India’s Private Sector Should Be Given Its Most Challenging Assignment Yet, Build Country’s First Military Grade Turbofan Engine

A Strategic Imperative For Defence Autonomy: GTRE's Kaveri Derivative Engine

India faces a strategic deficit in high‑thrust turbofan technology that underpins modern fighter capability; dependence on imported engines for platforms such as the Su‑30MKI and Light Combat Aircraft exposes supply‑chain, maintenance and sovereign control vulnerabilities that will only grow amid geopolitical uncertainty.

The argument for a private‑sector‑led program is premised on commercial agility, manufacturing excellence, global partnerships and the ability to attract capital and talent quickly in ways public sector undertakings have struggled to do.

A successful program must be treated as both a national strategic project and a high‑risk, high‑reward technological endeavour. Technical requirements for a military‑grade turbofan include sustained turbine‑inlet temperatures exceeding c.1,500°C, single‑crystal and directionally solidified superalloy blades, advanced thermal‑barrier coatings, high‑precision blisks and casings, a thrust‑to‑weight ratio at or above 10:1 for fighter application, advanced hot section cooling, full‑authority digital engine control (FADEC) tailored for combat manoeuvres, and integration capability with stealth and distributed avionics requirements.

These are non‑trivial and demand multi‑disciplinary expertise across materials science, aero-thermal engineering, precision manufacturing, combustion dynamics and systems engineering.

An initial R&D commit­ment of roughly ₹10,000–15,000 crore, as estimated in contemporary commentary, is a reasonable baseline for the pre‑prototype and prototype phases; a conservative full lifecycle budget through initial operational clearance and limited series production will likely be higher and require phased funding.

A realistic timeline, assuming decisive political backing and rapid partner selection, is approximately 8–12 years to a first flight‑worthy prototype and 12–16 years to mature production‑standard engines certified for service. These estimates assume access to targeted technology transfers, strong domestic manufacturing investments and an uninterrupted test and evaluation schedule.

Government measures that materially increase probability of success include fast‑track procurement and contracting mechanisms for high‑priority strategic projects; multi‑year, ring‑fenced R&D funding; tax incentives and capital grants for test stands, materials foundries and hot‑section manufacturing lines; land allocation for specialised test facilities and accessory manufacturing clusters.

Relaxed but conditional FDI and technology transfer frameworks for qualified partners; predictable offsets and procurement guarantees for early production lots; and a streamlined regulatory pathway for military engine testing and certification.

Successful precedents in India’s defence ecosystem — such as iDEX and private manufacturing lines for missiles and electronics — demonstrate how targeted policy levers can mobilise private capability.

The suggested public‑private partnership model should be a mission‑oriented, risk‑sharing vehicle with clear governance. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) could be formed where selected private lead integrator(s) hold majority operational control and industry IP for commercialisation downstream, while the state retains golden‑share rights for strategic oversight, funding tranches and guaranteed off-take for defence needs.

DRDO and an appropriate Ministry (Defence) board should be represented to provide systems‑integration and military requirements, while a technology mentoring consortium — including an established foreign OEM under strict IP and export‑control arrangements — provides accelerated capability transfer.

Contracts should be modular: Phase A (design and material maturity), Phase B (subsystem demonstrators and rig testing), Phase C (core engine prototype and flight test), Phase D (certification and limited series production), with gated funding and independent technical review boards for each gate.

Key stakeholders and their likely roles are as follows. Central government (Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence R&D) provides strategic direction, funding and procurement guarantees; DRDO offers systems expertise, access to existing test infrastructure and integration authority; Indian Air Force defines operational requirements and provides flight‑test platforms and evaluation.

Private lead firms (for example TATA, L&T, Mahindra, Godrej or consortia thereof) supply program management, manufacturing scale, supply‑chain building and commercial acumen; public sector units (HAL, BEL, BDL) can be partners for airframe integration, avionics and munitions interface as well as workforce deployment.

Academic and research institutions (IITs, IISc, NAL, GTRE) contribute core research, materials and aero-thermal modelling; foreign partners provide selective tech transfers under controlled arrangements; specialised SME suppliers and precision foundries supply critical components such as blisks, bearings, and high‑temperature metallurgy; financiers and long‑term investors (domestic pension funds, strategic sovereign funds) provide capital against government guarantees.

Technical gaps to address immediately include domestic capability for single‑crystal superalloy blade manufacture and repair, advanced ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) for hot‑section components, additive manufacturing for complex cooling geometries, closed‑loop FADEC development timed for high‑g transient response, cold‑section durability and high‑speed rotor dynamics expertise, and robust ground‑test infrastructure including altitude test cells and high‑enthalpy test rigs. Prioritising domestic development of CMCs and single‑crystal blade casting or establishing captive foreign manufacturing alliances will reduce long‑term dependence.

