New Delhi, May 8 -- 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.

Meanwhile, residents in border districts are reporting multiple explosions. Heavy shelling was heard in J&K's Rajouri district, and a complete blackout has bee...