After AMCA, Government Considers Opening Ballistic Missile Production To Private Sector

The Government of India is weighing a landmark policy shift by considering the opening of ballistic missile production to the private sector, reported Business Line.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh announced this development at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Business Summit 2026, signalling a decisive break from the long-standing monopoly of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) in this highly sensitive domain.

He emphasised that the move is intended to create a level playing field for private industry, aligning with the Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2026 which seeks to amend and modernise the procurement manual that has been in place since 2020.

Singh noted that there is now a growing willingness to transfer technology to private firms for various categories of ballistic missiles, stressing that “the time has come” to operationalise such plans given their increasing strategic importance in modern warfare.

He assured industry leaders and armed forces personnel present at the summit that steps would soon be taken to ensure sufficient private sector involvement in this critical space.

This follows the government’s earlier decision to allow private participation in the indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet project under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, where three consortiums have been selected — two blending public and private sector expertise and one entirely private.

For the AMCA program, Singh explained that the selected consortiums would soon receive Requests for Proposals (RFPs), with the expectation of establishing a production line that complements Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

This, he said, would foster a healthy combination of public and private capabilities, enabling India to build its aerospace industry at scale. He underscored that this initiative is part of a broader vision to transform India’s defence ecosystem into one that is globally competitive and technologically advanced.

Outlining the Defence Forces Vision 2047, Singh revealed ambitious targets: a year-on-year defence budget increase of 20 per cent over the next 21 years, a defence production output of ₹8.8 lakh crore, and defence exports reaching ₹2.8 lakh crore.

These goals, encapsulated in the mantra ‘Atmanirbhar, Agrani, and Atulya Bharat 2047’ (Self-reliant, Leading, and Incomparable India), are designed to place India firmly among the top three global exporters of high-quality defence equipment. He described these as staggering but achievable targets, reflecting the government’s confidence in the trajectory of India’s defence sector.

Singh highlighted that in the 1.5 years since he assumed office as Defence Secretary, projects worth ₹4.5 lakh crore have been awarded to industry, with 70 per cent of the value and 90 per cent of the contracts going to indigenous firms.

He urged industry players to build internal trust and avoid filing complaints against each other, as such disputes delay acquisition processes. He reiterated the importance of meeting timelines, a point he has stressed repeatedly in the past, to ensure the credibility and efficiency of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The Defence Secretary also announced that the government is working on a new line of credit (LoC) scheme to boost defence exports to less developed countries, thereby expanding India’s footprint in global markets.

He pointed to India’s transformative journey from being the world’s largest arms importer to becoming a global defence manufacturing hub. Defence exports have already skyrocketed to a record ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, marking a 62.66 per cent increase over the previous fiscal.

In this milestone achievement, DPSUs contributed 54.84 per cent while the private sector accounted for 45.16 per cent, underscoring the growing role of private industry in India’s defence exports.

This policy shift towards private sector participation in ballistic missile production and fifth-generation fighter aircraft manufacturing represents a profound restructuring of India’s defence industrial base. It reflects the government’s determination to harness the innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness of private industry while maintaining strategic control over critical technologies.

With the Defence Forces Vision 2047 setting ambitious economic and strategic benchmarks, India is positioning itself as a formidable global player in defence manufacturing and exports, driven by the twin imperatives of self-reliance and strategic resilience.

Business Line

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Another Delay In TEJAS MK-1A Review Meeting Threatens Induction Timeline

The induction of the Light Combat Aircraft TEJAS MK-1A into the Indian Air Force has encountered yet another setback, with the delay of a crucial review meeting between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the service.

This meeting, originally scheduled for late April or early May, was expected to be decisive in finalising delivery timelines and assessing progress on mandatory operational requirements.

Its postponement threatens to further slow down the already delayed induction process, at a time when the Air Force’s squadron strength continues to shrink and the urgency of new fighters is acute.

The review was intended to evaluate the integration of the Active Electronically Scanned Array radar with the aircraft’s electronic warfare suite, the completion of missile firing trials, and the validation of the full weapons package.

These milestones are essential before the aircraft can receive clearance for operational induction. Sources indicate that the meeting itself depended on HAL briefing the Air Force on progress in resolving pending technical issues, a step that has not yet been completed. Without this briefing, the review could not proceed, resulting in further slippages in the induction schedule.

HAL has maintained that five MK-1A fighters are structurally complete and ready for delivery. The company informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence that radar integration and Digital Waveform Unit testing had been successfully completed, alongside trials of the ASRAAM short‑range air‑to‑air missile and the indigenous ASTRA beyond‑visual‑range missile.

However, not all contracted capabilities incorporated into these jets have received the requisite certification, leaving them short of the standards demanded by the Air Force. Certification of mission reliability across weapons, radar, and electronic warfare systems remains a critical hurdle.

The delay in the review meeting compounds existing challenges. Supply‑chain bottlenecks and the delayed delivery of GE engines have already slowed progress, with HAL unable to meet earlier deadlines.

The Air Force had hoped to induct the first MK-1A fighter within the next two months, but with the review postponed, this timeline now appears increasingly unrealistic. The situation underscores systemic inefficiencies in program management, where structural readiness of airframes has not translated into combat‑ready deliveries.

For the Air Force, the consequences are strategic. Squadron strength continues to decline as retirements outpace inductions, and the MK-1A fleet of 83 aircraft is central to stabilising numbers and reducing dependence on imports.

