In a focused effort to bolster security in the sensitive border belt of Jammu and Kashmir, senior commanders of the Indian Army conducted a thorough operational review in the Narian, JWG, and Totagali sectors—areas known for frequent infiltration attempts and terrorist activity near the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps (XVI Corps), accompanied by the GOC of Romeo Force, visited these strategically important sectors in the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri. The officers interacted with troops deployed on the ground, appreciating their professionalism, vigilance, and dedication in high-risk environments.
The senior leadership emphasized the need for “razor-sharp readiness” and high morale to counter emerging threats effectively. Their visit comes at a time when the Jammu region has witnessed a 20% rise in terror-related incidents in 2024 compared to the previous year, as reported by the South Asia Terrorism Portal.
He applauded the troops’ grit and professionalism, and called for razor-sharp readiness and high morale to counter terror and ensure peace in the… pic.twitter.com/x0LE6HTVPL
— White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) May 14, 2025
The sectors visited fall under the command of the Romeo Force, a counter-insurgency unit of the Rashtriya Rifles raised in 1990 specifically to manage internal security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. Operating under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Romeo Force has played a key role in counter-terrorism operations, although the use of AFSPA continues to spark debate due to concerns over alleged human rights violations.
This operational assessment is part of the Indian Army’s broader campaign to stabilize the region and deter cross-border terrorism. Historical operations such as Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003, which neutralized 64 terrorists in the Pir Panjal range, underscore the Army’s long-standing commitment to rooting out insurgency from these areas.
Alongside combat operations, the Army continues to engage with civilians through initiatives like Operation Sadbhavana. These efforts include educational programs for children, vocational training for women, and the provision of artificial limbs to victims of militancy through local organizations such as the Pritam Spiritual Foundation in Poonch.
The latest review by top military leadership reflects a dual approach—enhancing operational preparedness and building community trust—as tensions along the LoC remain high. With persistent cross-border threats and internal security challenges, the Indian Army remains committed to ensuring peace while supporting the socio-economic development of the region.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that there has been no radiation leak or nuclear release from any facility in Pakistan following India’s recent military offensive, Operation Sindoor. The statement, aimed at quelling speculation of a nuclear incident, follows days of heightened global concern after Indian precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
In an official communication, the IAEA stated: “Based on the information available to the IAEA, there has been no radiation leak or release from any nuclear facility in Pakistan.” The announcement comes amid reports suggesting potential strikes near Kirana Hills in Sargodha—a site long associated with Pakistan’s nuclear weapons development.
The Indian Air Force, however, categorically denied targeting any nuclear installations. Air Marshal A.K. Bharti, Director General of Air Operations, told reporters on May 12, “We have not hit Kirana Hills, whatever is there,” adding with irony, “Thank you for telling us Kirana Hills houses nuclear installations.”
Operation Sindoor was India’s retaliation for a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, including a Nepali citizen. The operation involved airstrikes on May 7 across nine terror-linked sites, including radar stations and communication hubs, leading to Pakistan’s failed counter-strikes from May 8–10. The escalation ended with a ceasefire agreement brokered during DGMO-level talks on May 10.
Despite India’s clarification, international anxiety was fueled by the reported presence of a U.S. Nuclear Emergency Support Team aircraft near Pakistani airspace and the alleged arrival of an Egyptian military plane carrying boron—a chemical often used to mitigate radiation effects. These movements prompted theories of a nuclear leak, with some foreign analysts suggesting a strike may have impacted sensitive areas.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump added to the narrative by asserting that American diplomacy had helped avert a nuclear disaster. “We stopped a nuclear conflict. I think it could have been a bad nuclear war. Millions could have died,” Trump said, crediting Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their efforts.
Pakistan’s nuclear program remains outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has long operated under a veil of secrecy. While some civilian nuclear facilities are under IAEA safeguards—such as the Karachi Coastal reactors—the agency does not monitor Pakistan’s military nuclear sites, where the risk of operational or accidental hazards remains a concern.
The IAEA’s confirmation provides short-term relief, but the incident has reignited global scrutiny over Pakistan’s nuclear security—especially amid military conflicts. As both nations observe a fragile truce, the international community has called for greater transparency, clearer civilian-military separation, and enhanced nuclear safety protocols in the volatile South Asian region.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday issued a direct call for international oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, urging the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to intervene. Speaking in Srinagar’s Badami Bagh Cantonment, Singh questioned the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, labeling the neighbouring country as “irresponsible” and “rogue” in the wake of its recent threats during the largest military confrontation between the two nations in nearly three decades.
