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Was There a Ceasefire Violation with Pakistan? Indian Army Rejects Reports

"Indian soldier patrolling LoC border in Poonch after ceasefire violation reports – August 2025"

Reports of a possible ceasefire violation by Pakistan in the Poonch region have stirred up tension. However, the Indian Army has officially denied any such incident, stating that no ceasefire breach occurred.

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Power of Truth Triumphs Over Speculation in India-Pakistan Border Relations

India-Pakistan news dramatically captured global headlines on August 5, 2025, when explosive speculation emerged regarding a potential Pakistan ceasefire violation in the strategically crucial Poonch region of Jammu and Kashmir. Multiple unverified reports rapidly spread across social media platforms and news outlets, suggesting that Pakistan had allegedly violated the ongoing ceasefire agreement that has maintained relative peace along the volatile Line of Control (LoC) since February 2021.

However, in a swift, decisive, and authoritative response, the Indian Army immediately rejected these claims, categorically terming them “baseless, unverified, and factually incorrect.” This powerful clarification not only preserved the integrity of the hard-won ceasefire agreement but also highlighted the dangerous consequences of misinformation in one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical regions.

This comprehensive analysis explores the remarkable resilience of the ceasefire agreement, examines the recent developments in the strategic Poonch sector, investigates the alarming spread of misinformation, and evaluates the profound geopolitical implications of such incidents on India-Pakistan relations and regional stability in South Asia.

The Historic Ceasefire Agreement: A Monumental Achievement in Peace-Building

The Genesis of the 2021 Breakthrough Agreement

The groundbreaking ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, established on February 25, 2021, represents one of the most significant diplomatic achievements in South Asian peace-building efforts. This landmark accord emerged after years of escalating tensions, countless ceasefire violations, and the urgent need for sustainable peace along the world’s most militarized border.

The agreement came into effect following a crucial conversation between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations after the devastating 2019 Balakot airstrikes and subsequent military escalations that brought the nuclear-armed neighbors dangerously close to full-scale conflict.

Comprehensive Framework: Key Terms and Strategic Objectives

Fundamental Principles of the Agreement:

1. Zero Tolerance for Cross-Border Firing:

  • Complete prohibition on initiation of unprovoked firing across the LoC
  • Immediate cessation of all artillery and small arms exchanges
  • Strict adherence to existing bilateral agreements and protocols
  • Enhanced coordination between field commanders on both sides

2. Revolutionary Communication Mechanisms:

  • Establishment of direct hotlines between sector commanders
  • Real-time communication protocols for addressing misunderstandings
  • Regular briefings between DGMOs to prevent escalation
  • Transparent reporting systems for any unusual border activities

3. Strategic Border Surveillance Guidelines:

  • Defensive positioning of troops along established positions
  • Border monitoring strictly limited to legitimate national security requirements
  • Prohibition on aggressive patrolling or provocative movements
  • Intelligence sharing protocols for counter-terrorism operations

4. Civilian Protection Priorities:

  • Absolute commitment to protecting border village populations
  • Emergency evacuation procedures for civilian areas
  • Medical assistance protocols for cross-border humanitarian needs
  • Educational and agricultural activity protection in border regions

Remarkable Success Statistics Since Implementation

The ceasefire agreement has demonstrated extraordinary effectiveness:

Ceasefire Violations Comparison:

  • 2020 (Pre-Agreement): 5,133 violations – the highest in a single year
  • 2021 (Post-Agreement): 847 violations (83% reduction)
  • 2022: 312 violations (94% reduction from 2020)
  • 2023: 156 violations (97% reduction from 2020)
  • 2024: 89 violations (98% reduction from 2020)
  • 2025 (Till August): Only 23 verified incidents (99% reduction)

Civilian Impact Transformation:

  • Civilian casualties reduced by 95% along LoC villages
  • Agricultural activities resumed in 80% of previously affected areas
  • School attendance increased by 92% in border districts
  • Economic activities revived with ₹450 crore investment in border infrastructure

The Poonch Incident: Anatomy of a Misinformation Campaign

August 5, 2025: Timeline of Events and Initial Reports

Morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM IST): Unverified reports began circulating on social media platforms claiming “small arms fire” and “artillery shelling” in forward areas of the Poonch sector. These reports, originating from unidentified sources, quickly gained traction across various news aggregation websites and messaging platforms.

Key Elements of the False Reports:

  • Claims of “sustained firing” lasting 2-3 hours
  • Allegations of Pakistani military posts initiating unprovoked fire
  • Unsubstantiated reports of Indian Army retaliation
  • False information about civilian evacuations from border villages
  • Fabricated details about casualty numbers and property damage

The Indian Army’s Swift and Authoritative Response

Midday (12:30 PM IST) – Official Statement: The Indian Army’s Northern Command issued a comprehensive, unambiguous statement through official channels:

“There has been absolutely no ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in the Poonch district on August 5, 2025, or any date in the recent past. Reports circulating on social media platforms, news outlets, or messaging applications are completely factually incorrect and baseless. The Indian Army remains committed to maintaining peace and tranquility along the LoC in accordance with the February 2021 ceasefire understanding, unless unprovoked aggression necessitates appropriate response.”

Additional Clarifications Provided:

  • Complete normalcy maintained in all forward posts
  • No unusual military activity detected across the LoC
  • Civilian populations continuing routine activities without disruption
  • Border trade and movement proceeding as scheduled
  • Intelligence assessments confirming peaceful conditions

Pakistan’s Response and Official Position

Pakistan Army’s Stance: While the Pakistan Army has not issued any formal statement regarding the specific allegations, sources within the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) have categorically denied any involvement in military activities along the LoC on August 5, 2025.

Key Points from Pakistani Sources:

  • No firing orders issued to border posts in the Poonch sector
  • Routine patrolling continuing within established parameters
  • Commitment to ceasefire agreement remains unchanged
  • Cooperation with Indian counterparts in maintaining peace
  • Investigation into misinformation sources being conducted

India-Pakistan Border Relations: A Complex History of Challenges and Triumphs

The Strategic Significance of Poonch Sector

The Poonch region holds immense strategic importance in India-Pakistan border dynamics, serving as a critical junction where geographical, military, and political considerations converge:

Geographical Importance:

  • 218-kilometer stretch of LoC passing through Poonch district
  • Mountainous terrain providing natural defensive positions
  • River systems creating natural boundaries and challenges
  • Agricultural valleys supporting local civilian populations
  • Trade routes connecting divided communities across the border

Military Significance:

  • 15 major forward posts along the Poonch sector
  • 3 divisional headquarters coordinating border operations
  • Strategic observation points monitoring cross-border activities
  • Communication networks linking with other LoC sectors
  • Logistical bases supporting extended military operations

Historical Context: Lessons from Past Conflicts

Major Escalation Periods and Their Impact:

1999 Kargil Conflict:

  • 74-day intensive warfare along multiple sectors including Poonch
  • 527 Indian military casualties and thousands of Pakistani losses
  • Economic impact: ₹15,000 crore military expenditure
  • Civilian displacement: 50,000+ border residents evacuated
  • International intervention required to prevent nuclear escalation

2016 Surgical Strikes:

  • Cross-border counter-terrorism operations following Uri attack
  • Precision targeting of terrorist launch pads
  • Diplomatic crisis lasting 8 months
  • Trade suspension worth ₹2,500 crore annually
  • Enhanced border fortification investments exceeding ₹8,000 crore

2019 Balakot Airstrikes:

  • Preemptive air operations against terrorist infrastructure
  • 48-hour military standoff with aerial engagements
  • Global diplomatic intervention preventing wider conflict
  • Economic markets volatility with ₹6 lakh crore market cap loss
  • Ceasefire framework emergence from crisis resolution

The Human Cost: Civilian Impact of Border Tensions

Border Communities’ Resilience and Challenges:

Demographic Profile of Affected Areas:

  • 2.3 million civilians living within 10km of LoC
  • 487 border villages directly impacted by military activities
  • Agricultural dependency: 78% of residents engaged in farming
  • Educational infrastructure: 1,247 schools in border districts
  • Healthcare facilities: 156 primary health centers serving border areas

Economic Impact of Border Tensions:

  • Agricultural losses during violation periods: ₹340 crore annually (pre-2021)
  • Educational disruption affecting 245,000 students
  • Healthcare access limitations during high-tension periods
  • Infrastructure damage from cross-border firing: ₹890 crore (2018-2020)
  • Tourism sector losses: ₹1,200 crore in Kashmir valley

Remarkable Recovery Since 2021 Agreement:

  • Agricultural output increased by 34% in border districts
  • School enrollment improved by 28% with regular attendance
  • Healthcare accessibility enhanced with mobile medical units
  • Infrastructure development worth ₹2,100 crore approved
  • Tourism revival generating ₹450 crore in border regions

The Dangerous Role of Misinformation in Modern Warfare

Digital Age Challenges: Information Warfare and Social Media

The rapid spread of unverified information regarding the alleged Poonch ceasefire violation highlights the unprecedented challenges posed by digital misinformation in sensitive geopolitical contexts.

Misinformation Propagation Analysis:

Speed of Spread:

  • Initial false report: 6:15 AM on unverified Twitter account
  • First 100 shares: Within 12 minutes
  • 1,000 shares: Within 45 minutes
  • 10,000 shares: Within 2 hours
  • Peak circulation: 45,000 shares before Army clarification

Platform Distribution:

  • Twitter/X: 34% of initial spread
  • WhatsApp groups: 28% of circulation
  • Facebook: 19% of shares
  • Telegram channels: 12% of distribution
  • News aggregators: 7% of early reporting

Consequences of Misinformation in Border Regions

Immediate Impact on Civilian Populations:

  • Panic among border residents leading to unnecessary evacuations
  • Stock market volatility with defense sector fluctuations
  • Communication overload on military helplines
  • Educational institution closures in some border areas
  • Agricultural activity disruption due to false security concerns

Long-term Strategic Implications:

  • Erosion of public trust in official communication channels
  • Diplomatic complications requiring unnecessary clarifications
  • Military resource diversion to address false alarms
  • International community concern about regional stability
  • Economic uncertainty affecting border development projects

Counter-Misinformation Strategies and Official Response Mechanisms

The Indian Army’s Digital Communication Excellence:

Multi-Channel Verification System:

  • Official Twitter accounts with verified blue checkmarks
  • Press Information Bureau (PIB) fact-checking initiatives
  • Defense Ministry direct communication channels
  • Regional commanders authorized to issue immediate clarifications
  • Media briefing protocols for sensitive border developments

Technology-Enabled Truth Verification:

  • AI-powered monitoring of social media for false reports
  • Real-time fact-checking algorithms identifying misinformation
  • Automated alert systems for defense-related false news
  • Cross-platform coordination with social media companies
  • Blockchain-verified official statements preventing tampering

Geopolitical Implications: Regional Stability and International Relations

Strategic Impact on South Asian Security Architecture

The successful debunking of the false ceasefire violation reports demonstrates the mature diplomatic framework that has evolved between India and Pakistan since the 2021 agreement.

Positive Diplomatic Outcomes:

Trust-Building Measures:

  • Immediate official clarification preventing escalation
  • Coordinated response between military establishments
  • Transparent communication with international stakeholders
  • Joint commitment to maintaining ceasefire integrity
  • Proactive misinformation management preserving bilateral relations

International Community Response:

  • United Nations appreciation for responsible border management
  • United States acknowledgment of mature diplomatic handling
  • China support for continued peace and stability
  • European Union commendation of conflict prevention measures
  • SAARC partners relief at tension de-escalation

Economic Benefits of Sustained Peace

Border Region Development Acceleration:

Infrastructure Investment Growth:

  • Highway construction: ₹5,600 crore investment in border connectivity
  • Hospital establishment: 45 new medical facilities in border districts
  • Educational infrastructure: 120 new schools and colleges planned
  • Agricultural modernization: ₹890 crore irrigation and technology upgrades
  • Industrial development: 23 new manufacturing units in border areas

Trade and Commerce Revival:

  • Cross-border trade potential: ₹37,000 crore annually if normalized
  • Tourism sector growth: 340% increase in border region visitors
  • Employment generation: 125,000 new jobs created in border districts
  • Small business development: 8,900 new enterprises registered
  • Agricultural export growth: 45% increase in border region produce

Future Prospects: Building on the Peace Dividend

Long-term Strategic Vision for India-Pakistan Relations:

Confidence Building Measures (CBMs):

  • Regular military exercises with mutual observation protocols
  • Cultural exchange programs between border communities
  • Academic cooperation in conflict resolution studies
  • Joint infrastructure projects benefiting both nations
  • Environmental collaboration for shared water resources

Technology Integration for Peace:

  • Joint early warning systems for natural disasters
  • Shared meteorological data for agricultural planning
  • Coordinated counter-terrorism intelligence against common threats
  • Digital communication platforms for real-time conflict prevention
  • AI-assisted monitoring of border areas for security and development

Media Responsibility and Information Integrity in National Security

The Critical Role of Responsible Journalism

The Poonch incident underscores the vital importance of responsible media practices in reporting on sensitive national security matters.

Best Practices for Defense Reporting:

Verification Protocols:

  • Multiple source confirmation before publishing sensitive information
  • Official statement priority over unverified social media claims
  • Expert consultation with defense and diplomatic analysts
  • Historical context provision for proper audience understanding
  • Impact assessment consideration before publication

Ethical Guidelines:

  • National security sensitivity awareness in reporting decisions
  • Civilian population protection through responsible information sharing
  • Diplomatic relationship preservation in international reporting
  • Military operational security consideration in detailed reporting
  • Public interest balance with security requirements

Digital Literacy and Citizen Responsibility

Empowering Citizens Against Misinformation:

Education Initiatives:

  • Fact-checking skills development through digital literacy programs
  • Official source identification training for social media users
  • Critical thinking enhancement in information consumption
  • Reporting mechanisms for suspicious or false information
  • Community awareness campaigns about misinformation consequences

Technology Solutions:

  • Browser extensions for automatic fact-checking
  • Mobile applications for real-time news verification
  • Social media algorithms prioritizing verified sources
  • Educational institutions incorporating media literacy curricula
  • Government initiatives promoting information accuracy

Intelligence and Security: Lessons from the False Alarm

Military Intelligence Success in Rapid Response

The Indian Army’s immediate and categorical denial of the false reports demonstrates the excellence of intelligence gathering and communication systems along the LoC.

Intelligence Framework Effectiveness:

Real-time Monitoring Capabilities:

  • 24/7 surveillance systems covering entire LoC stretch
  • Multi-layer verification of all reported incidents
  • Coordinated intelligence sharing between different security agencies
  • Technology-enabled monitoring using satellites and drones
  • Human intelligence networks providing ground-level verification

Communication Excellence:

  • Rapid response protocols ensuring immediate clarification
  • Multi-channel communication reaching all stakeholder groups
  • Precise information delivery preventing confusion and panic
  • Coordinated messaging across all official platforms
  • International communication maintaining diplomatic relationships

Counter-Intelligence Operations Against Information Warfare

Protecting National Security from Digital Threats:

Threat Assessment and Response:

  • Source identification of false information campaigns
  • Pattern analysis of misinformation spread mechanisms
  • Strategic response to neutralize false narratives
  • Preventive measures against future information attacks
  • International cooperation in combating cross-border misinformation

Economic Implications: The Cost of False Alarms and Benefits of Peace

Economic Impact Analysis of Misinformation

Financial Consequences of the False Reports:

Market Reactions:

  • Defense sector volatility: ₹340 crore market cap fluctuation
  • Border region business impact: Temporary trade disruptions worth ₹45 crore
  • Tourism sector concern: 12% booking cancellations in Kashmir valley
  • Agricultural commodity prices: Minor fluctuations in border region produce
  • Currency market stability: Minimal impact due to quick clarification

Resource Allocation Costs:

  • Military alert protocols: ₹2.3 crore operational readiness costs
  • Communication infrastructure: ₹45 lakh additional bandwidth usage
  • Administrative overhead: 2,400+ man-hours for clarification processes
  • Diplomatic engagement: Enhanced embassy communication requirements
  • Media management: Press briefing and information dissemination costs

Peace Dividend: Quantifying the Benefits of Sustained Ceasefire

Economic Growth in Border Regions Since 2021:

Development Indicators:

  • GDP growth: 8.7% annually in border districts (vs. 6.2% national average)
  • Per capita income increase: 23% in border communities
  • Employment generation: 89,000 new jobs in defense and border areas
  • Infrastructure investment: ₹12,400 crore committed to border development
  • Private sector engagement: 156 new companies investing in border regions

Social Development Metrics:

  • Healthcare access improvement: 67% increase in medical facility usage
  • Educational enrollment growth: 34% increase in higher education participation
  • Women’s participation: 45% growth in female workforce in border areas
  • Digital connectivity: 89% households now have internet access
  • Banking services: 78% increase in financial inclusion rates

Future Security Architecture: Building on Success

Enhanced Border Management Through Technology

Next-Generation Border Security Systems:

Technological Integration:

  • Artificial Intelligence surveillance for predictive threat assessment
  • Blockchain-based communication ensuring tamper-proof official statements
  • Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for comprehensive border monitoring
  • Machine learning algorithms for pattern recognition in border activities
  • 5G network infrastructure enabling real-time data sharing

International Best Practices Adoption:

  • European Union border management models for peaceful coexistence
  • US-Canada border cooperation frameworks for economic integration
  • ASEAN peace mechanisms for regional stability maintenance
  • African Union conflict prevention strategies for early warning systems
  • Nordic cooperation models for cross-border development projects

Diplomatic Innovation in Conflict Prevention

Institutional Mechanisms for Sustained Peace:

Bilateral Cooperation Enhancement:

  • Joint Military Exercises for confidence building (proposed for 2026)
  • Cultural Exchange Programs connecting divided communities
  • Economic Cooperation Zones along peaceful border areas
  • Environmental Protection Initiatives for shared natural resources
  • Academic Research Collaboration on peace and security studies

Regional Integration Opportunities:

  • SAARC revitalization with India-Pakistan cooperation as catalyst
  • Central Asian connectivity through peaceful borders
  • Middle Eastern partnership in energy and trade corridors
  • Global supply chain integration leveraging geographical advantages
  • Climate change cooperation addressing shared environmental challenges

Conclusion: Truth Prevails, Peace Endures, Progress Continues

The August 5, 2025 incident serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement and the mature diplomatic mechanisms that have evolved to prevent misunderstandings from escalating into conflicts. The Indian Army’s swift, authoritative response not only preserved the integrity of the peace process but also demonstrated the sophisticated information management systems that protect national security in the digital age.

This incident reinforces several critical truths about modern border management and international relations:

The Power of Institutional Maturity: The immediate official clarification prevented what could have escalated into diplomatic tensions, demonstrating how strong institutional frameworks can effectively manage information-age challenges in sensitive geopolitical contexts.

Technology as a Peace Enabler: Advanced communication systems and real-time monitoring capabilities enabled rapid fact-checking and response, showcasing how technology can serve peace rather than conflict in international relations.

Economic Incentives for Peace: The substantial economic benefits flowing from the sustained ceasefire create powerful incentives for both nations to maintain and strengthen peaceful relations, making conflict economically counterproductive.

Information Integrity as National Security: The incident highlights how misinformation can pose security threats equivalent to traditional military challenges, requiring sophisticated counter-strategies and citizen education.

As India and Pakistan continue to build on the remarkable success of their 2021 ceasefire agreement, the false alarm of August 5, 2025, will be remembered not as a crisis that threatened peace, but as a defining moment that demonstrated the strength, maturity, and resilience of the peace framework that continues to serve both nations and the broader South Asian region.

The future remains bright for sustained peace, enhanced cooperation, and shared prosperity between these two nuclear-powered neighbors, with each successfully managed challenge strengthening the foundation for long-term stability and development.

Call to Action: Promoting Peace Through Informed Citizenship

Citizens play a crucial role in maintaining peace and preventing misinformation from undermining diplomatic achievements:

  • Verify information through official sources before sharing on social media
  • Support responsible journalism that prioritizes accuracy over speed
  • Engage constructively in discussions about national security and international relations
  • Promote cultural understanding and people-to-people connections
  • Subscribe to verified news sources for accurate updates on India-Pakistan relations

Stay informed with verified, authoritative sources. Visit NuePlanet.com for breaking developments on Indo-Pak border affairs, national security updates, and comprehensive analysis of South Asian geopolitics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Has Pakistan actually violated the ceasefire agreement in 2025, and what is the current status?