Every delay erodes operational confidence and forces existing assets to be stretched further. HAL’s credibility as India’s premier aerospace manufacturer is under pressure, with its order book exceeding ₹1 lakh crore and multiple programs competing for resources. The company must demonstrate that it can move from prototype confidence to disciplined series production and delivery.

The coming months will be critical. HAL’s new leadership must ensure that certification hurdles are cleared and that the first batch of MK-1A fighters meets full combat benchmarks before induction.

The delay in the review meeting is not just a procedural setback; it is a reminder of the fragility of timelines in India’s most visible indigenous fighter program.

The Air Force’s patience is wearing thin, and the credibility of the TEJAS MK-1A program now hinges on HAL’s ability to deliver without further slippages.

Agencies

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India's Stealth Jet Race Heats Up: Bids Next Month Says Defence Secretary

India’s fifth-generation stealth fighter program is poised to enter its bid stage in June 2026, with the Ministry of Defence set to issue formal Requests for Proposal (RFPs) to three shortlisted private sector-led consortia.

At a Confederation of Indian Industry session on “Geostrategy, Supply Chains and Strategic Resilience” in New Delhi, Singh noted that the AMCA selection process has luckily produced three competing industry teams. “We've shortlisted three private sector-led consortia for AMCA—two blending private and public partners, one fully private—and they should receive RFPs soon,” he said.

The advancing teams are led by Larsen & Toubro (with Bharat Electronics Limited and Dynamatic Technologies), Tata Advanced Systems Limited (bidding solo), and Bharat Forge (with BEML and Data Patterns).

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is now moving into a critical procurement phase. The RFPs will invite detailed commercial and technical bids from three shortlisted consortia: Larsen & Toubro in partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited and Dynamatic Technologies; TATA Advanced Systems Limited, bidding independently; and Bharat Forge, which has teamed up with BEML and Data Patterns.

This outcome reflects the government’s intent to diversify beyond Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which was eliminated at the financial evaluation stage due to its heavy order backlog and delays in delivering the TEJAS MK-1A fighter, already running over two years behind schedule.

The Defence Secretary emphasised that the process had “fortuitously” resulted in three competing industry teams, two blending public and private sector strengths and one entirely private.

The government hopes this will create an additional fighter aircraft production line alongside HAL, fostering healthy competition and scaling up India’s aerospace industry.

The final selection is expected to be made on a lowest-cost or L1 basis, rather than through a quality-and-cost-based system, meaning that once minimum technical thresholds are met, pricing will be the decisive factor.

The AMCA program, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in 2024 with ₹15,000 crore allocated for prototype development, is being implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle model involving DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency and industry partners.

The aircraft is envisioned as a 25-ton, twin-engine stealth fighter with internal weapons bays, advanced avionics, sensor fusion, and reduced radar cross-section features.

The MK-1 variant will be powered by GE F414 engines, while a higher-thrust indigenous engine is planned for the MK-2 version. The first prototype rollout is targeted for 2028–2029, with induction into the Indian Air Force expected in the mid-2030s.

In parallel, Singh hinted at a larger role for the private sector in missile production, including technology transfers for certain categories of ballistic missiles.

Traditionally dominated by Bharat Dynamics Limited, this domain may now see private firms manufacturing systems such as the Agni series and Prithvi, aligning with the Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026 that seeks to provide a level playing field between public and private defence manufacturers.

This move comes amid India’s record defence exports of ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025–26, a 62.66 per cent increase over the previous year, with private industry contributing nearly half of the total.

The Defence Secretary underscored that India’s defence industrial base is being reshaped to meet Vision 2047 targets, which aim for ₹8.8 lakh crore in defence production and ₹2.8 lakh crore in exports, positioning India among the world’s top three defence exporters.

He also urged industry leaders to avoid inter-company disputes that slow acquisition processes and to adhere strictly to delivery timelines, reinforcing the government’s demand for efficiency and credibility in private sector participation.

This dual-track approach—accelerating AMCA while opening ballistic missile production to private firms—marks a historic departure from PSU-led models.

It reflects India’s determination to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reduce dependence on imports, and project power across the Indo-Pacific by 2047 with a fully integrated, all-domain military force.

Agencies

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India Validates Three Strategic Missile Technologies In 72 Hours, Marking Leap In Deterrence And Hypersonic Capability

In just 72 hours, India’s DRDO achieved a remarkable triple breakthrough by validating three advanced strategic missile technologies — the TARA precision glide weapon, a scramjet combustor for hypersonic propulsion, and an MIRV‑equipped Agni missile.

Together, these tests mark a decisive leap in India’s nuclear deterrence, hypersonic ambitions, and precision strike capabilities.

The sequence began on 7 May 2026 with the maiden flight of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) glide weapon system. This modular glide kit is India’s first indigenous solution to transform conventional unguided bombs into long‑range precision strike weapons.

By enabling stand‑off delivery, it allows aircraft to release payloads from safe distances, reducing exposure to hostile air defences. The successful test demonstrated India’s growing emphasis on precision warfare, signalling a doctrinal shift towards cost‑effective, scalable strike options.

On 8 May 2026, DRDO test‑fired an advanced variant of the Agni missile equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re‑entry Vehicle (MIRV) capability. This trial validated one of the most complex technologies in modern missile warfare.

The missile carried multiple warheads, each directed to separate targets across the Indian Ocean region. Though tested on a depressed trajectory of around 3,500 km, the system is essentially the Agni‑VI, expected to have a range exceeding 10,000 km. MIRV technology greatly enhances survivability by complicating enemy missile defences and strengthens India’s second‑strike capability, placing it among a select group of nations with operational multi‑warhead systems.