A phased R&D and development roadmap reduces risk. Phase 1 (0–2 years) should focus on concept definition, material and component demonstrators, recruitment of specialist talent and establishing the SPV governance and funding lines.

Phase 2 (2–5 years) should deliver subsystem test rigs, hot‑section demonstrators, FADEC development and initial bench testing.

Phase 3 (5–9 years) moves to core‑engine prototype assembly, full‑scale ground testing, integration with a test airframe and first flight trials.

Phase 4 (9–14 years) covers iterative design improvements, endurance testing, certification and limited series production for squadron evaluation. Parallel activities must run for supply‑chain scaling, workforce training, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) ecosystem development.

Risks and mitigations must be explicit:

Technical Risk: the hot section and turbine blade metallurgy present the highest failure modes — mitigation includes multiple parallel material pathways, early investment in CMC and single‑crystal capability, and international technical partnerships with strict IP roadmaps.

Financial Risk: cost overruns and funding interruptions can be limited by milestone‑based disbursals, ring‑fenced contingency reserves and leveraging long‑term government off-take commitments.

Talent Risk: loss of skilled engineers to other sectors will be addressed by targeted hiring, diaspora repatriation incentives, secured employment packages and embedded academic partnerships for apprenticeship programs.

Supply‑Chain Risk: dependence on a few critical suppliers can be mitigated by dual‑sourcing, investment in domestic foundries and qualification programs for SMEs.

Operational and program governance must be lean and militarily focused. An independent Technical Review Board comprising domestic and vetted international experts should oversee technical gates. A Programme Management Office (PMO) inside the SPV should be empowered to procure, hire and make timely decisions; procurement norms for strategic development must be adapted to avoid bureaucratic delays while preserving accountability.

Transparent progress metrics (TRLs, component mean time between failures, thrust and specific fuel consumption targets, weight and life metrics) should be published to the board at each gate.

Finally, key success factors are firm political backing, predictable and phased funding, a clear IP and export‑control framework, sustained commitment to workforce development, and disciplined program governance that balances speed with rigorous technical oversight.

The clarion call is clear: empower the private sector with policy thrust and resources. This is not just about an engine; it is about igniting India’s aerospace renaissance.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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US Exposes China's Covert Nuclear Test Post-Galwan Clash

The United States has accused China of conducting a secret nuclear explosive test in June 2020, mere days after the deadly Galwan Valley clash in eastern Ladakh. This confrontation resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers, with intelligence assessments indicating over 30 Chinese casualties, NBC News reported.

The timing of the alleged test, disclosed by Washington at a global disarmament forum, heightens concerns in New Delhi regarding Beijing's military posture amid one of the most tense phases of the India-China border crisis in decades.

U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Thomas DiNanno, revealed that the U.S. government possesses evidence of China performing nuclear explosive tests, including preparations for yields in the hundreds of tons. He specified that Beijing executed a yield-producing test on 22 June 2020.

DiNanno accused the Chinese military of concealing these explosions through 'decoupling' techniques, which reduce the effectiveness of seismic monitoring, thereby violating international test ban commitments.

China's ambassador on disarmament, Shen Jian, dismissed the claims without directly addressing the specific allegation. He asserted that Beijing has always acted prudently and responsibly on nuclear matters, while countering that the U.S. exaggerates the so-called 'China nuclear threat' to justify its own arms race. Shen positioned Washington as the primary culprit in escalating global nuclear tensions.

This revelation emerges at a pivotal moment for international arms control, coinciding with the expiry of the 2010 New START treaty between the U.S. and Russia. For the first time in over 50 years, these powers operate without binding limits on strategic missile and warhead deployments, fuelling fears of a renewed arms competition.

DiNanno emphasised that bilateral treaties like New START are obsolete in 2026, given threats from multiple nuclear-armed states. The U.S. forecasts China's nuclear arsenal expanding beyond 1,000 warheads by 2030, contrasting with Beijing's claim of around 600—far below the approximately 4,000 held by both the U.S. and Russia. China has so far rejected trilateral negotiations.

Security analysts warn of a strategic vacuum akin to early Cold War uncertainties, where miscalculations between nuclear powers loomed large. Without a successor treaty, major powers may expand arsenals on worst-case scenarios, exacerbated by China's rapid nuclear modernisation. Russia has expressed openness to dialogue with Washington, while Britain and France advocate a multilateral framework incorporating China amid eroding nuclear norms.

