training camps, recruitment centers, and launchpads. Standoff weapons were reportedly used, with the Indian Air Force carrying out the strikes from within Indian airspace.

 * Nine Terror Camps Destroyed: The operation successfully destroyed nine identified terrorist camps located in areas including Muridke and Bahawalpur in Pakistan, and Kotli and Muzaffarabad in PoK. These locations were under surveillance for their involvement in planning and executing terror activities against India.

 * No Military Installations Targeted: India asserted that the operation was "focused, measured, and non-escalatory," explicitly stating that no Pakistani military installations were targeted. This was intended to convey a clear message about the intent of the operation being solely to neutralize terrorist threats.

 * Intelligence-Based Targeting: The selection of targets was based on strong intelligence inputs regarding the presence and activities of terrorist organizations in those locations.

 * Pakistan's Response: Pakistan has condemned the strikes and claimed that its military retaliated, alleging the downing of multiple Indian aircraft – a claim that India has not yet confirmed. Pakistan has also reported casualties on its side due to the missile strikes and has placed its air force on high alert.

 * Domestic Security Measures: Following the operation, India has heightened security measures across the country. Several airports, particularly in northern India, have been temporarily closed, and flight routes to Pakistan have been shut down. States bordering Pakistan have been put on high alert.

Official Statements:

The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of External Affairs held a press briefing to provide details about Operation Sindoor. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the Pahalgam attack aimed to isolate Jammu & Kashmir and stall its growth. He emphasized India's right to self-defense against cross-border terrorism.

Military officials, including Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, detailed the planning and execution of the operation, highlighting the precision of the strikes and the commitment to avoiding civilian casualties and military escalation.

Impact and Way Forward:

Operation Sindoor marks a significant shift in India's response to cross-border terrorism. It signals a more assertive stance and a willingness to take direct action against terrorist infrastructure operating from Pakistani soil. The international community is closely watching the developments, with some nations expressing support for India's right to self-defense.

The situation remains tense, and the possibility of further escalation cannot be ruled out. However, India has emphasized that its actions were a measured response to a specific terror attack and were not aimed at initiating a wider conflict.

The Assam Rifles' Role:

While the primary execution of Operation Sindoor involved the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Assam Rifles, India's oldest paramilitary force with a significant presence in the Northeast and some counter-insurgency operations elsewhere, would likely be on high alert and maintaining strict vigil in their areas of responsibility following these developments. Their role would be crucial in ensuring internal security and preventing any potential spillover effects in the regions they are deployed.

This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the situation unfolds.

The Symphony of Cicadas on a Guwahati Night

The day's heat has finally surrendered to the cool embrace of the night. Here in Guwahati, as darkness blankets the city, a new soundscape emerges, a vibrant and persistent chorus orchestrated by countless cicadas. It's a sound that defines the nights of our humid summers, a natural symphony that both lulls and invigorates.

For those unfamiliar, the sound of cicadas can be quite striking. It's a high-pitched, buzzing drone, sometimes a singular piercing note, other times a collective crescendo that seems to vibrate through the very air. Initially, it might seem like a constant hum, but if you listen closely, you'll discern the subtle variations, the individual voices blending into a powerful whole.

Living in Guwahati, you become accustomed to this nightly serenade. It's the soundtrack to evening strolls, late-night conversations on balconies, and the quiet moments before sleep. It's a reminder of the vibrant life teeming around us, hidden amongst the foliage of mango and neem trees that dot the landscape.

As the last rays of sunlight fade, the cicadas begin their performance. It's almost as if they're waiting for their cue, the dimming light signaling the start of their nightly ritual. Their calls seem to amplify in the stillness of the night, carrying across gardens and rooftops.

There's a certain wildness to their song, a primal energy that connects us to the natural world. It speaks of warm evenings, of lush greenery, of the constant cycle of life and renewal that thrives in this part of the world.

Sometimes, the intensity of their singing can be almost overwhelming, a buzzing wall of sound that fills the air. But even in its intensity, there's a hypnotic quality, a rhythmic pulse that can be surprisingly soothing. It's the sound of summer nights, the auditory signature of Guwahati after dark.