The third milestone came on 9 May 2026 with a 1,200‑second scramjet combustor test at DRDL Hyderabad. This actively cooled full‑scale combustor used indigenously developed liquid hydrocarbon endothermic fuel, advanced thermal barrier coatings, and cutting‑edge manufacturing processes.

It was one of the longest sustained scramjet runs globally, validating India’s design for future hypersonic cruise missiles and reusable aerospace vehicles. The achievement builds on earlier 700‑second trials, showing progressive maturity in India’s hypersonic propulsion program.

Together, these three breakthroughs — precision glide weapons, MIRV nuclear missiles, and hypersonic propulsion — represent a coordinated demonstration of India’s technological readiness.

They come at a time of intensifying missile modernisation in Asia, particularly by China and Pakistan, and underscore India’s intent to maintain credible deterrence under its No First Use doctrine.

Analysts view the compressed timeline as deliberate strategic signalling, showcasing India’s ability to integrate speed, range, precision, and survivability into its next‑generation arsenal.

These developments also align with India’s broader trajectory: the Agni‑VI program is nearing operational maturity, hypersonic projects such as Project Dhvani are advancing, and precision strike systems like TARA are set to expand the Air Force’s tactical options.

Collectively, they mark India’s entry into a new era of strategic capability, ensuring flexibility, resilience, and technological edge in a contested Indo‑Pacific environment.

Agencies

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Sky Reaper Drone Unveiled: India’s Jet‑Powered UCAV Redefines High‑Speed Combat

India has unveiled the Sky Reaper, a jet‑powered Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) developed at IIT-Jammu with DRDO support, capable of flying at speeds between 400 km/h and 550 km/h, with plans to push this even further.

This marks a significant leap in India’s indigenous drone warfare capabilities, combining speed, altitude, and multi‑role combat functionality.

The Sky Reaper project represents a new generation of Indian UCAV design philosophy. Unlike conventional drones that are primarily surveillance platforms, this system is being engineered as a multi‑role combat drone capable of both intelligence gathering and precision strike missions.

The collaboration between IIT-Jammu’s research teams and DRDO has ensured that the drone is not only fast but also adaptable to diverse mission requirements.

The drone is powered by a turbojet engine, which allows it to achieve speeds far higher than propeller‑driven UAVs. This propulsion system enables rapid ingress and egress from contested zones, reducing exposure to enemy air defences.

Operating at speeds of 400–550 km/h already places it in a unique category, but the development team has confirmed that work is underway to increase this speed further, potentially making it one of the fastest UCAVs in its class.

The Sky Reaper is designed to fly at altitudes of up to 10 kilometres, placing it above many short‑range air defence systems. This altitude advantage, combined with its speed, makes interception extremely difficult. Furthermore, its architecture emphasises long‑range endurance and heavy payload capacity, making it suitable for deep‑strike missions where survivability and distance are critical.

A key differentiator is its reusable design. Unlike expendable loitering munitions, the Sky Reaper can be recovered and redeployed for multiple missions, significantly reducing operational costs over time. Its modular payload system allows it to carry either ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) equipment or strike munitions depending on mission requirements. This dual‑role capability positions it as a hybrid between reconnaissance UAVs and strike drones.

The drone’s adaptability extends to its operational environment. It is being designed to function across mountainous terrain, maritime zones, and contested airspaces, making it a versatile platform for the Indian Army. Its speed and altitude complicate interception by conventional counter‑UAS systems, enhancing survivability in environments where electronic warfare and layered air defences are prevalent.

The unveiling of the Sky Reaper also reflects India’s broader push towards autonomous warfare systems. With IIT-Jammu students already developing drones immune to jamming and virtually undetectable, the Sky Reaper fits into a larger ecosystem of indigenous innovation aimed at countering adversarial drone threats and establishing dominance in unmanned combat operations.

This UCAV is not just a technological achievement but a strategic asset. It signals India’s intent to field high‑speed, high‑altitude, reusable combat drones that can perform both reconnaissance and strike missions, thereby transforming the battlefield dynamics in the Indo‑Pacific and beyond.

NDTV

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German Firm Bodo Moller Chemie Strengthens India’s Aerospace Sector With Bangalore Warehouse

Bodo Moller Chemie has reinforced its commitment to India’s aerospace and defence sector with the inauguration of a new aerospace‑grade warehouse in Bangalore.

This AS 9120 certified facility represents a significant investment in the country’s expanding aviation ecosystem, designed to ensure timely access to critical materials such as adhesives that are indispensable for aircraft components and must adhere to stringent performance standards.

The move comes at a time when India’s aerospace and defence market is projected to reach approximately $48.41 billion by 2032, growing at an annual rate of 6.8 per cent. Within this, the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul segment is expected to achieve $8,327.7 million by 2033, expanding at 9.1 per cent annually.

The expansion dovetails with government initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, which aim to encourage local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports. Company CEO Frank Haug emphasised India’s emergence as a strategic hub, expressing confidence in the aviation and electronics markets’ growth trajectory over the next five years.

The Bangalore warehouse directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges in India’s aerospace sector: the reliance on imports for over 70 per cent of aerospace‑grade raw materials. This dependence creates vulnerabilities in the supply chain, exposing manufacturers to potential disruptions and fluctuating costs.

By establishing a certified local facility, Bodo Moller Chemie strengthens logistics and material availability for original equipment manufacturers. The company’s partnership with Airbus is particularly noteworthy, as Airbus depends on Bodo Moller Chemie’s expertise in aerospace adhesives, supported by EN 9120 certifications across international operations.