“The world knows that our army’s aim is accurate, and when they hit the target, they leave the counting to the enemy. How strong is India’s pledge against terrorism today can be known from the fact that we did not even care about their nuclear blackmail,” Singh said to Indian troops stationed in Kashmir.
In a stern message from the ground zero of recent cross-border hostilities, Singh asserted, “I want to raise this question—are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation? I believe the IAEA must take charge of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons.”
The defence minister’s remarks came during his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir since the culmination of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory Indian military campaign that began with precision strikes on May 7 against Pakistan-based terror infrastructure. Pakistan responded with a series of attempted strikes on May 8, 9, and 10, targeting Indian military bases. However, India swiftly retaliated by launching missile strikes against eight Pakistani airbases on May 10.
The crisis de-escalated following high-level military talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries later that day.
Singh praised the Indian armed forces and PM Narendra Modi’s leadership for the success of the operation. “I may be your defence minister, but first I am a citizen of India. The entire country is proud of what you did under the leadership of our Prime Minister. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have shown their anger against terrorism with unity and courage,” he said.
During his two-day visit, Singh will receive detailed briefings from senior military officials at the XV Corps headquarters in Srinagar to assess the prevailing security situation and review the combat readiness of frontline forces along the Line of Control and International Border.
The visit underlines New Delhi’s assertive stance in the region and signals a shift in tone amid rising global concerns about nuclear stability in South Asia.
Balochistan, a vast and resource-rich province in southwestern Pakistan, borders Iran, Afghanistan, and the Arabian Sea. Despite making up nearly 44% of Pakistan’s land area, it houses only around 6% of the country’s population. The region holds significant geopolitical importance due to its abundant natural resources, strategic location along key trade routes, and the presence of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), particularly the Gwadar port. Recently, the Balochistan issue has gained renewed attention amidst rising India-Pakistan tensions, military developments such as Operation Sindoor, and escalating international concerns over human rights violations in the province.
Recently, Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch declared Balochistan’s independence from Pakistan on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s turbulent history. He appealed to the international community — especially India — to recognize Balochistan as a sovereign nation and to support their cause diplomatically and politically.
Balochistan’s location makes it central to regional geopolitics. It borders Iran and Afghanistan, has a long Arabian Sea coastline, and lies at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The Gwadar port, a flagship CPEC project, provides China and Pakistan with direct access to the Indian Ocean, further amplifying the province’s strategic value.
Balochistan on Map
The roots of Balochistan’s conflict date back to 1948 when Pakistan annexed the region, overriding resistance from the local leadership. The Khan of Kalat, Balochistan’s ruler at the time, was reportedly coerced into signing the instrument of accession. This controversial integration sparked widespread resentment and a cycle of insurgencies that continue to this day. Baloch nationalist groups have consistently accused the Pakistani state of systemic marginalization, resource exploitation, and violent repression.
Balochistan’s Flag
Multiple Baloch nationalist groups, such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Baloch Republican Army (BRA), advocate for either greater autonomy or full independence. These groups have targeted Pakistani military installations and Chinese-backed infrastructure projects, citing both political disenfranchisement and economic exploitation as primary grievances.
BLA Members
Pakistan has responded with recurring military operations across Balochistan. These operations have led to widespread allegations of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture. Rather than quelling dissent, these measures have often intensified the local population’s alienation and strengthened the insurgency.
India’s Present Stance
India has historically maintained a policy of non-intervention and respect for the territorial sovereignty of neighboring states. However, a notable shift occurred in 2016 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced Balochistan during his Independence Day address, signaling an intention to internationalize the issue. Despite this rhetorical support, India has not formally recognized Balochistan’s independence nor provided direct assistance to its separatist movements. Its engagement remains confined to diplomatic expression and limited humanitarian advocacy.
People Fighting for their Rights
Arguments in Favor of Recognition
Strategic Counterbalance: Recognizing Balochistan could serve as a counter-strategy to Pakistan’s position on Kashmir and its alleged support for anti-India militancy, thereby offering New Delhi a form of strategic reciprocity.
