Thu May 01 00:58:32 UTC 2025: ## India Bans Pakistan Airlines Over Airspace, Tensions Rise After Terror Attack

**New Delhi, May 1, 2025** – India escalated tensions with Pakistan on Wednesday, banning all Pakistan International Airlines flights from using its airspace. The move, announced via a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), follows a similar ban imposed by Pakistan on Indian carriers last week, and comes in the wake of the April 22nd terror attack in Pahalgam.

International pressure is mounting to de-escalate the situation. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have contacted India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging dialogue. The US State Department also called on both nations to avoid further escalation, stating they are engaging with both New Delhi and Islamabad.

Despite a Jammu and Kashmir High Court order, a family of nine was repatriated to Pakistan from Poonch, raising concerns about the fate of hundreds of other Pakistani women married to residents of J&K.

Domestically, the Indian government’s decision to conduct a caste count during the upcoming census is being celebrated by both ruling and opposition parties.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court criticized states for using free food grain distribution for political gain, emphasizing the importance of other developmental initiatives.

In other news:

* **Economic Agreement:** The US and Ukraine announced a new economic agreement aimed at accelerating Ukraine’s economic recovery.
* **Kashmiri Traders Attacked:** Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed concern over attacks on Kashmiri traders outside Jammu and Kashmir.
* **Political Meeting:** Former West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh met with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sparking criticism within his party.
* **Tax Filing Simplified:** The government simplified income tax return filing for certain individuals.
* **IPL Victory:** Punjab Kings defeated Chennai Super Kings in an IPL match.

The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan continue to dominate headlines, with the international community urging restraint and dialogue.

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