The Galwan clash represented the first combat deaths on the India-China border in 45 years, sparking prolonged standoffs, swift military build-ups, and a lasting strain in bilateral relations. For India, the alleged nuclear test underscores the need for vigilant monitoring of China's opaque military advancements.

International Agencies

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US Trade Map Silently Embraces Undivided India, Encompassing All of Kashmir

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) recently shared a post on X to highlight a new India-US trade agreement. Rather than focusing solely on tariff reductions for US goods such as tree nuts, sorghum, grains, and wine, the accompanying map drew widespread notice.

It portrayed India as a single, undivided territory, incorporating the whole of Jammu and Kashmir without any demarcations for areas administered by Pakistan or China, reported ThePrint.

This cartographic depiction marked a subtle departure from typical US practice. Observers on social media quickly pointed out the significance, with one user remarking that the map's portrayal of an undivided India—including regions under foreign occupation—carried more diplomatic weight than the trade commodities listed. Such a choice resonated deeply, evoking strong patriotic sentiments.

Historically, the United States has adopted a stance of formal neutrality on the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan. Official maps often employ dotted lines or disclaimers to denote contested boundaries. The USTR's map, however, omitted these markers entirely, prompting speculation despite no accompanying official commentary or evidence of a broader policy change.

India steadfastly asserts that the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir forms an integral part of its sovereign territory. This position contrasts with past US representations. For instance, in 2011, the US Department of State's website featured a map depicting Pakistan-administered Kashmir as part of Pakistan, while only noting India's claim over Aksai Chin—without similar recognition for the former.

That State Department map, displayed under its "Diplomacy in Action" section, diverged sharply from India's official boundaries and lacked any indication of the region's disputed status. It sparked formal protests from New Delhi. In response, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a 2012 statement rejecting such "incorrect depictions" of its borders.

The MEA emphasised its ongoing efforts to address these issues with Washington, urging corrections to align with India's sovereign claims. Following diplomatic pressure over prior inaccuracies, the US State Department eventually revised its maps. It adopted a neutral approach by using a dotted line to represent the 1972 Line of Control in Kashmir.

The USTR map thus represents a quiet evolution in visual diplomacy, where territorial portrayal amplifies the trade narrative. While trade gains remain substantive, the undivided India depicted has amplified perceptions of strengthened bilateral affinity amid enduring geopolitical sensitivities.

Based On ThePrint Report

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Private Sector Poised To Spearhead India's Stealth Fighter Leap; And Why It Matters

India's defence landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with the private sector emerging as a formidable force in the race to develop indigenous stealth fighters. As the nation grapples with evolving geopolitical threats, the government's potential decision to award a major contract to domestic private players could mark a watershed moment.

If the government grants the stealth fighter contract to private consortia—potentially led by TATA, L&T, or a public-private partnership excluding HAL as prime integrator—the payoffs could be transformative. This isn't mere rhetoric; it's backed by evidence from global precedents and India's own private sector track record.

Agility and Speed: Outpacing Bureaucratic Behemoths

The paramount advantage lies in the private sector's agility. PSUs like HAL are notorious for glacial timelines; the TEJAS MK-1A, approved in 2016, is only now nearing delivery in 2026, eight years behind schedule. Private firms, unencumbered by government red tape, operate with leaner structures and profit-driven incentives.

Consider L&T's Feats: the company delivered the K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer ahead of schedule during the 2020 Galwan clash, showcasing rapid prototyping. Tata Advanced Systems has partnered with Lockheed Martin on the C-295 transport aircraft, achieving first flight in just four years from contract award.

A private-led stealth fighter project could compress the typical 15-20 year development cycle to under a decade, leveraging modular designs and digital twins—virtual simulations that slash physical testing by 40-50%, as seen in Boeing's T-7A trainer.

This speed matters immensely. With China's stealth fleet expanding and Pakistan eyeing Turkish fifth-gen platforms, India cannot afford delays. Private sector involvement ensures the IAF fields indigenous stealth fighters by the early 2030s, bolstering deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Innovation Unleashed: Fostering A Culture of Cutting-Edge R&D

Private enterprise thrives on innovation, a stark contrast to PSU conservatism. Government contracts to firms like Adani Defence, which is scaling up drone and missile production, would inject billions into R&D, catalysing breakthroughs in stealth materials, AI-driven sensors, and directed-energy weapons.

India's private sector already boasts world-class talent: over 2,00,000 engineers in aerospace, many returning from Silicon Valley. Granting the contract would create an ecosystem of startups—think ideaForge for UAVs or Tonbo Imaging for night-vision tech—feeding into the prime integrator. This mirrors Israel's model, where private firms like IAI and Rafael dominate, yielding the Iron Dome amid minimal state interference.

