Pakistan: No terror camps on 22 locations shared by India

IAF airstrike wasn't a revenge action for Pulwama attack: Arun Jaitley

Pakistan on Tuesday fully opened its airspace, nearly a month after shutting it for commercial flights following escalating tensions with India after the Pulwama terror attack and the subsequent aerial strike by Indian jets on a training camp of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/month-after-balakot-strikes-pakistan-continues-to-block-airspace-205852">Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot</a>.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced the complete opening of Pakistan's airspace, with the national carrier resuming its flights across the country.

On Tuesday, two-way flights from Lahore to Islamabad and flights from Karachi to Multan departed as per schedule, said a statement issued by the national carrier - Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) - on Tuesday.

Flights have also been resumed for Bahawalpur, Raheem Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan. Flights from Sialkot will resume from March 28, after necessary repairs are carried out on the Sialkot airport runway, it said.

Earlier in February, the CAA partially opened the country's airspace after keeping it closed for several hours following a rare aerial dogfight between Indian and Pakistani jets.

The CAA had also declared an aerial emergency, saying Pakistani airspace is closed until further notice.

Pakistan closed its airspace on February 27 following escalating tensions with India.&nbsp;

The tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours escalated after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and a subsequent aerial strike by India on a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26.&nbsp;

Pakistan retaliated the strike next day by unsuccessfully attempting to target Indian military installations. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack.

Pakistan on Tuesday fully opened its airspace, nearly a month after shutting it for commercial flights following escalating tensions with India after the Pulwama terror attack and the subsequent aerial strike by Indian jets on a training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot.

Pakistan on Tuesday fully opened its airspace, nearly a month after shutting it for commercial flights following escalating tensions with India after the Pulwama terror attack and the subsequent aerial strike by Indian jets on a training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced the complete opening of Pakistan's airspace, with the national carrier resuming its flights across the country. On Tuesday, two-way flights from Lahore to Islamabad and flights from Karachi to Multan departed as per schedule, said a statement issued by the national carrier - Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) - on Tuesday. Flights have also been resumed for Bahawalpur, Raheem Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan. Flights from Sialkot will resume from March 28, after necessary repairs are carried out on the Sialkot airport runway, it said. Earlier in February, the CAA partially opened the country's airspace after keeping it closed for several hours following a rare aerial dogfight between Indian and Pakistani jets. The CAA had also declared an aerial emergency, saying Pakistani airspace is closed until further notice. Pakistan closed its airspace on February 27 following escalating tensions with India. The tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours escalated after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and a subsequent aerial strike by India on a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26. Pakistan retaliated the strike next day by unsuccessfully attempting to target Indian military installations. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack.

Pakistan reopens airspace month after Balakot strikes

Pakistan's military has said for the first time that JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft developed jointly with China was used in retaliation to India's pre-emptive strikes on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/with-balakot-airstrike-narendra-modi-government-has-evolved-new-security-doctrine-204805">Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot</a> as it once again denied that US-made F-16 jets were involved in the attack.

Referring to the aerial dogfight with the Indian Air Force jets after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack claimed by Pakistan-based JeM, Pakistan Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said the Indian jets violated the Pakistani airspace on February 26, dropping payloads without inflicting any casualties or damage to infrastructure.

The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was handed over to India later.

"The aircraft which engaged those targets and fought them were JF-17. As regard to how to use F-16, in what context [they] were used or not - because at that point of time our entire Air Force was airborne - now it remains between Pakistan and the US to see how the MoUs regarding the use of F-16 have been adhered to or otherwise," Ghafoor told Russian news agency Sputnik International.

A day after Pakistan's attempt to retaliate the IAF's air strikes at the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot, the Indian armed forces displayed parts of an AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) fired by an F-16, which fell in Indian territory. New Delhi had also underlined that electronic signatures captured by Indian radars had established the use of F-16 for the offensive.

The US State Department announced that it was seeking more information from Pakistan on the potential use of American-made F-16 jets against India in violation of the end-user agreement.

The Pakistani General noted that Islamabad was discussing the use of its JF-17 with the US citing "friendly relations" with Washington, stressing, however, that the country would use whatever it deemed necessary if it came to "legitimate self-defence."

He said Pakistan only wanted to tell India that it has the capability to hit back. He said Pakistan has the footage of the operation. 
At the time of the attack, the media reports said that the PAF military aircraft that shot down the Mig-21 Bison was JF-17 Thunder Block II multirole fighter jet.

"Proud to announce, I was project director for JF-17 Thunder program jointly produced by Pakistan and China during the tenure of General Pervez Musharraf," retired PAF Air Marshall Shahid Latif said at the time.

"Today, same jets targeted and shot down Indian Jets which entered Pakistani Airspace," he said soon after the attack last month. 
Ghafoor said that Pakistan's nuclear arsenal is a deterrence tool to prevent wars in the region.

"Pakistan holds the position that this capability eliminates the possibility of conventional war. No sane country having this capability would talk about using it," Ghafoor was quoted as saying by the Russian news agency.

He said Pakistan would take steps towards non-proliferation of nuclear arms but only if India does the same.

Ghafoor said Pakistan would welcome every effort, including that of Russia, which can bring peace in the region.

On military cooperation with Russia, Ghafoor said Pakistan is negotiating defence industry cooperation with Moscow in the areas of aviation, air defence systems and anti-tank missiles.

Pakistan's defence ties with Russia have moved past the bitter Cold War hostilities in recent years and the chill in the relations between Pakistan and the US has further pushed the country towards Russia and China.&nbsp;

Pakistan's military has said for the first time that JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft developed jointly with China was used in retaliation to India's pre-emptive strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot as it once again denied that US-made F-16 jets were involved in the attack.

Pakistan's military has said for the first time that JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft developed jointly with China was used in retaliation to India's pre-emptive strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot as it once again denied that US-made F-16 jets were involved in the attack. Referring to the aerial dogfight with the Indian Air Force jets after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack claimed by Pakistan-based JeM, Pakistan Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said the Indian jets violated the Pakistani airspace on February 26, dropping payloads without inflicting any casualties or damage to infrastructure. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was handed over to India later. "The aircraft which engaged those targets and fought them were JF-17. As regard to how to use F-16, in what context [they] were used or not - because at that point of time our entire Air Force was airborne - now it remains between Pakistan and the US to see how the MoUs regarding the use of F-16 have been adhered to or otherwise," Ghafoor told Russian news agency Sputnik International. A day after Pakistan's attempt to retaliate the IAF's air strikes at the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot, the Indian armed forces displayed parts of an AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) fired by an F-16, which fell in Indian territory. New Delhi had also underlined that electronic signatures captured by Indian radars had established the use of F-16 for the offensive. The US State Department announced that it was seeking more information from Pakistan on the potential use of American-made F-16 jets against India in violation of the end-user agreement. The Pakistani General noted that Islamabad was discussing the use of its JF-17 with the US citing "friendly relations" with Washington, stressing, however, that the country would use whatever it deemed necessary if it came to "legitimate self-defence." He said Pakistan only wanted to tell India that it has the capability to hit back. He said Pakistan has the footage of the operation. At the time of the attack, the media reports said that the PAF military aircraft that shot down the Mig-21 Bison was JF-17 Thunder Block II multirole fighter jet. "Proud to announce, I was project director for JF-17 Thunder program jointly produced by Pakistan and China during the tenure of General Pervez Musharraf," retired PAF Air Marshall Shahid Latif said at the time. "Today, same jets targeted and shot down Indian Jets which entered Pakistani Airspace," he said soon after the attack last month. Ghafoor said that Pakistan's nuclear arsenal is a deterrence tool to prevent wars in the region. "Pakistan holds the position that this capability eliminates the possibility of conventional war. No sane country having this capability would talk about using it," Ghafoor was quoted as saying by the Russian news agency. He said Pakistan would take steps towards non-proliferation of nuclear arms but only if India does the same. Ghafoor said Pakistan would welcome every effort, including that of Russia, which can bring peace in the region. On military cooperation with Russia, Ghafoor said Pakistan is negotiating defence industry cooperation with Moscow in the areas of aviation, air defence systems and anti-tank missiles. Pakistan's defence ties with Russia have moved past the bitter Cold War hostilities in recent years and the chill in the relations between Pakistan and the US has further pushed the country towards Russia and China.

JF-17 used to shoot down Indian aircraft, says Pakistan military

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-only-a-similar-deterrent-action-was-taken-after-mumbai-attack-sitharaman-on-balakot-airstrikes-205237">Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a> on Sunday accused the opposition of politicising the air strike in Pakistan's Balakot.

The Defence Minister said: "The Opposition is the one who is politicising the airstrike issue and indulging in false allegations."

She was speaking at an event at Butta Convention Centre in Madhapur, Hyderabad.

"Why is the opposition asking for proof after we attacked Balakot? They ask if we have taken selfies with the killed terrorists or not," she said.

"Airforce personnel say it was their honour to carry out the airstrike. We have given freedom to our armed forces and they will take the call," she said.

The Defence Minister said the first Rafale jet will be delivered in September 2019 and the remaining will be delivered in 2022.

"The war memorial was built in the nation after 70 years by Prime Minister Modi led BJP government," she said, adding that Rs 35,000 crore was given under 'One Rank, One Pension' (OROP) to the armed forces.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday accused the opposition of politicising the air strike in Pakistan's Balakot. The Defence Minister said: "The Opposition is the one who is politicising the airstrike issue and indulging in false allegations.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday accused the opposition of politicising the air strike in Pakistan's Balakot. The Defence Minister said: "The Opposition is the one who is politicising the airstrike issue and indulging in false allegations." She was speaking at an event at Butta Convention Centre in Madhapur, Hyderabad. "Why is the opposition asking for proof after we attacked Balakot? They ask if we have taken selfies with the killed terrorists or not," she said. "Airforce personnel say it was their honour to carry out the airstrike. We have given freedom to our armed forces and they will take the call," she said. The Defence Minister said the first Rafale jet will be delivered in September 2019 and the remaining will be delivered in 2022. "The war memorial was built in the nation after 70 years by Prime Minister Modi led BJP government," she said, adding that Rs 35,000 crore was given under 'One Rank, One Pension' (OROP) to the armed forces.

