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Kerala to hold Civil Defence mock drills in 14 districts on May 7. This measure addresses new security threats, following recent regional tensions. State officials ensure effective drills and public safety, with thorough planning by the Chief Secretary.

Kerala Civil Defence Mock Drills: May 7

Kerala will conduct Civil Defence mock drills on May 7 in response to recent security challenges with Pakistan. These exercises aim to evaluate and enhance preparedness across 14 districts, with state officials assuring efficient execution and public safety.

Kerala to hold Civil Defence mock drills in 14 districts on May 7

Kerala will conduct civil defense mock drills in 14 districts, focusing on preparedness amid new threats. State officials ensure effective execution and public cooperation, with preparations discussed at a meeting led by the Chief Secretary.

As per the directive of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Civil Defence mock drills will be conducted in 14 districts of Kerala on May 7, official sources said.
The mock drills, being held in response to the &ldquo;new and complex threats&rdquo; that have emerged amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, will begin at 4 pm.
As part of the mock drill, various aspects of Civil Defence preparedness will be assessed.
State Chief Secretary A Jayathilak has instructed all District Collectors and other officials to ensure the proper execution of the mock drill.
He also stated that the public, institutions, and organisations should cooperate with the exercise, remain alert, and that there is no need for concern.
Preparations for the Civil Defence mock drill were discussed on Tuesday in a meeting convened by the Chief Secretary.
The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretaries of the Home, Revenue, and Health &amp; Family Welfare Departments, the State Police Chief, the Director General of Fire and Rescue Services, the Special Secretary and Commissioner of Disaster Management, District Collectors, and other top officials.
As part of the drill, residents' associations and panchayats are expected to appoint local leaders to guide people. Everyone should be made aware of the blackout instructions in advance.
Announcements may be made from places of worship if required. Local-level drills are also being organised.
Schools, community halls, and other key locations should keep first aid kits ready.
Volunteers in each area will assist those who may require help during the blackout. People are advised to stay indoors and follow the instructions given by drill wardens.
Remaining calm and alert is important throughout the exercise.
During the drill, all lights in homes, offices, and public places must be switched off. If emergency lights are used, windows should be covered with thick curtains or cardboard to prevent light from escaping.
People should avoid using mobile phones or any light-emitting devices near windows. Households should be prepared with torches, glow sticks, radios, drinking water, dry food, and essential medicines.
At 4 pm, when the siren sounds, everyone should move to the safest part of their home. Families are encouraged to carry out a 'family drill' together.
A long siren indicates a warning, while a short siren signals that it is safe. People who are outdoors should move indoors promptly.
Radios and televisions should be used to follow official updates.
Gas and electrical appliances must be switched off as soon as the siren is heard to prevent accidents. It is also essential to ensure the safety of children and pets during the blackout.

India-UK bolster defence collaboration, enhancing 'Make in India'. UK's HMS Prince of Wales joins Indo-Pacific mission, highlighting regional cooperation.

India-UK Defence Collaboration Expands

The India-UK defence dialogue focuses on expanding collaboration under 'Make in India'. UK's HMS Prince of Wales joins Indo-Pacific mission to boost regional ties.

India-UK bolster defence collaboration, enhancing 'Make in India'

India and UK discuss defence collaboration, focusing on 'Make in India'. The UK deploys HMS Prince of Wales on an Indo-Pacific mission, boosting regional military ties and trade.

A review of defence ties, with a particular focus on enhancing defence industry collaboration and boosting the 'Make in India' initiative, were on the agenda of the 24th India-UK Defence Consultative Group discussions here this week.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and his British counterpart Permanent Secretary David Williams co-chaired the dialogue, which was aimed at deepening bilateral defence cooperation.
The successful completion of the regular dialogue was confirmed by the defence ministries on both sides in social media updates.
"The 24th India-UK Defence Consultative Group meeting in London saw Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UK counterpart David Williams co-chair discussions, aimed at deepening bilateral defence cooperation,&rdquo; the Indian Ministry of Defence said.
"Key focus areas included expanding defence industry collaboration and promoting the 'Make in India' initiative, especially in niche and emerging technologies,&rdquo; the statement added.
It comes as the UK Ministry of Defence announced the final preparations for aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales to sail from Portsmouth on April 22 for its Indo-Pacific deployment, including planned port visits in India.
The upcoming deployment of the Carrier Strike Group, named Operation Highmast, is described as an opportunity for the UK's armed forces to conduct a major global deployment and a chance to exercise complex operations alongside partners and allies such as India.
"The group will transit through the Indian Ocean, conducting exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore and Malaysia, before joining 19 partner nations for Exercise Talisman Sabre near Australia, and then training alongside the Japanese Self-Defence Forces and conducting a port visit to India,&rdquo; stated the UK Ministry of Defence.
The Indo-Pacific is seen as a &ldquo;critical region&rdquo; for UK trade, with imports and exports in the region worth billions of pounds for the UK economy. The deployment will also provide a chance for UK companies to take part in trade events during port visits.

