India-Pakistan 2025 Multi-Domain Crisis: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The 2025 India-Pakistan cycle represents a shift from traditional 'border skirmishes' to a multi-domain conflict involving space warfare, economic decoupling, and global diplomatic mobilization. Following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, India transitioned from tactical military retaliation (Operation Sindoor) to a 'comprehensive isolation' strategy. This involved not only kinetic strikes but also neutralizing third-party (Chinese) satellite support and leveraging soft-power levers like religious pilgrimage bans and tourism boycotts.

Cross-Theme Insight

When viewed together, these threads reveal that modern India-Pakistan crises are no longer strictly bilateral. The 2025 crisis saw India actively neutralizing China's space-based surveillance while coordinating diplomatic condemnation through the Quad, Saudi Arabia, and Germany. Simultaneously, the crisis shows the 'internalization' of foreign policy, where domestic opposition (INDIA bloc) and local political controversies (Haryana MP remarks) directly impact the government's international signaling and parliamentary accountability.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

Standard textbooks like NCERT's 'Politics in India since Independence' (p. 64) emphasize the 1947, 1965, and 1971 wars as the primary templates of conflict. However, the 2025 crisis introduces 'Multi-Domain Management,' specifically 'tactical space triumph' (neutralizing satellites) which isn't yet part of the standard defense curriculum. Furthermore, while Rajiv Ahir’s 'Spectrum' (p. 663) highlights the restoration of trade and communications via the Tashkent Declaration, the 2025 reality shows India utilizing the *suspension* of mail services and pilgrimage visas as primary tools of diplomatic compellence.

How This Theme Is Evolving

The theme has evolved from 'strategic restraint' to 'proactive multi-domain deterrence.' By late 2025 and early 2026, the trajectory moved toward managed de-escalation (DGMO talks) but within a new framework where India successfully neutralized Chinese assistance to Pakistan, setting a precedent for future two-front contingencies.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

Historically, exams like CDS and IAS focus on chronological agreements (Tashkent, Simla, Indus Waters Treaty - CDS-II 2024, NID: 14790) or specific operations (Operation Parakram - CDS-II 2012, NID: 13265). The 2025 developments suggest a shift toward testing 'Multi-domain warfare' and 'Diplomatic Partnership Councils' (like the India-Saudi SPC) as the new instruments of counter-terrorism.

Probable Prelims Angles

• Countries mediating the 2025 Pak-Afghan ceasefire (Qatar and Turkey)
• Provisions of the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee cited in India-Germany joint statements
• Constitutional basis of India's foreign policy (Article 51 - DPSP)
• Geography of Balochistan (borders Iran, Afghanistan, Arabian Sea)
• The role of the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in India-Saudi relations

Mains Answer Framework

• The 2025 Pahalgam crisis marks a watershed moment where India’s counter-terrorism doctrine integrated space-domain dominance with traditional diplomatic isolation.
• Kinetic vs. Non-Kinetic: Contrast Operation Sindoor with the electronic warfare used against Chinese reconnaissance satellites.. Economic Diplomacy: Analyze the use of tourism boycotts (Turkey/Azerbaijan) and visa suspensions as tools of national security.. International Legitimacy: India’s success in securing condemnations from the Quad and West Asia (Saudi Arabia) vs. the UN report's legal criticisms.
• Future stability requires India to maintain this multi-domain edge while institutionalizing the de-escalation mechanisms seen in the May 2025 DGMO-level extensions.

Essay Connections

• The 'Nexus of Terror and State' + using 2025 MEA briefings to argue why traditional diplomacy fails with hybrid regimes.
• Space: The New Frontier of Sovereignty + using the IAF's neutralizing of Chinese satellites as a case study.

Preparation Strategy

Reading Approach

Start with NCERT for the historical 1947-1999 conflict baseline, then transition to Spectrum's 'Security' section to understand Balakot (2019) as a precursor to the 2025 Pahalgam response. Finally, map the 2025 items to see how electronic warfare and third-party mediation (Qatar/Turkey) deviate from these historical patterns.