Opposition is politicising Balakot air strike, says Nirmala Sitharaman

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that she has enough reasons to believe that the armed forces did not take a deterrent action after the Mumbai attack adding that she wished a similar action, like that of an airstrike, could have taken place after 26/11. &nbsp;

"If only a similar deterrent action (#airstrike) was taken after Mumbai attack... &nbsp;and I have enough reasons to believe that armed forces did tell the govt at that time, if you want us to do something, we are ready but we want you to take the call," Sitharaman said in Hyderabad.&nbsp;

External Affairs Ministers also spoke on the matter, hailing India's diplomatic prowess which exhibited when Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was handed over by Pakistan in just two days.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Nirmala Sitharaman in Hyderabad: If only a similar deterrent action (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airstrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airstrike</a>) was taken after Mumbai attack... &amp; I have enough reasons to believe that armed forces did tell the govt at that time, 'if you want us to do something, we are ready but we want you to take the call.' <a href="https://t.co/CSBfkGXO82">pic.twitter.com/CSBfkGXO82</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1109700863176527872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The very next day Pakistan sent their aircraft, we shot down one of them and they shot down one of ours, capturing our pilot. This exhibits the success of Indian diplomacy that they handed over our&nbsp;pilot in just two days," Swaraj stated.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday slammed Congress party after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-pitrodas-remarks-asks-do-you-consider-pulwama-attack-a-routine-incident-205033">Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda</a>, who is also known as a close aide of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, questioned the airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force at JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan in an interview with news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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EAM Swaraj: Agle din (after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airstrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airstrike</a>) Pakistan ne jawabi karyawahi ki, unhone apne vimaan bheje, humne unka 1 vimaan maar giraya, unhone hamara 1 vimaan maar giraya aur hamare pilot ko pakda, Bharat ki itni badi kootnitik safalta ki maatr 2 din mein apne pilot ko wapas le aye. <a href="https://t.co/Sg34pRGhnN">pic.twitter.com/Sg34pRGhnN</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1109711010602995712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“If they (IAF) killed 300, it's ok. All I am saying is can you give me more facts and prove it,” said Pitroda on Friday in the interview.

Scores of Union Ministers and BJP bigwigs have gone ahead defending the Balakot strikes ever since.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter on Friday, and in a series of tweets, lashed out at Pitroda. &nbsp;

"The most trusted advisor and guide of the Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning India’s armed forces," PM Modi tweeted out.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that she has enough reasons to believe that the armed forces did not take a deterrent action after the Mumbai attack adding that she wished a similar action, like that of an airstrike, could have taken place after 26/11.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that she has enough reasons to believe that the armed forces did not take a deterrent action after the Mumbai attack adding that she wished a similar action, like that of an airstrike, could have taken place after 26/11. "If only a similar deterrent action (#airstrike) was taken after Mumbai attack... and I have enough reasons to believe that armed forces did tell the govt at that time, if you want us to do something, we are ready but we want you to take the call," Sitharaman said in Hyderabad. External Affairs Ministers also spoke on the matter, hailing India's diplomatic prowess which exhibited when Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was handed over by Pakistan in just two days. Nirmala Sitharaman in Hyderabad: If only a similar deterrent action (#airstrike) was taken after Mumbai attack... & I have enough reasons to believe that armed forces did tell the govt at that time, 'if you want us to do something, we are ready but we want you to take the call.' pic.twitter.com/CSBfkGXO82 — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2019 × "The very next day Pakistan sent their aircraft, we shot down one of them and they shot down one of ours, capturing our pilot. This exhibits the success of Indian diplomacy that they handed over our pilot in just two days," Swaraj stated. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday slammed Congress party after Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda, who is also known as a close aide of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, questioned the airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force at JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan in an interview with news agency ANI. EAM Swaraj: Agle din (after #airstrike) Pakistan ne jawabi karyawahi ki, unhone apne vimaan bheje, humne unka 1 vimaan maar giraya, unhone hamara 1 vimaan maar giraya aur hamare pilot ko pakda, Bharat ki itni badi kootnitik safalta ki maatr 2 din mein apne pilot ko wapas le aye. pic.twitter.com/Sg34pRGhnN — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2019 × “If they (IAF) killed 300, it's ok. All I am saying is can you give me more facts and prove it,” said Pitroda on Friday in the interview. Scores of Union Ministers and BJP bigwigs have gone ahead defending the Balakot strikes ever since. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter on Friday, and in a series of tweets, lashed out at Pitroda. "The most trusted advisor and guide of the Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning India’s armed forces," PM Modi tweeted out.

If only a similar deterrent action was taken after Mumbai attack: Sitharaman on Balakot airstrikes

The Balakot air attack on February 26 by the Indian Air Force on Pakistan-based terror camps, which killed terrorists and destroyed their training facilities, has now become a watershed in the fight against terror. It required political leadership, military preparedness, combative skill and planning along with superior air strike capability. &nbsp;These aspects will be analysed for long. As it took place on the crucial 2019 election eve, its political impact is of more immediate significance.&nbsp;

There are clear indications that the air strike has ignited the spirit of nationalism throughout the country. The image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the national icon has been reinforced. That the world has rallied around India and Pakistan was demonstrably isolated has proved the big diplomatic strides India has taken with Modi-Sushma Swaraj in the last five years.&nbsp;

What are the big takeaways of the strike in the political, diplomatic and defence front? It has fired up the national psyche and thus changed the political narrative. &nbsp;For four decades India was seen as a helpless victim of Islamic terror, sponsored, promoted, guided and defended by Pakistan. No other country in the world has suffered for so long and so heavy as India. Indian response till Narendra Modi took office was one of pleading to the world for sympathies and cajoling Pakistan, if not propitiating it with endless comprehensive peace talks and track two diplomacy. Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh described Pakistan as a victim of terror. After 26/11 terror attack on Mumbai, the Indian security establishment had suggested an appropriate retaliatory response against Pakistan. But the UPA leadership had taken a pusillanimous approach. They characterised it as an attempt to derail the peace process. Every terror attack on India was described as such. Modi changed it all. He knew that Pakistan was waging a proxy war on India and using terror outfits as strategic assets. Now Modi is determined to end terror attacks on India permanently.&nbsp;

Modi was not looking for easy options. He has evolved a new security doctrine. This is going to be the most decisive aspect of the 2019 election. Let’s see how Modi has scripted the new narrative. First through his persistent initiatives convinced the world community that terrorism in any form, anywhere, against any country by any outfit is a threat to humanity. The world recognised that Pakistan was the main source of terror export and that it was on an asymmetric war with India.

After the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which 41 CRPF soldiers were killed, the whole world in one voice condemned it and stood with India in its right to retaliate. For the first time, the US publicly acknowledged India’s right to revenge. So far Pakistan used to blackmail India with its nuclear arsenal which it threatened to use against India if it reacted. With the Air Force strike, Modi called the neighbour’s nuclear bluff.&nbsp;

All this was hailed and supported by the world leaders. Even China had to tone down its support to Pakistan and cautioned it against escalation. The UN Security Council members except China on their own moved to act against Pakistan harbouring terror outfits and wanted to declare Masood Azhar a wanted terrorist. Internally India acted withdrawing MFN status to Pakistan, imposing high duty on imports from there and banning Jamaat-e-Islami and removing security cover to separatist leaders.&nbsp;

The nation cheered all this. India’s unprecedented diplomatic outreach paid off. The External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was honoured at OIC, much to Pakistan’s dismay, wherein a sterling performance she swayed the hosts presenting Indian position. She could persuade China to take a neutral stand and be counted on fight against terror. On the election eve, by speaking the language that found echoed in Pakistan the anti-Modi Opposition lost the plot. As Modi is being hailed as the best guarantee for preserving national unity and integrity the Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi are talking as if they have no stake in national security. After initially supporting the Air Force strike, within hours they started questioning the veracity and proof. After denying bullet-proof jackets to Indian Army and advanced combat aircraft to Air Force for ten years, the UPA’s attack on Rafale sounded ill-timed and motivated. The fact Opposition criticism of Modi is being cited by Pakistan leaders to defend themselves have spoiled their case in India.&nbsp;

Modi has an enviable record of achievements in the last five years. His welfare schemes have brought an entirely new constituency of vote base for BJP. Only on development plank, he can vow the voters. But this round after the air strike the electoral narrative has entirely changed. In whose hands India is safe? Whom Pakistan and terrorists fear the most? Whom Pakistan and Imran Khan would like to see defeated in Indian polls? Who can take India forward and rally the world behind? These are the questions being debated after Balakot.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-heart-of-darkness-pierced-2731781">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

The Balakot air attack on February 26 by the Indian Air Force on Pakistan-based terror camps, which killed terrorists and destroyed their training facilities, has now become a watershed in the fight against terror.

The Balakot air attack on February 26 by the Indian Air Force on Pakistan-based terror camps, which killed terrorists and destroyed their training facilities, has now become a watershed in the fight against terror. It required political leadership, military preparedness, combative skill and planning along with superior air strike capability. These aspects will be analysed for long. As it took place on the crucial 2019 election eve, its political impact is of more immediate significance. There are clear indications that the air strike has ignited the spirit of nationalism throughout the country. The image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the national icon has been reinforced. That the world has rallied around India and Pakistan was demonstrably isolated has proved the big diplomatic strides India has taken with Modi-Sushma Swaraj in the last five years. What are the big takeaways of the strike in the political, diplomatic and defence front? It has fired up the national psyche and thus changed the political narrative. For four decades India was seen as a helpless victim of Islamic terror, sponsored, promoted, guided and defended by Pakistan. No other country in the world has suffered for so long and so heavy as India. Indian response till Narendra Modi took office was one of pleading to the world for sympathies and cajoling Pakistan, if not propitiating it with endless comprehensive peace talks and track two diplomacy. Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh described Pakistan as a victim of terror. After 26/11 terror attack on Mumbai, the Indian security establishment had suggested an appropriate retaliatory response against Pakistan. But the UPA leadership had taken a pusillanimous approach. They characterised it as an attempt to derail the peace process. Every terror attack on India was described as such. Modi changed it all. He knew that Pakistan was waging a proxy war on India and using terror outfits as strategic assets. Now Modi is determined to end terror attacks on India permanently. Modi was not looking for easy options. He has evolved a new security doctrine. This is going to be the most decisive aspect of the 2019 election. Let’s see how Modi has scripted the new narrative. First through his persistent initiatives convinced the world community that terrorism in any form, anywhere, against any country by any outfit is a threat to humanity. The world recognised that Pakistan was the main source of terror export and that it was on an asymmetric war with India. After the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which 41 CRPF soldiers were killed, the whole world in one voice condemned it and stood with India in its right to retaliate. For the first time, the US publicly acknowledged India’s right to revenge. So far Pakistan used to blackmail India with its nuclear arsenal which it threatened to use against India if it reacted. With the Air Force strike, Modi called the neighbour’s nuclear bluff. All this was hailed and supported by the world leaders. Even China had to tone down its support to Pakistan and cautioned it against escalation. The UN Security Council members except China on their own moved to act against Pakistan harbouring terror outfits and wanted to declare Masood Azhar a wanted terrorist. Internally India acted withdrawing MFN status to Pakistan, imposing high duty on imports from there and banning Jamaat-e-Islami and removing security cover to separatist leaders. The nation cheered all this. India’s unprecedented diplomatic outreach paid off. The External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was honoured at OIC, much to Pakistan’s dismay, wherein a sterling performance she swayed the hosts presenting Indian position. She could persuade China to take a neutral stand and be counted on fight against terror. On the election eve, by speaking the language that found echoed in Pakistan the anti-Modi Opposition lost the plot. As Modi is being hailed as the best guarantee for preserving national unity and integrity the Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi are talking as if they have no stake in national security. After initially supporting the Air Force strike, within hours they started questioning the veracity and proof. After denying bullet-proof jackets to Indian Army and advanced combat aircraft to Air Force for ten years, the UPA’s attack on Rafale sounded ill-timed and motivated. The fact Opposition criticism of Modi is being cited by Pakistan leaders to defend themselves have spoiled their case in India. Modi has an enviable record of achievements in the last five years. His welfare schemes have brought an entirely new constituency of vote base for BJP. Only on development plank, he can vow the voters. But this round after the air strike the electoral narrative has entirely changed. In whose hands India is safe? Whom Pakistan and terrorists fear the most? Whom Pakistan and Imran Khan would like to see defeated in Indian polls? Who can take India forward and rally the world behind? These are the questions being debated after Balakot. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

