Amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is scheduled to conduct significant air exercises along the International Border in Rajasthan. This military drill, as announced in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), will take place on Wednesday and Thursday. The exercises are scheduled to commence at 9:30 PM on Wednesday and conclude at 3:00 AM on Thursday. However, another source indicates that the exercise will begin at 3:30 PM on May 7 and conclude by 9:30 PM on May 8.
These exercises are part of India's routine operational readiness drills. The announcement comes in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the April 22 terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people were killed. The attack, which targeted non-Muslims, has been described as one of the deadliest against Indian civilians in the region since 2000.
India has accused Pakistan of supporting the attack, leading to a rapid deterioration in bilateral relations. In response, India has taken several measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani diplomats, and imposing a travel ban on Pakistani nationals.
The situation remains tense, with reports of skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan recently test-fired a ballistic missile,heightening concerns about a potential military escalation. The United Nations Security Council has discussed the rising tensions, with envoys calling for de-escalation and dialogue. Civil defence drills are also being conducted in various Indian states, including Odisha and Karnataka, to enhance preparedness.