Textbook Roadmap

• NCERT Class XII, Politics in India since Independence, Chapter 4. Pages 64-67 on Wars and Peace with Pakistan. Threads 1, 3, and 8
• Laxmikanth, Indian Polity (7th Ed), Chapter 88. Nuclear Doctrine and Foreign Policy Principles. Thread 4 and News Item 15
• NCERT Class XII, Contemporary World Politics, Chapter 3. Timeline of South Asia Since 1947 (p. 32). Thread 10 (Balochistan context)

Revision Bullets

• April 22, 2025: Date of the Pahalgam terror attack.
• May 9, 2025: Mir Yar Baloch's declaration of Balochistan's independence.
• Operation Sindoor: India's 2025 military response to cross-border terror.
• 56%: The decline in Indian tourist traffic to Azerbaijan post-2025 crisis.
• 2,100: Number of Sikh pilgrims issued visas after the 2025 ban reversal.
• September 21, 2025: Date IAF neutralized Chinese satellites.

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (10 themes, 36 news items)

Geopolitical and Economic Repercussions of 2025 India-Pakistan Tensions

Focus: The items track the multi-faceted impact of heightened India-Pakistan friction following the Pahalgam attack, including trade bans, restrictions on religious pilgrimages, and the resulting decline in tourism to Pakistan's diplomatic supporters.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the intersection of national security, neighborhood policy, and the use of economic and cultural levers (soft power) in international relations.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-01 [International Relations] — Centre Reverses Ban on Pilgrimages to Pakistan
  The Indian government reversed its ban on pilgrimages to Pakistan, leading to the issuance of visas to Sikh Jathas. 2,100 Sikh pilgrims were issued visas by the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi after the reversal.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: India reversed ban on pilgrimages to Pakistan.

  Key Facts:

  • Centre reversed ban on pilgrimages to Pakistan
  • 2,100 Sikh pilgrims issued visas
  • Visas issued by Pakistan High Commission in Delhi
• 2025-10-19 [International Relations] — Tourist decline in Turkey and Azerbaijan
  After Operation Sindoor, tourist traffic from India to Turkey and Azerbaijan has fallen drastically, according to their latest available tourism statistics. Between the two countries, the drop in the number of visitors from India has been steeper for Azerbaijan, which saw a 56 per cent decline in footfall from India during the May-August period, while Turkey registered a 33.3 per cent drop.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Azerbaijan: 56% decline in Indian tourists
  • Turkey: 33.3% decline in Indian tourists
  • Period: May-August
  • Reason: Aftermath of Operation Sindoor and their support for Pakistan
  • Drop in number of visitors from India to Azerbaijan: 56%
  • Drop in number of visitors from India to Turkey: 33.3%
  • Reason: Relations after Operation Sindoor
• 2025-09-17 [International Relations] — Sikh leaders urge India to lift ban on pilgrims
  Sikh community leaders in Pakistan have appealed to the Indian government to lift the recently imposed ban on pilgrims traveling to Pakistan to visit the shrine of Guru Nanak. They consider the ban a violation of international norms and moral values.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Pakistan
  • Guru Nanak
  • Sikh pilgrims
  • ban
• 2025-05-15 [International Relations] — Significant cancellations reported in outbound travel to Türkiye and Azerbaijan
  Amid a call to “boycott” travel to Türkiye and Azerbaijan, tour aggregators reported widespread cancellations in holiday bookings to both these countries from India, in response to their “support” for Pakistan, after Operation Sindoor was carried out.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Significant cancellations reported in outbound travel to Türkiye and Azerbaijan
  • Tour aggregators reported widespread cancellations in holiday bookings to both these countries from India
  • In response to their “support” for Pakistan after Operation Sindoor was carried out
• 2025-05-03 [International Relations] — India Bans Direct, Indirect Imports from Pakistan
  India banned direct or indirect import of all goods from Pakistan with immediate effect, citing national security and public policy interests, following the Pahalgam terror attack. A Government Order was issued on May 2, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: India bans direct/indirect imports from Pakistan citing security.

  Key Facts:

  • India banned direct or indirect import of all goods from Pakistan.
  • The ban was implemented with immediate effect.
  • The reason cited was national security and public policy.
  • The ban follows the Pahalgam terror attack.
  • The Government Order was issued on May 2, 2025.

Multi-Domain Management of the 2025 India-Pakistan Conflict

Focus: Diplomatic and military actions taken by India during the 2025 conflict with Pakistan, including international briefings and the use of electronic warfare against surveillance satellites.