Fiscal prudence amplifies this edge. PSUs bleed public funds; HAL's negative return on capital employed stands at -11% (as per 2024 CAG reports). Private bids, hungry for margins, promise 20-30% cost savings through value engineering—optimising designs without compromising performance. The result? A stealth fighter at perhaps $80-100 million per unit, versus $120 million for imported F-35 equivalents.

Export potential skyrockets too. India's private sector has cracked international markets: BrahMos missiles to the Philippines, Akash systems to Armenia. A certified stealth fighter could tap the $100 billion global market for fourth-to-fifth-gen upgrades, especially in friendly nations like Vietnam and the UAE wary of Chinese dominance. Unlike PSUs tied to domestic sales, private firms excel at customisation, pricing competitively at 70-80% of Western costs.

This fosters true Atmanirbharta (Self-Reliance). By 2035, India could offset 60% of its $20 billion annual arms import bill, conserving Forex reserves and reducing vulnerability to geopolitical arm-twisting, as witnessed during the 2022 Ukraine crisis.

Strategic Autonomy: Shielding National Security From External Strings

Geopolitics underscores the imperative. Foreign deals, like the Rafale purchase, come laden with offsets that rarely materialise fully. A private-led indigenous programme ensures 100% tech sovereignty—no black-box engines from Russia or avionics from France that could be withheld in crises.

Private firms bring dual-use synergies: stealth tech spills over to civil aviation (e.g., composite materials for Air India's fleet) and space (ISRO's Gaganyaan). Moreover, competition weeds out inefficiency; multiple private bidders vying for subsystems foster a meritocracy absent in HAL's monopoly.

Critics decry risks of private profit motives compromising quality, but safeguards abound: stringent DRDO oversight, IAF trials, and performance bonds. Israel's success—90% indigenous content in its fighters—proves private stewardship enhances, not erodes, security.

Global Precedents And India's Unique Opportunity

Nations like South Korea (KFX with Hanwha) and Turkey (TF-X with Baykar) have leapfrogged via private leadership, achieving 70% local content in half the time of state monopolies. India, with its $4.20 trillion economy and demographic dividend, is primed to emulate them. The 2024 Defence Acquisition Procedure prioritises private bids, and PM Modi's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' aligns perfectly.

Yet, the window is narrow. Commit now, and private prowess delivers supremacy; dither, and India lags in the stealth arms race.

Why It Matters: A Leap Towards Superpower Status

Handing the stealth fighter reins to India's private sector isn't just about aircraft; it's a bet on entrepreneurial dynamism over entrenched inefficiency. The advantages—blistering speed, rampant innovation, economic boom, and ironclad autonomy—position India as Asia's defence tech powerhouse. In a volatile world, this decision will define whether India reacts to threats or shapes them. The government must seize it, for the skies await no one.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Sigma Teams Up with Indrajaal For Radar-EW Supply Pact

Hyderabad-based Sigma Advanced Systems has forged a long-term strategic agreement with Indrajaal, a prominent player in India's defence ecosystem, for the supply of advanced Radar and Electronic Warfare (EW) systems. This partnership marks a significant step in bolstering indigenous capabilities within the nation's defence sector.

The agreement, announced recently, commits Sigma to delivering state-of-the-art radar solutions and EW suites tailored for modern battlefield requirements.

These systems are designed to enhance situational awareness, threat detection, and electronic countermeasures, aligning with India's push towards self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Sigma Advanced Systems, known for its expertise in aerospace and defence electronics, brings cutting-edge technologies such as active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars and integrated EW platforms to the table. Headquartered in Hyderabad, the firm has established itself as a key contributor to projects involving UAVs, missile guidance, and airborne surveillance.

Indrajaal, on the other hand, specialises in layered air defence architectures and has been at the forefront of integrating multi-domain sensor networks. This collaboration will enable Indrajaal to equip its platforms with Sigma's high-performance sensors, potentially for applications in border surveillance and integrated air defence systems.

The deal underscores the growing synergy between private sector innovators and defence integrators in India. It is expected to span several years, with phased deliveries commencing in the near term, and could generate substantial revenue while fostering technology transfer and joint R&D efforts.

This partnership arrives amid heightened geopolitical tensions in South Asia, where robust radar and EW capabilities are vital for deterring aerial threats and maintaining strategic superiority. Industry analysts view it as a model for future collaborations in India's defence manufacturing landscape.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Pakistan Starts Bholari Airbase Repairs Nine Months Post-Operation Sindoor Strikes

The aftermath of IAFs airstrike on Pakistan's Bholari Airbase 

Repair efforts are now underway at Pakistan's Bholari Airbase, nearly nine months after an aircraft hangar sustained significant damage during India's Operation Sindoor in May 2025.