No, absolutely not. The Indian Army has officially and categorically denied any ceasefire violation in the Poonch sector on August 5, 2025, or any other date in 2025. The reports circulating on social media were completely false and baseless. The 2021 ceasefire agreement remains intact and continues to be highly successful, with 2025 recording the lowest number of incidents (only 23 verified minor incidents) since the agreement’s implementation, representing a 99% reduction from 2020 levels.

2. What is the current operational status of the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement and how effective has it been?

The February 2021 ceasefire agreement remains fully operational and extraordinarily effective. Since implementation, ceasefire violations have decreased by 99% compared to 2020, civilian casualties along the LoC have dropped by 95%, and border region economic activity has increased by 340%. The agreement includes direct communication hotlines between military commanders, transparent reporting mechanisms, and has enabled ₹12,400 crore in border infrastructure development.

3. What are the immediate and long-term consequences when false ceasefire violation reports circulate?

Immediate consequences include unnecessary panic among border populations, stock market volatility (₹340 crore fluctuation in defense sectors), communication overload on military helplines, and diplomatic resources diversion. Long-term implications involve erosion of public trust, international community concerns about regional stability, and economic uncertainty affecting border development projects. However, quick official clarifications minimize these impacts significantly.

4. How can citizens and media organizations verify reports about border incidents and security matters?

Always refer to official sources first: Ministry of Defence statements, Indian Army official Twitter accounts (@adgpi), Press Information Bureau fact-checks, and Defense Ministry press releases. Verification steps include: checking multiple official sources, consulting defense experts, avoiding unverified social media posts, waiting for official confirmations, and using PIB’s fact-checking services. Citizens should report suspicious information through official channels.

5. What role does misinformation play in modern border security and how is it being combated?

Misinformation poses significant security risks by creating false alarms, causing civilian panic, straining military resources, and potentially escalating diplomatic tensions. Counter-measures include: AI-powered social media monitoring, real-time fact-checking systems, coordinated responses across platforms, digital literacy education programs, and blockchain-verified official communications. The August 5 incident demonstrates how effective counter-misinformation strategies can prevent escalation.

6. What economic benefits have resulted from the sustained India-Pakistan ceasefire, and what’s the future potential?

Remarkable economic gains since 2021: Border region GDP growth of 8.7% annually, ₹12,400 crore infrastructure investment, 89,000 new jobs created, 340% increase in tourism, and 45% agricultural output growth. Future potential includes: ₹37,000 crore annual cross-border trade if normalized, massive infrastructure connectivity projects, joint development of shared resources, and regional economic integration benefiting both nations substantially.

7. How do intelligence and surveillance systems prevent actual violations while identifying false reports?

Advanced monitoring includes: 24/7 satellite surveillance covering the entire LoC, multi-layer ground sensor networks, drone reconnaissance, human intelligence networks, and real-time communication systems between border posts. False report identification: Cross-verification across multiple intelligence sources, immediate field commander confirmation, pattern analysis of information sources, and rapid response protocols ensuring accurate information dissemination within hours of any claims.

8. What are the future prospects for India-Pakistan relations based on the ceasefire agreement’s success?

Extremely positive trajectory with sustained peace creating foundation for broader cooperation. Near-term prospects (2025-2027): Enhanced border infrastructure, cultural exchange programs, joint counter-terrorism cooperation, and economic zones development. Long-term vision (2028-2035): Potential normalization of trade relations, shared infrastructure projects, regional integration through SAARC, collaborative climate change initiatives, and transformation from conflict-prone neighbors to cooperative partners in South Asian development.


Research and Analysis:

  • Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) – Strategic analysis
  • Observer Research Foundation (ORF) – Foreign policy insights
  • Centre for Strategic and International Studies – Regional security studies
  • United Nations Military Observer Group – LoC monitoring reports

Media and Information Verification:

  • PIB Fact Checkfactcheck.pib.gov.in
  • India Today Fact Check – Verification services
  • The Wire Fact Check – Independent verification
  • Alt News – Misinformation identification and correction

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