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Pakistan Escalates Border Tensions with Drone Attacks, India Neutralizes Threats

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In a fresh wave of provocations, Pakistan attempted drone attacks at seven locations along the India-Pakistan border. Indian defense forces successfully shot down all intruding drones, thwarting the incursions. The attacks targeted key sectors, including Akhnoor, Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot, where Pakistani drones were detected and neutralized.

India’s advanced air defense systems, including the Barak-8 missiles, S-400 systems, and Akash missiles, were actively deployed to counter the aerial threats, showcasing robust defensive capabilities. Concurrently, Pakistani forces resorted to shelling in the Poonch sector, further escalating tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).

Indian authorities remain on high alert, with security forces maintaining strict vigilance to prevent further violations.

FICCI Appoints Adeeb Ahamed to Steer India–Middle East Economic Engagement

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Kochi, May 09, 2025 – The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, as the chair of FICCI Arab Council for 2025-26.

Initially appointed in 2023, his continued stewardship ensures a seamless progression of FICCI’s efforts to advance India’s economic collaboration with the Middle East—building on two years of sectoral engagement, policy dialogue, and partnership facilitation.

In his role as Chair, Mr. Ahamed will also serve on FICCI’s National Executive Committee, contributing to the organisation’s broader policy and advocacy agenda at the national and international levels.

The FICCI Arab Council plays a pivotal role in deepening India–Middle East ties. Among its recent milestones is the facilitation of a landmark MoU between Expo City Dubai and FICCI, paving the way for long-term collaboration on major events, including the Asia Pacific Cities Summit (APCS) 2025. The Council also played a key role in enabling investment-focused delegations from states such as Rajasthan and Assam to engage with leading UAE-based business groups. The recent opening of FICCI’s Dubai office stands as another achievement, providing a permanent regional base to strengthen partnerships and advance India’s economic diplomacy in the Gulf.

In the coming year, the Council will prioritise deeper engagement with young entrepreneurs and start-ups, while also focusing on facilitating access for Indian SMEs to key markets across the GCC. At the same time, it aims to create pathways for investors in the Middle East to explore emerging opportunities within India’s dynamic SME ecosystem.

“Our vision is to expand participation by engaging more young entrepreneurs from across the region and giving them a meaningful stake in the dialogue. It is vital that they are not only heard, but empowered with the right platforms, networks, and resources to lead—because the future of India–Middle East cooperation will be defined by innovation, agility, and inclusive leadership,” said Mr Ahamed.

Adeeb Ahamed is the Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, a leading financial services company operating across the GCC, India, and APAC regions. He also leads Twenty14 Holdings, an investment firm with a diverse portfolio in luxury hospitality. A prominent voice on digital innovation and financial inclusion, Mr. Ahamed is an active contributor to global economic discourse through platforms like the World Economic Forum.

A Walk to Remember: Tribal Teens Light Up the Ramp at Lulu Fashion Week 2025

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kochi:The opening ceremony of Lulu Fashion Week 2025 turned into a powerful celebration of inclusion and inspiration as teenagers from the tribal community of Adimali took to the ramp for the very first time. Titled “Srishti – A Walk to Remember,” the show broke new ground in Kerala’s fashion landscape and captured the hearts of all who witnessed it.

Hibi Eden MP shines on the ramp

Inaugurated by Member of Parliament Hibi Eden, the event became a landmark moment in the state’s fashion narrative. In a touching gesture of solidarity, the MP himself joined the tribal youth on the ramp, making the moment even more memorable.

The initiative stemmed from Lulu Fashion Week’s commitment to empowering underrepresented communities and bringing them into the mainstream. Under the creative direction of stylist and show director Dalu Krishnadas, representatives from Lulu visited tribal villages in Adimali to share the vision of the fashion week. Following this, the selected youth underwent two days of intensive training in Kochi, preparing them for the big stage.

The young participants confidently showcased outfits of their choice from Lulu Fashionstore, walking the ramp with the poise and flair of seasoned professionals. A standout moment was the appearance of a two-year-old tribal girl, who stole the show with her innocent charm and cheerful presence on the ramp.

The event was a testament to Lulu Group’s commitment to social inclusion, delivering a strong message of hope and representation. As part of the inaugural ceremony, MP Hibi Eden presented gifts to the participating tribal youth and honored their efforts. Lulu India COO Rejith Radhakrishnan and Kochi Regional Director Sadik Kassim also presented mementoes to the children and the village tribal chief. Dalu Krishnadas was formally felicitated for his role in orchestrating this inspiring showcase.

Lulu Fashion Week 2025 will continue until Sunday, May 11, featuring top Indian models representing various brands. Daily fashion shows will commence at 4:30 PM, offering a unique platform for evolving fashion narratives. The week will also see the presentation of fashion titles and awards recognizing outstanding contributions in the industry, under the direction of Shie Lobo, the show director and stylist.

India Repels Pakistani Air Offensive, Downs Five Fighter Jets

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In a decisive response to a coordinated Pakistani offensive, Indian armed forces successfully intercepted multiple aerial threats late Thursday night, neutralizing a barrage of drones and missiles targeting key locations across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. The Indian Air Force, leveraging its advanced S-400 air defense system, shot down at least five Pakistani fighter jets, including a high-profile F-16, according to defense sources.

Key Incident in Jaisalmer: The F-16 was brought down in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer sector, marking a significant blow to Pakistan’s air capabilities. Alongside the F-16, two JF-17 fighter jets, an AWACS surveillance aircraft, and one unidentified jet were also destroyed by India’s robust air defense network.

The Pakistani offensive aimed at both military installations and civilian areas, including Jammu airport, an army base in Udhampur, and civilian sites such as a university campus in Jammu. India’s S-400 system, dubbed the “Sudarshan Chakra,” swiftly countered the threats, intercepting missiles and drones with precision. In Gujarat’s Kutch region, additional drones were neutralized, underscoring the scale of the attack.

