Western Rajasthan is currently on high alert following a series of attempted missile and drone strikes by Pakistan targeting key military installations. The Indian Air Force successfully intercepted these attacks aimed at the Uttarlai airbase in Barmer, Phalodi, and the Nal airbase in Bikaner on the night of May 7-8, 2025. The swift action of the Indian defense systems neutralized the threats, preventing any damage to these critical facilities.
According to reports from the Press Information Bureau, debris from the attempted strikes has been recovered near the targeted areas, confirming the seriousness of the situation. As a precaution, the Indian government has heightened security measures across the region, with Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma intensifying monitoring and coordinating regular updates with officials across the eight districts of the Jodhpur division.
In light of the heightened tensions, flights from Jodhpur airport have been suspended until further notice, and educational institutions, including schools and universities in several districts such as Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, Phalodi, Jaisalmer, and Sri Ganganagar, have been closed. The local authorities have also implemented daily blackouts in border regions from midnight to 4 AM to enhance security measures.
Additionally, anti-drone systems are now operational around the clock, and the Border Security Force (BSF) has increased patrolling along the border, with Inspector General ML Garg confirming that while border villages have not been evacuated, residents have been advised to remain prepared for immediate relocation if necessary.
Chief Minister Sharma, who returned from a BJP training camp in Gujarat just before the attacks, convened a meeting with top officials, including Director General of Police U R Sahoo and Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, to discuss the situation. He emphasized the need for vigilance against potential disturbances to communal harmony and directed police officials to take immediate action against those spreading rumors.
In a proactive measure, the Rajasthan government has been conducting mock drills to prepare for various emergency scenarios, including air raids. On May 7, the state held a significant drill to ensure that emergency services could effectively respond to any attacks. This included ensuring the availability of medicines, oxygen, ambulances, and other essential services in hospitals.
As part of the security measures, the state government has also instructed district administrations to maintain direct contact with security agencies and ensure that essential services continue to operate smoothly. The local administration is particularly focused on monitoring social media for any misinformation that could incite panic.
In response to the escalating situation, the Indian Armed Forces launched targeted strikes on Pakistani air defense radars and systems on the morning of May 8, 2025. These strikes were a direct response to the coordinated drone and missile assault launched by Pakistan on military installations across Northern and Western India, which included attempts to strike locations such as Adampur, Bhatinda, and Chandigarh.
Defence ministry officials confirmed that all attempts by the Pakistani military to engage these military locations were successfully intercepted and neutralized by India’s Integrated Counter UAS Grid and Air Defence systems. The Indian response has been described as measured yet firm, with officials stating, “Our response has been in the same domain and with the same intensity as Pakistan’s aggression.”
As the situation develops, the Indian government remains committed to defending its territory and civilian population. The recent escalation has also drawn attention to the ongoing conflict in Jammu and Kashmir, where unprovoked shelling by Pakistan has resulted in civilian casualties. Reports indicate that 16 civilians, including three women and five children, were killed in such incidents, prompting India to retaliate to halt the artillery fire.
On the operational front, the Indian Air Force is conducting extensive military drills along the International Border with Pakistan, with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued to inform about the exercises. These drills will continue until 3 AM on May 9, 2025, during which flights operating from airports close to the border will be suspended.
In Barmer, Collector Tina Dabi has invoked the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to close all government and private schools, institutes, anganwadis, and madrasas indefinitely from May 8 onwards. Similar orders have been issued by collectors in Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner, with exams also postponed in light of the current security situation.
As the Indian government and military remain vigilant, the situation along the border continues to be closely monitored. The local administration is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of residents in border districts, while also preparing for any potential escalation in hostilities.
In summary, the recent attempts by Pakistan to target military installations in Rajasthan have prompted a robust response from the Indian defense forces and state authorities. With heightened security measures, the focus remains on safeguarding the region while ensuring that essential services and civil life can continue amidst the ongoing tensions.