Geo-intelligence and OSINT analyst Damien Symon has shared comparative before-and-after satellite images on X, highlighting visible structural changes that indicate ongoing restoration work.

These images reveal that the hangar roof has been partially removed, suggesting active repairs to the facility struck amid the brief India-Pakistan conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Bholari Airbase, situated in Sindh province less than 100 miles from Karachi, ranks among Pakistan's more modern air facilities, having been commissioned in December 2017.

It houses the Pakistan Air Force's 19 Squadron and an Operational Conversion Unit, both operating F-16A/B Block 15 ADF fighter jets.

The strike occurred on the night of 9–10 May 2025, as part of India's retaliation against Pakistan's attempted missile attacks on Indian military targets.

Commercial satellite imagery analysed at the time showed a wide breach in the hangar's roof, consistent with a high-impact hit reportedly from Indian Air Force BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.

Multiple Western-origin fighters and a Saab 2000 airborne early warning and control aircraft were present at the base during the attack.

Operation Sindoor also targeted other key Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan, Sargodha, Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, and Chunian.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah confirmed casualties from the Bholari strike, stating that six Air Force officers and technicians were killed, with the first martyr in the province identified as Bakhtar Lagari in Ghatki.

Based On UNI Report

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PM Modi In Malaysia: Forging Ties From Defence To Semiconductors

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day official visit to Malaysia has injected strong momentum into transforming the upgraded Comprehensive Strategic Partnership into concrete achievements.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described his discussions with PM Modi as "very vital, very strategic, and critical" for advancing bilateral relations. He recalled the elevation of ties in 2024 and affirmed both sides' commitment to implementing agreed decisions swiftly.

PM Modi characterised the India-Malaysia relationship as "special", highlighting shared maritime interests, deep cultural linkages, and a common dedication to democratic values. He reiterated India's unwavering stance against terrorism, insisting on no double standards or compromises.

The leaders conducted extensive delegation-level talks in Kuala Lumpur, concluding with the exchange of 11 documents and a series of key announcements to deepen cooperation across diverse sectors.

Among the exchanged documents were agreements on audio-visual co-production, disaster management, combating corruption, UN peacekeeping via an exchange of letters, semiconductor cooperation through notes, the International Big Cats Alliance framework, social security between ESIC and PERKESO, vocational education and training (TVET), security cooperation between national security councils, and health and medicine.

Further initiatives include establishing an Indian Consulate General in Malaysia, creating a dedicated Thiruvalluvar Centre at Universiti Malaya, and instituting Thiruvalluvar Scholarships for Malaysian nationals.

The two nations also agreed on cross-border payments cooperation between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPPL) and Malaysia's PAYNET, alongside an MoU between the University of Cyberjaya and India's Institute of Training and Research in Ayurveda.

This visit marks PM Modi's third trip to Malaysia and his first since ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.

Based On ANI Report

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India And Malaysia Accelerate Comprehensive Strategic Ties In Trade, Defence, Tech, And Beyond

India and Malaysia have committed to invigorating their strategic partnership, with a focus on expanding defence, security, technology, and trade relations. On 8 February 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his first overseas visit of the year to Kuala Lumpur, joined Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in announcing measures to inject "new speed and depth" into bilateral ties.

The leaders highlighted progress in energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology sectors. PM Modi praised Anwar Ibrahim for infusing fresh energy into the relationship in recent years, building on the upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024.

Defence and security emerged as key priorities. Both nations agreed to bolster cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security, addressing shared Indo-Pacific concerns. PM Modi stressed that defence ties would become more comprehensive to enhance regional stability.

Economic collaboration will extend to high-priority areas like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital payments, health, and food security. A CEO Forum on the sidelines unlocked new trade and investment opportunities, aiming to drive economic transformation through strategic trust.

Bilateral trade has grown steadily, supported by investments in the digital economy, biotechnology, IT, tourism, and people-to-people links. PM Modi emphasised the role of Malaysia's nearly three-million-strong Indian diaspora as a "living bridge," with welfare measures providing a humane foundation.

Practical initiatives include a Social Security Agreement for Indian workers, gratis e-visas for tourism, and the rollout of India's UPI system in Malaysia. These steps ensure partnership benefits reach ordinary citizens directly.

Cultural bonds, particularly the shared affinity for the Tamil language in Malaysia's education, media, and culture, were underscored. A new audio-visual agreement will promote unity through films and music, especially Tamil cinema.