UPSC Value: Understanding India's crisis management strategy, including the integration of diplomatic signaling and multi-domain military capabilities during regional conflicts.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-23 [International Relations] — India Condemns Pakistan's Airstrikes in Afghanistan
  India strongly condemned Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory on February 22, 2026, which resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children. The Ministry of External Affairs described the strikes as an attempt by Pakistan to externalize its internal failures and reiterated India's support for Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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  UPSC Angle: India condemns Pakistan's airstrikes in Afghanistan.

  Key Facts:

  • India condemned Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory on February 22, 2026.
  • The airstrikes resulted in civilian casualties.
  • MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated India's condemnation.
• 2025-09-21 [Defense & Security] — India Achieves Tactical Space Triumph Against China
  During the 2025 India-Pakistan conflict, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully neutralized Chinese reconnaissance satellites providing surveillance support to Pakistan, employing electronic warfare and deception. This highlights the growing importance of space in modern warfare and India's ability to operate in contested domains. The operation ensured that Indian forces could operate without hostile overhead surveillance.
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  UPSC Angle: India neutralizes Chinese satellites during conflict using electronic warfare.

  Key Facts:

  • Indian Air Force (IAF) achieved a tactical triumph over Chinese reconnaissance satellites during the 2025 India-Pakistan conflict.
  • The IAF used electronic warfare, camouflage, and deception.
  • China operates more than 260 military-use satellites.
  • India demonstrated its anti-satellite capability in 2019 with Mission Shakti.
• 2025-05-08 [Defense & Security] — India Responds to Pakistan's Actions, Focuses on Non-Escalation
  India responded to Pakistan's attempts to attack Indian locations by striking terrorist infrastructure, clarifying that military targets were not engaged and emphasizing a desire to avoid escalating the situation. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that India's actions were a response to the initial escalation by Pakistan and were carefully targeted to avoid civilian or military casualties. India briefed 13 UNSC envoys, excluding Pakistan's envoy, to explain its position and actions.
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  UPSC Angle: India responds to Pakistan's actions, focuses on non-escalation.

  Key Facts:

  • Pakistan attempted to attack 15 Indian locations on the night of May 7-8, 2025.
  • India's forces neutralized Pakistani drones and missiles before they caused damage.
  • India targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan but avoided military targets.
  • The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a proxy for Lashkar-e-Taiba, was involved in the attacks.
  • India provided information to the UN 1267 Sanctions Monitoring Committee regarding TRF.
  • Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated India's actions were a response to Pakistan's escalation.
  • India briefed envoys of 13 UNSC member countries, excluding Pakistan.
  • Vikram Misri briefed 13 of 15 UNSC envoys
  • Pakistan's NSC authorized armed forces to take “corresponding actions”
• 2025-05-07 [International Relations] — India Briefs 5 Countries After Strikes on Pakistan
  After striking targets in Pakistan and PoK, India briefed the U.S., the U.K., Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Russia. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India had credible leads, eyewitness accounts identifying the terrorists, and evidence of Pakistan-based terror groups' involvement. India asserted that no civilian, economic, or military targets were chosen.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: India briefs key countries after strikes on Pakistan/PoK.

  Key Facts:

  • India briefed the U.S., the U.K., Saudi Arabia, UAE and Russia after striking targets in Pakistan
  • India had credible leads and eyewitness accounts that identified the terrorists and evidence towards the involvement of Pakistan-based terror groups
  • No civilian, economic or military targets were chosen

India-Pakistan Border Volatility and Counter-Terror Measures

Focus: Items tracking the cycle of infiltration, terror attacks (Pahalgam), and subsequent military/diplomatic signaling between India and Pakistan.

UPSC Value: Useful for analyzing the interplay between kinetic border incidents, surveillance technology, and diplomatic posturing in India-Pakistan relations.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-06 [Defense & Security] — DG ISPR Sends Clear Message to India Amid Tensions
  Director General ISPR has issued a clear and strong message to India amid rising tensions along the border, addressing security concerns and Pakistan's stance on recent developments.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Director General ISPR's message to India
  • Pakistan's national security perspective
  • Updates on border situation
• 2025-05-17 [International Relations] — Government to Send Delegations on Anti-Terrorism Message Post Operation Sindoor
  Following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, the government will send seven all-party delegations to key partner countries, including members of the United Nations Security Council, to convey India's message of zero tolerance against terrorism. Shashi Tharoor and Supriya Sule are among the MPs leading these delegations.
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  UPSC Angle: Government to send delegations on anti-terrorism message post Operation Sindoor.

