India-Pakistan conflict LIVE: Govt issues NOTAM, multiple drones intercepted, blackouts in several regions

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply today. Pakistan has resorted to heavy shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB), with drones spotted and neutralized across key military zones including Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. Multiple explosions have been reported in Jaisalmer.

India's air defence systems have successfully intercepted eight missiles launched from Pakistan toward civilian and military targets. A massive blackout was reported at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine amid ongoing aerial threats.

The Ministry of Defence on Friday issued an advisory to the media to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces.

"All media channels, digital platforms and individuals are advised to refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and movement of security forces."

"All stakeholders are urged to exercise vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation," the MoD post said.

It also cited past incidents like the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, which underscore the risks of premature reporting.

With this order, this live blog concludes developments.

India was able to tackle and intercept drones and missiles that were aimed at 15 Indian cities with the help of the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra. 

The S-400 Sudarshan Chakra is considered one of the world's most technologically advanced air-defence systems that has the ability to cover a longer range. Built by Russia's Almaz-Antey, this system can not only easily detect and destroy any kind of incoming aerial threat but can also track these threats. From drones, aircraft, missiles, to ballistic missiles, the S-400 has been designed to recognise any form of aerial threat. What makes it an important machine in terms of defence is that it can function at any altitude.

Read more here: How is India able to shoot down PAK's drones & missiles with 100% accuracy?

Amid the escalating border situation, several northern states have announced precautionary closures of educational institutions:

J&K: Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced that all schools, colleges, and universities in Jammu & Kashmir will remain closed on May 9 and 10 as a precautionary measure.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah added, "Monday is anyway a holiday. We will review the decision on Monday afternoon. The situation at the time will determine if the closure is extended or not & if extended, for how long."

Punjab: Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has announced that all government, private, and aided schools, colleges, and universities across Punjab will remain shut for the next three days.

Leh & Chandigarh: Authorities have ordered all schools (government and private) to remain closed for the next two days, citing safety concerns.

Himachal Pradesh (Una district): As per official orders, all schools and colleges will be closed on May 9 in the Una district as a precautionary step.

The Border Security Force in Jammu successfully foiled a major infiltration bid at the International Boundary in Samba district, J&K. This was confirmed by BSF Jammu's official X account, in which it stated: "At around 2300 hours on 8 May 2025, BSF foiled a major infiltration bid at the International Boundary in Samba district, J&K."

X on Thursday said the Indian government has asked it to block more than 8,000 accounts in the country for violating laws, and it will comply with the law of the land.

"X has received executive orders from the Indian government requiring X to block over 8,000 accounts in India, subject to potential penalties including significant fines and imprisonment of the company's local employees," the statement said.

Calling the decision "not easy", X said it has initiated process and sent the affected users "notice of the actions".

It also expressed disagreement with the Indian government's demands over blocking entire accounts.

"It amounts to censorship of existing and future content and is contrary to the fundamental right of free speech," the statement said.

The government has issued NOTAM, prompting closure of 24 airports for flight operations amid security concerns.

Kishangarh, Bhuntar & Ludhiana have been added to the list, which includes Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jaisalmer & more.

Rajasthan remains on high alert. Jaisalmer district administration imposed a mandatory blackout from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. Additional Collector Parsaram Saini appealed to residents to strictly adhere to the blackout guidelines, urging them to switch off all lights inside and outside their homes, and to cover windows with curtains.

Amid heightened threat, a red alert has been issued in Barmer and Sri Ganganagar districts. Blackouts have been ordered in Jodhpur, Barmer, and Jaisalmer from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. to minimise visibility during potential aerial threats.

Security was notably tightened at Nal airport, with fire brigade teams and administrative officials moving onto high alert. Officers coordinated closely with villagers, advising them to report any suspicious activity and maintain complete darkness as a precaution. Villagers along the border remained vigilant through the night. The blackout extended across several settlements.

All flight operations from Bikaner, Kishangarh (Ajmer), and Jodhpur airports have been suspended until further notice.

EAM Jaishankar has spoken to his US, Italian, and EU counterparts and told them that any "escalation will see a strong response."

"Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism. Underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation," EAM said post talks with US Secretary Marco Rubio.

EAM Jaishankar has spoken to his US, Italian, and EU counterparts and told them that any "escalation will see a strong response."

"Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism. Underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation," EAM said post talks with US Secretary Marco Rubio.

In an official development, PRO Defence Jammu confirmed that military stations at Jammu, Pathankot & Udhampur were targeted by Pakistani drones and missiles along the International Border in J&K.

However, the threats were swiftly neutralised using kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities in line with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). No casualties or material losses were reported.

"India remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people," PRO Defence Jammu said. 

Senior military officials state that the current mode of engagement by the Pakistan Army—drones, missiles, and indiscriminate shelling—is alarmingly similar to that of terror groups like Hamas. This marks a dangerous departure from conventional state warfare protocol.

Sources confirm that Pakistan fired eight missiles aimed at key Indian areas: Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia. India's Air Defence Units successfully intercepted all projectiles, preventing any impact or casualties.

Visuals emerging from Jammu show multiple trails of intercepted rockets lighting up the night sky — eerily reminiscent of Hamas-style rocket barrages seen in Israel. Security analysts point to a disturbing trend in Pakistan's military conduct.

A complete blackout has been imposed around the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine region. Authorities say this is a precautionary move amid heightened aerial threat perceptions.

A planned attack on the Jammu Air Force Station was successfully foiled. Armed drones and projectiles were intercepted mid-air. Vital installations at Nagrota and Udhampur have also been targeted but remain secure under tight military defence.

Sources confirm that Poonch and Rajouri sectors are facing intense artillery fire from Pakistani forces. Indian Army has deployed additional units and is responding with precision strikes on enemy positions.

Residents of Jaisalmer reported multiple loud explosions near the border region. Defence officials confirm investigations are underway. No casualties have been reported yet.

Two drones suspected to be of Pakistani origin were detected and intercepted near the Pathankot Air Force base. The threat was neutralized before any damage was done. Anti-drone protocols have been activated across all airbases in the region.

Pakistani forces have resorted to intense shelling and artillery fire across several sectors of the LoC, including Tangdhar, Poonch, and Rajouri. Civilians have been advised to take shelter. Return fire from Indian forces is underway.