With Balakot air strike, Narendra Modi government has evolved new security doctrine

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it.&nbsp;

Speaking about his upcoming film ‘Kesari’ that is scheduled to release in theatres on March 21 on Holi, Akshay got in a conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. The interview took place in the backdrop of Red Fort in Delhi as Akshay opened up on the political climate of the country, a possible thawing of tension between India and Pakistan that he hopes for as no one wants war in the world.&nbsp;

Akshay joined Bollywood decades ago but still considers him to have a heart of a Delhiite as he fondly remembers spending his golden years as a child in Chandni Chowk. Red Fort, that overlooks Chandni Chowk gave him nostalgia as he fondly spoke of being born there and playing cricket every day.&nbsp;

Commenting on the current political scenario, Akshay said, ‘My Josh is high, it’s first class,” and then gave an analogy by way of a dialogue from ‘Kesari’: “A guy comes to me in the film and says that we are here to fight to which I say, ‘We will fight when the time is right, right now we are here to help build a place of worship.”

He elaborated, “This is all (terrorism),&nbsp;the&nbsp;wrong interpretation of religion.”

Akshay then explained how Chandni Chowk has taught him all this as it is a place where all religions coexist. He said, “There is a Jain temple, a Hindu temple, Gurudwara and Jama Masjid. People here co-exist, they are happy.”

When prodded whether Pakistan and India would ever be&nbsp;like this in the future, Akshay said they should and added, “Terrorism should get over. War takes the life of a father, husband, son. Nobody wants death. Army and the government know more about politics and international state of affairs. Whatever they decide, we are with them.”

On people asking for proof, Akshay said, “We can't ask the defence or army for proof. We can't ask them, they risk their lives. This takes down their morale. Can’t doubt them.”&nbsp;

He further added, “I am very happy with the country. The kind of freedom you get in this country, you don't get it anywhere.” He also spoke about<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/akshay-kumar-i-dont-want-to-join-politics-just-want-to-make-good-films-204364"> not wanting to join politics </a>as he is not interested.&nbsp;

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it.

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it. Speaking about his upcoming film ‘Kesari’ that is scheduled to release in theatres on March 21 on Holi, Akshay got in a conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. The interview took place in the backdrop of Red Fort in Delhi as Akshay opened up on the political climate of the country, a possible thawing of tension between India and Pakistan that he hopes for as no one wants war in the world. Akshay joined Bollywood decades ago but still considers him to have a heart of a Delhiite as he fondly remembers spending his golden years as a child in Chandni Chowk. Red Fort, that overlooks Chandni Chowk gave him nostalgia as he fondly spoke of being born there and playing cricket every day. Commenting on the current political scenario, Akshay said, ‘My Josh is high, it’s first class,” and then gave an analogy by way of a dialogue from ‘Kesari’: “A guy comes to me in the film and says that we are here to fight to which I say, ‘We will fight when the time is right, right now we are here to help build a place of worship.” He elaborated, “This is all (terrorism), the wrong interpretation of religion.” Akshay then explained how Chandni Chowk has taught him all this as it is a place where all religions coexist. He said, “There is a Jain temple, a Hindu temple, Gurudwara and Jama Masjid. People here co-exist, they are happy.” When prodded whether Pakistan and India would ever be like this in the future, Akshay said they should and added, “Terrorism should get over. War takes the life of a father, husband, son. Nobody wants death. Army and the government know more about politics and international state of affairs. Whatever they decide, we are with them.” On people asking for proof, Akshay said, “We can't ask the defence or army for proof. We can't ask them, they risk their lives. This takes down their morale. Can’t doubt them.” He further added, “I am very happy with the country. The kind of freedom you get in this country, you don't get it anywhere.” He also spoke about not wanting to join politics as he is not interested.

The kind of freedom you get in India is not there anywhere else: Akshay Kumar to Zee News

The Indian government, in the aftermath of Pulwama, announced its intention to maximise the use of water flowing to Pakistan via the Indus system. As a multipronged strategy, India shifted its focus on the Indus Water Treaty (IWT).&nbsp;

The geographical setting of the Indus river system has facilitated partitioning of the six rivers in equal numbers between the two riparian countries under the 1960 IWT, which was achieved after nine years of intense negotiation under the aegis of the World Bank. &nbsp;

Pakistan, being one the world’s most arid countries, with an average rainfall of less than 240 mm, is quite dependent on Indus waters. Under the Treaty, India was given control over the water flowing in the three 'eastern' rivers of the Indus River System (Beas, Ravi and Sutlej) with the mean flow of 33 million acre-feet (MAF), which is 20 per cent of the annual flow of all Indus Rivers (168 MAF). In contrast, Pakistan was given control over the water flowing from the 2 'western’ rivers (Chenab and Jhelum) with a mean flow of 80 MAF that corresponds to 80 per cent of the annual flow.&nbsp;

Although India has retained the right to use the 'western' rivers on the non-consumptive basis (power generation/industrial consumption/navigation) so as not to affect the volume of water flowing into these rivers, it has done little in effectively addressing the severe water crisis afflicting the Indian portion of the Indus Basin.&nbsp;

Political ecologists and critics of the scarcity discourse have established that social power dynamics shape water issues in the Indus basin, especially when both countries deal with acute drought. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2003, the Jammu &amp; Kashmir state assembly passed an unanimous resolution for the abrogation of the Treaty, which further re-asserted the need for its revision in 2016. &nbsp;

On the face of it, this Treaty is heavily skewed in favour of Pakistan, which enjoys a lion’s share of the water and its utilisation. The treaty has not considered Gujarat – the lowermost riparian area - as part of the Indus river basin, as the Great Rann of Kutch area was disputed territory between the two nations. This was settled in 1968 by sharing the total disputed area in a 9:1 ratio between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Since the ratification of the treaty, over the past over 58 years, India and Pakistan have not engaged in any water wars. This is partly due to the fact that India has failed to utilise its share of the waters, allowing unused waters to flow into Pakistan.&nbsp;

Effective and complete utilisation of Indus waters falling in India’s share is the first step towards harvesting the Treaty and this has not been objected to by Pakistan, as evidenced from the February 21, 2019, statement of its Ministry of Water Resources. It is imperative that India should consider active utilisation of the 'western' rivers, albeit for non-consumptive basis.&nbsp;

The formal inauguration of the Kishanganga Hydropower project in J&amp;K in May 2018 is a salutary step in this direction, even though it just marks a beginning.&nbsp;

India has an abundance of small dams and barrages in the Indus basin. Pakistan’s objection to such projects was overruled by the Court of Arbitration under the Treaty, which paves the way for India to install and run several projects on the `western’ rivers, hitherto flowing un-channelled into Pakistan.&nbsp;

These projects will serve as an effective tool in India’s hand to remind Pakistan that India will not hesitate to harness the waters flowing into Pakistan beyond the contours of the Treaty, in the event of a war or war-like situation between the two nations.&nbsp;

Every single dimension of human activity in this basin, whether economic, social, or political, is burdened with a huge handicap arising from the basin’s sovereignty-based, resource-dividing and relentless unilateralism.

India must consider setting up of a dedicated specialised body dealing exclusively with effective utilisation of the rivers under the Treaty. This body may be tasked with the study of the Indus river basins in India, determination of the needs of each state wherein the river basins exist, formulating state-wise projects on the rivers and their basins and time-bound implementation of these projects.&nbsp;

Besides ensuring the development of effective canal systems to ease the perennial water shortages for home consumption and agriculture, the body could also explore the feasibility of channeling excess water from these rivers to other river basins.&nbsp;

This will usher a new phase of infrastructure development and economic growth in this perennially neglected basin.&nbsp;

The two co-riparian neighbours are often at loggerheads over water resources. It is frequently asked whether India or Pakistan can unilaterally abrogate the treaty? The answer is No.&nbsp;

Article 12 of the treaty states that “the provisions of this Treaty, or, the provisions of this Treaty as modified under the provisions of Paragraph (3), shall continue in force until terminated by a duly ratified treaty concluded for that purpose between the two governments.”

The IWT is about sharing of water of six rivers — Indus, Chenab, Jhelum, Beas, Ravi and Sutlej — between India and Pakistan. The importance of the Indus basin to the co-riparian states extends far beyond the immediately tangible material benefits in terms of its waters and any failure to cooperate risks the future of this basin and the future water security of generations to come. &nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-classic-no-win-situation-2728748">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Indian government, in the aftermath of Pulwama, announced its intention to maximise the use of water flowing to Pakistan via the Indus system. As a multipronged strategy, India shifted its focus on the Indus Water Treaty (IWT).