  Key Facts:

  • Delegations: Seven all-party delegations
  • Objective: convey India's message of zero tolerance against terrorism
  • Context: Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor
  • Delegation Leaders (among others): Shashi Tharoor, Supriya Sule
• 2025-05-06 [International Relations] — UN Secretary-General urges military restraint from India and Pakistan
  UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border with Pakistan, calling for military restraint from both countries. Guterres warned that tensions between the two South Asian neighbors had reached their highest in years and offered his good offices to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that a military solution is no solution. He also condemned the 22 April terror attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: UN urges military restraint from India and Pakistan.

  Key Facts:

  • António Guterres: UN Secretary-General
  • April 22: Terror attack in Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir
• 2025-04-07 [Defense & Security] — India to enhance border security with electronic surveillance along Pakistan border
  Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that India will deploy an electronic surveillance system along the entire border with Pakistan within the next four years, with two models currently being tested in Jammu. The system aims to detect infiltrators and tunnels, enabling BSF personnel to respond swiftly to enemy actions and curb terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
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  UPSC Angle: India to deploy electronic surveillance system along Pakistan border.

  Key Facts:

  • Electronic surveillance system to be deployed along the entire India-Pakistan border.
  • Deployment timeframe: next four years.
  • Two models of the system are being tested along the Jammu border.
  • System capabilities: detecting infiltrators and tunnels.
  • Objective: to curb terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Announcement made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a visit to Kathua.

Deterioration of India-Pakistan Ties (2025)

Focus: A sequence of diplomatic downgrades, expulsions, and hostile rhetoric between India and Pakistan throughout 2025.

UPSC Value: Useful for tracing the specific steps of diplomatic disengagement and the rhetorical shift regarding nuclear and terror concerns.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-09-19 [International Relations] — India calls out nexus between terrorists, Pakistani state and military
  During a weekly press briefing, the MEA spokesperson stated that the world is aware of the nexus between terrorists and the Pakistani state and military.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: India calls out nexus between terrorists, Pakistani state and military.

  Key Facts:

  • The world is aware of the nexus between the terrorists and the Pakistani state and military
• 2025-08-11 [International Relations] — India responds to Pakistan's nuclear remarks
  The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong statement responding to remarks reportedly made by the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff during a visit to the United States. The MEA stated that nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistan's stock-in-trade and that India will not give in to nuclear blackmail.
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  UPSC Angle: India responds to Pakistan's nuclear remarks; maintaining strategic communication.

  Key Facts:

  • MEA says, “Nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistan's stock-in-trade,” in response to Pakistan Army Chief's remarks in US
  • India has already made it clear that it will not give in to nuclear blackmail and will continue to take all necessary steps to safeguard its national security
• 2025-04-27 [International Relations] — Families Caught in Crossroads After India Asks Pakistani Nationals to Leave
  Families are facing difficult situations as India has asked Pakistani nationals to leave the country following the expiration of their short-term visas. Around 272 Pakistani nationals have departed India through the Attari-Wagah border in the past two days, with more expected to leave as the deadline for 12 categories of short-term visa holders ends. 629 Indians, including 13 diplomats and officials, have returned from Pakistan through the same border crossing.
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  UPSC Angle: India asks Pakistani nationals to leave after visa expiration.

  Key Facts:

  • Pakistani nationals
  • Short-term visas
  • Attari-Wagah border
  • 272 Pakistani nationals left India
  • 629 Indians returned from Pakistan
  • 13 diplomats and officials
• 2025-04-23 [International Relations] — India downgrades diplomatic ties with Pakistan
  Following a terror attack, India has declared Pakistani defense, military, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi persona non grata, requiring them to leave within a week, and is withdrawing its own advisors from Islamabad. The overall strength of high commissions will be reduced to 30 from 55 by May 1, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: India downgrades diplomatic ties with Pakistan after terror attack.