The Union Budget for FY 2025-26 allocates Rs 6.81 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, marking a 9.53% increase. It includes significant provisions for capital outlay, operational costs, and pension for Armed Forces personnel.

Budget 2025: Government allocates Rs 6.81 lakh crore to defence ministry

The Union Budget for FY 2025-26 allocates Rs 6.81 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, marking a 9.53% increase. It includes significant provisions for capital outlay, operational costs, and pension for Armed Forces personnel.

The Union Budget for India&rsquo;s Financial Year 2025-26 has allocated a significant Rs 6.81 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), reflecting the government's commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces and advancing its vision of a technologically advanced, self-reliant India, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Viksit Bharat @2047' initiative.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnionBudget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnionBudget2025</a>, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, "The budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is a great budget to realize the dream of developed India. All sections of the society have been taken care of in this budget. This budget is&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/9K2gpzkoM7">pic.twitter.com/9K2gpzkoM7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1885612542346793351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This represents a 9.53% increase over the previous fiscal year, and accounts for 13.45% of the total Union Budget, marking the largest allocation among ministries.
<h3>Capital Outlay and Operational Budget Breakdown</h3>
A substantial portion, Rs 1.80 lakh crore, or 26.43% of the total budget, is earmarked for Capital Outlay on Defence Services. Additionally, Rs 3.11 lakh crore is allocated for operational and sustenance expenses, including the pay and allowances of Armed Forces personnel, with Defence Pension receiving Rs 1.61 lakh crore. The Ministry of Defence has declared 2025-26 as the 'Year of Reforms,' focusing on simplifying the Defence Procurement Procedure to maximize the use of these funds.
<h3>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh&rsquo;s Response to Budget</h3>
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his appreciation for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman&rsquo;s budget, emphasizing its focus on youth, farmers, women, and the middle class. &ldquo;This budget will promote the development of youth, poor, farmers, women and all other sections of society. Recognising the contribution of the middle class, the budget has brought an unprecedented gift,&rdquo; he said.
<h3>Focus on Self-Reliance and Domestic Procurement</h3>
In light of evolving global security dynamics, Rs 1.80 lakh crore has been dedicated to Capital Outlay, which includes Rs 1.49 lakh crore for modernisation through capital acquisitions and Rs 31,277 crore for research and development. This year&rsquo;s allocation represents a 4.65% increase compared to last year&rsquo;s estimate, with 75% of this funding earmarked for domestic procurement. This strategy is part of the government&rsquo;s initiative to strengthen self-reliance in the defence sector by sourcing major acquisitions from Indian industries, particularly from the private sector.
<h3>Investment in Emerging Defence Technologies</h3>
Furthermore, the Indian Armed Forces are set to receive cutting-edge technology and resources for new defense domains, including Cyber and Space, along with emerging technologies such as AI, Machine Learning, and Robotics. Planned acquisitions, including high-altitude remotely piloted aircraft, next-generation submarines, and new aircraft, will be funded through this allocation.
<h3>Operational and Sustenance Budget for Armed Forces</h3>
On the operational side, Rs 3.11 lakh crore is allocated for sustaining the Armed Forces, with a significant portion directed towards essential supplies like fuel, ordnance stores, and maintenance. The government's focus on operational readiness is evident in the 24.25% increase in funding for FY 2025-26.
<h3>Increased Funding for DRDO</h3>
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) also received an enhanced allocation of Rs 26,817 crore, a 12.41% increase from the previous year. This increase will support the development of new technologies, with a special focus on collaborations with private entities.
<h3>Strengthening Innovation Through iDEX Scheme</h3>
The government is also bolstering the startup ecosystem through an increase in the iDEX scheme's budget, facilitating innovation in defense technology. An allocation of Rs 450 crore will fund defense innovation projects under iDEX and its sub-scheme ADITI.
<h3>Enhanced Care for Veterans via ECHS and Defence Pension</h3>
Veteran care remains a priority, with Rs 8,317 crore set aside for the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), marking a 19.38% increase from the previous year&rsquo;s allocation. Similarly, a Rs 1.61 lakh crore allocation for Defence Pension ensures the well-being of retired service members and their families.
<h3>Indian Coast Guard Receives Significant Budget Increase</h3>
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will also benefit from a robust allocation of Rs 9,677 crore, a 26.50% increase from last year. This funding will enhance ICG's capabilities, providing advanced equipment and support for coastal security operations.
<h3>Border Infrastructure Development Through BRO Allocation</h3>
Finally, to improve border infrastructure, Rs 7,147 crore will be allocated to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for the construction of critical roads and infrastructure in strategic areas, such as Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan. This initiative not only strengthens national security but also promotes regional development, creating job opportunities and fostering tourism.
India&rsquo;s Vision of a Technologically Advanced and Self-Reliant Armed Forces
Overall, the FY 2025-26 Union Budget reflects the government's focus on advancing India&rsquo;s defence capabilities, ensuring self-reliance, and providing robust support to Armed Forces personnel and veterans.