Humanitarian Rationale: Continued reports of atrocities and repression in Balochistan strengthen the moral case for India to support the Baloch people’s right to self-determination.
Regional Stabilization: Advocates suggest that an independent, secular Balochistan could act as a stabilizing buffer in a geopolitically volatile region.
Democratic Principles: Supporting oppressed communities aligns with India’s democratic ethos and its commitment to human rights.
Baloch Extremists Bombing Pakistani Soldiers
Arguments Against Recognition
Violation of International Law: Recognizing Balochistan would contravene the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in international law, potentially weakening India’s own positions on territorial disputes.
Diplomatic Fallout: Such a move could strain India’s relationships with global partners who uphold the sanctity of national borders and could tarnish India’s global image.
Domestic Repercussions: Supporting separatism abroad could embolden internal secessionist movements within India, such as those in Kashmir or the Northeast.
Risk of Escalation: Open recognition could provoke severe retaliation from Pakistan, heightening the risk of military confrontation.
Geopolitical Complexity: Iran, which has its own Baloch population, may view the move with suspicion. Similarly, it could antagonize China, given CPEC’s strategic and economic importance to Beijing.
Mass Protest by Baloch People
International Perspective
Globally, major powers and institutions—including the UN, US, and EU—recognize Balochistan as part of Pakistan. While human rights concerns are occasionally raised, there is little international appetite for endorsing separatist claims. Historical analogies with regions like Kosovo, Palestine, Taiwan, or Tibet demonstrate that recognition often hinges on political expediency rather than legal consistency. In practice, the principle of territorial integrity generally outweighs calls for secession.
Strategic Alternatives for India
Given the risks of formal recognition, India may consider a calibrated approach:
Diplomatic Advocacy: Continue raising human rights issues in Balochistan through international platforms to exert pressure on Pakistan.
Support for Civil Society: Channel assistance to human rights organizations and independent media documenting the situation on the ground.
Covert Engagement: Explore discreet diplomatic or intelligence-based measures that avoid overt recognition while subtly supporting Baloch voices.
Diaspora Mobilization: Utilize think tanks, media outlets, and the global Baloch diaspora to internationalize the issue and build global awareness.
Conclusion
The prospect of recognizing Balochistan’s independence poses a complex dilemma for India. While the move may offer strategic leverage and moral justification, it carries significant legal, diplomatic, and security risks. A more pragmatic course would involve raising the issue diplomatically, supporting human rights initiatives, and subtly influencing global opinion without breaching international norms. India’s response must carefully balance its moral imperatives with strategic foresight, upholding its values without compromising regional stability or national interes
In a significant blow to terrorism in the Kashmir Valley, Indian security forces neutralized three terrorists in the Nader area of Tral, Awantipora, during a high-stakes counter-terrorism mission on Thursday. The operation, codenamed Operation NADER, was launched in the early hours of the morning based on credible intelligence inputs.
The joint operation was conducted by the Indian Army, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). According to officials, the encounter began when troops noticed suspicious movement in the area. Upon being challenged, the militants opened heavy fire, triggering a fierce exchange. After several hours of intense combat, all three terrorists were eliminated.
Security officials are currently working to establish the identities of the slain militants. Initial assessments suggest links to proscribed terror outfits operating in South Kashmir, possibly connected to the Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy group aligned with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
This operation comes just weeks after the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians and intensified counter-insurgency operations across the region. It also follows another successful mission on May 13 in which three Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives were killed.
Operation NADER is part of an ongoing, intelligence-driven campaign by the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps and local security agencies to neutralize terrorist threats and restore stability in Jammu and Kashmir. The broader strategy, including Operation All Out that began in 2017, continues to dismantle militant networks through coordinated actions.
Officials have hailed the operation as a clear demonstration of the synergy between different security forces and the effectiveness of real-time intelligence in preventing terror threats. Further investigations are underway, and additional details are expected as search operations in the area continue.
In a morale-boosting visit to forward positions in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi praised the Indian Army troops for their exemplary performance during Operation Sindoor, a major counter-terror strike launched earlier this month. The General visited the Dagger Division under the Chinar Corps and interacted with soldiers stationed along the Line of Control (LoC), commending their courage and vigilance during high-intensity military operations.