I often find myself sitting on my porch, listening to this nightly orchestra. The air is thick with the scent of night-blooming jasmine, mingling with the earthy aroma of the soil after the evening watering. The cicadas' song weaves its way through these scents, creating a uniquely Guwahati sensory experience.

Children growing up here learn to identify the different types of cicada calls, each with its own distinct pitch and rhythm. It becomes a part of their understanding of the natural world, a familiar sound that evokes memories of long, balmy evenings spent outdoors.

While some might find the cicadas' song incessant, for many of us in Guwahati, it's a comforting presence. It's the sound of home, the background music to our summer nights. It's a reminder that even in the heart of a bustling city, nature's voice persists, loud and clear.

As the night deepens, the cicada chorus often reaches its peak, a vibrant and energetic symphony that fills the darkness. It's a testament to the resilience and abundance of life, a reminder that even in the quiet of the night, the world around us is alive and singing.

So, the next time you find yourself in Guwahati on a warm evening, take a moment to listen to the symphony of the cicadas. Close your eyes, breathe in the night air, and let their vibrant chorus transport you to the heart of an Assamese summer night. It's a sound that truly captures the essence of this land, a wild and beautiful melody that echoes through the darkness.

The Whispers of the Brahmaputra at Dusk

The sun, a fiery orb just moments ago, has begun its slow descent behind the distant hills, painting the Guwahati sky in hues of orange, pink, and a soft, melancholic blue. The air, still carrying the warmth of the day, hums with a different kind of energy now – a quiet anticipation.

Living in Guwahati means living in the embrace of the mighty Brahmaputra. This lifeline of Assam, this powerful river that carves its way through the landscape, holds a profound influence on the city's spirit. And as dusk settles, the river takes on a particularly enchanting aura.

My favorite time to witness this transformation is from one of the many ghats that line its banks. As I sit here, the gentle lapping of the water against the stone steps provides a soothing rhythm, a constant murmur that seems to speak of ancient stories and timeless journeys.

During the day, the Brahmaputra is a bustling waterway, with ferries chugging across its vast expanse and fishermen casting their nets. But as twilight descends, a sense of tranquility washes over it. The sunlight catches the ripples, turning them into fleeting trails of gold. The air cools, carrying the faint scent of the river – a mix of fresh water and damp earth.

The sounds of the city begin to soften. The distant horns and the chatter of daily life fade, replaced by the chirping of crickets and the occasional call of a river bird. There's a stillness that settles, allowing you to truly hear the whispers of the Brahmaputra.

Sometimes, you'll see small boats with flickering lanterns making their way across the darkening waters, their lights casting long, dancing reflections. It's a scene that feels both timeless and deeply personal, a moment of connection with the river's enduring presence.

The sky above transforms into a canvas of breathtaking beauty. The vibrant colors of sunset gradually give way to the soft glow of the emerging stars. The vastness of the river mirroring the expansive sky creates a sense of awe and wonder. It's in these moments that you truly appreciate the scale and majesty of nature.

The ghats themselves take on a different character at dusk. The crowds thin out, and those who remain often sit in quiet contemplation, gazing out at the flowing water. There's a shared sense of peace, a silent acknowledgment of the river's power and its calming influence.

As darkness deepens, the lights along the riverbanks begin to twinkle, creating a magical string of illumination that snakes along the water's edge. The sound of temple bells from across the river drifts through the air, adding a spiritual dimension to the scene.

These dusks by the Brahmaputra are more than just the end of a day. They are a time for reflection, for quiet contemplation, for feeling the pulse of the river that defines this city. They are a reminder of the enduring beauty of nature and its ability to soothe and inspire.

The whispers of the Brahmaputra at dusk are a constant invitation to slow down, to breathe, and to connect with the soul of Guwahati. It's a magic that unfolds every evening, a timeless ritual that continues to captivate and enchant all who take the time to listen.