Introduction

In the age of digital warfare, misinformation and psychological operations are increasingly used to destabilize nations and influence public opinion. A recent and dangerous instance of this is the fake news claiming that an Indian Air Force (IAF) female pilot, Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, has been captured in Pakistan.

This fabricated claim, circulated primarily by pro-Pakistan propaganda handles, has been categorically refuted by the Government of India via PIB Fact Check.

The Viral Claim

Several social media posts—originating from unverified and propaganda-driven accounts—claimed:

“Indian Air Force female pilot Shivani Singh has been captured by Pakistan following aerial operations near the border.”

Some posts even shared morphed images and false narratives to make the claim appear credible.

Indian Female Air Force pilot has NOT been captured🚨

Pro-Pakistan social media handles claim that an Indian Female Air Force pilot, Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, has been captured in Pakistan.#PIBFactCheck

❌ This claim is FAKE!#IndiaFightsPropaganda@MIB_India… pic.twitter.com/V8zovpSRYk

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025

PIB Fact Check Clarification

The official @PIBFactCheck handle swiftly addressed the misinformation on May 9, 2025, with the following post:

🚨 Indian Female Air Force pilot has NOT been captured

Pro-Pakistan social media handles claim that an Indian Female Air Force pilot, Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, has been captured in Pakistan.

#PIBFactCheck

❌ This claim is FAKE!

#IndiaFightsPropaganda

The Truth

• Squadron Leader Shivani Singh is safe and has not been captured.
• The IAF has not issued any report indicating the loss or capture of any pilot during recent operations.
• This claim is a part of a broader psychological propaganda campaign aimed at misleading the public and damaging India’s morale.

Why Such Propaganda Is Dangerous

• 💣 Creates panic and confusion among citizens.
• 🎯 Targets the emotional sentiments of the public, especially when involving female officers.
• 🧠 Forms part of information warfare to manipulate perception during heightened tensions or military operations.
• ❗ Undermines national security and unity.

How to Respond as Responsible Citizens

✅ Verify Before Sharing:

• Always cross-check sensational claims through official handles like @PIBFactCheck, IAF_MCC, and https://pib.gov.in.

✅ Report Misinformation:

• Send fake or suspicious posts to:
  • Email: factcheck@pib.gov.in
  • WhatsApp: +91-8799711259

✅ Encourage Media Literacy:

• Educate others about the importance of fact-checking.
• Avoid giving publicity to enemy propaganda.

Explore more fake viral

• Fact Check: Viral Video of MLRS Attack is from a Video Game, Not a Real Pakistani Strike on India
• Fact Check: False Claim About Sukhoi Su-30MKI Being Shot Down in Muzaffarabad
• Fact Check: False Claim by China Daily About Indian Jets Crashing in Kashmir
• PIB Fact Check: Fake Claims About Explosions at Jaipur Airport Debunked
• PIB फैक्ट चेक: दिल्ली आग की घटना पर फैलाई जा रही फर्ज़ी अफवाहों का सच
• Fact Check: No Advisory Issued by Government to Turn Off Location Services on Phones
• Understanding @PIBFactCheck: India’s Digital Shield Against Fake News During Crisis Situations

Conclusion

The claim that an Indian female Air Force pilot, Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, has been captured by Pakistan is completely baseless and fake. This false narrative was pushed by anti-India propaganda sources to sow confusion and manipulate public sentiment.

PIB Fact Check and Indian authorities have confirmed that no such incident has occurred. Citizens are urged to rely on official sources and help in combating misinformation and psychological warfare.