Geraldine Hughes

An alert sentry at Nagrota Military Station thwarted a potential intrusion, sustaining minor injuries during a brief exchange of fire. Simultaneously, a precautionary blackout was enforced in parts of Punjab. India reported ceasefire violations by Pakistan, responding firmly and maintaining a strong vigil along the border and Line of Control after terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

After two nights of intense attacks and counter-attacks, the militaries of the two nuclear-armed neighbours have announced a truce, believed to be mediated by the US. Here’s what happened on May 8-9

Amid escalating tensions, NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi discussed the Pahalgam terror attack. Doval emphasized India's counter-terrorism focus and commitment to a ceasefire, despite Pakistan's provocations. Wang condemned the attack, urging restraint and dialogue, while supporting a comprehensive ceasefire.

Intensified shelling and drone attacks by Pakistani forces across the Jammu region resulted in the loss of four Indian security personnel. Among the casualties were an Army JCO and a rifleman, an IAF sergeant stationed in Udhampur, and a BSF sub-inspector positioned along the international border in the RS Pura sector.

Just hours after agreeing to a ceasefire mediated by the US, Pakistan launched drones into Indian airspace, triggering sirens and explosions in border states. India's air defense systems neutralized most threats, but the intrusion followed a major retaliatory strike, 'Operation Sindoor,' targeting terror camps in Pakistan after a deadly attack in Pahalgam.

Recent events have brought back memories of the 1965 and 1971 wars for those who lived through them. Four accounts...

Melinda French Gates supports the Gates Foundation's plan to spend its $200 billion endowment by 2045 on global health, emphasizing the original intent to give back to society. The foundation will double its spending to combat diseases and poverty. French Gates believes billionaires have a moral obligation to contribute, hoping for lasting positive impact even after the foundation closes.

Despite a newly agreed ceasefire, loud explosions and drone sightings have triggered widespread concern across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan, prompting a complete blackout in several districts. Following the explosions in Srinagar, air defense units were activated, while a firing incident occurred at an Army unit near Jammu. Security forces are investigating the threats as tensions escalate.