  Key Facts:

  • Pakistani defense/military/naval/air advisors in New Delhi declared persona non grata with one week to leave
  • India will withdraw its own defense/navy/air advisors from Islamabad
  • Posts in respective high commissions are annulled
  • Five support staff of the service advisors will also be withdrawn from both high commissions
  • Overall strength of the high commissions will be brought down to 30 from the present 55 by 1st May 2025

India-Pakistan Diplomatic Standoff (Spring 2025)

Focus: A specific cluster of retaliatory measures, visa revocations, and border incidents occurring between April and May 2025.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the volatility of India-Pakistan bilateral relations and the use of diplomatic tools like visa restrictions.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-05-15 [International Relations] — BSF constable released by Pakistan Rangers
  A BSF constable who was detained by Pakistan Rangers has been released. This event is relevant to India and its neighborhood relations and BSF.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Detaining party: Pakistan Rangers
  • Constable belonged to: BSF
• 2025-05-14 [International Relations] — Pakistan High Commission Staffer Expelled for Espionage
  Amid tensions, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) declared a Pakistan High Commission official 'persona non grata' and expelled him for espionage, giving him 24 hours to leave India.
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  UPSC Angle: Pakistan High Commission staffer expelled for espionage.

  Key Facts:

  • An official of the Pakistan High Commission was declared 'persona non grata' for espionage.
  • The staffer was asked to leave India within 24 hours.
• 2025-04-30 [Polity & Governance] — Exemptions from Repatriation to Pakistan
  The Union Home Ministry (MHA) has broadened the categories of individuals exempt from deportation, amid a crackdown on Pakistani citizens whose visas expired on April 29, 2025. Exemptions now include Pakistani Hindus who have applied for Long Term Visas (LTVs) or are eligible to apply.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: MHA broadens exemptions from deportation for Pakistani citizens.

  Key Facts:

  • Union Home Ministry (MHA) expanded categories exempted from deportation to Pakistan
  • Exemptions for Pakistani Hindus who applied for Long Term Visas (LTVs)
  • Visas expired on April 29, 2025
• 2025-04-25 [International Relations] — Amit Shah reviews Indus Waters Treaty, asks CMs to ensure Pakistani citizens leave India
  Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting to discuss the future of the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 with Pakistan and has asked Chief Ministers of all states to ensure no Pakistani citizens stay in India beyond the set deadline. India announced the revoking of all visas issued to Pakistani nationals from April 27.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Amit Shah reviews Indus Waters Treaty.

  Key Facts:

  • Amit Shah held a meeting to discuss the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960.
  • India has decided to keep the Indus Waters Treaty 'in abeyance'.
  • All visas issued to Pakistani nationals were revoked from April 27.
  • Indian nationals residing in Pakistan were advised to return home.

Diplomatic Consensus on the 2025 Pahalgam Terror Attack

Focus: Specific diplomatic condemnations and counter-terrorism cooperation arising directly from the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025).

UPSC Value: Demonstrates India's ability to mobilize specific international support against cross-border terrorism from diverse partners like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Germany.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-12 [International Relations] — India Condemns Terrorism with Germany, Pledges Cooperation
  On January 12, 2026, India and Germany strongly condemned terrorism and violent extremism, including cross-border terrorism, calling for concerted international efforts. They committed to strengthen cooperation against terrorists and terrorist entities, including those listed in the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee and condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 and the terror incident in Delhi on 10 November 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: India Condemns Terrorism with Germany, Pledges Cooperation.

  Key Facts:

  • India and Germany condemned terrorism and violent extremism
  • Condemned cross-border terrorism
  • Committed to strengthen cooperation against terrorists and terrorist entities listed in the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee
  • Condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025
  • Condemned the terror incident in Delhi on 10 November 2025
• 2025-05-01 [International Relations] — India & Egypt to Collaborate on Counter-Terrorism Technology
  India and Egypt have decided to collaborate on technology to combat terrorism and terror financing, condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Egypt reaffirmed its full support to India in combating terrorism.
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  UPSC Angle: India and Egypt to collaborate on counter-terrorism technology.

  Key Facts:

  • India
  • Egypt
  • Collaborate on technology
  • Combat terrorism
  • Terror financing
  • Condemned Pahalgam terrorist attack
• 2025-04-23 [International Relations] — India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council Meeting
  India and Saudi Arabia convened a Strategic Partnership Council meeting, strengthening ties through four MoUs in space, health, sports anti-doping, and postal cooperation, and condemning terrorism, particularly the Pahalgam attack. Both nations pledged to deepen energy and defense cooperation, with India inviting the Saudi Crown Prince to co-chair the next meeting in New Delhi. The partnership reinforces India's West Asia policy, consolidates energy security, and boosts India's soft power in the Gulf region.
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  UPSC Angle: India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council meeting: MoUs in space, health, sports.

