Tensions Escalate as 300+ Pakistani Drones Breach Indian Airspace, Armed Forces Respond Swiftly

In a serious escalation along the western border, over 300 drones launched from Pakistan were detected and neutralised by the Indian Army across 26 locations spanning Jammu & Kashmir to Gujarat. These included key areas such as Baramulla, Srinagar, Jammu, Ferozepur, Jaisalmer, Bhuj, and Barmer. According to officials, these aerial intrusions included both surveillance and armed drones, with one such attack in Ferozepur severely injuring three civilians, including members of a local family.

This incident marks a significant provocation by Pakistan just a day after India conducted Operation Sindoor in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. Defence officials stated that the drones were possibly used to test India's air defence systems and gather intelligence. Initial forensic investigations suggest many of the drones used were Turkish-origin Songar drones from Asisguard.

The Army confirmed that while most drones were intercepted using counter-drone systems and air defence units like the S-400, constant vigilance is being maintained along the International Border and Line of Control. A blackout was enforced in sensitive areas such as Akhnoor, Udhampur, Ferozepur, Ambala, Panchkula, and Jaisalmer as a precautionary step. Citizens were advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary movement, and strictly follow advisories issued by local authorities.

Senior officials including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met to assess the rapidly developing situation. Earlier in the day, PM Modi chaired a high-level security meeting with the Defence Minister, service chiefs, and the Chief of Defence Staff to chalk out the future course of action.

Adding to the tension, loud explosions and sirens were heard across Jammu and South Kashmir, prompting authorities to use mosque loudspeakers in Srinagar to urge residents to switch off their lights. Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed ongoing shelling and appealed for calm, asking people to avoid spreading rumours and stay indoors.

AAP MP Raghav Chadha condemned Pakistan’s drone aggression, calling it "shameful and cowardly," urging the international community to take note of Pakistan’s actions against Indian civilians.

With India’s security forces on high alert and tensions at their peak, the situation remains under constant watch amid fears of further escalation.