The main focus of PM's US visit will be on the defence partnership between both countries with an emphasis on advancing defence industrial cooperation.

The India Story| PM's US visit: What's on Modi-Biden table?

The main focus of PM's US visit will be on the defence partnership between both countries with an emphasis on advancing defence industrial cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on his crucial first state visit to the United States, where he will sign several agreements to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors.
However, the primary focus will be on the defence partnership between the US and India, with an emphasis on advancing defence industrial cooperation.
This collaboration is expected to go beyond co-production and co-development, facilitating a more robust interaction between the defence ecosystems of the two countries.
Vikram Chandra explain the key defence deals which are likely to be signed and highlight their significance.

Two days after mishap, Defence forces halt operations of Dhruv chopper

The ALH choppers are operated by all three defence forces including the Army, Navy and Air Force along with the Indian Coast Guard.

In the wake of the accident off the Mumbai coast two days ago, the defence forces have halted the operations of the ALH Dhruv helicopters till the time investigators find the reason for the incident and precautionary checks are carried out.
The ALH choppers are operated by all three defence forces including the Army, Navy and Air Force along with the Indian Coast Guard.
"The operations have been halted till the time investigators find out the reason for the incident off the Mumbai coast and precautionary checks are carried out," defence forces' officials told ANI.
The ALH Dhruv choppers are used in multiple roles by the Indian defence forces including transportation of men and material. "HAL had already initiated steps and will closely work with the customers to ensure that the Helicopters fleet is fully operational," HAL officials told ANI.
The ALH Dhruv has become one of the important parts of helicopter missions undertaken by all three forces involved n different terrains they are deployed.

Aero India 2023 was kicks off in Bengaluru amongst a lot of pomp and show with 98 companies participating. How much will this add to India’s push for ‘atmanirbharta’? We deep dive in this episode! 

The India Story | Aero show 2023: showcasing India’s aerospace capabilities 

The largest air show in Asia, Aero show 2023, kicked off this week in Bengaluru. This five-day event, with the theme of ‘A runway to a Billion opportunities’ will display India’s growth in aerospace and defence capabilities, while also attracting investment and forging partnerships with foreign companies. Nearly 809 companies from 98 countries across the world are taking part in the show which, along with the exhibition and trade fair, also featured exciting aerobatics.

Joining Vikram Chandra on The India Story this week, are Air Marshal Diptendu Choudhry (retd) and Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur (retd) on India’s push towards becoming atmanirbhar in the field of aerospace and defence.

Also on the show tonight, we take a look at the unfolding saga around British broadcaster BBC.

Aero India 2023 kicks off in Bengaluru amongst a lot of pomp and show with 98 companies participating. How much will this add to India&rsquo;s push for &lsquo;atmanirbharta&rsquo;? We deep dive in this episode!&nbsp;

The largest air show in Asia, Aero show 2023, kicked off this week in Bengaluru. This five-day event, with the theme of &lsquo;A runway to a Billion opportunities&rsquo; will display India&rsquo;s growth in aerospace and defence capabilities, while also attracting investment and forging partnerships with foreign companies. Nearly 809 companies from 98 countries across the world are taking part in the show which, along with the exhibition and trade fair, also featured exciting aerobatics.
Joining Vikram Chandra on The India Story this week, are Air Marshal Diptendu Choudhry (retd) and Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur (retd) on India&rsquo;s push towards becoming atmanirbhar in the field of aerospace and defence.
Also on the show tonight, we take a look at the unfolding saga around British broadcaster BBC.