Youth engagement will expand via university exchanges, start-up collaborations, and skill development. To facilitate this, India announced a new consulate in Malaysia.

Regionally, PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to ASEAN centrality, congratulating Malaysia on its successful chairmanship. Both sides will hasten the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), viewing the Indo-Pacific as a global growth engine.

The talks addressed global challenges, including the need for international institutional reforms. PM Modi reiterated India's firm stance against terrorism, insisting on no double standards or compromise.

Delegation-level discussions preceded the press conference, yielding agreements, notably in semiconductors. PM Modi invited Anwar Ibrahim to India, expressing optimism for a prosperous Malaysia and a developed India.

Based On ANI Report

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ISRO Working On Reusable Rockets, Venus And Gaganyaan Mission Says Chief V Narayanan, Amid Ambitious Space Goals

ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan has revealed that the Indian Space Research Organisation is actively developing reusable launch vehicle (RLV) technology to enhance cost-effective access to space. 

Speaking on the sidelines of a convocation at D Y Patil International University in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, he emphasised that the program remains at an experimental stage. Reusable vehicles, he noted, undoubtedly reduce launch costs significantly.

Dr Narayanan addressed concerns over competition from private players like SpaceX, asserting that ISRO does not perceive them as rivals. "We do not consider this as competition with anybody," he stated.

"The Indian space program is meant for India. Strength only respects strength, and without a vibrant space program, no one will support us." This underscores ISRO's focus on national priorities.

Regarding the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, the chairman confirmed a target launch in 2027, preceded by three uncrewed missions. While exact dates for the first uncrewed flight are yet to be finalised, both the current and next year have been designated as "Gaganyaan years." Progress, he affirmed, is on track.

Looking ahead to planetary explorations, Dr Narayanan highlighted that Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5 have received approval, with execution slated around 2028.

The Shukrayaan mission to Venus is also advancing according to schedule, reflecting ISRO's ambitious interplanetary agenda.

On recent PSLV mission challenges, the ISRO chief adopted an optimistic stance, describing them not as setbacks but as valuable learning opportunities. Committees are currently analysing data to deepen system understanding, with detailed findings to be released post-review.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, ISRO aims to grow India's space economy from its current 2 per cent global share to 8 per cent. The emphasis lies on addressing national requirements and benefiting ordinary citizens through indigenous advancements.

Based On PTI Report

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IAF Sukhoi-30MKIs To Have Showdown With Thai Gripens Jets In Malacca Strait Air Drill On 9 February

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to deploy Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets for a bilateral air exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) near the Malacca Strait on 9 February. This drill, the IAF's first international engagement of 2026, will unfold in the North Malacca Strait vicinity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

India plans to field four to six Su-30MKI aircraft, launched from bases in the Andaman and Nicobar chain. The RTAF will match this with a comparable contingent of JAS 39 Gripen fighters, ferried from Thai airfields. Supporting assets include IAF mid-air refuelling tankers and an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) platform, elevating the exercise's tactical sophistication.

Defence sources emphasise interoperability as the cornerstone objective, fostering seamless coordination and the sharing of operational best practices between the two air forces. Maritime search and rescue scenarios will feature prominently, bolstered by naval vessels at sea to simulate real-world contingencies.

The exercise also prioritises testing logistical endurance and sustained operations in island environments—a vital skill for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), where strategic tensions persist. This aligns with heightened IAF activity post-Operation Sindoor, underscoring India's proactive defence posture.

The drill forms part of a bustling IAF calendar, with upcoming engagements alongside France, the United States, and Greece over the next two months. Recent participations include Exercise Garud with France and AviaIndra with Russia, reflecting robust multinational ties.

India-Thailand defence ties have deepened under the 'Act East' policy, evolving from the 2003 Joint Working Group on security cooperation. A 2012 Memorandum of Understanding formalised joint exercises, coordinated patrols, counter-terrorism efforts, anti-piracy operations, training exchanges, and high-level visits.

Thailand's pivotal Southeast Asian position and shared maritime boundaries amplify its strategic value to India. The Ministry of External Affairs views Bangkok as essential for regional stability, particularly amid IOR flux. This air exercise promises to fortify operational synergy in an arena of escalating geopolitical import.

Agencies

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Bastar Breakthrough: 51 Naxalites Worth ₹1.61 Crore Embrace Peace Amid Surrender Surge

In Chhattisgarh's Bastar division, 51 Naxalites carrying a collective bounty of ₹1.61 crore surrendered before police in Bijapur and Sukma districts on Saturday. This development comes as the March 31, 2026, deadline to eradicate Naxalism approaches, with around 300 surrenders recorded across the state this year.