The Indian government, in the aftermath of Pulwama, announced its intention to maximise the use of water flowing to Pakistan via the Indus system. As a multipronged strategy, India shifted its focus on the Indus Water Treaty (IWT). The geographical setting of the Indus river system has facilitated partitioning of the six rivers in equal numbers between the two riparian countries under the 1960 IWT, which was achieved after nine years of intense negotiation under the aegis of the World Bank. Pakistan, being one the world’s most arid countries, with an average rainfall of less than 240 mm, is quite dependent on Indus waters. Under the Treaty, India was given control over the water flowing in the three 'eastern' rivers of the Indus River System (Beas, Ravi and Sutlej) with the mean flow of 33 million acre-feet (MAF), which is 20 per cent of the annual flow of all Indus Rivers (168 MAF). In contrast, Pakistan was given control over the water flowing from the 2 'western’ rivers (Chenab and Jhelum) with a mean flow of 80 MAF that corresponds to 80 per cent of the annual flow. Although India has retained the right to use the 'western' rivers on the non-consumptive basis (power generation/industrial consumption/navigation) so as not to affect the volume of water flowing into these rivers, it has done little in effectively addressing the severe water crisis afflicting the Indian portion of the Indus Basin. Political ecologists and critics of the scarcity discourse have established that social power dynamics shape water issues in the Indus basin, especially when both countries deal with acute drought. In 2003, the Jammu & Kashmir state assembly passed an unanimous resolution for the abrogation of the Treaty, which further re-asserted the need for its revision in 2016. On the face of it, this Treaty is heavily skewed in favour of Pakistan, which enjoys a lion’s share of the water and its utilisation. The treaty has not considered Gujarat – the lowermost riparian area - as part of the Indus river basin, as the Great Rann of Kutch area was disputed territory between the two nations. This was settled in 1968 by sharing the total disputed area in a 9:1 ratio between India and Pakistan. Since the ratification of the treaty, over the past over 58 years, India and Pakistan have not engaged in any water wars. This is partly due to the fact that India has failed to utilise its share of the waters, allowing unused waters to flow into Pakistan. Effective and complete utilisation of Indus waters falling in India’s share is the first step towards harvesting the Treaty and this has not been objected to by Pakistan, as evidenced from the February 21, 2019, statement of its Ministry of Water Resources. It is imperative that India should consider active utilisation of the 'western' rivers, albeit for non-consumptive basis. The formal inauguration of the Kishanganga Hydropower project in J&K in May 2018 is a salutary step in this direction, even though it just marks a beginning. India has an abundance of small dams and barrages in the Indus basin. Pakistan’s objection to such projects was overruled by the Court of Arbitration under the Treaty, which paves the way for India to install and run several projects on the `western’ rivers, hitherto flowing un-channelled into Pakistan. These projects will serve as an effective tool in India’s hand to remind Pakistan that India will not hesitate to harness the waters flowing into Pakistan beyond the contours of the Treaty, in the event of a war or war-like situation between the two nations. Every single dimension of human activity in this basin, whether economic, social, or political, is burdened with a huge handicap arising from the basin’s sovereignty-based, resource-dividing and relentless unilateralism. India must consider setting up of a dedicated specialised body dealing exclusively with effective utilisation of the rivers under the Treaty. This body may be tasked with the study of the Indus river basins in India, determination of the needs of each state wherein the river basins exist, formulating state-wise projects on the rivers and their basins and time-bound implementation of these projects. Besides ensuring the development of effective canal systems to ease the perennial water shortages for home consumption and agriculture, the body could also explore the feasibility of channeling excess water from these rivers to other river basins. This will usher a new phase of infrastructure development and economic growth in this perennially neglected basin. The two co-riparian neighbours are often at loggerheads over water resources. It is frequently asked whether India or Pakistan can unilaterally abrogate the treaty? The answer is No. Article 12 of the treaty states that “the provisions of this Treaty, or, the provisions of this Treaty as modified under the provisions of Paragraph (3), shall continue in force until terminated by a duly ratified treaty concluded for that purpose between the two governments.” The IWT is about sharing of water of six rivers — Indus, Chenab, Jhelum, Beas, Ravi and Sutlej — between India and Pakistan. The importance of the Indus basin to the co-riparian states extends far beyond the immediately tangible material benefits in terms of its waters and any failure to cooperate risks the future of this basin and the future water security of generations to come. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India must ensure effective and complete utilisation of Indus waters

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. &nbsp;

The surgical strikes launched in 2016&nbsp;after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT&nbsp;and others.&nbsp;

They continue infiltrating into India with the help of Pakistani Army and ISI, kill innocent people and lure the youth of Kashmir towards the misplaced version of Jihad, after a prolonged dose of radicalisation through Madrasas in the name of education. Some segments of the youth of Kashmir find a reason to be lured by money and privileges offered to them. The absence of any worthwhile industries due to lack of investors due to provisions like Article 370, deterring any sensible industrialist to invest in Kashmir is another reason for growing fundamentalism. &nbsp;

The recent terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy killed at least 40 personnel. The attack, claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) which has the patronage of the Pakistan Army and ISI, proved that proxy war against India has become the state policy of Pakistan.

India had no other option but to give a befitting response.&nbsp;India is now convinced that surgical treatment of the terrorists is required by the complete application of ‘Comprehensive National Power’ (CNP) of India because Pakistan was unlikely to take any action against them. &nbsp;

The air strikes and aftermath&nbsp;

On February 26, 2019, a set of 12 Mirage 2000 aircraft carried out pinpoint precision strikes using SPICE-2000 guidance kit fitted on conventional bombs, making them highly accurate ‘smart bombs’ carrying out this daring raid/surgical airstrike to destroy the largest training camp of JeM. The strikes were non-military, pre-emptive action, specifically targeted at the JeM camp at Balakot in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province deep inside Pakistan territory. The target chosen was a training camp located in a thick forest on a hilltop far away from any civilian presence. India also indicated its desire of no further escalation, as the strike was directed against the terrorist group responsible for Pulwama attack and not against the state of Pakistan, its establishment or its people. &nbsp;

The air strikes had the desired effects as it is learnt that 80 per cent of bombs struck at the precise designated targets. It not only struck the heartland of terror by striking the designated targets, but it also exhibited the Pakistan Armed Forces in poor light as they failed to detect such strike, rendering all their air defence systems surprised. It also called their nuclear bluff, as Pakistan has been holding back India from military action into their territory by blackmailing that if India crosses the LoC/IB it will respond with a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

This air strike proved that India reserves the right of self-defence and will strike terrorists wherever they are, even if amounts to getting into Pakistan territory, and would keep all options on the table, in case Pakistan decides to climb the escalation ladder in our response.&nbsp;

As expected, to salvage its pride Pakistan Air Force using three F-16 aircraft entered Indian air space with an intent to take on a military target was deterred by alert IAF combat patrol and they had to cross back to their territory. The dogfight between the F-16 and our MIG-21 resulted in both jets crashing down resulting in an unfortunate ejection of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman drifting to the Pakistani side of LoC. The Indian pilot got heroes welcome on coming back to India, whereas Pakistan refused to acknowledge the loss of F-16 aircraft and Wing Commander Shamsuddin, and preferred to hide the loss because the use of F-16 aircraft amounted to the violation of their ‘End User Agreement’ with the US. The recent flip flop by Pakistani establishment indicates its panic reaction&nbsp;after Jaish-e Mohammad (JeM) claimed the responsibility of Pulwama suicide attack.

Pakistan's DG ISPR denied the existence of JeM and its leader Maulana Masood Azhar on its soil. Later, Pakistan Foreign Minister accepted that he was in Pakistan. Subsequently, Pakistan arrested 44 JeM terrorists including Maulana Masood Azhar’s son and brother under tremendous international pressure.

Options for India post air strikes&nbsp;

In our national interest to prevent the proxy war by Pakistan, India has to use every element of CNP. It means India has to exercise a multipronged approach including - diplomatic, political, economic and military offensive against Pakistan. As the main player, the Pakistani Army will not like to compromise on promoting proxy war, because their influence and relevance in their country is due to their role of being the sole protector from “Indian threat” and keeping Kashmir issue alive. To deal with the rogue state India will have to consider some “out of box options”.&nbsp;

Diplomatic option&nbsp;

The global community is well aware of Pakistan being the epicentre of terrorism, as it continues to harbour, train, support and utilise terrorists in its surroundings to include India, Afghanistan and Iran, as its strategic assets. After Osama Bin Laden being found in Pakistan, the deniability tool of Pakistan has taken a beating. We have to keep the diplomatic offensive on so that the global community is convinced with our actions. The world opinion seems to be against Pakistan, with a fresh proposal to declare Maulana Masood Azhar a global terrorist and we need to push it through. While India may like to globally isolate Pakistan but it is practically not possible because some of the countries have a strategic interest in it. The US National Security Advisor (NSA) advocated India has the right of self-defense and the similar sentiment expressed by other states (except China) did convince the international community for our offensive-defense to prevent proxy war. The diplomatic offensive needs to continue for a long term effect because the global climate is prone to frequent changes. The US needs Pakistan to keep their interest alive in Afghanistan. Pakistan is priceless for China in terms of financial investments in CPEC. We, therefore, need smart diplomacy with China. &nbsp;

Economic offensive

Scrapping unilateral ‘Most Favoured Nation’ status and imposing 200 per cent tariffs is a symbolic gesture due to extremely low trade volume and that too skewed in our favour. We need to build a strong case with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to declare them ‘Black instead of Grey’ in the next meeting which will affect its formal economy.&nbsp;It, however, needs to be noted that the terror industry of Pakistan functions on parallel economy fuelled by narcotic trade, Pakistan Military and ISI funding. It is, therefore, imperative that we close the tap in Kashmir by the conviction of separatists involved in money laundering to the pangs of terror industry within Kashmir. Water flowing uninterrupted to Pakistan is the main source for their cultivation and power generation, more so in Punjab, which is home to the maximum ruling elite of Pakistan.&nbsp;We should start by utilising full quota of water authorised to India as per Indus water treaty, and also suspend the treaty to re-negotiate further, till Pakistan shuns proxy war against India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Political offensive &nbsp; &nbsp;

India should move a step ahead from pure sympathy and moral support towards the barbaric treatment of Balochi nationals by the Pakistani military. India could consider giving asylum to their leaders and later may step up to allow them to form the ‘government in exile’ in India. India should start asserting its legal right over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Military options

India has called the Pakistani bluff about the use of nuclear weapons and has all the options on the table to respond militarily to Pakistan proxy war. The space for the conventional war exists between the proxy and nuclear war. Pakistan is unlikely to adopt the nuclear option it has. Also, India should continue taking appropriate measures to bring all the separatists and facilitators of Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir to books. &nbsp; 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. The surgical strikes launched in 2016 after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT and others.