Indian firms such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, TATA Advanced Systems, and Bharat Forge are expanding their production of aircraft components, engines, and avionics, often in collaboration with global partners.

In this context, a specialised distributor like Bodo Moller Chemie plays a crucial role in enabling domestic manufacturers to achieve higher value production and greater self‑sufficiency. The Indian aerospace and defence materials market itself is forecast to reach $411.9 million by 2030, growing at 6.7 per cent annually, underscoring the demand for advanced materials and reliable suppliers. Bodo Moller Chemie’s global experience in specialty chemicals, adhesives, and composites aligns seamlessly with these requirements.

Nevertheless, the company must navigate significant challenges in India’s complex aerospace landscape. The industry demands extreme precision, where even minor errors can have severe consequences, including blacklisting of suppliers.

The continued reliance on imports for the majority of aerospace‑grade raw materials remains a structural weakness, with global events demonstrating the risks of supply disruptions. Furthermore, the sector faces shortages of specialised skills, inadequate infrastructure such as advanced testing facilities, and slow airworthiness certification processes that can strain manufacturers’ cash flow.

While Bodo Moller Chemie’s AS 9120 and EN 9120 certifications provide assurance of process reliability, the company must operate in an environment where many smaller suppliers struggle to meet these rigorous standards. Ensuring consistent quality and meeting OEM delivery deadlines will be critical to sustaining long‑term success in India’s aerospace market.

The investment in Bengaluru aligns closely with India’s strategic goal of achieving greater self‑reliance in defence manufacturing and establishing itself as a global aerospace hub. India aims to capture 10 per cent of the global aerospace supply chain market by 2033, a target that will significantly increase demand for specialised materials and dependable suppliers.

Bodo Moller Chemie’s commitment to providing high‑quality infrastructure and technical expertise supports the government’s objective of reducing import dependence and building robust domestic capabilities in both military and civilian aviation.

With strong projected growth in the aerospace and defence market, ongoing modernisation programmes, and increasing private sector investment, the company is well‑positioned to expand its presence and contribute meaningfully to India’s self‑sufficiency ambitions.

Agencies

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TATA Power Accelerates Nuclear Drive With Two 220 MW SMR Projects And Strong Q4 Earnings

TATA Power has accelerated its nuclear ambitions by preparing detailed project reports for two 220 MW small modular reactor projects, engaging with NPCIL and three states, and expects approvals and feasibility clearances within six months, according to a report by Economic Times.

The company’s Q4 FY2025-26 results showed an 8 per cent rise in consolidated net profit, aided by reduced fuel costs and overall expenditure.

TATA Power is actively pursuing nuclear energy expansion through small modular reactors (SMRs), each with a planned capacity of 220 megawatts. The company is currently preparing feasibility studies and detailed project reports, which are expected to be finalised within six months.

These reports will form the basis for regulatory approvals and site clearances. Discussions are ongoing with three states to secure permissions for water and soil testing, which are critical prerequisites for nuclear project development.

The company is also coordinating with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), reflecting the importance of collaboration with established state-owned nuclear institutions.

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Praveer Sinha confirmed during a post-earnings call that TATA Power is working on feasibility reports and DPRs, with the expectation of completing them in the next six months.

He emphasised that the company is committed to advancing nuclear power projects, which align with India’s broader energy security and clean energy transition goals. The engagement with NPCIL highlights TATA Power’s strategy of leveraging institutional expertise while exploring private sector participation in nuclear energy.

Small Modular Reactors offer several advantages compared to traditional large-scale nuclear plants. They require lower upfront capital investment, can be assembled more quickly due to modular construction, and have reduced fuel requirements.

SMRs typically need refuelling only every three to seven years, enhancing operational efficiency. Their passive safety systems allow automatic shutdown without manual intervention, significantly improving safety standards.

Furthermore, SMRs are versatile, suitable for deployment in remote areas, and can augment existing power plant capacity, making them an attractive option for India’s growing energy demand.

India’s nuclear capacity currently stands at under 9 GW, with plans to expand to around 22 GW by 2031-32. Globally, India’s nuclear capacity is modest compared to countries such as the United States, France, and China, which operate far larger fleets of reactors.

However, India’s recent reforms, including amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, have opened the sector to private and foreign investment, creating opportunities for companies like TATA Power to participate in nuclear power generation. These reforms are expected to streamline licensing, fuel sourcing, and approval processes, thereby reducing barriers to entry for private firms.

In addition to nuclear expansion, TATA Power reported strong financial performance in the March quarter of FY2025-26. Consolidated net profit rose by over 8 per cent to ₹1,415.52 crore, compared to ₹1,306.09 crore in the same quarter of the previous year.

Total income declined to ₹15,455.48 crore from ₹17,446.95 crore, but the company managed to reduce overall expenses to ₹14,876.50 crore from ₹16,179.77 crore. A significant reduction in fuel costs, from ₹3,720.35 crore to ₹1,336.29 crore, contributed to the improved profitability. The company also noted limited curtailment issues at two locations, though details on capacity or location were not disclosed.

TATA Power’s nuclear push represents a strategic diversification of its energy portfolio, complementing its established presence in renewables and conventional power.

By pursuing SMRs, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s nuclear modernisation, which is expected to play a vital role in achieving long-term energy security and meeting clean energy targets.

