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Breaking: Explosions at various places in Iran; Fresh fighting erupts?

Explosions
Explosions (File pic)

Tehran, May 8: Iran seemed to have been attacked once again as explosions have been reported from various places, including the southern port city of Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian media reported that the explosions were result of “exchange of fire between the Iranian armed forces and the enemy”.

According to Fars News Agency of Iran, parts of commercial section of Bahman Port on Qeshm Island were hit during the exchange of fire between Iranian forces and “the enemy”.

As the reports emerged, Ebrahim Azizi, Head of National Security Commission of the Iranian Parliament, issued a statement on his social media handle, saying: “Making the same mistake again and again won’t get you a different answer; only a stronger one. Respect the new Maritime Regime of Iran”.

It was not clear as to what exactly he meant and whom his message was addressed to.

Tehran has restricted vessels linked to the United States and Israel from navigating through the Strait for more than two months in response to US-Israeli strikes, disrupting a corridor that carries roughly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade.

Washington later imposed similar restrictions on vessels departing Iranian ports.

Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that navigation in the Strait would normalize if the war is permanently resolved, the maritime blockade is lifted, and sanctions imposed on Iran are removed.

US President Donald Trump announced “Project Freedom” on May 3 as a naval mission aimed at escorting stranded vessels through the Strait, but suspended the operation less than 48 hours later, citing requests from Pakistan and other countries as well as reported progress in indirect talks with Iranian representatives.

Fars News agency claimed Iranian forces had responded over the past two nights to US attempts to move vessels through the Strait.

It also alleged that US forces targeted two civilian fishing boats, killing five people. (NVI)

J&K Govt Fast-Tracks NFSA Integration with ration cards of displaced Kashmir Pandits
Kashmiri Pandits, dislocated from Kashmir valley to Jammu because of terrorism, have opposed the move

Jammu, May 7 (NVI): Despite strong opposition by the displaced Kashmiri Pandits, the integration of their ration cards with the National Food Security Act (NFSA) has been accelerated by the Jammu and Kashmir government “signficantly”.

In a statement tonight, the government of the Union Territory said more than 19,000 ration cards have already been digitized and another 8,000 currently under process.

The details were shared during a high-level review meeting chaired by Principal Secretary, Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction, Chandraker Bharti to assess implementation of ration distribution under the Special Relief Ration Scheme for migrants.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Saurabh Bhagat, senior police officials, NIC officers and senior functionaries of multiple departments, the spokesman said.

Officials informed the meeting that over 5,200 migrant families have already availed of  rations under the Special Relief Ration Scheme, which became operational from April 18, 2026.

The term ‘migrants’ refers to the Kashmiri Pandits and others dislocated from Kashmir Valley because of terrorism and presently living in Jammu region.

The government also assured that those families who could not collect ration in April will receive two months’ free ration covering both April and May.

The meeting was held against the backdrop of strong opposition and protests by displaced Kashmiri Pandits against integration of the ration cards with NFSA, as they have doubts and suspicions regarding the move.

 

Authorities said the government has amended the Jammu & Kashmir Food Security Rules, 2021 and the Targeted Public Distribution (Control) Order, 2023 to facilitate integration of migrant ration cards into the NFSA database, “ending a decades-long gap that had prevented migrants from accessing several social welfare schemes due to non-digitized records.”

The statement said all relief ration card holders, irrespective of categorization, will continue to receive 11 kilograms of free ration per person every month along with one kilogram of sugar under the existing relief structure.

Non-relief category migrants, including pensioners categorized under NPHH, will continue to receive ration on government-approved subsidized rates as per NFSA norms.

The government further extended the April ration distribution period into May to ensure that no eligible migrant family is deprived of its entitlement during the transition to the digitized system.

During the meeting, directions were issued to officials concerned to proactively reach out to migrant households and ensure ration supply even in cases where e-KYC formalities are still pending or under process, the spokesman said.

“The administration also decided to launch a massive awareness campaign to inform migrant families that integration of ration cards into the NFSA database is aimed at welfare inclusion, transparency, digitization and extending social security benefits while fully protecting all existing relief provisions and entitlements,” he said.

The government warned of strict action against fair price shop dealers failing to distribute free ration as per entitlement and also ordered legal action against “rumour-mongering elements” allegedly attempting to derail the scheme or intimidate migrant beneficiaries.

Special camps will also be organised by the Social Welfare Department and Relief Organisation to help eligible families avail benefits of schemes such as old-age pension, widow pension, disability pension, marriage assistance, Ayushman Bharat and scholarships, the spokesman said.

According to officials, nearly 600 migrant families have already availed benefits of various social sector schemes following integration of their ration cards into the NFSA database.

“The government is fully committed to operationalize the new scheme for all migrants within the shortest possible time. All genuine beneficiaries will continue to receive ration as per entitlement with full protection of existing relief provisions,” Principal Secretary Chandraker Bharti said.

