Geopolitical tensions trigger sharp sell-off in last hour of trade

Indian markets ended sharply lower on Thursday as rising India-Pakistan tensions triggered a late sell-off. The India VIX spiked over 10%, and broader markets saw deeper cuts. This came after the Defence Ministry confirmed that Indian forces had neutralized Lahore’s air defense system, thwarting an escalation attempt by Pakistan. The Nifty ended below 24,300.