Agencies

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Trump Signals Flexibility On Russian Oil Waiver, Vows To Stabilise Oil Markets, Predicts Inflation Drop After Iran War

Donald Trump has declared that the United States will “do whatever is necessary” to stabilise oil markets, signalling flexibility on the Russian oil waiver while forecasting a sharp decline in inflation once the Iran war concludes.

He predicted oil prices would fall dramatically, the stock market would surge, and inflation could drop to around 1.5%.

US President Donald Trump, speaking to ANI in Washington, emphasised that his administration was prepared to keep all options open to ease rising crude oil prices.

He suggested that the extension of the waiver on sanctioned Russian oil remained under consideration, noting that the United States had already eased sanctions in mid‑March to counteract shortages caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Initially scheduled to expire on 11 April, the waiver was extended until 16 May. Trump insisted that once the conflict with Iran ended, oil prices would drop significantly and the stock market, already at record highs, would “go through the roof.”

Trump outlined measures already taken to mitigate the crisis, including tapping into America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve, boosting domestic oil production, and loosening shipping laws to accelerate supply. 

He confirmed that temporary relief had also been authorised for oil from Iran and Venezuela, alongside Russia, to stabilise global markets. He portrayed these steps as part of a broader economic strategy designed to usher in what he described as a “Golden Age” for the United States.

The President elaborated that hundreds of ships loaded with oil were waiting to be released into the market. Once this supply was freed, he predicted a “gusher of oil” that would drive inflation sharply down.

He compared current inflation levels favourably against those under Joe Biden, claiming Biden presided over the highest inflation in US history. Trump argued that inflation was already lower and would fall further, potentially to 1.5%, once the war ended. He highlighted that before the conflict, inflation had averaged 1.7% over three months, reinforcing his confidence in a rapid economic rebound.

Ahead of his departure for China, Trump told reporters that the outcome of negotiations would be beneficial for both Americans and Iranians. He reiterated his uncompromising stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, declaring unequivocally that Tehran would never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.

He claimed that Iran’s military capabilities had been decimated, listing the destruction of its navy, air force, anti‑aircraft systems, radar, and leadership. His message was blunt: “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and they won’t have a nuclear weapon, and that’s 100%.”

Trump’s remarks combined economic optimism with military assertiveness. He sought to reassure markets and the public that inflationary pressures were temporary and tied directly to the ongoing conflict.

At the same time, he reinforced his administration’s hard line on Iran, insisting that the war’s resolution would deliver both economic relief and strategic security. His forecast of a “Golden Age” underscored his confidence that the United States was on the verge of a historic economic upswing once the conflict ended and oil supplies resumed normal flow.

ANI

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Assam CM Himanta Sarma And US Envoy Gor Highlight State’s Role In India‑US Partnership

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s meeting with US Ambassador Sergio Gor has underscored Assam’s emerging role in the India‑US partnership, with both leaders emphasising commercial cooperation, industrial investment, and strategic ties.

The meeting followed Sarma’s landslide re‑election and oath‑taking ceremony, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Union ministers, and the US envoy, marking a significant diplomatic moment.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor in Guwahati shortly after being sworn in for his second consecutive term. Sarma highlighted that Assam is poised to play an important role in strengthening the India‑US partnership as bilateral relations continue to deepen.

He described his interaction with Gor as a “great meeting” and stressed that Assam’s growing importance in trade, investment, and strategic cooperation makes it a natural partner in this evolving relationship.

Ambassador Gor reciprocated the sentiment, expressing optimism about the “great potential ahead” and thanking Sarma for his hospitality. In an earlier message, Gor had already emphasised his confidence in expanding commercial cooperation between the United States and Assam, noting that such collaboration would create “win‑win scenarios” for both sides.

His presence at the swearing‑in ceremony was notable, as it marked a rare instance of a US envoy attending a state‑level oath‑taking in India, reflecting the growing importance of Assam in the broader Indo‑US framework.

The swearing‑in ceremony itself was a high‑profile event held at the Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP President Nitin Nabin, and several chief ministers and deputy chief ministers from NDA‑ruled states attended.

The occasion also saw the induction of four ministers into Sarma’s cabinet, including Rameswar Teli, Ajanta Neog, Atul Bora, and Charan Boro, representing the BJP, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF).

The BJP‑led NDA secured a decisive victory in the Assam assembly elections, winning 102 out of 126 seats. The BJP alone captured 82 seats, while its allies AGP and BPF won ten seats each. This performance marked the NDA’s third consecutive term in Assam and reinforced Sarma’s political dominance. Sarma himself won his constituency by a margin of over 80,000 votes, crediting the “double‑engine” growth model supported by Prime Minister Modi’s leadership over the past decade.

Beyond the electoral triumph, Assam’s positioning as a hub for industrial investment and semiconductor manufacturing has been highlighted as a key area of future cooperation with the United States.

The state’s traditional strength in tea exports has already established commercial links with American buyers, and new opportunities in honey, energy, and tourism are being explored. Gor’s presence in Guwahati and his remarks about expanding trade ties signal Washington’s recognition of Assam’s growing economic and strategic relevance.

Sarma’s second term is expected to focus on accelerating development, strengthening Assam’s role in national and international partnerships, and leveraging its resources and strategic location in the Indo‑Pacific context.

With the NDA’s overwhelming mandate and the US envoy’s endorsement of Assam’s potential, the state is set to become a more prominent player in India’s external engagements, particularly with the United States.