(NVI)

J&K Govt reassures tourists on safety, facilities
Tourist confidence was shaken after terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir in April last year

Satish Sharma, Senior minister of Jamm and Kashmir.
Satish Sharma, Senior minister of Jamm and Kashmir. (File Pic)

Srinagar, May 7 (NVI): Seeking to give a reassurance to tourists, a senior minister of Jammu and Kashmir said the government is focused on building a tourist-friendly ecosystem that boosts visitor confidence and contributes to economic growth and employment generation in the Union Territory.

The government is committed to ensure that every visitor feels secure, supported and well-connected throughout their journey, said Satish Sharma, Minister for Transport,  Youth Services & Sports, said during an interaction with a group of tourists here.

The remarks assume significance as the tourist confidence was shaken after the ghastly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam in south Kashmir on April 22 last year, in which 25 visitors and a local man were killed.

That dastardly attack by three Pakistani terrorists had caused a setback to tourism in Kashmir and prompted India to launch Operation Sindoor against perpetrators of terrorism based in Pakistan.

Sharma said the government is making all possible efforts to ensure smooth movement, comfortable stay and hassle-free travel for tourists visiting different parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

He said the administration has put in place adequate arrangements to provide transport facilitation, accommodation support, food and essential supplies, medical assistance and tourist guidance wherever required.

Calling tourists the “valued guests and ambassadors” of Jammu and Kashmir’s hospitality and culture, Sharma said

“The government is committed to provide a safe, welcoming and hassle-free environment for tourists. All departments are working in close coordination to ensure timely assistance and necessary facilities without inconvenience,” he said.

Highlighting tourism as a key pillar of the region’s economy, the Minister said Jammu and Kashmir continues to attract visitors from across the country and abroad because of its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

He added that sustained efforts are underway to strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve transport connectivity, enhance public amenities and promote new tourist destinations across the Union Territory.

The Minister also interacted individually with several tourists and sought feedback regarding their travel experience and arrangements. He assured that all genuine concerns raised by visitors would be addressed promptly by the administration. (NVI)

DGP Nalin Prabhat Releases Booklet on Terror-Related Investigations

Srinagar, May 7 (NVI): Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat on Thursday released a booklet titled “Dos and Don’ts in Terror Related Investigations”, compiled by the State Investigation Agency (SIA).

Describing the booklet as a remarkable weapon and the bedrock for successful investigation in terror-related cases, the DGP emphasized its importance in strengthening professional investigative standards within the police force.

He urged all officers of Jammu and Kashmir Police to make effective use of the booklet while handling terror-related investigations to ensure better coordination, legal precision, and successful prosecution of cases.(NVI)

Live Shell Recovered During Search Operation in Samba; BDS Team Deployed

Indian Army jawan injured in Landmine Explosion Along LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
File Photo

Jammu, May 7 (NVII): A live shell was recovered during a search operation in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, officials said.

The shell was found at Koulpur Devak area under the jurisdiction of Ramgarh police station at  during a search operation carried out by the Special Operations Group (SOG), they said.

Soon after the recovery, a Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) team was rushed to the spot for examination and safe disposal of the shell, officials added.

Further details are awaited.(NVI)

India settles questions over sporting ties with Pakistan, lays down policy

Fans at a cricket match between India and Pakistan (file pic)
Fans at a cricket match between India and Pakistan (file pic)

New Delhi, May 7: Settling the question over sporting ties with Pakistan, India has codified its policy vis-à-vis the neighbouring country, reaffirming a strict prohibition on bilateral series while adopting a path of participation in international competitions.

The Policy Document of the Ministry of Sports provides for a comprehensive ban on bilateral sporting ties which has been in place for some time now.

At the same time, policy lays down that Pakistani competitors will be permitted to enter India for multi-national events. This is to ensure fulfillment of its responsibilities as a host for major international championships.

“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons. Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan,” the document says.

“Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India,” it adds.

But, “In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the document says.

It may be noted that India has been refusing to have any sporting relations with Pakistan because of the latter’s use of terrorism against this country.

India has made it clear that terrorism and sports cannot go together. It has been underlining that Pakistan must shun cross-border terrorism to facilitate restoration of sports ties.

This was hardened in the aftermath of ghastly attack by three Pakistani terrorists in Pahalgam in Kashmir on April 22 last year, which prompted India to launch ‘Operation Sindoor’ to hit main terror bases in Pakistan on this day last year.

As part of this policy, India refuse to send its team to Pakistan when it hosted the T20 World Cup Cricket earlier this year.

As a result, the India matches to be held in Pakistan were shifted to Sri Lanka, including the one with Pakistan.

Importance of the policy:

Laying down of the policy assumes more significance as India aspires to become a premier global sports hub and is preparing to bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics.

As part of this policy, the government of India is moving to simplify visa requirements for athletes, coaching staff, technical officials, and representatives from international federations.

“To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified. In respect of office bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies, a multi entry visa shall be granted on priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years. Due protocol and courtesies, as per established practice, shall be extended to the Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India,” the ministry document added.

Amit Shah Changes X Display Picture to ‘Operation Sindoor’, Salutes Armed Forces

New Delhi, May 7 (NVI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday changed his display picture on social media platform X to “Operation Sindoor” and hailed the Indian armed forces for their “unparalleled valour” on the anniversary of the operation.