To bolster radar efficiency and ensure operational security, authorities enforced power shutdowns across several regions, including Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. These blackouts were critical in maintaining the effectiveness of India’s air defense systems amid heightened tensions and reports of suspected bombings.

The Indian Ministry of Defense has confirmed no losses on the Indian side, crediting the rapid deployment of advanced defense systems and the vigilance of the armed forces. This incident follows India’s earlier strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan, which may have prompted the retaliatory attack.

As tensions escalate, the Indian government has placed border states on high alert, with enhanced security measures in place. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow official advisories.

Nipah Virus Confirmed Again in Kerala

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A 42-year-old woman from Valanchery, Malappuram, has been diagnosed with Nipah virus infection in Kerala. The confirmation came from the Virology Lab in Pune. The patient is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Perinthalmanna. She exhibited symptoms such as fever, cough, and breathing difficulties, prompting the collection of samples for testing. The samples were sent for analysis following the appearance of these symptoms. Health Minister Veena George is expected to visit the affected area.

Indian Armed Forces Neutralize Pakistani Air Defense System in Operation Sindoor 2.0

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New Delhi, May 8, 2025 – In a bold escalation of military operations, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor 2.0, targeting and neutralizing a critical air defense system in Lahore, Pakistan, along with multiple other strategic locations. This operation follows the earlier Operation Sindoor, which saw precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

According to defense sources, the Indian Air Force (IAF) executed targeted strikes on Thursday, destroying air defense radars and the Chinese-made HQ-9 missile defense system in Lahore. The operation was a direct response to Pakistan’s failed attempt to strike Indian military targets, following India’s initial strikes under Operation Sindoor. The IAF’s Rafale jets, equipped with SCALP missiles, and the Indian Navy’s use of loitering munitions ensured precise and effective neutralization of the targets without violating Pakistani airspace.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed an all-party meeting in New Delhi, revealing that over 100 terrorists were killed in the initial Operation Sindoor strikes. He praised the armed forces for their precision and reiterated India’s resolve to combat terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who monitored the operations, canceled a planned European tour to focus on the escalating situation.

Operation Sindoor: Nation on High Alert; 10 Airports Closed; Schools in Jammu and Kashmir Shut

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New Delhi: Following Operation Sindoor, the country is on high alert. After a heavy exchange of fire at the border, airports in northern India have been temporarily closed. Authorities have announced that all flight services have been suspended at these airports until further notice.

As a precautionary measure, ten airports, including those in Jammu and Kashmir, have been closed. The affected airports are Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Amritsar, Leh, Jodhpur, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. Flight services of Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet to and from these airports have been completely canceled.

All departures, arrivals, and connecting flights through these airports are affected, airlines have confirmed. Considering the situation, Qatar Airways has also announced the temporary suspension of its flight services to Pakistan.

Meanwhile, security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir, including the border areas. Security measures have been strengthened in Delhi as well, with additional central forces deployed in the capital. Lal Chowk in Srinagar is also under heightened security.

All schools in Jammu and Kashmir have been declared closed. This includes educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch regions, as well as Kupwara, Baramulla, and Gurez in the Kashmir Valley.

Heavy Shelling by Pakistan Near Line of Control; 7 Dead, 38 Injured

Srinagar: Following India’s strike on Pakistani terror hubs, Pakistan has launched heavy shelling near the Line of Control (LoC). The attack has resulted in seven deaths, including two children, and left 38 people injured. The Pakistani military continues to fire along the LoC.

The deceased are reported to be from the Uri region. According to the Indian Army, the shelling occurred in villages along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri. The Army has confirmed that India has responded with strong retaliation.

Permits Only for Buses Running on the Same Route with a 10-Minute Interval

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Thiruvananthapuram: The Transport Department is set to curb the competitive racing of private buses. Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar announced that permits will only be issued to private buses running on the same route if they maintain a minimum interval of 10 minutes between each other.

An official order regarding this regulation will be issued by the Transport Department soon.

The minister also stated that if bus owners oppose this new measure, the matter will be handled legally. The order will be issued immediately after receiving reports from the Transport Commissioner and the Road Safety Commissioner.

Deaths Due to Rabies; Human Rights Commission Orders Investigation

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Thiruvananthapuram: The Human Rights Commission has ordered an investigation into deaths caused by rabies. The investigation will be led by a team headed by the Medical Director. The team has been instructed to examine the effectiveness of the vaccine and submit a report within one month.

Recently, three children died of rabies despite receiving the vaccine. The deceased include three girls aged 7, 6, and 13 years from the districts of Kollam, Malappuram, and Pathanamthitta.

The intervention of the Human Rights Commission came in response to this situation.

A Bold Response to ‘Go Tell Modi’

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In a decisive move against terrorism, India launched Operation Sindoor overnight, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation, named by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as a tribute to the widows of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, predominantly male tourists.

What is Sindoor Meaning ? A Symbolic Name

The operation’s name, “Sindoor,” holds deep cultural significance, symbolizing the vermilion mark worn by married Hindu women. It reflects the profound loss of the women whose husbands were killed in the attack. The terrorists, after executing the men at point-blank range, taunted the widows to “go tell Modi.” Today, these women express their gratitude and faith in the government’s response.

A Unified National Response

Operation Sindoor marks a significant tri-service operation involving the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, the first of its kind since the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Conducted with precision strikes at 1:44 am, the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen, ensuring no civilian or military facilities were harmed.

The operation has resonated deeply with the nation, particularly with the families of the Pahalgam victims, who see it as a step toward justice. As India continues to monitor the situation, the resolve to combat terrorism remains unwavering.