ANI

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India And Russia To Advance Bilateral Agreements As Jaishankar Meets Lavrov In New Delhi

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks in New Delhi on Wednesday, with the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasising that the discussions will centre on priority areas of India–Russia cooperation.

The meeting is expected to advance progress on implementing agreements reached during President Vladimir Putin’s official visit to India in December 2025, while also preparing the ground for upcoming leaders’ talks in Russia and the next session of the Intergovernmental Russian–Indian Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation.

The agenda outlined by Moscow highlights a broad spectrum of bilateral collaboration. Both ministers will deliberate on boosting trade, strengthening efforts to establish stable transport, logistical and financial channels insulated from unlawful external pressures, intensifying energy cooperation, and expanding contacts in science and space technologies.

These areas reflect the strategic depth of the partnership and the determination to safeguard economic sovereignty against external disruptions.

The talks will also encompass international and regional issues, with particular attention to developments in the Middle East. Lavrov and Jaishankar are expected to compare perspectives on cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, BRICS, and the G20.

This underscores the shared commitment of both nations to shaping global governance structures in line with their vision of a polycentric and democratic world order.

The Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement underlined the resilience of India–Russia ties, describing them as self-reliant and resistant to fluctuations in the geopolitical environment. It stressed that the relationship is rooted in long-standing friendship and mutual respect for national interests, with both countries sharing similar positions on key contemporary issues.

Moscow and New Delhi are portrayed as united not only by their awareness of the need for a fair international system based on strict compliance with international law, but also by their readiness to jointly confront the challenges and threats of the twenty-first century.

The statement further noted that the independent and responsible foreign policies pursued by Russia and India constitute an important factor in global security and stability. It asserted that both nations are setting an example of how to uphold economic and political sovereignty while opposing neo-imperialist diktats, a record that is significant for the wider international community and contributes to strengthening a fairer system of international relations.

Lavrov’s visit coincides with India’s preparations to host the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on 14–15 May, a defining moment for the bloc under New Delhi’s chairship.

The summit is expected to cement India’s role in steering the future of the expanded grouping, which has grown in recent years to include new members and partners. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the meeting will be chaired by Jaishankar and will feature participation from BRICS foreign ministers and heads of delegations, who will also call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This marks the fourth time India has hosted the BRICS summit, and the diplomatic machinery is already in full swing. The meeting will serve as the primary engine for setting the agenda for the leaders’ summit later in the year.

According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the two-day event will provide a critical platform for foreign ministers to exchange views on global and regional issues of mutual interest. On the second day, BRICS member and partner countries will participate in a session themed “BRICS at 20, Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” followed by discussions on reforms of global governance and the multilateral system.

This strategic focus builds upon previous diplomatic efforts, including the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting held on the margins of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025.

India’s continuity in leadership was highlighted by Jaiswal, who reminded that the September 2025 meeting was chaired by India in its capacity as the incoming chair for BRICS 2026. With high-level dignitaries already arriving in New Delhi, the capital is poised to become the diplomatic epicentre for the bloc, reinforcing India’s central role in shaping the trajectory of BRICS and broader multilateral cooperation.

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Trump Departs For China As Trade Dominates Agenda, Iran Looms In Talks With Xi

US President Donald Trump has departed for China on Tuesday local time, embarking on a high-stakes three-day visit that is expected to focus heavily on trade while also touching upon wider strategic issues, including Iran.

The trip marks Trump’s seventh face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and is the first visit by a US President to China since 2017, underscoring its significance in the current geopolitical climate.

The White House confirmed that First Lady Melania Trump will not be accompanying the President on this occasion. Ahead of his departure, Trump addressed the media and conveyed optimism about the visit, stressing that it would help forge stronger ties between the United States and China for decades to come.

He described his relationship with Xi Jinping as “fantastic,” adding that cooperation with China had been “very good” and that he anticipated “exciting” outcomes from the trip.

When pressed on whether Xi Jinping might play a role in facilitating a deal with Iran, Trump remarked that while it was possible, he did not believe American negotiators required external assistance.

He declared that Iran was “defeated militarily” and insisted that Tehran would either “do the right thing” or face decisive action from Washington. His comments reflected the uncompromising stance that has characterised US policy towards Iran in recent months.

Trump emphasised that trade would be the central focus of his discussions with Xi, noting that while a range of issues would be covered, economic matters would dominate the agenda. This emphasis comes at a time when both nations are seeking to stabilise their economic relationship amid global uncertainty and shifting supply chains.

The President is accompanied by a substantial delegation aboard Air Force One, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair, Deputy National Security Advisor Robert Gabriel, Ambassador Jamieson Greer, and Ambassador Monica Crowley. Also present are White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations Beau Harrison, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller, Assistant to the President and Director of Communications Steven Cheung, and Science and Technology Advisor Michael Kratsios.

Members of Trump’s family, including Eric Trump and Lara Trump, are also part of the travelling party, alongside senior aides Ross Worthington and Walt Nauta.

In addition, a White House official revealed that over a dozen business and technology leaders representing major companies across sectors such as finance, defence, consumer industries, and advanced technology have joined the delegation, signalling the administration’s intent to integrate commercial interests into the broader diplomatic engagement.

The visit is being closely watched across the Indo-Pacific and beyond, as it comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia and ongoing negotiations over Iran’s future.

Trump’s remarks suggest that while trade will dominate the agenda, the shadow of the Iran crisis will inevitably loom over discussions with Xi Jinping, potentially shaping the contours of US-China strategic dialogue in the months ahead.