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. The surgical strikes launched in 2016 after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT and others. They continue infiltrating into India with the help of Pakistani Army and ISI, kill innocent people and lure the youth of Kashmir towards the misplaced version of Jihad, after a prolonged dose of radicalisation through Madrasas in the name of education. Some segments of the youth of Kashmir find a reason to be lured by money and privileges offered to them. The absence of any worthwhile industries due to lack of investors due to provisions like Article 370, deterring any sensible industrialist to invest in Kashmir is another reason for growing fundamentalism. The recent terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy killed at least 40 personnel. The attack, claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) which has the patronage of the Pakistan Army and ISI, proved that proxy war against India has become the state policy of Pakistan. India had no other option but to give a befitting response. India is now convinced that surgical treatment of the terrorists is required by the complete application of ‘Comprehensive National Power’ (CNP) of India because Pakistan was unlikely to take any action against them. The air strikes and aftermath On February 26, 2019, a set of 12 Mirage 2000 aircraft carried out pinpoint precision strikes using SPICE-2000 guidance kit fitted on conventional bombs, making them highly accurate ‘smart bombs’ carrying out this daring raid/surgical airstrike to destroy the largest training camp of JeM. The strikes were non-military, pre-emptive action, specifically targeted at the JeM camp at Balakot in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province deep inside Pakistan territory. The target chosen was a training camp located in a thick forest on a hilltop far away from any civilian presence. India also indicated its desire of no further escalation, as the strike was directed against the terrorist group responsible for Pulwama attack and not against the state of Pakistan, its establishment or its people. The air strikes had the desired effects as it is learnt that 80 per cent of bombs struck at the precise designated targets. It not only struck the heartland of terror by striking the designated targets, but it also exhibited the Pakistan Armed Forces in poor light as they failed to detect such strike, rendering all their air defence systems surprised. It also called their nuclear bluff, as Pakistan has been holding back India from military action into their territory by blackmailing that if India crosses the LoC/IB it will respond with a nuclear weapon. This air strike proved that India reserves the right of self-defence and will strike terrorists wherever they are, even if amounts to getting into Pakistan territory, and would keep all options on the table, in case Pakistan decides to climb the escalation ladder in our response. As expected, to salvage its pride Pakistan Air Force using three F-16 aircraft entered Indian air space with an intent to take on a military target was deterred by alert IAF combat patrol and they had to cross back to their territory. The dogfight between the F-16 and our MIG-21 resulted in both jets crashing down resulting in an unfortunate ejection of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman drifting to the Pakistani side of LoC. The Indian pilot got heroes welcome on coming back to India, whereas Pakistan refused to acknowledge the loss of F-16 aircraft and Wing Commander Shamsuddin, and preferred to hide the loss because the use of F-16 aircraft amounted to the violation of their ‘End User Agreement’ with the US. The recent flip flop by Pakistani establishment indicates its panic reaction after Jaish-e Mohammad (JeM) claimed the responsibility of Pulwama suicide attack. Pakistan's DG ISPR denied the existence of JeM and its leader Maulana Masood Azhar on its soil. Later, Pakistan Foreign Minister accepted that he was in Pakistan. Subsequently, Pakistan arrested 44 JeM terrorists including Maulana Masood Azhar’s son and brother under tremendous international pressure. Options for India post air strikes In our national interest to prevent the proxy war by Pakistan, India has to use every element of CNP. It means India has to exercise a multipronged approach including - diplomatic, political, economic and military offensive against Pakistan. As the main player, the Pakistani Army will not like to compromise on promoting proxy war, because their influence and relevance in their country is due to their role of being the sole protector from “Indian threat” and keeping Kashmir issue alive. To deal with the rogue state India will have to consider some “out of box options”. Diplomatic option The global community is well aware of Pakistan being the epicentre of terrorism, as it continues to harbour, train, support and utilise terrorists in its surroundings to include India, Afghanistan and Iran, as its strategic assets. After Osama Bin Laden being found in Pakistan, the deniability tool of Pakistan has taken a beating. We have to keep the diplomatic offensive on so that the global community is convinced with our actions. The world opinion seems to be against Pakistan, with a fresh proposal to declare Maulana Masood Azhar a global terrorist and we need to push it through. While India may like to globally isolate Pakistan but it is practically not possible because some of the countries have a strategic interest in it. The US National Security Advisor (NSA) advocated India has the right of self-defense and the similar sentiment expressed by other states (except China) did convince the international community for our offensive-defense to prevent proxy war. The diplomatic offensive needs to continue for a long term effect because the global climate is prone to frequent changes. The US needs Pakistan to keep their interest alive in Afghanistan. Pakistan is priceless for China in terms of financial investments in CPEC. We, therefore, need smart diplomacy with China. Economic offensive Scrapping unilateral ‘Most Favoured Nation’ status and imposing 200 per cent tariffs is a symbolic gesture due to extremely low trade volume and that too skewed in our favour. We need to build a strong case with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to declare them ‘Black instead of Grey’ in the next meeting which will affect its formal economy. It, however, needs to be noted that the terror industry of Pakistan functions on parallel economy fuelled by narcotic trade, Pakistan Military and ISI funding. It is, therefore, imperative that we close the tap in Kashmir by the conviction of separatists involved in money laundering to the pangs of terror industry within Kashmir. Water flowing uninterrupted to Pakistan is the main source for their cultivation and power generation, more so in Punjab, which is home to the maximum ruling elite of Pakistan. We should start by utilising full quota of water authorised to India as per Indus water treaty, and also suspend the treaty to re-negotiate further, till Pakistan shuns proxy war against India. Political offensive India should move a step ahead from pure sympathy and moral support towards the barbaric treatment of Balochi nationals by the Pakistani military. India could consider giving asylum to their leaders and later may step up to allow them to form the ‘government in exile’ in India. India should start asserting its legal right over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Military options India has called the Pakistani bluff about the use of nuclear weapons and has all the options on the table to respond militarily to Pakistan proxy war. The space for the conventional war exists between the proxy and nuclear war. Pakistan is unlikely to adopt the nuclear option it has. Also, India should continue taking appropriate measures to bring all the separatists and facilitators of Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir to books. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India must opt for 'out-of-box' options to counter proxy war by Pakistan

The Indian Army on Saturday shot down a drone which intruded in Sri Ganganagar sector of Rajasthan.

The Army said that one Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) intruded in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar sector around 7.30 pm on Saturday."The drone was engaged and brought down," the Army added.

This comes after the Army on Friday shot at a Pakistani drone along the international border in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar sector."The Indian Army shot down the drone while it was making an attempt to enter the Indian airspace, "army sources said.

This is the fourth <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-shoots-at-another-pakistani-drone-in-rajasthan-202188">Pakistani drone</a> that has been shot at by the Indian security forces since the Indian Air Force carried out air strike at the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.

On Monday, the second drone was shot down in the Bikaner sector of Rajasthan, while the first drone was shot down on the morning of February 26 after it intruded Indian air space in Kutch district of Gujarat.

The Indian Army on Saturday shot down a drone which intruded in Sri Ganganagar sector of Rajasthan. The Army said that one Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) intruded in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar sector around 7.

The Indian Army on Saturday shot down a drone which intruded in Sri Ganganagar sector of Rajasthan. The Army said that one Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) intruded in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar sector around 7.30 pm on Saturday."The drone was engaged and brought down," the Army added. This comes after the Army on Friday shot at a Pakistani drone along the international border in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar sector."The Indian Army shot down the drone while it was making an attempt to enter the Indian airspace, "army sources said. This is the fourth Pakistani drone that has been shot at by the Indian security forces since the Indian Air Force carried out air strike at the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26. On Monday, the second drone was shot down in the Bikaner sector of Rajasthan, while the first drone was shot down on the morning of February 26 after it intruded Indian air space in Kutch district of Gujarat.

Pakistani drone shot down in Sri Ganganagar sector near Indo-Pak border

India on Saturday said its non-military strike on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strike-heres-why-balakot-was-chosen-by-indian-air-force-199792">JeM camp in Pakistan</a> achieved its desired objective and demonstrated the country's firm resolve to take decisive action against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-carries-out-air-strikes-in-pakistan-199776">cross border terrorism.</a>

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, at a media briefing, also said that an Indian Air Force MiG-21 Bison, piloted by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down a Pakistan Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft and there were eyewitness accounts and electronic evidence for it.

"We have also shared evidence in the form of parts of AMRAAM missile which were recovered from the site and are only carried by F-16 aircraft of the PAF," he said.

"Our non-military counter-terrorism strike achieved the desired objective. It has demonstrated our firm resolve to take decisive action against cross border terrorism," he said.

Only one aircraft was lost by India during Pakistan's unsuccessful attempt at targeting Indian military installations, he said.

Kumar also said if, as Pakistan claims, it has evidence of downing of second Indian aircraft then why has it not shared it.

Since the Pulwama terror attack the international community has stood by India, Kumar said.

It is unfortunate that Pakistan still continues to deny JeM's own claim of carrying out the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, he said.

Kumar asserted that Pakistan-based terror groups were conducting their activities without any hindrance.

Pakistan must show credible, verifiable and sustained action against terror groups operating from its soil, he said.

On the issue of the fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's extradition, the MEA spokesperson said the UK is still considering India's request.

India is taking all steps necessary for his extradition, he asserted.

India on Saturday said its non-military strike on JeM camp in Pakistan achieved its desired objective and demonstrated the country's firm resolve to take decisive action against cross border terrorism.

India on Saturday said its non-military strike on JeM camp in Pakistan achieved its desired objective and demonstrated the country's firm resolve to take decisive action against cross border terrorism. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, at a media briefing, also said that an Indian Air Force MiG-21 Bison, piloted by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down a Pakistan Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft and there were eyewitness accounts and electronic evidence for it. "We have also shared evidence in the form of parts of AMRAAM missile which were recovered from the site and are only carried by F-16 aircraft of the PAF," he said. "Our non-military counter-terrorism strike achieved the desired objective. It has demonstrated our firm resolve to take decisive action against cross border terrorism," he said. Only one aircraft was lost by India during Pakistan's unsuccessful attempt at targeting Indian military installations, he said. Kumar also said if, as Pakistan claims, it has evidence of downing of second Indian aircraft then why has it not shared it. Since the Pulwama terror attack the international community has stood by India, Kumar said. It is unfortunate that Pakistan still continues to deny JeM's own claim of carrying out the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, he said. Kumar asserted that Pakistan-based terror groups were conducting their activities without any hindrance. Pakistan must show credible, verifiable and sustained action against terror groups operating from its soil, he said. On the issue of the fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's extradition, the MEA spokesperson said the UK is still considering India's request. India is taking all steps necessary for his extradition, he asserted.

