India has introduced ‘Akashteer’, a cutting-edge, automated Air Defence Control and Reporting System developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Designed to modernize the Army’s air defence, Akashteer integrates radar, sensors, and communication systems into a real-time network for detecting and responding to aerial threats. It features mobile, vehicle-based control centres and uses AI to reduce human error and improve response time. Integrated with the Indian Air Force’s IACCS, it promotes joint operations. With 107 units delivered and 455 planned by 2027, Akashteer signifies a leap in India's self-reliant defence capability. (PC: ANI)    

Following a four-day conflict post-Operation Sindoor, a ceasefire between India and Pakistan has enabled the return of displaced villagers in Jammu and Kashmir. Over 90% of residents from Rajouri and Poonch districts have gone back to their homes after security forces cleared unexploded ordnance. In Uri, Baramulla district, and Karnah tehsil, Kupwara, residents have resumed daily activities. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited affected areas, assuring support for rebuilding efforts. The ceasefire has been pivotal in restoring normalcy and allowing communities to rebuild their lives. (PC: PTI)

Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda has stirred controversy by stating that “the country’s army and soldiers bow at the feet of Prime Minister Modi.” His comment has drawn strong criticism from opposition leaders and citizens who argue that it disrespects the army’s dignity and violates its political neutrality. The remark has reignited debates about the politicization of the armed forces and its impact on democratic values. Many demand a retraction, stressing that the military should remain above political influence and maintain its institutional integrity. (PC: The Hindu)

In a significant escalation of anti-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, six terrorists, including three from Jaish-e-Mohammad, were killed in two encounters over 48 hours. Among the deceased was Shahid Kuttee, implicated in attacks on a German tourist and terror financing. The first operation occurred in Kelar's highlands on May 13, resulting in three militant deaths. The second unfolded in Tral, where terrorists had taken positions in civilian homes; security forces ensured civilian safety before neutralizing the threats. These operations follow the April Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 civilian lives, prompting India's strikes on terror infrastructures in Pakistan and PoK, and temporarily heightening Indo-Pak tensions. Authorities emphasize dismantling the terror ecosystem in the Valley.(PC: Deccan Herald & Rediff)

On May 16, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Bhuj Airbase in Gujarat for a two-day inspection. This follows his recent Jammu and Kashmir visit, where he reviewed security along the Line of Control and International Border with Pakistan. The Bhuj Airbase, near the India-Pakistan border, was targeted by Pakistani drone incursions during the recent four-day conflict. Indian forces successfully countered these threats, leading to a ceasefire. Singh’s visit aims to assess operational readiness and the effectiveness of security measures in this strategically crucial region. (PC: PIB)

3 terrorists were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Awantipora, Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday. Drone footage showed them hiding in a broken shed before the encounter. Earlier, they took shelter in a house. This was the second such clash in 48 hours. On Tuesday, three more terrorists were killed in Shopian. These back-to-back operations come after the April Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. India later launched Operation Sindoor, striking terror camps in Pakistan. Prime Minister Modi said the operation marked a “new normal” in India’s fight against terrorism. A ceasefire was reached after US mediation. (PC: NDTV)

President Droupadi Murmu has invoked Article 143 to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on a two-judge bench verdict that set deadlines for the President and Governors to decide on state bills. The query, posed just before Chief Justice BR Gavai took office, includes 14 critical constitutional questions, challenging the judiciary’s authority to impose timelines and review executive discretion under Articles 200 and 201. This development follows the Tamil Nadu Governor case, where the Court ruled the President must act within three months. CJI Gavai must now form a Constitution bench to deliberate this potentially precedent-setting query. (PC: PTI)

On May 15, 2025, the Supreme Court strongly rebuked Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah for calling Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi a “sister of terrorists” amid Operation Sindoor. The minister’s comments drew widespread outrage, prompting the Madhya Pradesh High Court to order an FIR under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita for promoting enmity and undermining national unity. Despite Shah’s public apology, the Supreme Court emphasized that public figures must act responsibly, especially during sensitive military operations. The court refused to halt legal proceedings, with the next hearing scheduled for May 16.   

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir since Operation Sindoor, strongly criticised Pakistan’s handling of its nuclear arsenal. Addressing troops at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, Singh said, “Pakistan’s nuclear weapons must be placed under global supervision.” He accused Islamabad of acting as a rogue state and using nuclear threats irresponsibly, stressing the need for oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Singh’s statement follows heightened tensions and India’s retaliatory strikes against terror camps. He reaffirmed that any future dialogue with Pakistan must focus solely on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (PC: India Today)

After nearly a week of closure due to heightened India-Pakistan tensions, schools in several border districts of Jammu and Kashmir have reopened today. The Directorate of School Education, Jammu, confirmed the reopening in Udhampur, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts. The return of students to classrooms marks a key step towards normalcy following Indian precision strikes during Operation Sindoor and a subsequent ceasefire understanding between the two countries. Visuals from Udhampur showed children in uniform, excited to resume classes. Parents and educators welcomed the decision, hopeful for continued peace and uninterrupted education in the region. (PC: