Amid rising cross-border tensions, Pakistan launched a wave of drone strikes on Rajasthan and Gujarat, targeting strategic military and civilian infrastructure. The Indian government responded by enforcing blackouts, suspending public movement, and issuing high-alert advisories across the affected regions.
Critical Targets Hit: From Barmer to Bhuj
In Barmer, Pakistani drones attempted to strike sensitive locations such as Nagana oil fields, Uttarlai airbase, Rajwest power plant, and military stations in Jassai and Jalipa. These incursions occurred between 9:00pm Friday and 5:15am Saturday. The Indian Air Defence Systems successfully intercepted the UAVs within a 7–8 km radius.
A similar wave of attacks targeted Jaisalmer, Ramgarh, Pokhran, and Balotra. In Gujarat, drones were sighted in Bhuj, Banaskantha, and Kutch. A blackout was imposed across these regions, with sirens sounding every 10–15 minutes through the night.
Blackout Measures and Civil Defence Alerts
Barmer district collector Tina Dabi issued a red alert, instructing all residents to stay indoors and avoid any travel. Markets were closed, and a complete blackout, including inverter lights, was enforced. Residents were told to avoid gatherings, and group movements were restricted under civil defence codes.
In Sri Ganganagar, a complete lockdown was implemented. People were asked to remain indoors as a precautionary step against possible air raids. The administration also warned citizens not to forward unverified news or circulate sensitive videos, as this could compromise emergency operations.
Arrests and Crackdowns on Social Media
A 26-year-old man named Jiyaram was arrested in Barmer for sharing a video of Indian Army movements. According to SP Narendra Singh Meena, this act violated national security protocols. Authorities are monitoring social media for similar infractions and have warned of strict legal consequences.
India’s Response and Operation Sindoor
The escalation follows India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 civilians. India has repelled strikes at over 77 locations in three days and has damaged Pakistan’s air defence systems at four sites.
Reports also suggest that Pakistan used Turkish-origin armed drones and civilian airliners as cover to attack Indian military sites. The Indian Armed Forces, however, have responded with increased air surveillance and targeted counter-attacks.
What’s Next?
The situation remains tense along the Indo-Pak border. Security forces have been put on high alert. Civil advisories urge citizens to prepare for future aerial threats and follow all safety protocols. The conflict now appears to be one of the worst face-offs between the two nations in decades.
To understand how India is countering this UAV threat, read our guide on India’s Anti-Drone Defence Strategy.
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