Balakot counter-terrorism strike on JeM camp in Pakistan achieved its objective, says India

WION Gravitas: Balakot out of bounds for journalists after IAF Airstrikes

Gravitas: Politics over IAF strike in Balakot

India confirms action in Balakot over

Defence Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-not-believe-in-people-who-spread-rumours-nirmala-sitharaman-to-ex-servicemen-201119">Nirmala Sitharaman</a> said Tuesday the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-options-available-if-there-is-another-terrorist-strike-official-sources-201309">Indian Air Force strike</a> that destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot area was "not a military action" as there was no civilian casualty.

She also said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had not given any casualty figure in his media briefing after the air strike and only gave a statement which is the government's "position".

Gokhale has said the non-military and preemptive strike on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-dossiers-on-pulwama-contain-no-actionable-evidence-claim-pakistani-media-quoting-sources-201161">Jaish-e-Mohammed </a>training camp killed a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.

Sitharaman's remarks come amid some Opposition leader demanding evidence about the number of terrorists killed in the air strike.

The IAF, which carried out the strike on February 26, said on Monday that government would provide details on the casualty figures as the Air Force only sees if a target has been hit or not.

On Tuesday, the defence minister said, "There was no need to analyse more on Balakot strike" as she declined to link the air strike on terror camp with the coming Lok Sabha election.

"After Pulwama attack, we were waiting patiently for days... When we got information the terrorist attacks were originating from that region (Pakistan), without military action, we carried out the strike pointedly," she told reporters in Chennai on the sidelines of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM), a pension scheme.

"Civilians in the vicinity or surrounding areas were not affected in any way, so we have been saying the strike we carried out after Pulwama suicide bombing was not a military action," she added.

On February 14, a suicide bomber of the Pakistan-based JeM group rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a bus in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, killing 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel.

Sitharaman said Pakistan has failed to take action against terror groups despite India providing details of terrorist training camps.

"Pakistan has been informed about terrorist camps, with proof, by the present (NDA) and previous UPA government. But they neither took action, nor did they remove the terrorist training camps."

"Pakistan has been denying this globally, saying it was also a victim of terrorism," she said.

On peace talks proposed by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Sitharaman said, "We have always been telling that India will be ready to hold talks only if they act against terrorism."

Earlier, she distributed the first 10 identity cards to the beneficiaries of PMSYM, marking the launch of the scheme.

Around 20,000 beneficiaries from Tamil Nadu would be joining the pension scheme Monday, out of 72 lakh unorganised sector workers.

Appealing to the state government to increase the number of Common Service Centres and 'Amma' e-seva centres in the state, Sitharaman said PMSYM along with similar schemes of the state government would fetch Rs 4,000 pension to the beneficiaries.

Unorganised sector workers up to 40 years of age can subscribe to PMSYM, which entails a minimum monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to them from 60 years of age.

The scheme, announced in the Budget for 2019-20, is targeted at unorganised sector workers with a monthly income of up to Rs 15,000.

It mandates a monthly contribution of Rs 55 for an 18-year-old worker with equal contribution from the Centre.

The worker joining the scheme at the age of 40 years would contribute Rs 200, while workers at the age of 29 years would pay Rs 100.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Tuesday the Indian Air Force strike that destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot area was "not a military action" as there was no civilian casualty.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Tuesday the Indian Air Force strike that destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot area was "not a military action" as there was no civilian casualty. She also said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had not given any casualty figure in his media briefing after the air strike and only gave a statement which is the government's "position". Gokhale has said the non-military and preemptive strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp killed a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. Sitharaman's remarks come amid some Opposition leader demanding evidence about the number of terrorists killed in the air strike. The IAF, which carried out the strike on February 26, said on Monday that government would provide details on the casualty figures as the Air Force only sees if a target has been hit or not. On Tuesday, the defence minister said, "There was no need to analyse more on Balakot strike" as she declined to link the air strike on terror camp with the coming Lok Sabha election. "After Pulwama attack, we were waiting patiently for days... When we got information the terrorist attacks were originating from that region (Pakistan), without military action, we carried out the strike pointedly," she told reporters in Chennai on the sidelines of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM), a pension scheme. "Civilians in the vicinity or surrounding areas were not affected in any way, so we have been saying the strike we carried out after Pulwama suicide bombing was not a military action," she added. On February 14, a suicide bomber of the Pakistan-based JeM group rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a bus in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, killing 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel. Sitharaman said Pakistan has failed to take action against terror groups despite India providing details of terrorist training camps. "Pakistan has been informed about terrorist camps, with proof, by the present (NDA) and previous UPA government. But they neither took action, nor did they remove the terrorist training camps." "Pakistan has been denying this globally, saying it was also a victim of terrorism," she said. On peace talks proposed by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Sitharaman said, "We have always been telling that India will be ready to hold talks only if they act against terrorism." Earlier, she distributed the first 10 identity cards to the beneficiaries of PMSYM, marking the launch of the scheme. Around 20,000 beneficiaries from Tamil Nadu would be joining the pension scheme Monday, out of 72 lakh unorganised sector workers. Appealing to the state government to increase the number of Common Service Centres and 'Amma' e-seva centres in the state, Sitharaman said PMSYM along with similar schemes of the state government would fetch Rs 4,000 pension to the beneficiaries. Unorganised sector workers up to 40 years of age can subscribe to PMSYM, which entails a minimum monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to them from 60 years of age. The scheme, announced in the Budget for 2019-20, is targeted at unorganised sector workers with a monthly income of up to Rs 15,000. It mandates a monthly contribution of Rs 55 for an 18-year-old worker with equal contribution from the Centre. The worker joining the scheme at the age of 40 years would contribute Rs 200, while workers at the age of 29 years would pay Rs 100.

Balakot air strike 'non-military action' as no civilian casualty caused: Nirmala Sitharaman

A Pakistani drone violated Indian air space in Rajasthan Monday morning and was shot down by the Indian Air Force.&nbsp;

The incident took place at about 11.30 am.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI reported that the&nbsp;drone was detected by Indian air defence radars, and then shot down by&nbsp;a Sukhoi 30MKI&nbsp;by its air-to-air missile opposite the Bikaner-Nal sector.

Debris from the drone fell on the Pakistani side.

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Rajasthan: At 11:30 am today a Sukhoi 30MKI shot down a Pakistani drone at the Bikaner Nal sector area of the border. Drone was detected by Indian Air Defence radars <a href="https://t.co/Ijc4B4XzjN">pic.twitter.com/Ijc4B4XzjN</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1102562963058278402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Su-30 aircraft was scrambled after the Pakistani drone was detected entering the Indian air space to survey the Indian Defence positions in the desert sector, sources said.

The ground radars stationed there had seen the drone on the radar first.

This is the second drone which has been shot down by the Indian Air Force. The first was shot down on the morning of February 26 after it intruded Indian air space in Kutch district of Gujarat. The drone was downed by the Spyder air defence system using its Derby missile.&nbsp;

Indian and Pakistani forces are currently on high alert.&nbsp;

India hit a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26.&nbsp;

A day later Pakistan dropped bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control without crossing the LoC.&nbsp;

India's airstrike on the JeM terror group's training camp followed the terrorist attack on a security convoy in Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14. The attack, in which at least 40 CRPF personnel died, was claimed by the JeM.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

A Pakistani drone violated Indian air space in Rajasthan Monday morning and was shot down by the Indian Air Force. The incident took place at about 11.30 am. The news agency ANI reported that the drone was detected by Indian air defence radars, and then shot down by a Sukhoi 30MKI by its air-to-air missile opposite the Bikaner-Nal sector.

A Pakistani drone violated Indian air space in Rajasthan Monday morning and was shot down by the Indian Air Force. The incident took place at about 11.30 am. The news agency ANI reported that the drone was detected by Indian air defence radars, and then shot down by a Sukhoi 30MKI by its air-to-air missile opposite the Bikaner-Nal sector. Debris from the drone fell on the Pakistani side. Rajasthan: At 11:30 am today a Sukhoi 30MKI shot down a Pakistani drone at the Bikaner Nal sector area of the border. Drone was detected by Indian Air Defence radars pic.twitter.com/Ijc4B4XzjN — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2019 × The Su-30 aircraft was scrambled after the Pakistani drone was detected entering the Indian air space to survey the Indian Defence positions in the desert sector, sources said. The ground radars stationed there had seen the drone on the radar first. This is the second drone which has been shot down by the Indian Air Force. The first was shot down on the morning of February 26 after it intruded Indian air space in Kutch district of Gujarat. The drone was downed by the Spyder air defence system using its Derby missile. Indian and Pakistani forces are currently on high alert. India hit a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26. A day later Pakistan dropped bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control without crossing the LoC. India's airstrike on the JeM terror group's training camp followed the terrorist attack on a security convoy in Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14. The attack, in which at least 40 CRPF personnel died, was claimed by the JeM. (With inputs from ANI)

Indian Air Force shoots down Pakistani drone in Rajasthan

Exclusive: WION examines Balakot air-strikes by Indian Air Force

JeM admits to damage caused by IAF strike, says India struck our centre in Balakot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft.

He said the country has seen the influence of India's foreign policy after the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan within three days of his capture.

Modi took on the opposition over the issue of air strike, saying while the entire world stood behind India in its fight against terror, some parties in the country were questioning and raising doubts.

He also hit out at his detractors, saying they are free to criticise him but their anti-Modi tirade should not harm the country's security interests and help terrorists such as Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed.

"India is feeling the absence of Rafale. The entire country is saying in one voice today if we had Rafale probably the result would have been different. The country has suffered a lot due to selfish interests earlier and now politics over Rafale," he said at the India Today Conclave.

He hit out at his detractors and said in their obsession to attack him, such people were harming the country and its security interests.

"One of the challenges before the country is some people opposing their own country. When the entire nation today is standing with the armed forces, some parties are casting doubts on them.

"These are the parties whose statements and articles are being used by Pakistan against India. In their fixation with criticising Modi, they are opposing the country and compromising its interests," the PM said.

"I want to ask these people whether they trust the capability of our armed forces or doubt it...A person like Modi will come and go, but India will remain...I want to tell such people that they are free to oppose Modi and point out shortcomings in the government's work, but do not help those harbouring terrorism.