  Key Facts:

  • Narendra Modi
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Strategic Partnership Council (SPC)
  • Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation
  • Signed four MoUs covering Space, Health, Sports Anti-Doping, and Postal Cooperation.
  • Strong condemnation of terrorism, especially referencing the recent Pahalgam attack.
  • Pledged deeper energy and defense cooperation.
  • India invited the Saudi Crown Prince to co-chair the next SPC meeting in New Delhi.

Fallout of the 2025 India-Pakistan Pahalgam Crisis

Focus: Items detailing the domestic political questioning and international scrutiny surrounding India's military and diplomatic response to the 2025 Pahalgam attack.

UPSC Value: Useful for analyzing how national security crises generate both domestic opposition pressure and international diplomatic challenges.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-15 [International Relations] — UN Report Condemns India's Actions Against Pakistan
  A UN report released on December 15, 2025, condemns India's military actions inside Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam attack as violations of international law. The report alleges that India's use of force and suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty risked escalating the regional conflict and had severe human rights implications for Pakistan. India responded to the Pahalgam attack by suspending treaties, closing borders, reducing Pakistani diplomatic presence, and launching missile strikes on multiple Pakistani sites starting May 7, 2025.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • UN report released on December 15, 2025
  • Condemns India's military actions after the April 22 Pahalgam attack
  • India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty
  • India launched missile strikes on Pakistani sites starting May 7, 2025
  • 26 civilian tourists died in the Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025
  • US President Donald Trump brokered a ceasefire announced on May 10, 2025
  • Report originally dated October 16
  • Report made public on December 15
• 2025-07-20 [Polity & Governance] — INDIA bloc to question foreign policy 'failures'
  Leaders of 24 INDIA bloc parties decided at a virtual meeting on Saturday, July 19, 2025, to question the government's foreign policy failures. The failures include the government's failure to apprehend the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack and U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated claims on allegedly brokering peace between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • INDIA bloc
  • Pahalgam terror attack
  • Donald Trump
  • Operation Sindoor
  • July 19, 2025
  • 24 INDIA bloc parties
  • Pahalgam terror attack: Government failure to apprehend perpetrators
  • Donald Trump's claims on brokering peace between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor
• 2025-05-23 [International Relations] — Rahul Gandhi claims India's foreign policy has 'collapsed'
  Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that India's foreign policy has “collapsed” and asked External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to explain why has India been hyphenated with Pakistan and who asked U.S. President Donald Trump to “mediate” between the two South Asian neighbours.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Rahul Gandhi
  • S. Jaishankar
  • Donald Trump
  • May 23, 2025

International Mediation and Diplomatic Appeals in Pakistan's 2025 Territorial Crises

Focus: Security and sovereignty crises occurring on Pakistan's borders in 2025 that involved either direct appeals for foreign recognition or successful mediation by third-party nations (USA, India, Qatar, and Turkey).

UPSC Value: This thread is significant for understanding South Asian regional stability, the intersection of internal secessionist movements with interstate conflict, and the evolving role of international diplomacy in managing border escalations.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-20 [International Relations] — Pakistan and Afghanistan agree to ceasefire
  Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to a ceasefire facilitated by Qatar and Turkey, with both sides deciding to immediately stop violence.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • The ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan was facilitated by Qatar and Turkey
• 2025-05-28 [International Relations] — India-Pakistan Crisis of May 2025
  A Stimson Center report reviews the India-Pakistan near-war crisis that occurred in May 2025, noting it as the most significant crisis in decades. The crisis involved military action, crossing previous thresholds in geographic reach and systems employed, and concluded with diplomatic engagement led by the United States. The report highlights misinformation surrounding the events of May 7-10.
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  UPSC Angle: Stimson Center report reviews India-Pakistan crisis of May 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • Military Hostilities Commenced: May 7 Air Strikes
  • Escalation in Kashmir: May 7-10
  • Drone Duels: May 7-9
  • U.S. Nuclear Worries: May 8-9
  • Crisis Climax: May 9-10
  • Ceasefire agreed after hotline communication between DGMOs on 10 May 2025.
  • US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio held extensive correspondence with both Indian and Pakistani officials during the negotiations.
• 2025-05-09 [International Relations] — Mir Yar Baloch Declares Balochistan's Independence
  On May 9, 2025, Mir Yar Baloch declared Balochistan's independence from Pakistan and urged India to recognize it and host an embassy in New Delhi. Balochistan is Pakistan's largest province by area, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, and facing the Arabian Sea.
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  UPSC Angle: Balochistan declares independence; India's response is key.