The surrenders aligned with key events, including President Droupadi Murmu inaugurating the Bastar Pandum 2026 festival in Jagdalpur and Union Home Minister Amit Shah's three-day visit to Raipur. Among the cadres, 34 were women, highlighting a significant gender dimension to the reintegration efforts.

Inspector General of Police for Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam, detailed that 30 cadres, including 20 women, laid down arms in Bijapur under the "Poona Margem" rehabilitation initiative. These included members from the Maoists' south sub-zonal bureau, such as Boti Podiyam alias Malla, Sukhram Madkam, and Reena Punem, each with an Rs 8 lakh bounty.

In Bijapur, the group's combined reward totalled Rs 85 lakh, with five cadres at Rs 5 lakh each, 14 at Rs 2 lakh, and eight at Rs 1 lakh. Meanwhile, 21 cadres from Sukma, including those from Darbha, south Bastar, and Odisha's KKBN divisions, also surrendered before senior police and CRPF officers.

Key figures in Sukma included Sodhi Mahesh, Podiyam Raju, and Karam Mamta, each carrying an Rs 8 lakh reward. The group deposited substantial weaponry: three AK-47 rifles with eight magazines, two self-loading rifles, one Insas rifle, five single-shot guns, three barrel grenade launchers with 20 rounds, ten gelatin sticks, and 20 non-electric detonators.

The Naxalites cited the state government's surrender and rehabilitation policy as a key influence. Each received immediate assistance of ₹50,000, with further rehabilitation promised under official guidelines.

Pattilingam attributed the success to the state's anti-Naxal strategy, security camp expansions in remote areas, improved road networks, ongoing operations, and development schemes reaching isolated regions. He urged remaining cadres to abandon violence, emphasising that the "Poona Margem" campaign offers peace and dignity.

This follows 52 surrenders in Bijapur on January 15 and over 1,500 across Chhattisgarh in 2025. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai hailed it as progress towards peace in Bastar, crediting infrastructure growth in roads, education, healthcare, and amenities over two years.

Sai underscored the government's focus on security, trust-building, rehabilitation, skills training, and self-reliance for the surrendered individuals. Bastar, he noted, is shifting from violence to development and opportunity.

Based On PTI Report

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PM Modi Prioritizes ASEAN Centrality In Indo-Pacific Strategy With Malaysia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed India's steadfast commitment to ASEAN centrality during a visit to Kuala Lumpur on 8 February 2026. Speaking at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, he described the Indo-Pacific as the world's emerging growth engine. PM Modi emphasised deepening cooperation in emerging technologies following extensive bilateral talks.

He reiterated India's dedication, alongside ASEAN, to fostering development, peace, and stability across the region. "India prioritises ASEAN centrality," Modi stated, while congratulating Malaysia on its ASEAN chairmanship. The leaders agreed to expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).

Collaboration in key areas saw significant advancements. Modi announced strengthened ties in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, maritime security, and defence. Partnerships will expand into AI, digital technologies, semiconductors, health, and food security, building on a CEO Forum that opened new trade and investment avenues.

Modi adopted a firm stance on terrorism: "No double standards. No compromise." He highlighted the Indian diaspora's role, noting that around three million people of Indian origin in Malaysia act as a "live-in bridge" between the nations. Initiatives like a social security agreement for Indian workers, free e-visas for tourism, and UPI rollout in Malaysia will directly benefit citizens.

Cultural affinities, particularly the shared affection for the Tamil language thriving in Malaysia's education, media, and culture, were underscored. An audio-visual agreement covering films and music, including Tamil cinema, alongside university exchanges, start-up collaborations, and skill development programmes, aims to connect the youth. Modi also announced a new Indian consulate in Malaysia.

Anwar Ibrahim praised India's global economic progress under Modi's leadership. He committed to deepening ties in trade, investment, semiconductors, digital economy, local currency trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, food security, defence, and education. Both leaders expressed confidence in swift execution of decisions.

Earlier delegation-level talks reinforced defence and security cooperation while expanding economic and innovation partnerships. Several agreements were signed, notably in semiconductors. This builds on India and Malaysia elevating ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024.

Based On ANI Report

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PM Modi's Malaysia Trip Seals Comprehensive Pacts A Decade After Strategic Leap

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Malaysia marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, coming nearly a decade after his 2015 official trip, during which ties were elevated to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.

Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Periasamy Kumaran highlighted this continuity, noting the steady expansion of cooperation between the two nations.

The relationship received fresh impetus in 2024 with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's visit to India, upgrading the partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. PM Modi received a warm welcome in Kuala Lumpur on 7 February, featuring vibrant cultural performances at the airport and his place of stay.

