In response to escalating tensions following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam (Kashmir), India has elevated its military preparedness and placing its forces on high alert. On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali national. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility for the attack.

India has accused Pakistan of supporting these militants, a claim Islamabad denies. The incident has led to a rapid collapse in bilateral relations, with both nations taking significant retaliatory measures.

India’s Military Drills and Operational Readiness

In the wake of the pahalgam terror attack, India has initiated a series of military exercises to bolster its defense capabilities.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted “Exercise Aakraman,” a comprehensive wargame aimed at enhancing operational readiness and offensive capabilities. The exercise involved precision strikes, air superiority missions, and complex tactical operations, utilizing advanced aircraft such as Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters.

Additionally, the Indian Navy concluded a massive naval combat exercise, Tropex, which included over 65 warships, 10 submarines, and more than 80 aircraft, testing operational preparedness in the Indian Ocean Region.

“We Will Take Firm & Decisive Action on Terrorists”- Narendra Modi, Prime Minister, India

As per reports, Indian Prime Minister has chaired 2 CCS Meetings (Cabinet Committee on Security), followed with a series of meetings with Army chief, Navy Chief and Air force chief. He also met the defence secretary and CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) separately to discuss the strike options and security situations.

Meanwhile, Home Ministry of India has alerted several Indian states to conduct mock drills and black out drills in order to prepare the public for any hostile attack from enemy air force, amid a war.

“Every Pahalgam perpetrator and their backers will get an answer – chun chun ke jawab milega.”

 Amit Shah, Home Minister, India

Heightened Border Clashes and Diplomatic Fallout

Since Pahalgam terror attack on 22nd April, every day, small arms firing from Pakistan have been reported along the Line of Control (LoC) and IB (International Border) as well. As per reports, Indian army has been replying with similar firings on Pakistan posts. India has captured a Pakistani Ranger, while Pakistan claims to have downed two Indian surveilance quadcopter drones. The situation has led to a diplomatic crisis, with India expelling Pakistani diplomats and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, while Pakistan has closed its airspace and suspended trade with India. India has banned all Pakistani Ships to dock in Indian ports.

“As the defence minister, it is my responsibility to work with my soldiers and ensure the protection of the country’s borders. And it is my responsibility to give a befitting reply, by working with the armed forces, to those who cast an evil eye on our country.“

 Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister, India

International Calls for De-escalation

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi visited Islamabad to mediate between the two nations and is scheduled to visit India later this week. The United Nations Secretary-General has urged both countries to exercise restraint, while other global powers, including the United States, China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, have called for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. UNSC also held a closed-door consultation amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions. The 15-member Council met for about an hour and a half on Monday afternoon, but did not release any official statement following the discussion.

 

“Targeting civilians in Pahalgam is unacceptable – and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means, “It is also essential – especially at this critical hour – to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres

As both nations continue to increase their military readiness and engage in diplomatic maneuvers, the situation remains volatile. The international community’s efforts to mediate and de-escalate tensions will be crucial in preventing a broader conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.