"If you want to oppose Modi, do so, but do not oppose national interests. They should take care that their anti-Modi obsession and not help terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed," he said at the gathering.

He said that India's unity has scared many within the country and outside. He said there was fear in the neighbouring country of the bravery and valour of Indian armed forces and it was good to learn that.

Modi said, "I can say with full confidence that the 21st century belongs to India."&nbsp;

On pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's release, he said, "Going by the events in the last few days, you would have seen the influence of India's foreign policy. Have you seen or not."&nbsp;

Modi said people had raised doubts over his experience in foreign policy issues when he took over as prime minister. 
Tearing into the Congress, Modi alleged its rule saw many defence scams. "They began with jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. The defence sector suffered in the process," he said.

"Those who ruled the nation for many many years had interests in two things - doles and deals. The culture of doles and deals harmed our nation's development journey greatly.

"Why is it that those who ruled the nation for so many years have so many defence scams in their era? They began with Jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. In the process, the defence sector suffered.

"If a deal could not happen, defence modernisation could not happen. Who is every dealmaker close to? Who is every middle-man close to? The entire nation knows. And Lutyens' Delhi, surely knows," he told the gathering.

Modi said during his tenure, 2.3 lakh bulletproof jackets were bought while previous Congress-led government ignored the proposal since 2009. The jackets he said were most important for the life of a soldier.

"You would be ashamed to know that not one, I repeat not one bulletproof jacket was obtained from 2009 to 2014," he said.

"In our tenure, the corridors of power are also free from middlemen because they know, this government will not tolerate any corruption," he said.

"While they (Congress) worked for 10 per cent commission, our governments work for 100 per cent mission," he noted.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism. The government has denied the charges.

The prime minister also criticised the previous Congress governments for not doing anything to implement the OROP (One rank, one pension) scheme for armed forces and asked why was there no war memorial for the martyred soldiers.

Modi noted that unlike in the past, now no one can dare to threaten India and said, "the new India is a leader, fearless and decisive", adding that his government was decisive due to the unity of the people of the country.

Modi said his government's 55 months in power and 55 years of others' rule had given two contrasting approaches to governance. Previous governments had a "token approach", "we have a total approach'," he said.

Modi said Congress government gave away doles that were not aimed at empowering the poor, who remained at the mercy of the political class.

"The best example of this is the farm loan waivers. No economist or policy expert will ever say farm loan waivers can solve our agrarian issues. It is a temporary balm at best," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft. He said the country has seen the influence of India's foreign policy after the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan within three days of his capture. Modi took on the opposition over the issue of air strike, saying while the entire world stood behind India in its fight against terror, some parties in the country were questioning and raising doubts. He also hit out at his detractors, saying they are free to criticise him but their anti-Modi tirade should not harm the country's security interests and help terrorists such as Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed. "India is feeling the absence of Rafale. The entire country is saying in one voice today if we had Rafale probably the result would have been different. The country has suffered a lot due to selfish interests earlier and now politics over Rafale," he said at the India Today Conclave. He hit out at his detractors and said in their obsession to attack him, such people were harming the country and its security interests. "One of the challenges before the country is some people opposing their own country. When the entire nation today is standing with the armed forces, some parties are casting doubts on them. "These are the parties whose statements and articles are being used by Pakistan against India. In their fixation with criticising Modi, they are opposing the country and compromising its interests," the PM said. "I want to ask these people whether they trust the capability of our armed forces or doubt it...A person like Modi will come and go, but India will remain...I want to tell such people that they are free to oppose Modi and point out shortcomings in the government's work, but do not help those harbouring terrorism. "If you want to oppose Modi, do so, but do not oppose national interests. They should take care that their anti-Modi obsession and not help terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed," he said at the gathering. He said that India's unity has scared many within the country and outside. He said there was fear in the neighbouring country of the bravery and valour of Indian armed forces and it was good to learn that. Modi said, "I can say with full confidence that the 21st century belongs to India." On pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's release, he said, "Going by the events in the last few days, you would have seen the influence of India's foreign policy. Have you seen or not." Modi said people had raised doubts over his experience in foreign policy issues when he took over as prime minister. Tearing into the Congress, Modi alleged its rule saw many defence scams. "They began with jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. The defence sector suffered in the process," he said. "Those who ruled the nation for many many years had interests in two things - doles and deals. The culture of doles and deals harmed our nation's development journey greatly. "Why is it that those who ruled the nation for so many years have so many defence scams in their era? They began with Jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. In the process, the defence sector suffered. "If a deal could not happen, defence modernisation could not happen. Who is every dealmaker close to? Who is every middle-man close to? The entire nation knows. And Lutyens' Delhi, surely knows," he told the gathering. Modi said during his tenure, 2.3 lakh bulletproof jackets were bought while previous Congress-led government ignored the proposal since 2009. The jackets he said were most important for the life of a soldier. "You would be ashamed to know that not one, I repeat not one bulletproof jacket was obtained from 2009 to 2014," he said. "In our tenure, the corridors of power are also free from middlemen because they know, this government will not tolerate any corruption," he said. "While they (Congress) worked for 10 per cent commission, our governments work for 100 per cent mission," he noted. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism. The government has denied the charges. The prime minister also criticised the previous Congress governments for not doing anything to implement the OROP (One rank, one pension) scheme for armed forces and asked why was there no war memorial for the martyred soldiers. Modi noted that unlike in the past, now no one can dare to threaten India and said, "the new India is a leader, fearless and decisive", adding that his government was decisive due to the unity of the people of the country. Modi said his government's 55 months in power and 55 years of others' rule had given two contrasting approaches to governance. Previous governments had a "token approach", "we have a total approach'," he said. Modi said Congress government gave away doles that were not aimed at empowering the poor, who remained at the mercy of the political class. "The best example of this is the farm loan waivers. No economist or policy expert will ever say farm loan waivers can solve our agrarian issues. It is a temporary balm at best," he said.

PM Modi says country missing Rafale, slams opposition for doubting Balakot air strike

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jem-chief-masood-azhar-suspected-to-be-afflicted-with-renal-failure-undergoes-regular-dialysis-200758">the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan,</a>&nbsp;officials said on Sunday.

The officials said they had no information other than that Azhar was undergoing treatment at an army hospital after suffering renal failure.

A resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab province, Azhar formed the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2000.

The 50-year-old Azhar, who was released by the NDA government in 1999 in exchange of hostages of the hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814, has been accused of being the mastermind of the 2001 Parliament attack, suicide attack on Jammu and Kashmir state assembly, attack on Pathankot IAF base and the latest Pulwama terror strike.

The social media was filled with reports that Azhar had died, but there was no confirmation as of now, the officials said.&nbsp;

Jaish terror group's Balakot camp, where training was imparted to recruits to carry out suicide attacks, was targeted by the IAF in an air strike last week, following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The government has claimed that it achieved spectacular success by destroying the facility.

In an interview to CNN, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi earlier admitted that the JeM chief is in Pakistan and is "very unwell", but said the government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law.

"He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said.&nbsp;

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan, officials said on Sunday.

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan, officials said on Sunday. The officials said they had no information other than that Azhar was undergoing treatment at an army hospital after suffering renal failure. A resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab province, Azhar formed the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2000. The 50-year-old Azhar, who was released by the NDA government in 1999 in exchange of hostages of the hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814, has been accused of being the mastermind of the 2001 Parliament attack, suicide attack on Jammu and Kashmir state assembly, attack on Pathankot IAF base and the latest Pulwama terror strike. The social media was filled with reports that Azhar had died, but there was no confirmation as of now, the officials said. Jaish terror group's Balakot camp, where training was imparted to recruits to carry out suicide attacks, was targeted by the IAF in an air strike last week, following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The government has claimed that it achieved spectacular success by destroying the facility. In an interview to CNN, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi earlier admitted that the JeM chief is in Pakistan and is "very unwell", but said the government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law. "He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said.

Is JeM chief Masood Azhar dead? Intelligence agencies verifying reports, say officials

An Italian journalist has told WION that between 40 to 50 people were killed in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-not-face-any-physical-torture-but-went-through-a-lot-of-mental-harassment-abhinandan-on-his-captivity-in-pakistan-200734">the Indian air strikes on Pakistan's Balakot</a> on Tuesday night. The air strikes — carried out by Mirage 2000s — Indian authorities have said, targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp.&nbsp;

Reports in the Indian media had earlier said the death toll may have been as high as 350.

The Pakistanis had said there had been no deaths at all.&nbsp;

The journalist — Francesca Marino — told WION that she had got confirmation from her source that the death toll was between 40 and 50, and the wounded between 35 to 40.&nbsp;

She told WION's Bhairavi Singh her source was a person living in the area.&nbsp;

"Yesterday I've got confirmations... 100% reliable confirmations," Marino, who was speaking from Rome, told WION.&nbsp;

Marino said her source told her ambulances arrived at the site after the air strikes, that the cellphones of the ambulance staff were taken away, and that at least 35 bodies were carried away (see video above).&nbsp;

She added that the dead included 12 young trainees of the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group who had all been sleeping in the same area.&nbsp;

And that they included a retired Pakistani Army colonel and another colonel. (Marino wrote Saturday morning in an Indian newspaper that "a former Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) officer known locally as 'Colonel Salim'&nbsp;was killed in the bombing, while a 'Colonel Zarar Zakri'&nbsp;was injured.")&nbsp;

Marino told WION that the dead included a JeM trainer called Mufti Moeen, and a&nbsp;bomb expert called Usman Ghani. &nbsp;

Marino added that "the population there is very scared, it is very difficult to get evidence out of there" but that "I am confident I will also get some video proof".&nbsp;

Marino's Twitter handle describes her as a South Asia specialist and a co-author of the book 'Apocalypse Pakistan'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An Italian journalist has told WION that between 40 to 50 people were killed in the Indian air strikes on Pakistan's Balakot on Tuesday night. The air strikes — carried out by Mirage 2000s — Indian authorities have said, targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp.