  Key Facts:

  • Mir Yar Baloch declared Balochistan's independence from Pakistan on May 9, 2025.
  • Balochistan borders Iran and Afghanistan.
  • Balochistan faces the Arabian Sea and has a ~770 km coastline.

Domestic and International Aftermath of the Pahalgam Terror Attack

Focus: Diverse political and diplomatic responses to the Pahalgam attack, spanning domestic parliamentary demands, internal party controversies, and international security cooperation.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the multi-dimensional impact of security incidents on domestic legislative processes, internal political discourse, and international diplomatic relations.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-07-03 [International Relations] — Quad calls for justice in Pahalgam attack
  The Quad foreign ministers have called for bringing the perpetrators of the terror attack in Pahalgam to justice. This reflects the Quad's focus on regional security and counter-terrorism efforts.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Quad calls for justice in Pahalgam attack, focusing on counter-terrorism.

  Key Facts:

  • Quad Foreign Ministers: Bring perpetrators of terror attack in Pahalgam to justice.
• 2025-05-28 [Polity & Governance] — INDIA bloc seeks special Parliament session on Pahalgam attack
  Opposition parties under the INDIA bloc are preparing a joint appeal to the government, demanding a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack. Several opposition leaders, including those from Congress, Trinamool Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), have made this demand individually.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • INDIA bloc to seek special Parliament session
  • Reason: Pahalgam terror attack
  • Parties involved: Congress, Trinamool Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)
• 2025-05-25 [Polity & Governance] — Haryana MP Sparks Row with Remarks on Pahalgam Attack
  Haryana BJP MP Ram Chander Jangra has sparked controversy by saying that women whose husbands were killed in the Pahalgam attack lacked a 'warrior spirit'. He stated that the women pleaded for their husbands' lives instead of fighting the terrorists.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Ram Chander Jangra: Haryana BJP Rajya Sabha member
  • Remarks: Criticized women for lacking 'warrior spirit' during Pahalgam attack

2025 India-Pakistan Border Crisis and De-escalation

Focus: Diplomatic and military developments in India-Pakistan relations during the Spring 2025 border crisis following the Pahalgam terror attack.

UPSC Value: Analyzes the escalation ladder in bilateral conflicts, illustrating how terror attacks trigger a cycle of diplomatic suspensions, military operations, and subsequent DGMO-level de-escalation.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-05-18 [International Relations] — India-Pakistan Ceasefire Extended
  The ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, initially set to expire on May 10, 2025, has been extended until May 18, 2025, as announced by Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. This extension aims to prevent further escalation and promote stability along the border, with both sides agreeing to avoid provocative actions and explore reducing troop deployments.
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  UPSC Angle: India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement extended until May 18, 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • Ceasefire extended to May 18, 2025
  • Initial expiration date: May 10, 2025
  • Announcement by Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
  • Agreement reached on May 10 between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan
  • April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam left 26 civilians dead
  • India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure
  • Pakistan responded with cross-border attacks from May 8 to May 10
  • Hotline communications between the two militaries were held on May 12 and May 14
  • Decision made on May 10, 2025
  • DGMO of Pakistan: Major General Kashif Abdullah
  • DGMO of India: Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai
  • Operation Sindoor launched by India on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack
• 2025-05-04 [International Relations] — India halts mail and parcel services to Pakistan
  India has stopped sending mail and parcels to Pakistan due to ongoing issues between the two countries. This action reflects strained relations and disruptions in communication channels.
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  UPSC Angle: India halts mail services to Pakistan due to ongoing issues.

  Key Facts:

  • Suspension of mail and parcel services between India and Pakistan occurred on May 3, 2025.
  • The reason for suspension is related to ongoing issues and the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack in April 2025.
• 2025-04-03 [International Relations] — Army Asks Pakistani Forces to Abide by 2021 Ceasefire
  The Indian Army has requested Pakistani forces to adhere to the 2021 ceasefire agreement. This development relates to India-Pakistan relations and border security.
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  UPSC Angle: Indian Army requested Pakistani forces to adhere to 2021 ceasefire.

  Key Facts:

  • The Indian Army asked Pakistani forces to abide by the 2021 ceasefire.