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India And Nepal To Finalise Foreign Secretary’s Visit At Mutual Convenience Amid Deepening Partnership

The Ministry of External Affairs has reaffirmed the enduring and multifaceted nature of India’s partnership with Nepal, announcing that Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has received an invitation to visit Kathmandu, with the dates to be finalised at the mutual convenience of both sides.

This statement was made during the weekly media briefing by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who emphasised the vibrant diplomatic momentum between the two neighbours since Balendra Shah assumed office as Nepal’s Prime Minister. He underlined that both capitals are working closely to further deepen an already robust alliance.

Responding to reports in the Nepali media that suggested the postponement of Misri’s earlier proposed visit was linked to the Nepalese Prime Minister’s reluctance to meet foreign diplomats, Jaiswal maintained a positive outlook on the bilateral trajectory.

He recalled that after the elections in Nepal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed his congratulations to Prime Minister Shah and held a telephonic conversation, reaffirming India’s steadfast commitment to building upon the strong friendship and traditional ties between the two countries.

Jaiswal also highlighted the successful diplomatic engagement in Mauritius, where External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with his Nepalese counterpart, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal.

He noted that both sides, at various levels, are working closely to deepen the partnership, and reiterated that India has received an invitation from Nepal for the Foreign Secretary’s visit, with dates to be finalised in due course.

On the sensitive issue of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the MEA reiterated India’s transparent and historically grounded stance. It clarified that the Lipulekh Pass has been a long-standing route for the Yatra since 1954, and that the pilgrimage through this route has continued for decades.

India stressed that this is not a new development, and in the face of territorial discussions, asserted that such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. The MEA added that unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable.

India continues to advocate for stability and factual accuracy in the region, while demonstrating its role as a responsible regional leader. The MEA reaffirmed that India remains open to constructive interaction with Nepal on all issues in the bilateral relationship, including the resolution of agreed outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy.

This spirit of cooperation was also visible in the Maldives, where Jaishankar and Khanal explored ways to realise the full potential of the India-Nepal partnership through deeper collaboration across different sectors.

The optimism in bilateral relations follows Prime Minister Modi’s warm outreach to Prime Minister Shah, expressing a shared vision to elevate the friendship between the two nations to greater heights for the benefit of their citizens.

The MEA’s latest statement underscores that despite occasional differences, India and Nepal are committed to strengthening their deep-rooted ties and advancing their partnership in a constructive and forward-looking manner.

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Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi To Visit India For BRICS Summit Amid West Asia Turmoil

Iran has officially confirmed that its Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will travel to India to participate in the forthcoming BRICS summit, a development that underscores the strengthening of bilateral ties between Tehran and New Delhi.

The announcement was made during an interview with India Today Global, where Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaiel Baghaei elaborated on the significance of the visit.

He emphasised the robust multilateral partnership shared by the two nations, noting that both Iran and India are members of BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and maintain a good level of cooperation and coordination within these frameworks.

Baghaei highlighted the strategic importance of the upcoming deliberations in New Delhi, stressing that the simultaneous meeting holds particular weight for Iran. He stated that Tehran looks forward to bilateral meetings with other ministers attending the event, with special emphasis on the interaction with India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, whom he described as representing a friendly country.

The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled for 14–15 May, will serve as a cornerstone of India’s 2026 chairship, reinforcing its leadership role within the expanded multilateral alliance.

This diplomatic convergence comes at a critical juncture, following the outbreak of US-Iran hostilities on 18 February. In the wake of these tensions, Araghchi has maintained frequent contact with Jaishankar, with at least four high-level discussions held to address the escalating turmoil in West Asia and its wider geopolitical consequences.

During these exchanges, Araghchi provided updates on the evolving situation, which Tehran characterised as US and Israeli strikes, warning that such actions pose a threat to regional and global peace. He used these dialogues to advocate for enhanced collaboration among BRICS members to safeguard international order.

Araghchi also reaffirmed Tehran’s determination to exercise its legitimate right of self-defence, a stance that will likely feature prominently in the upcoming summit. The New Delhi gathering offers a timely platform to build upon the rapport established between the two foreign ministers, particularly following Araghchi’s earlier mission to India in May 2025.

That visit marked his first trip to the country since assuming office in August 2024 and included co-chairing the 20th India-Iran Joint Commission Meeting. The commission laid much of the groundwork for the current strategic cooperation, focusing on political, strategic, and economic ties.

The May 2025 visit also coincided with the 75th anniversary of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty, with sessions on 7–8 May dedicated to a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and the exploration of new avenues for cooperation.

In addition to his discussions with Jaishankar, Araghchi met President Droupadi Murmu, further cementing the foundation for the partnership. The BRICS summit now provides an opportunity to expand upon this base, with both nations seeking to deepen their collaboration within multilateral frameworks while addressing pressing regional challenges.

The timing of Araghchi’s visit is diplomatically significant, as India’s chairship of BRICS positions New Delhi at the centre of global and regional deliberations. With the expanded grouping now including major powers and influential regional players, Iran’s participation reflects its intent to leverage multilateral platforms to shape the discourse on stability and security.

Against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities and shifting alliances in West Asia, Tehran’s outreach to India signals a calculated effort to bolster ties and ensure its voice is heard in shaping the future of regional diplomacy.

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Senator Lindsey Graham Demands Re-Evaluation of Pakistan’s Mediation Role Amid Alleged Iranian Aircraft Presence

Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of President Donald Trump, has sharply criticised Pakistan’s role as mediator in the US–Iran conflict, declaring he does not “trust” Islamabad amid allegations that Iranian military aircraft were sheltered at Pakistani bases.

