NIA investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack reveal the terrorists had conducted reconnaissance at three other locations—Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and an amusement park—before targeting Baisaran Valley. Their plans were foiled due to heavy security presence. The attackers stayed in Baisaran two days prior to the April 22 assault that killed 26 tourists, including one Nepali national. Four overground workers aided in planning, with 20 identified and over 180 detained so far. Victims’ families say terrorists targeted Hindus after verifying religious identity. The brutal act has intensified tensions in the region, prompting widespread security crackdowns and diplomatic fallout. (PC: PTI)

In response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, India has closed its airspace to all Pakistan-owned and operated aircraft, including military planes. The decision mirrors Pakistan’s earlier move to ban Indian flights and comes amid rising Indo-Pak tensions. A NOTAM issued by New Delhi confirmed the airspace ban remains in effect until May 23. The move severely impacts Pakistani carriers, forcing detours around Indian territory for Southeast Asia and Oceania-bound flights, increasing fuel and time costs. India has also suspended diplomatic ties, border posts, and the Indus Waters Treaty in a series of escalating countermeasures. (PC: NDTV)

The U.S. and Ukraine have signed a long-anticipated agreement to jointly develop Ukraine's vast energy and mineral resources, including rare earth elements crucial for defense and green technologies. The deal establishes a 50:50 U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund to boost Ukraine’s post-war economy and secure future U.S. security aid. Signed in Washington by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Deputy PM Yulia Svyrydenko, the deal follows intense negotiations and a push from President Trump. Kyiv retains ownership of the resources, while the U.S. gains strategic access. Trump called the deal “a very good thing” after meeting Zelensky at Pope Francis' funeral.

Following the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 Indian tourists, India has taken strict digital action by blocking Instagram accounts of several prominent Pakistani actors, including Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar, Sanam Saeed, and others. Indian users now see a message stating that these accounts are “not available in India” due to a legal compliance request. This move is part of broader measures by India, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and bans on Pakistani YouTube channels, amid escalating diplomatic and military tensions with Pakistan.    

In the wake of the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed deep concern about escalating tensions with India. During a media briefing on April 30, Asif broke down in tears, saying, “God save us from war with India.” He warned of the increasing risk of conflict, following the death of 26 Indian tourists in the attack, which India blamed on Pakistan-based groups. Asif urged for peace but emphasized that Pakistan would retaliate if provoked. The comments reflect growing fears of war between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. (PC: AFP)  

On April 30, 2025, the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan held a crucial conversation via hotline to address rising ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border. India strongly warned Pakistan against unprovoked firing incidents reported in Kupwara, Poonch, Tutmari Gali, and Rampur sectors. The talks were prompted by the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. India has since suspended the Indus Water Treaty, shut down the Attari Integrated Check Post, downgraded diplomatic ties, and authorized the Army for decisive counter-terror action. (PC: Greater Kashmir)

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephonic conversation to discuss the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. Jaishankar condemned the attack and stressed the importance of holding the perpetrators and their supporters accountable. Rubio expressed deep condolences and reaffirmed US support for India's fight against terrorism. He also urged both India and Pakistan to avoid escalation and emphasized the need for regional cooperation. Rubio plans to speak with Pakistan's leadership to encourage constructive engagement on the issue. ( PC : ANI News)  

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted a 3D mapping of Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam as part of its probe into a recent terror attack. Officials said the mapping, based on witness testimonies, aims to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify possible escape routes or hideouts. This advanced forensic technique, previously used in the 2019 Pulwama attack investigation, helps create a detailed visual model of the crime scene. The NIA's revisit highlights the agency’s focus on leveraging technology to ensure accuracy in high-profile terrorism cases. The investigation remains ongoing. ( PC: Hindustan Times )

On April 30, 2025, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi welcomed the Union Cabinet's decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, a significant shift in government policy. He stated that while the move was a positive step, it must be backed by a clear timeline and dedicated budget to ensure effective implementation. Gandhi also called for the removal of the 50% cap on reservations, arguing it limits opportunities for marginalized communities. Citing Telangana's model caste census, he urged the Centre to adopt a comprehensive approach and reaffirmed Congress’s commitment to social justice. (PC: Mint)    

Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26, tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the “chances of conflict with India are rising,” amid claims that India is preparing military action within 24–36 hours. India has responded by banning Pakistani airlines from its airspace and reaching out to UNSC members for diplomatic support. Meanwhile, families of victims are demanding justice, and Indian leaders are urging strong retaliation. Despite international efforts to ease tensions, both nations have hardened their stances, escalating fears of a broader confrontation in the region. (PC: Hindustan Times)