Object spotted over Andaman & Nicboar about a year ago, reveal Indian defence forces

Object spotted over Andaman & Nicobar about a year ago, reveal Indian defence forces

However, unlike the Americans, no action was taken as the origin and the intent or origin of the balloon-type object were not clear.

The Indian defence forces had witnessed, over a year ago, objects similar to the alleged Chinese spy balloon busted by the American Air Force in the skies over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territories.
However, unlike the Americans, no action was taken as the origin and the intent or origin of the balloon-type object were not clear.
Speaking with news agency ANI, defence officials said when the object was spotted, it was also felt that it could have been a meteorological balloon as many such balloons make their way to&nbsp; India from the Pakistan side too due to winds, adding that any such object if spotted again will be thoroughly probed and will be brought down if found related to spying.&nbsp;
With ANI Inputs

Ou Yang Li-Hsing, the deputy head of Taiwan defence ministry's research and development unit, was on Saturday found dead in a hotel room in southern Taiwan, according to Taiwan's official Central News Agency.


Top Taiwan defence official found dead in hotel amid Beijing-Taipei tensions

Ou Yang Li-Hsing, the deputy head of Taiwan defence ministry's research and development unit, was on Saturday found dead in a hotel room in southern Taiwan, according to Taiwan's official Central News Agency, reported Reuters.


Ou Yang was posted as the deputy head of the Taiwanese military-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology early this year to supervise various missile production projects, CNA&nbsp; report stated.

Ou Yang Li-Hsing, the deputy head of Taiwan defence ministry's research and development unit, was on Saturday found dead in a hotel room in southern Taiwan, according to Taiwan's official Central News Agency, reported Reuters.
According to the news report, Ou Yang was on a business trip to Pingtung. Authorities are looking into the cause of his death. Ou Yang was posted as the deputy head of the military-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology early this year to supervise various missile production projects, the report stated.
Also Watch| <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/china-s-military-exercises-in-taiwan-strait-turn-coastal-town-into-tourist-spot-1659755080393">China's military exercises in Taiwan Strait turn coastal town into tourist spot</a>
The news of his death comes hours after Taiwan's military said that the Chinese planes and ships operating in the Taiwan Strait were simulating an attack on its main island amid tensions between Beijing and Taipei following US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island nation.
Beijing reportedly conducted military drills with more than 100 warplanes and 10 warships surrounding Taiwan's main island.
Preceding Nancy Pelosi's visit, China, which considers Taiwan as part of its territory, had warned that it will take "resolute and forceful measures to firmly defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity."&nbsp;

A home-grown howitzer gun will be used for the ceremonial 21-gun salute during the Independence Day ceremony at Red Fort for the first time, Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar said on Wednesday.
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) has been developed under the government's 'Make in India' initiative by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The ATAGS will give the ceremonial 21-Gun Salute along with the British guns which are being traditionally used till now.
The defence ministry said the initiative to use the indigenously developed gun will stand as a testament to India's growing capacity of developing arms and ammunition indigenously.
The gun has been especially customised, with certain technical specifications being tweaked for the ceremony.
The ministry said a team of DRDO's Armament Research & Development Establishment, Pune, led by scientists and artillery officers worked in the project to make use of the gun possible for the Independence Day ceremony.
The ATAGS project was started in 2013 by the DRDO to replace older guns in service in the Indian Army with a modern 155mm artillery gun.
This specialised gun system is compatible with C4I systems like the Artillery Combat Command and Control System called Shakti for technical fire control, fire planning, deployment management, operational logistics management of the Indian Army.
The defence secretary also said NCC cadets from all districts of the country have been invited to attend the main event at Red Fort.
These cadets will be seated at 'Gyan Path' in front of the Red Fort's ramparts in a geographical formation of the map of India.
Kumar said the cadets will adorn local dresses, symbolising India's cultural diversity, to carry forward the message of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat'.
In continuation to the initiative taken during Republic Day 2022, the section of society, which is usually overlooked, has been invited as special guests for Independence Day as well, he said.
"These include anganwadi workers, street vendors, mudra scheme borrowers, mortuary workers etc. They have been invited to attend the main event at Red Fort," Kumar said.
Kumar said a total of 26 officers and supervisors and 126 cadets from 14 countries -- US, UK, Argentina, Brazil, Fiji, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, The Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Nigeria, Seychelles, the UAE and Uzbekistan -- are already in India for the Independence Day celebrations.
Apart from attending the main event at Red Fort, the youth will be visiting places of cultural and historical importance in Delhi and Agra.
Kumar said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also be felicitating 25 winners of the 'Veer Gatha contest' (SUPER-25) in New Delhi on August 12.
Veer Gatha, one of the unique projects launched as part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' was organised to inspire and spread awareness among children about the gallant deeds and sacrifices of the armed forces.
In the nation-wide contest, held between October 21-November 20, over eight lakh students from 4,788 schools were encouraged to share inspirational stories through essays, poems, drawings and multimedia presentations, the ministry said.
Following the success in the first edition, Veer Gatha 2.0 is all set to be launched in September, it said. 

Independence Day 2022 | Home-grown howitzer to give 21-gun salute at Red Fort: all you need to know

A home-grown howitzer gun will be used for the ceremonial 21-gun salute during the Independence Day ceremony at Red Fort for the first time, Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar said on Wednesday.

The ATAGS project was started in 2013 by the DRDO to replace older guns in service in the Indian Army with a modern 155mm artillery gun.

A home-grown howitzer gun will be used for the ceremonial 21-gun salute during the Independence Day ceremony at Red Fort for the first time, Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar said on Wednesday.
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) has been developed under the government's 'Make in India' initiative by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The ATAGS will give the ceremonial 21-Gun Salute along with the British guns which are being traditionally used till now.
The defence ministry said the initiative to use the indigenously developed gun will stand as a testament to India's growing capacity of developing arms and ammunition indigenously.
The gun has been especially customised, with certain technical specifications being tweaked for the ceremony.
The ministry said a team of DRDO's Armament Research &amp; Development Establishment, Pune, led by scientists and artillery officers worked in the project to make use of the gun possible for the Independence Day ceremony.
The ATAGS project was started in 2013 by the DRDO to replace older guns in service in the Indian Army with a modern 155mm artillery gun.
This specialised gun system is compatible with C4I systems like the Artillery Combat Command and Control System called Shakti for technical fire control, fire planning, deployment management, operational logistics management of the Indian Army.
The defence secretary also said NCC cadets from all districts of the country have been invited to attend the main event at Red Fort.
These cadets will be seated at 'Gyan Path' in front of the Red Fort's ramparts in a geographical formation of the map of India.
ALSO WATCH: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/lifestyle-news/india-75-don-t-land-in-trouble-here-s-how-you-can-wear-tricolour-independence-day-2022-1660207222618">India@75: Don't land in trouble! Here's how you can wear Tricolour this Independence Day</a>
Kumar said the cadets will adorn local dresses, symbolising India's cultural diversity, to carry forward the message of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat'.
In continuation to the initiative taken during Republic Day 2022, the section of society, which is usually overlooked, has been invited as special guests for Independence Day as well, he said.
"These include anganwadi workers, street vendors, mudra scheme borrowers, mortuary workers etc. They have been invited to attend the main event at Red Fort," Kumar said.
Kumar said a total of 26 officers and supervisors and 126 cadets from 14 countries -- US, UK, Argentina, Brazil, Fiji, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, The Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Nigeria, Seychelles, the UAE and Uzbekistan -- are already in India for the Independence Day celebrations.
Apart from attending the main event at Red Fort, the youth will be visiting places of cultural and historical importance in Delhi and Agra.
Kumar said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also be felicitating 25 winners of the 'Veer Gatha contest' (SUPER-25) in New Delhi on August 12.
Veer Gatha, one of the unique projects launched as part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' was organised to inspire and spread awareness among children about the gallant deeds and sacrifices of the armed forces.
In the nation-wide contest, held between October 21-November 20, over eight lakh students from 4,788 schools were encouraged to share inspirational stories through essays, poems, drawings and multimedia presentations, the ministry said.
Following the success in the first edition, Veer Gatha 2.0 is all set to be launched in September, it said.&nbsp;

The US House of Representatives has passed by voice vote a legislative amendment that approves waiver to India against the punitive CAATSA sanctions for its purchase of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia to help deter aggressors like China.

US House votes for sanctions waiver to India over S-400 missile deal with Russia 

In his remarks on the House floor, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna said there is no relationship of greater significance to US strategic interests than the US-India partnership.&nbsp;

The US House of Representatives has passed by voice vote a legislative amendment that approves waiver to India against the punitive CAATSA sanctions for its purchase of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia to help deter 'aggressors' such as China.&nbsp;
The legislative amendment was passed on Thursday as part of an en bloc amendment during floor consideration of the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA).&nbsp;
Authored and introduced by Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna, the amendment urges the Biden administration to use its authority to provide India with a Countering America&rsquo;s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) waiver to help deter aggressors like China.&nbsp;
CAATSA is a tough US law that authorises the US administration to impose sanctions on countries that purchase major defence hardware from Russia in response to Russia&rsquo;s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its alleged meddling in the 2016 US presidential elections.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The United States must stand with India in the face of escalating aggression from China. As Vice Chair of the India Caucus, I have been working to strengthen the partnership between our countries and ensure that India can defend itself along the Indian Chinese border,&rdquo; said Khanna, the US representative from California&rsquo;s 17th congressional district.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This amendment is of the utmost importance, and I am proud to see it pass the House on a bipartisan basis,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
The law was brought in 2017 and provides for punitive actions by the US government against any country engaged in transactions with the Russian defence and intelligence sectors.&nbsp;
In October 2018, India signed a USD 5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, despite a warning from the then-Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions. The S-400 is known as Russia&rsquo;s most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system.The US has already imposed sanctions on Turkey under the CAATSA for the purchase of a batch of S-400 missile defence systems from Russia.&nbsp;
Following the US sanctions on Turkey over the procurement of S-400 missile systems, there were apprehensions that Washington may impose similar punitive measures on India.&nbsp;
The US has not yet made any decision on potential sanctions or waivers to India under CATSAA law for its purchase of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in April.&nbsp;
The Ministry of External Affairs has said that India was pursuing an independent foreign policy and its defence acquisitions are guided by its national security interests.&nbsp;
In his remarks on the House floor, Khanna said there is no relationship of greater significance to US strategic interests than the US-India partnership.&nbsp;
&ldquo;My bipartisan NDAA amendment marks the most significant piece of legislation for US-India relations out of Congress since the US-India nuclear deal,&rdquo; Khanna, a Democrat, said.&nbsp;
The legislation says that the United States-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET) is a welcome and essential step to developing closer partnerships between governments, academia, and industry in the two countries to address the latest advances in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, aerospace, and semiconductor manufacturing.&nbsp;
Such collaborations between engineers and computer scientists are vital to help ensure that the United States and India, as well as other democracies around the world, foster innovation and facilitate technological advances which continue to far outpace Russian and Chinese technology, it said.&nbsp;

India has reportedly cancelled a plan to buy almost 50 Russian military helicopters. The Indian Air Force has dropped a plan to purchase 48 Mi-17 V5 medium lift choppers, as per news agency ANI.
The tender was withdrawn in view of the Narendra Modi government's push for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', or self-reliant India. The decision was taken before the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, defence sources were quoted as saying in the report.
India has a large fleet of Mi-17 V5 and Mi-17 choppers, and these are reportedly used to fly VVIPs like the President and Prime Minister of India. Coincidentally, it was a Mi-17 chopper which crashed and killed India first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in December 2021.
The Mi-17s are also reportedly used heavily at Siachen, eastern Ladakh, and high-altitude areas in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
Instead of buying more Mi-17s, the Indian Air Force wants to focus on encouraging the indigenous medium-lift chopper programme, as per the ANI report.

India cancels Russian military chopper deal, says report. Watch why IAF won't buy 48 Mi-17 V5s

India cancels Russian military chopper deal, says report. Watch why IAF won't buy 48 Mi-17 V5 helicopters


India has reportedly cancelled a plan to buy almost 50 Russian military helicopters. The Indian Air Force has dropped a plan to purchase 48 Mi-17 V5 medium lift choppers, as per news agency ANI. The tender was withdrawn in view of the Narendra Modi government's push for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', or self-reliant India. The decision was taken before the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, defence sources were quoted as saying in the report. India has a large fleet of Mi-17 V5 and Mi-17 choppers, and these are reportedly used to fly VVIPs like the President and Prime Minister of India. Coincidentally, it was a Mi-17 chopper which crashed and killed India first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in December 2021. The Mi-17s are also reportedly used heavily at Siachen, eastern Ladakh, and high-altitude areas in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Instead of buying more Mi-17s, the Indian Air Force wants to focus on encouraging the indigenous medium-lift chopper programme, as per the ANI report.
&nbsp;
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 CAPTIONS India won't buy 48 Mi-17 V5 choppers Decision to boost indigenous industry Decision taken before Ukraine conflict India has large Mi-17 chopper fleet Mi-17s used to fly VVIPs like PM CDS Gen Rawat died in Mi-17 crash

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-weight: 400; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;">Coincidentally, it was a Mi-17 chopper which crashed and killed India first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in December 2021.</div>

India has reportedly cancelled a plan to buy almost 50 Russian military helicopters.&nbsp;The Indian Air Force has dropped a plan to purchase 48 Mi-17 V5 medium lift choppers, as per news agency ANI.
The tender was withdrawn in view of the Narendra Modi government's push for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', or self-reliant India.&nbsp;The decision was taken before the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, defence sources were quoted as saying in the report.
India has a large fleet of Mi-17 V5 and Mi-17 choppers, and these are reportedly used to fly VVIPs like the President and Prime Minister of India.&nbsp;Coincidentally, it was a Mi-17 chopper which crashed and killed India first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in December 2021.
ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/amid-ukraine-war-india-receives-russian-s-400-missile-system-simulators-for-training-squadron-report-1650042718493" target="_blank">Amid Ukraine war, India receives Russian S-400 missile system simulators for training squadron: report</a>
The Mi-17s are also reportedly used heavily at Siachen, eastern Ladakh, and high-altitude areas in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
Instead of buying more Mi-17s, the Indian Air Force wants to focus on encouraging the indigenous medium-lift chopper programme, as per the ANI report.

Will sanctions on Russia play spoilsport for India taking delivery of weapons New Dehi considers to be critical in countering China? That is the question defence experts are asking even as a Russian Diplomat was quoted as saying that the crisis would not impact India-Russia tie in areas of defence. Russia has long been a key arms supplier to India. The long-range S-400 ground-to-air missile defence system is one of their most high-profile current contracts. The deal for S-400 units is worth ₹ 35,000 cr ($5 billion). It has the capability to help India tackle air threats from up to 400 km and thus critical in defence against China. 
The S-400 deal with is already a sore point between US and India and it is up in the air if the Biden administration will invoke CAATSA on India. CAATSA is a tough U.S. law that was brought in 2017 and authorises the U.S. administration to impose sanctions on countries that purchase major defence hardware from any countries US sanctions. 

PM Modi to Biden meet today, the $5 billion deal with Russia New Delhi is keeping in balance 

The S-400 deal with is already a sore point between US and India and it is up in the air if the Biden administration will invoke CAATSA on India. 

India's $5 bn defence deal with Russia takes centrestage

India-Russia defence cooperation, further deliveries of S-400 in question

Will sanctions on Russia play spoilsport for India taking delivery of weapons that New Delhi considers to be critical in countering China? That is the question defence experts are asking even as a Russian Diplomat was quoted as saying that the crisis would not impact India-Russia ties, especially in areas of defence.&nbsp; Russia has long been a key arms supplier to India. The long-range S-400 ground-to-air missile defence system is one of their most high-profile current contracts.&nbsp;The deal for S-400 units is worth&nbsp;₹&nbsp;35,000 cr ($5 billion). It has the capability to help&nbsp;India tackle air threats from up to 400 km and thus critical in defence against China.&nbsp;
The S-400 deal with is already a sore point between US and India and it is up in the air if the Biden&nbsp;administration will invoke&nbsp;CAATSA&nbsp;on India.&nbsp; CAATSA is a tough U.S. law that was brought in 2017 and authorises the U.S. administration to impose sanctions on countries that purchase major defence hardware from any country the US sanctions.&nbsp;

Kalyani&nbsp;family&nbsp;promoted Bharat Forge has received an order worth over Rs 177 cr from the Indian Ministry of Defence. This order which is&nbsp;placed as emergency procurement from the Army is for the supply of Kalyani M4 vehicles.
The vehicle had undergone trials in Ladakh, along with its competitors, in August 2020
This order comes just as the Pune based company ties up with &nbsp;global aerospace and technology company Paramount Group to manufacture armoured vehicles in India.

Bharat Forge bags made in India army order

Kalyani&nbsp;family&nbsp;promoted Bharat Forge has received an order worth over Rs 177 cr from the Indian Ministry of Defence. This order which is&nbsp;placed as emergency procurement from the Army is for the supply of Kalyani M4 vehicles.
The vehicle had undergone trials in Ladakh, along with its competitors, in August 2020
This order comes just as the Pune based company ties up with &nbsp;global aerospace and technology company Paramount Group to manufacture armoured vehicles in India.

Corporatisation of Ordnance Factories

The Government on September 11 has set up an Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Other ministers in the EGoM are the Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Law &amp; Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of State for Labour &amp; Employment Santosh Kumar Gangwar and Minister of State for Personal, Public Grievance &amp; Pensions Jitendra Singh. The EGoM is to oversee and guide the entire process, including deciding on conversion of OFB into a single Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) or as multiple DPSUs, matters related to various categories of employees including transition support and redeployment plan of employees, &nbsp;protection of their salary and pension of existing employees and treatment for land assets of OFB.

Passage of bills doesn't mean end of MSP or APMC: Rajnath

As six union ministers held a press conference over the 2 farm bills and the ensuing ruckus in the Rajya&nbsp;Sabha, Defence Minister&nbsp;Rajnath Singh&nbsp;re-iterated that introduction of the bills does not mean end of MSP system or APMC.&nbsp;

MSP&nbsp;or APMC&nbsp;will not end: Rajnath&nbsp;Singh

As six union ministers held a press conference over the 2 farm bills and the ensuing ruckus in the Rajya&nbsp;Sabha, Defence Minister&nbsp;Rajnath Singh&nbsp;re-iterated that passage of the bills does not mean end of MSP system or APMC. He also added that there was an attempt to mislead the farmers of the country.&nbsp;
"The two bills are historic for farmers and the agriculture sector. With their implementation, income of farmers will increase. But misunderstanding is being spread among farmers that MSP and APMC are being ended. The truth is that when these bills come into force,the farmers will be free to sell their produce in any market of the country. Neither APMC is being ended nor MSP," Singh said.

LAC stanoff: Govt says no border infiltration in last 6 months

Amid a fierce stand-off with China along the LAC, the Union home ministry said in Parliament that no infiltration has been reported along the border in the last six months

Indo-China standoff: Govt says no border infiltration in last 6 months

No infiltration on India-China border in 6 months: Centre
MoS, Home, replies to a written question in Rajya Sabha
47 infiltration bids on India-Pak&nbsp;border, most in April:&nbsp;MHA

The Union Home Ministry in a written response &nbsp;to a question from BJP Rajya Sabha member said on Wednesday that no infiltration has been reported along the India-China border in the last six months even as tensions mount in the Ladakh region. The answer also listed the infiltration attempts on India&rsquo;s border with Pakistan. Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai&rsquo;s response attempted to establish that that India has firmly held on to its positions at the LAC.&nbsp; Defence Minister Rajnath said on Tuesday in the parliament that China doesn't recognise the traditional and customary alignment of the boundary and that &lsquo;the perception of LAC is different for countries&rsquo;

Sharad Pawar to govt: share details of LAC row with House panel

NCP president Sharad Pawar on Friday said the govt should present details of what is happening on the India-China border along the LAC in Ladakh, before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence.
Pawar is in Delhi to attend a meeting of the house panel said while there are other defence-related issues on the table for discussion, updates on the LAC situation were crucial.
Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat who meet Defence Minister Rajnath Singh earlier in the day, also appeared before the panel.
While the official agenda was listed as 'provision and monitoring of the quality of ration and livery items to the Defence forces', some members raised the India-China border row at the meeting, according to reports.

NCP chief: share details of LAC&nbsp;crisis with Parl&nbsp;panel
Pawar&nbsp;in Delhi for meeting of house panel on defence
CDS&nbsp;Bipin&nbsp;Rawat also appeared before house panel
Rawat&nbsp;along with 3 service chiefs met&nbsp;Rajnath&nbsp;earlier
Members of house panel raised&nbsp;LAC&nbsp;issue during meet

NCP president Sharad Pawar on Friday said the govt should present details of what is happening on the India-China border along the LAC in Ladakh, before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence.
Pawar is in Delhi to attend a meeting of the house panel said while there are other defence-related issues on the table for discussion, updates on the LAC situation were crucial.
Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat who meet Defence Minister Rajnath Singh earlier in the day, also appeared before the panel.
While the official agenda was listed as 'provision and monitoring of the quality of ration and livery items to the Defence forces', some members raised the India-China border row at the meeting, according to reports.

Congrats DRDO: PM hails successful test of hypersonic technology

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday applauded DRDO for successfully test firing hypersonic technology demonstrator vehicle for the first time.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday applauded DRDO for successfully test firing hypersonic technology demonstrator vehicle for the first time. In a tweet, the PM said&nbsp;the scramjet engine developed by our scientists helped the flight achieve a speed 6 times the speed of sound. The Defence&nbsp;Research and Development&nbsp;Organisation&nbsp;successfully flight tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island or HSTDV off the coast of Odisha on Monday.&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;minister Rajnath Singh, too, congratulated the DRDO.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday applauded DRDO for successfully test firing hypersonic technology demonstrator vehicle for the first time. In a tweet, the PM said&nbsp;the scramjet engine developed by our scientists helped the flight achieve a speed 6 times the speed of sound. The Defence&nbsp;Research and Development&nbsp;Organisation&nbsp;successfully flight tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island or HSTDV off the coast of Odisha on Monday.&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;minister Rajnath Singh, too, congratulated the DRDO.&nbsp;

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