An Italian journalist has told WION that between 40 to 50 people were killed in the Indian air strikes on Pakistan's Balakot on Tuesday night. The air strikes — carried out by Mirage 2000s — Indian authorities have said, targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp. Reports in the Indian media had earlier said the death toll may have been as high as 350. The Pakistanis had said there had been no deaths at all. The journalist — Francesca Marino — told WION that she had got confirmation from her source that the death toll was between 40 and 50, and the wounded between 35 to 40. She told WION's Bhairavi Singh her source was a person living in the area. "Yesterday I've got confirmations... 100% reliable confirmations," Marino, who was speaking from Rome, told WION. Marino said her source told her ambulances arrived at the site after the air strikes, that the cellphones of the ambulance staff were taken away, and that at least 35 bodies were carried away (see video above). She added that the dead included 12 young trainees of the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group who had all been sleeping in the same area. And that they included a retired Pakistani Army colonel and another colonel. (Marino wrote Saturday morning in an Indian newspaper that "a former Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) officer known locally as 'Colonel Salim' was killed in the bombing, while a 'Colonel Zarar Zakri' was injured.") Marino told WION that the dead included a JeM trainer called Mufti Moeen, and a bomb expert called Usman Ghani. Marino added that "the population there is very scared, it is very difficult to get evidence out of there" but that "I am confident I will also get some video proof". Marino's Twitter handle describes her as a South Asia specialist and a co-author of the book 'Apocalypse Pakistan'.

Between 40 to 50 killed in Indian air strike on Pakistan's Balakot: Italian journalist quoting eyewitness

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-returns-to-india-from-pakistan-200585"> Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror </a>camp inside Pakistan.

The suggestion came when f<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/iaf-pilot-wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-crosses-wagah-border-reaches-india-200569">oreign secretary Vijay Gokhale</a> briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on external affairs about the latest developments that have taken place between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by the JeM in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The panel told the foreign secretary that the government should highlight the impact of the air strike and the information about the extent of damage, including casualties, suffered by the JeM.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

This will ensure that no international agency questions the impact of the strike, a member of the panel said.&nbsp;

Gokhale, who was assisted by officials of the Ministry of external affairs (MEA), informed the panel's members about the air strike on the JeM terror camp in Pakistan and also about the retaliation by the western neighbour, a source said.

A committee member, who was present in the meeting, said foreign ministry officials had briefed the panel earlier in October when Imran Khan was elected prime minister of Pakistan.

On Friday, the briefing included the MEA's assessment of the Pakistan prime minister's tenure so far, the member said.

The foreign secretary also told the panel that an attempt by the Pakistan Air Force on to target military installations in India was unsuccessful as it was thwarted by the Indian Air Force, which lost a jet in the fight back.

The members told the foreign secretary that the government should vigorously publicise across the world the reasons behind New Delhi's move to target the terror camp, a member later said.

Another member said the foreign secretary detailed the diplomatic measures that the ministry took right from after the Pulwama attack to the ensuing air strike, and efforts thereon to seek out the international community to brief them about the impasse, in an effort to isolate Pakistan globally.

Foreign Secretary Gokhale assured the committee that diplomatic overtures to the international community were still underway.

He also informed the members on how India got the support of the members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on the issue.&nbsp;

In a major diplomatic achievement, India on Friday for the first time addressed the OIC meeting in Abu Dhabi where External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is a guest of honour.

Pakistan has boycotted the plenary session of the OIC meet to protest India's participation there.&nbsp;

One of the parliamentary panel's members also said while a slew of questions were asked to the foreign secretary about the anti-terror strikes against Pakistan, Gokhale was "cautious" about answering them, taking the stand that he could not reveal much because of the "sensitive nature" of the information and "national security".&nbsp;

The panel raised some queries about the assessment of damage caused by the air strike, but Gokhale said he was not authorised to divulge details.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Congress president Rahul Gandhi is a member of the committee but was not present in the meeting Friday.

The panel members also lauded the armed forces, including the IAF, and described the air strike as a "glorious and heroic" job which needs to be widely publicised.

The purpose of the meeting, described as good and constructive, was part of "parliamentary accountability" and the MEA gave a briefing in this regard, a member said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The meeting was attended by chairperson Shashi Tharoor, Arka Keshari Deo, Prof Richard Hay, Jagdambika Pal, Magannti Venakateshwara Rao, Mohammad Salim, P Bhattacharya, Sambhaji Chhatrapati, Swapan Dasgupta, Chunibhai Kanjibhai Gohel and Kumar Ketkar.

Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir.

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp inside Pakistan.

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp inside Pakistan. The suggestion came when foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on external affairs about the latest developments that have taken place between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by the JeM in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The panel told the foreign secretary that the government should highlight the impact of the air strike and the information about the extent of damage, including casualties, suffered by the JeM. This will ensure that no international agency questions the impact of the strike, a member of the panel said. Gokhale, who was assisted by officials of the Ministry of external affairs (MEA), informed the panel's members about the air strike on the JeM terror camp in Pakistan and also about the retaliation by the western neighbour, a source said. A committee member, who was present in the meeting, said foreign ministry officials had briefed the panel earlier in October when Imran Khan was elected prime minister of Pakistan. On Friday, the briefing included the MEA's assessment of the Pakistan prime minister's tenure so far, the member said. The foreign secretary also told the panel that an attempt by the Pakistan Air Force on to target military installations in India was unsuccessful as it was thwarted by the Indian Air Force, which lost a jet in the fight back. The members told the foreign secretary that the government should vigorously publicise across the world the reasons behind New Delhi's move to target the terror camp, a member later said. Another member said the foreign secretary detailed the diplomatic measures that the ministry took right from after the Pulwama attack to the ensuing air strike, and efforts thereon to seek out the international community to brief them about the impasse, in an effort to isolate Pakistan globally. Foreign Secretary Gokhale assured the committee that diplomatic overtures to the international community were still underway. He also informed the members on how India got the support of the members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on the issue. In a major diplomatic achievement, India on Friday for the first time addressed the OIC meeting in Abu Dhabi where External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is a guest of honour. Pakistan has boycotted the plenary session of the OIC meet to protest India's participation there. One of the parliamentary panel's members also said while a slew of questions were asked to the foreign secretary about the anti-terror strikes against Pakistan, Gokhale was "cautious" about answering them, taking the stand that he could not reveal much because of the "sensitive nature" of the information and "national security". The panel raised some queries about the assessment of damage caused by the air strike, but Gokhale said he was not authorised to divulge details. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is a member of the committee but was not present in the meeting Friday. The panel members also lauded the armed forces, including the IAF, and described the air strike as a "glorious and heroic" job which needs to be widely publicised. The purpose of the meeting, described as good and constructive, was part of "parliamentary accountability" and the MEA gave a briefing in this regard, a member said. The meeting was attended by chairperson Shashi Tharoor, Arka Keshari Deo, Prof Richard Hay, Jagdambika Pal, Magannti Venakateshwara Rao, Mohammad Salim, P Bhattacharya, Sambhaji Chhatrapati, Swapan Dasgupta, Chunibhai Kanjibhai Gohel and Kumar Ketkar. Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir.

Go all out to explain to world reasons behind air strike: Parliamentary panel to govt

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday mocked what he called ''compelled contrarians'' who, he said, did not know the difference between 'Balakot' and 'Bala Kote' and started spreading misinformation without realising that Indian forces would not launch an attack in its own territory.

"When our Air Force reached Balakot in KPK (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa) before we could get any information, some people started saying Balakot is along the Line of Control (LoC). Some people whom I call compulsive contrarians found a new Balakot and did not check that Bala Kote is in our Poonch (sector). Why would our forces attack our territory?" Jaitley was quoted as saying by news agency ANI during the release of the book ‘Mann ki Baat – A Social Revolution on Radio’.

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FM Jaitley:When our Air Force reached Balakot in KPK before we could get any info some ppl started saying Balakot is along LoC.Some ppl whom I call compulsive contrarians found a new Balakot&amp;didn't check that, that Bala Kote is in our Poonch.Why'd our forces attack our territory? <a href="https://t.co/hRINtQS9so">pic.twitter.com/hRINtQS9so</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1101740438577270784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Balakot was earlier confused with Bala Kote, which is located along the LoC and is very close to Rajouri and Azmatabad in Jammu and Kashmir.

Confirming that the aerial strikes took place deep inside Pakistan, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had said the “pre-emptive” strike in Balakot by India had become absolutely necessary as there was credible information that JeM was planning further attacks.

“In this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis, who were being trained for fidayeen action, were eliminated. This facility at Balakot was headed by Maulana Yousuf Azhar alias Ustad Ghouri, the brother-in-law of Masood Azhar, JeM chief,” he elaborated.&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday mocked what he called ''compelled contrarians'' who, he said, did not know the difference between 'Balakot' and 'Bala Kote' and started spreading misinformation without realising that Indian forces would not launch an attack in its own territory.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday mocked what he called ''compelled contrarians'' who, he said, did not know the difference between 'Balakot' and 'Bala Kote' and started spreading misinformation without realising that Indian forces would not launch an attack in its own territory. "When our Air Force reached Balakot in KPK (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa) before we could get any information, some people started saying Balakot is along the Line of Control (LoC). Some people whom I call compulsive contrarians found a new Balakot and did not check that Bala Kote is in our Poonch (sector). Why would our forces attack our territory?" Jaitley was quoted as saying by news agency ANI during the release of the book ‘Mann ki Baat – A Social Revolution on Radio’. FM Jaitley:When our Air Force reached Balakot in KPK before we could get any info some ppl started saying Balakot is along LoC.Some ppl whom I call compulsive contrarians found a new Balakot&didn't check that, that Bala Kote is in our Poonch.Why'd our forces attack our territory? pic.twitter.com/hRINtQS9so — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2019 × The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan. The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack. Balakot was earlier confused with Bala Kote, which is located along the LoC and is very close to Rajouri and Azmatabad in Jammu and Kashmir. Confirming that the aerial strikes took place deep inside Pakistan, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had said the “pre-emptive” strike in Balakot by India had become absolutely necessary as there was credible information that JeM was planning further attacks. “In this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis, who were being trained for fidayeen action, were eliminated. This facility at Balakot was headed by Maulana Yousuf Azhar alias Ustad Ghouri, the brother-in-law of Masood Azhar, JeM chief,” he elaborated.

'Compulsive contrarians' found new 'Balakot': Jaitley mocks misinformation on airstrikes

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strike-heres-why-balakot-was-chosen-by-indian-air-force-199792">terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot</a> in Pakistan.

BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike.

"It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here.

Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike.

She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?"

Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.

Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14.

It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike.

"Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said.

Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"It is a diplomatic victory of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/iafs-balakot-operation-against-jem-is-proof-of-narendra-modi-governments-decisiveness-199973">Narendra Modiji</a> that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said.

Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan. BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike. "It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here. Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike. She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?" Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14. It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike. "Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said. Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "It is a diplomatic victory of Narendra Modiji that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said. Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP leader Vijayvergiya slams Mamata for 'doubting' success of air strike in Balakot

Three days of India-Pakistan power play

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