New Delhi: India has activated multiple layers of its air defence network to counter intensified attacks from Pakistan, including missile launches, drone intrusions and heavy artillery shelling across the northern and western borders.

A Pakistani drone was intercepted and shot down 20 kilometres short of the Indian Air Force base in Phalodi, Rajasthan, even as air raid sirens blared in Chandigarh following shelling near the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Rajasthan.

Officials said a blackout has been imposed across vulnerable areas as a precaution.

To counter the offensive, India has deployed its advanced Russian-made S-400 Sudarshan Chakra system alongside the L-70, ZSU-23, and Schilka air defence systems to intercept incoming threats.

The S-400 has already destroyed missiles fired by Pakistan in Rajasthan’s Pokhran region, while several Pakistani drones have also been neutralised over Jammu and Kashmir, reported India Today.

Meanwhile, residents in border districts are reporting multiple explosions. Heavy shelling was heard in J&K’s Rajouri district, and a complete blackout has been imposed at all Army installations in the region.

Similar blackouts are in place in Kachchh, Gujarat — particularly in Bhuj and border villages — amid continued Pakistani attacks.