India, May 10 -- India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire following intensive diplomatic efforts, signaling a dramatic turn in the escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

The announcement came just hours after military exchanges between India and Pakistan targeted each other's installations across the Line of Control, pushing the region to the brink of a wider confrontation.

However, Indian military emphasized that while the ceasefire will be observed, India remains in a heightened state of operational readiness.

"Whilst we will be adhering to the understanding that has been reached today, that is the Indian Army, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. We remain fully prepared and never ...