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was a precision military offensive targeting terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK). It was initiated in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. The Indian Army’s strikes successfully dismantled nine terror facilities linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, significantly weakening militant infrastructure across the border.
#GeneralUpendraDwivedi, #COAS visited forward locations of the Dagger Division, #ChinarCorps and interacted with All Ranks. Addressing the troops, he commended them for their valour, josh and vigilant actions towards dominating the Line of Control during OPERATION SINDOOR. He… pic.twitter.com/fvhRRr7Mdi
During his visit, General Dwivedi acknowledged the troops’ dedication in both combat and humanitarian roles, highlighting the Dagger Division’s support to civilians affected by retaliatory Pakistani shelling. Since the strikes, continuous cross-border firing has led to the deaths of 15 civilians and one soldier, while 59 others have been injured in districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, and Akhnoor.
General Dwivedi emphasized the importance of sustained operational readiness, stating that the army must be prepared to respond with decisive force to any future provocations. He reiterated his directive granting full autonomy to local commanders along the western border to undertake countermeasures against ceasefire violations, especially after the brief May 10 understanding between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan showed signs of strain.
The Army Chief’s visit comes at a time of heightened alert along the LoC. Operation Sindoor has been hailed as a critical step in reinforcing India’s zero-tolerance stance toward terrorism, as reaffirmed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. However, the aftermath of the strikes has led to severe escalation, including the evacuation of United Nations personnel from Poonch and the displacement of civilians from border villages.
General Dwivedi’s engagement with troops and review of the ground situation underscore the Indian Army’s commitment to both national security and civilian protection. With the situation along the LoC remaining tense, the Indian Army continues to maintain a high state of readiness, prepared to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and respond firmly to any cross-border threats.
In a major stride toward technological self-reliance and maritime readiness, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed an advanced indigenous desalination membrane tailored for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The innovation, led by the Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE) in Kanpur, features a nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane designed to withstand high-pressure sea water desalination environments.
Developed within a record eight-month timeframe, the membrane addresses one of the core challenges faced by existing desalination systems — chemical instability in saline conditions, particularly due to chloride ion exposure. The cutting-edge polymeric design enhances long-term durability, ensuring reliable fresh water supply during prolonged maritime missions.
This development signifies a leap in India’s strategic capabilities, particularly in material science and naval support systems. The membrane is specially engineered for installation aboard ICG vessels, improving operational autonomy and reducing dependency on traditional water sources during extended patrols and rescue operations.
The DRDO’s achievement aligns with global trends in desalination technology, notably in the use of nanoporous and thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes, which have demonstrated superior performance in terms of energy efficiency, fouling resistance, and perm-selectivity. These advancements were widely documented in international studies between 2015 and 2017 and are now being effectively realized in India through DMSRDE’s focused expertise in non-metallic and nanostructured materials.
Beyond its defense utility, the new technology also holds promise for civilian applications. With India increasingly reliant on desalination to address its growing freshwater demands — exemplified by the Minjur Desalination Plant in Chennai, which supplies 100 million liters of water per day — this innovation may pave the way for more cost-effective, resilient, and scalable water solutions nationwide.
The DRDO’s milestone underscores its dual mandate of strengthening national security while contributing to broader societal needs. As India navigates environmental and strategic challenges, homegrown technologies like this desalination breakthrough will play a vital role in securing both maritime operations and water sustainability.
In a high-stakes visit amid escalating regional tensions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar today to meet Indian Army personnel and review the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, a major cross-border military operation targeting terrorist infrastructure. Singh was received by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi at the airport, where the two leaders were seen exchanging greetings in front of a military aircraft — a symbolic gesture reflecting the gravity of the recent developments.
The visit follows the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives and was linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating under the direction of its chief, Hafiz Saeed. In response, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 14, executing precision missile strikes on nine terror camps located across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The operation marked a significant escalation in India’s counter-terror strategy, with 24 precision missiles targeting facilities run by banned outfits including Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Notable targets included Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur and Syedna Bilal Camp in Muzaffarabad. Of the nine terror hideouts neutralized, four were located within Pakistan’s territory and five in PoK, sending a clear message about India’s resolve to dismantle cross-border terror networks.
