Harshvardhan Mishra
Introduction
As tensions rise along borders, misinformation spreads faster than ever, often fueled by digitally manipulated videos and deliberate fake narratives. One such claim recently went viral, alleging a Pakistani attack on Nagrota Air Base in Jammu & Kashmir. However, the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit (PIB Fact Check) has stepped in to debunk this dangerous hoax.
The Fake Claim: “Pakistani Attack on Nagrota Air Base”
The viral clip, circulated widely across platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Twitter, shows explosions and gunfire purportedly targeting a military base. Captions attached to the video declared:
“Breaking: Pakistani forces attack Nagrota Air Base! Massive damage reported.”
The intent of such false information is to create fear, confusion, and communal unrest.
Heard of attack on Nagrota Air Base❓BEWARE‼️
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025
An old and digitally altered video is being falsely circulated as footage of a Pakistani attack on the Nagrota Air Base.#PIBFactCheck
✅ This video was originally posted on Instagram in October 2024.
🔗 Watch:… pic.twitter.com/eO0o5njfRi
PIB Fact Check Exposes the Truth
On May 9, 2025, @PIBFactCheck responded:
❓Heard of attack on Nagrota Air Base❓
BEWARE‼️
An old and digitally altered video is being falsely circulated as footage of a Pakistani attack on the Nagrota Air Base.
#PIBFactCheck
✅ This video was originally posted on Instagram in October 2024.
📢 Stay alert. Always verify before sharing!
#IndiaFightsPropaganda
Source of the Video: Instagram, October 2024
- The video was initially posted as fictional war content on Instagram in October 2024.
- The visuals were later digitally modified and recirculated, falsely linked to real-world military bases.
- It was never recorded in or near Nagrota, nor does it show any real-life attack.
The Real Danger of Such Disinformation
🧨 Destabilization:
False narratives about military targets can incite panic, disrupt civil order, and undermine public trust in national security.
📲 Viral Spread:
Social media platforms amplify unverified claims, which can reach millions before fact-checks catch up.
🛡 National Security Threat:
Fake military attack reports can provoke emotional reactions, mislead decision-makers, and even trigger diplomatic escalations.
How to Respond Responsibly
✅ Follow Trusted Sources:
Get your news from verified channels like:
✅ Report, Don’t Share:
If you see suspicious videos or messages:
- Report them to the platform.
- Email PIB at factcheck@pib.gov.in
- WhatsApp to +91-8799711259
✅ Educate Others:
Encourage friends, family, and followers to verify before forwarding.
Explore more fake viral
- PIB Fact Check: Fake Claim of Indian Female Air Force Pilot Captured in Pakistan Debunked
- 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: Viral Video Claiming Missile Attack on Delhi Airport is FAKE
Conclusion
The viral video claiming a Pakistani attack on Nagrota Air Base is fake and digitally altered. It was originally a fictional Instagram post from October 2024, falsely repurposed to spread panic. The Government of India and PIB Fact Check have confirmed that no such attack has occurred.
Stay vigilant, trust only official sources, and be part of India’s stand against propaganda.