In a post on X, Shah said “Operation Sindoor” would remain a defining mission in India’s fight against terrorism and a reminder to enemies of the country’s striking capability.

“#OperationSindoor stands as an epochal mission of India that will always remind our enemies of the infallible striking power of our armed forces,” the home minister said.

He said history would remember the operation as a moment when the precision strike capability of the armed forces, accurate intelligence inputs of security agencies and strong political resolve came together to destroy terror infrastructure across the border following the Pahalgam terror attack.

“History will remember it as the day of the precise striking power of our armed forces, meticulous intelligence of our agencies, and resolute political will rising together as one to destroy each and every address of terror across the border that dared to cast an evil shadow on our citizens at Pahalgam,” Shah said.

The home minister further said the operation sent a strong message to India’s enemies that they could not evade the country’s reach.

“This day will continue to bring the dreadful message to our enemies that no matter where they hide, they cannot escape. They are always within our sight and the fierce wrath of our firepower,” he said.

Shah also paid tribute to the armed forces for their courage and sacrifice.

“On this day, I salute the unparalleled valour of our forces,” he added.(NVI)

EOW Files Chargesheet in HDFC Bank Fraud Case in Shopian

Srinagar, May 7 (NVI): The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has filed a chargesheet in connection with an alleged large-scale financial fraud at the Shopian branch of HDFC Bank, officials said on Thursday.

The chargesheet in FIR No. 30/2025 was presented before the court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Shopian, under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, they said.

According to the Crime Branch, the case surfaced following a written complaint alleging financial irregularities at the bank branch.

Officials said the matter was subsequently transferred to the Crime Branch by the Police Headquarters (PHQ), J&K, for detailed investigation.

During the probe, several persons, including serving and former employees of the bank, were found allegedly involved in the fraud, the officials said.

Those arrested in the case include Adil Ayoub Ganai and Irfan Majeed Zargar, both former branch managers of HDFC Bank at Pulwama and Shopian, along with former bank employees Mubashir Hussain Sheikh, Zaid Manzoor and Javaid Ahmad Bhat, officials said.

They said the accused were arrested on February 18 this year and have remained in judicial custody since then.

The Crime Branch said that after completion of the investigation, a chargesheet against 11 accused persons was filed before the court for judicial determination.(NVI)

Justice Served”: Army Marks Operation Sindoor Anniversary, Calls Response ‘Precise, Resolute’
Army Releases Special Video on First Anniversary of Operation Sindoor; Reaffirms Commitment to Defending Sovereignty and Crushing Terror Networks

New Delhi, May 7 (NVI): Marking the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army on Thursday released a special video describing India’s response to terrorism as “resolute, calibrated and precise” and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and citizens.

Sharing the video on social media with the caption “#JusticeServed”, the Army said the operation reflected India’s firm resolve against terrorism and its readiness to take decisive action whenever national security is threatened. The message concluded with “Jai Hind”.

Operation Sindoor was launched by India on May 7 last year in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed.

In retaliation, Indian forces carried out coordinated strikes on nine terror-linked sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, with officials later stating that over 100 terrorists were eliminated during the operation.

According to official details, the strikes targeted infrastructure linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, besides multiple terror launchpads and facilities in Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, Kotli and Bhimber.

Following the strikes, Pakistan launched retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting several Indian locations, including civilian areas, officials had said.

Indian defence forces, however, intercepted the attacks and continued focusing on identified military and terror-linked targets, they said.

The military confrontation lasted for three days before both sides reached an understanding to halt military actions on May 10 through hotline-level talks between senior Army officials.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the nation after the operation last year, had described Operation Sindoor as India’s “new normal” against terrorism and asserted that the country would no longer tolerate terror attacks or “nuclear blackmail”.

He had also said that India would not differentiate between terrorists and those supporting or sheltering them, sending a strong message against cross-border terror infrastructure and its backers.

The Army’s anniversary video revisits the scale and significance of the operation, portraying it as one of India’s largest multi-domain combat missions in recent decades and a defining moment in the country’s counter-terror strategy.(NVI)

US military says it hit and ‘disabled’ Iranian-flagged Vessel in Gulf of Oman

American aircraft carrier USS George Bush deployed near the Strait of Hormuz
American aircraft carrier USS George Bush deployed near the Strait of Hormuz

New Delhi, May 6: The US military tonight said it has “disabled” an Iranian-flagged oil vessel in the Gulf of Oman by firing artillery at it for “violating” the blockade being enforced by America.

In a statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces observed M/T Hasna as it transited international waters enroute to an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman at around 9 AM Eastern Time on May 6.

“The American forces issued multiple warnings and informed the Iranian-flagged vessel it was in violation of the U.S. blockade,” it said.

“After Hasna’s crew failed to comply with repeated warnings, U.S. forces disabled the tanker’s rudder by firing several rounds from the 20 mm cannon gun of a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from USS Abraham Lincoln,” the statement said.

Hasna is no longer transiting to Iran, it added.

The U.S. blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports remains in full effect. CENTCOM forces continue to act deliberately and professionally to ensure compliance,” it said

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