General Upendra Dwivedi, who took charge as the 30th Chief of Army Staff on June 30, 2024, has played a crucial role in modernizing the Indian Army. Under his leadership, the forces have increasingly focused on indigenous defence production as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. His emphasis on infrastructure development and nation-building in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh has been critical in ensuring strategic preparedness during volatile times.
Defence Minister Singh’s interactions in Srinagar included briefings from senior military commanders of the Army, Air Force, and Navy, reflecting a tri-service coordination approach to national security. Sources indicate that Singh reviewed operational outcomes and discussed further strategic measures in a meeting aligned with the directives of the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
With Pakistan reportedly increasing ceasefire violations along the Line of Control in the days following the strikes, Indian forces remain on high alert. The Defence Ministry has affirmed that India will continue to respond decisively to any threats to its sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
As diplomatic channels remain constrained and military preparedness is intensified, India’s firm stance signals a new phase in its counter-terror doctrine — one where strategic restraint is increasingly backed by swift, targeted action.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a deadly ambush on a Pakistani military convoy in the Panjgur district of Balochistan, resulting in the deaths of 14 Pakistani Army personnel and injuries to several others. The attack, one of the deadliest in recent months, marks a serious escalation in the BLA’s ongoing insurgency against the Pakistani state.
According to sources, the ambush targeted military vehicles traveling through a remote area, causing extensive damage and casualties. The BLA released a video of the operation, underscoring its capability and resolve to continue armed resistance in pursuit of Balochistan’s independence.
The BLA, designated as a terrorist organization by Pakistan, has been waging an armed rebellion since 2004. Its fighters cite political marginalization, economic exploitation of the province’s rich resources, and systemic human rights abuses as driving forces behind their separatist campaign. The region’s instability has been exacerbated by decades of underdevelopment and militarized crackdowns.
In recent weeks, the group has carried out multiple high-profile attacks, including the hijacking of a passenger train and assaults on security outposts. These coordinated strikes reflect the BLA’s increasing operational sophistication and its intent to undermine Pakistani control over Balochistan.
Balochistan holds strategic importance for Pakistan, not only for its vast mineral wealth but also as the site of key infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The latest ambush in Panjgur has raised fresh concerns over regional security and the effectiveness of Pakistan’s counter-insurgency measures.
As the violence continues, analysts stress the need for a comprehensive political and developmental strategy to address the deep-rooted grievances fueling the insurgency, in addition to military responses. The Panjgur attack stands as a stark reminder of the enduring volatility in Balochistan and the urgent need for long-term peacebuilding efforts.
In a formal ceremony held on May 13, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana (AP&T) welcomed its new Deputy Director General, Air Commodore Narsingh Sailani. A decorated officer of the Indian Air Force, Sailani steps into his new role with a commitment to elevate the directorate’s impact on youth training, leadership, and national service.
The handover was symbolized by a ceremonial handshake between Sailani and an Army officer, signifying the seamless transition of responsibilities. Clad in his Air Force uniform, complete with service medals and insignia, Sailani addressed NCC personnel from his new office, expressing his focus on instilling discipline, patriotism, and leadership qualities among cadets.
The AP & T Directorate proudly welcomes its new Deputy Director General, Air Commodore Narsingh Sailani. A guiding force takes charge, bringing vision, strength, and inspiration to lead the directorate into a new era of excellence. pic.twitter.com/CJiCcY14ha
A group photograph taken outside the NCC Directorate building — which proudly displays the AP&T signage and the Indian national flag — featured Sailani alongside senior officers and staff, reflecting unity and a shared sense of purpose. The occasion also underscored the NCC’s enduring commitment to shaping responsible citizens and future leaders.
The NCC Directorate AP&T, established following the 2014 bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, oversees cadet units across both states. Key cities under its jurisdiction include Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Nizamabad, and Warangal in Telangana, and Guntur, Kakinada, Kurnool, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The directorate has a distinguished record, having won the Best Directorate Award at the Republic Day Camp in both 2008 and 2021.
Prior to this appointment, Sailani served in a strategic operational role at the Southern Air Command. Renowned for his commitment to fitness, leadership, and youth empowerment, he is poised to bring fresh energy and direction to the NCC’s mission in the region. His leadership is expected to further enhance the directorate’s role in building a disciplined, service-oriented, and nationally conscious youth community.
