Following a week of escalating military tensions, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, 2025, after direct communication between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries. The agreement, which aimed to halt all firing and military action on land, air, and sea, came into effect at 5:00 PM IST.
The announcement followed a call from the Pakistani DGMO to his Indian counterpart at 3:35 PM IST, during which the terms of the ceasefire were discussed and agreed upon. DGMO Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai confirmed that the communication with the Pakistani DGMO led to the cessation of cross-border firing and air intrusions from both sides. Further talks between the DGMOs were scheduled for May 12 to discuss the modalities for ensuring the longevity of the understanding.
The ceasefire announcement was initially made by US President Donald Trump, who stated that the agreement was reached after a long night of talks mediated by the United States. However, it was later clarified that the understanding was worked out directly between India and Pakistan.
According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, instructions were given on both sides to implement the ceasefire. However, shortly after the ceasefire came into effect, reports emerged of violations from the Pakistani side, including firing in the Akhnoor sector of Jammu and Kashmir and multiple drone sightings along the border. Misri stated that Indian forces had been directed to respond firmly to any further breaches of the ceasefire.
In response to the ceasefire and airspace violations, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the security situation with Army Commanders posted at the western borders. The Army Commanders were granted full authority for counteraction in the kinetic domain to any violation of the understanding reached during the DGMO talks.
The role of the DGMO is critical in managing and de-escalating potential conflicts. The DGMO is a high-ranking army officer responsible for military planning and border operations, maintaining direct contact with counterparts in other countries to prevent misunderstandings and control conflict at the border. The DGMO is also responsible for providing regular operational updates to the army chief and the Ministry of Defence.
Despite the initial ceasefire agreement, the situation remains tense, and the Indian Army is maintaining strict vigilance along the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border. The scheduled talks between the DGMOs on May 12 are crucial for establishing a lasting peace and preventing further escalation of tensions between the two countries.