Between May 7 and 12, tensions rose between India and Pakistan. During this period, Google searches revealed Indian unfamiliarity with war terminology. According to Google Trends, over 10 million Indians searched for the word “ceasefire” on Google during this time.

This spike in searches showed public fear. It also revealed that many people were unfamiliar with basic terms related to war and peace.

Indians turned to Google to ask a simple but important question: “What is a ceasefire?” The search was not just about meaning. It reflected the public’s confusion and concern. Many were looking for answers in a moment of crisis.

10 Million Indians Searched “Ceasefire” on Google Amid Escalation With Pakistan

The word “ceasefire” became a top search. It showed that people were trying to understand what was happening. There was no war on the streets, but the fear was real.

India’s military action, called Operation Sindoor, triggered more worry. The public also searched for this term. It was Googled 5 million times.

“Mock drill” was searched about a million times, likely due to alerts in border areas.

But more complex terms like “IMF,” “DGMO,” and “S-400” saw very few searches. This suggests that most people were unfamiliar with key military and strategic terms.

These search patterns show an information gap. Many Indians were caught off guard. They lacked basic knowledge about military operations and defence systems. This is concerning, especially given India’s position next to a nuclear-armed neighbour.

In Pakistan, the number of searches was smaller. But they were more focused. About 200,000 people searched for “Rafale Jet” and “Aurangzeb Ahmed PAF,” a known figure in the military.

Terms like “JF-17 Thunder” and “DG ISPR” were also searched. This shows that Pakistanis are more aware of defence-related topics. Their public seems more used to such discussions, possibly due to a longer history of military engagement in national affairs.

The difference in search behaviour highlights a clear information gap. Indians showed more panic and less awareness. Pakistanis, on the other hand, seemed more informed and focused.

In times of conflict, such gaps matter. They shape public response and understanding. It also reveal which populations are better prepared to process the realities of modern warfare.