His remarks have intensified scrutiny of Pakistan’s neutrality and raised calls for Washington to consider an alternative mediator.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham delivered his blunt assessment during a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing in Washington, where he questioned Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth about reports that Iranian aircraft had been stationed at Pakistan’s Nur Khan Airbase near Rawalpindi.

Graham argued that if such claims were true, they would undermine Islamabad’s credibility as a fair mediator and necessitate a complete re-evaluation of its role in the peace process. He remarked, “I don’t trust Pakistan as far as I can throw them.

If they actually do have Iranian aircraft parked in Pakistan bases to protect Iranian military assets, that tells me we should be looking maybe for somebody else to mediate. No wonder this damn thing is going nowhere.”

The allegations originated from a CBS News report citing US officials, which claimed that shortly after President Trump announced a ceasefire in early April, Tehran dispatched several aircraft to Pakistan, including reconnaissance variants of the C‑130 Hercules.

This revelation coincided with Pakistan’s confirmation that it had received Iranian peace proposals to be shared with the United States, creating a stark contrast between its public diplomacy and alleged clandestine military cooperation.

Additional reporting suggested that Iranian civilian aircraft linked to Mahan Air had also landed in Kabul around the same period, further fuelling suspicions of regional manoeuvring.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office swiftly rejected the claims, describing them as “misleading and sensationalised.” It insisted that the Iranian aircraft arrived during the ceasefire following initial talks and bore “no linkage” to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.

Islamabad accused detractors of spreading “speculative narratives” designed to sabotage ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace. Despite these denials, Graham’s comments reflect growing unease within Washington about Pakistan’s dual role of hosting dialogue while allegedly shielding Iranian assets.

The Senator’s scepticism was reinforced by his post on X, where he noted that prior statements by Pakistani defence officials towards Israel, a close US ally, made him unsurprised by the allegations. He argued that such behaviour, if confirmed, would justify a reassessment of Pakistan’s mediation role. His remarks echo broader concerns within the Trump administration, where some officials have privately questioned Islamabad’s reliability as a go‑between in negotiations with Tehran.

President Trump, however, has adopted a patient stance, emphasising that there is “no need to rush” the talks while economic pressure remains in place. He reiterated that the US blockade is depriving Iran of financial resources and insisted that Washington will not allow Tehran to acquire nuclear weapons.

In a radio interview, Trump expressed absolute confidence in preventing Iran from enriching uranium or building a bomb, stating, “100%. They’re going to stop, and they told me, the Iranians told me… they said that we’re going to get the dust.”

The controversy underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the deep mistrust surrounding mediation efforts. While Pakistan continues to present itself as a neutral facilitator, scepticism from senior US lawmakers like Graham highlights the risk of diplomatic derailment.

The allegations of Iranian aircraft on Pakistani soil have become a focal point in the debate over whether Islamabad can credibly serve as a mediator, or whether Washington should pivot to another partner to secure a lasting truce with Tehran.

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Rising Anti‑Pakistan Anger In PoK As Joint Awami Action Committee Calls Territory‑Wide Strike

Public anger in Pakistan‑occupied Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new peak after the Joint Awami Action Committee announced a territory‑wide strike scheduled for 9 June, accusing Islamabad of betraying the people of the region.

The committee has warned of massive protests, shutter‑down strikes and wheel‑jam demonstrations if its demands are not met by 31 May. Leaders allege that Pakistan has failed to deliver on promises of constitutional and electoral reforms, instead resorting to delaying tactics to suppress the movement. 

Reports suggest that Pakistani authorities are now attempting to pressure the committee into withdrawing the protest call, fearing that it could spark a larger anti‑government uprising.

Human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza echoed the growing discontent, stating that repeated negotiations between the JAAC leadership and Pakistani officials in Muzaffarabad have consistently failed. He described the latest meeting as a complete flop, noting that for two years the Pakistan‑backed administration has wasted the committee’s time with fruitless talks.

Mirza emphasised that the leadership has now decided that enough is enough, with preparations underway for a massive strike and long march on 9 June. He added that whether the protest ultimately takes place remains uncertain, but anger among people associated with the committee across PoK is extremely high.

The protest call comes amid intensifying resentment against Pakistan’s administration in the region, driven by rising inflation, prolonged power cuts and a lack of political representation. Mirza highlighted the worsening economic situation, pointing out that ordinary people are struggling with soaring prices and inadequate basic facilities.

He noted that electricity shortages and extensive load shedding have become severe, school fees have risen sharply, and the price of a gas cylinder has nearly tripled from around two‑and‑a‑half thousand rupees to nearly six thousand rupees.

He also criticised the unresolved issue of the twelve migrant seats, which the JAAC believes should be abolished since many of those representatives do not reside in PoK and only put forward their names during elections.

Mirza further alleged that repeated agitations in the region have been met only with violence and suppression. He recalled that two massive general strikes staged by the people of PoK resulted in bullets and corpses rather than solutions.

He accused both the Pakistani and PoK governments of changing prime ministers while avoiding the real issues faced by the population. He warned that the coming days could bring serious unrest in the region, given the mounting frustration and the administration’s failure to address grievances.

The situation reflects a broader pattern of repression and neglect, with growing anger on the streets and increasing allegations against the Pakistani establishment. As preparations for the strike and long march continue, PoK appears headed towards another major confrontation between protesters and the authorities.

The developments underscore the fragile state of governance in the region and the potential for escalating unrest if demands remain unmet.

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