Both leaders jointly addressed a large gathering of the Indian diaspora at the MINES International Exhibition and Convention Centre. The event showcased an exhibition on the history of the Indian community in Malaysia and performances by about 800 local artists, with the scale of Indian dance displays entering the Malaysian Book of Records.

Following a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Putra, PM Modi emphasised the deep historical, cultural, and maritime bonds between India and Malaysia. He noted Malaysia as the world's second-largest nation with a population of Indian origin, underscoring shared civilisations, heritage, and democratic values.

During wide-ranging discussions and an official luncheon hosted by PM Ibrahim, the leaders oversaw the exchange of multiple bilateral documents. PM Modi placed the partnership in the Indo-Pacific context, affirming India's commitment to regional growth, peace, and stability alongside ASEAN.

Key areas of deepened cooperation include counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, maritime security, and comprehensive defence ties. Partnerships will also advance in AI, digital technologies, semiconductors, health, and food security.

Significant initiatives announced include establishing an Indian Consulate General in Malaysia to enhance consular services, diaspora outreach, and commercial engagement. Cross-border payments cooperation between NPCI International Payments Ltd and PAYNET SDN BHD will enable UPI transactions, benefiting tourists and the diaspora while bolstering Indian fintech.

An audio-visual co-production agreement aims to foster joint film production and cultural promotion. Further MoUs cover disaster management, anti-corruption efforts between the Central Bureau of Investigation and Malaysia's Anti-Corruption Commission, UN peacekeeping, semiconductors, and the International Big Cats Alliance.

Additional pacts address social security for Indian workers in Malaysia, vocational education and training, national security cooperation, health and medicine collaboration, and the 10th Malaysia-India CEO Forum report to boost trade and investment.

Cultural milestones feature a dedicated Thiruvalluvar Centre at Universiti Malaya for research in arts, culture, and leadership, alongside Thiruvalluvar Scholarships for Malaysian students in India. An MoU between the University of Cyberjaya and India's Institute of Training and Research in Ayurveda promotes traditional medicine collaboration.

These outcomes underscore the burgeoning momentum in India-Malaysia relations across strategic, economic, and cultural spheres, building on diplomatic ties established in 1957.

Based On ANI Report

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Army Chief Reviews J&K Ops, Pushes Tech Boost For Counter-Terror Strategy

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff, has reviewed counter-terrorism operations and the security situation in Jammu's forward areas. His visit underscored the Indian Army's commitment to operational excellence amid ongoing challenges.

During the tour, the Army Chief attended a high-level security review meeting chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah. He also visited the White Knight Headquarters in Jammu on Friday, followed by inspections in the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri on Saturday.

At the Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo), operating under the White Knight Corps, General Dwivedi received briefings on current counter-terrorism efforts. Officials detailed the effectiveness of the security grid and measures to ensure sustained vigilance in the rugged terrain of these districts.

Discussions centred on bolstering inter-agency synergy and integrating advanced technologies to sharpen operational capabilities. The Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo) specialises in disrupting terror networks across the demanding landscapes of Rajouri and Poonch.

General Dwivedi praised all ranks for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and resolve in the face of arduous conditions. He highlighted their role in upholding a high state of readiness.

The visit reaffirmed the Indian Army's emphasis on vigilance, preparedness, and excellence in counter-terrorism operations.

Based On PTI Report

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Greek Minister Says India Now Essential Ally For Europe Amid FTA Push

Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias has described India as an indispensable partner for Europe, emphasising its rising strategic and economic importance. Speaking at the inaugural India-EU Forum 2026 in New Delhi, he noted a significant shift in European perceptions of India.

In the past, Dendias remarked, India might have been viewed as a "nice-to-have" rather than essential. "Now India is necessary-to-have," he declared during a special fireside chat on 7 February.

The minister voiced strong support for the proposed EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), predicting substantial mutual benefits. "The Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and India, I think, will serve a huge purpose, both for Europe, and individually for Greece as well," he stated.

The two-day Track 1.5 forum, organised by India's Ministry of External Affairs in partnership with the Ananta Centre, concluded on 7 February. It gathered over 200 senior policymakers, industry leaders, strategic experts, and thought leaders from India and EU member states.

Discussions spanned trade, security, technology, and geopolitical domains, aiming to strengthen India-EU cooperation. The event followed the recent India-EU Summit and FTA conclusion, focusing on translating strategic convergence into practical outcomes.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the inaugural session on 6 February. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal participated in a special session that day.

Dendias' comments underscore Greece's particular enthusiasm for deeper ties with India amid evolving global dynamics.

Based On ANI Report

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