'Defence Cooperation Should Not Harm Any Third Party': China On India's BrahMos Delivery To Philippines

India delivered the first batch of the BrahMos missiles over two years after it signed a USD 375 million deal with the Philippines to supply the weapon systems

China’s military on Thursday reacted guardedly to the delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles by India to the Philippines, saying that security cooperation between the two countries should not harm the interest of any third party and harm regional stability.

India delivered the first batch of the BrahMos missiles over two years after it signed a USD 375 million deal with the Philippines to supply the weapon systems. “China always believes that defence and security cooperation between countries should not harm the interest of any third party and should not harm regional peace and stability,” Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Sr. Co. Wu Qian told a media briefing here when asked for his comment on the delivery of BrahMos missiles by India to the Philippines.

At the same time, Wu sharply criticised the US for deploying medium-range ballistic missiles in the Philippines this month amid the escalation of hostilities between China and the Philippines over their South China Sea dispute. The deployment of the MRC missile system, also known as the Typhon system, to the Indo-Pacific theatre comes amid a series of US-Philippine military exercises, including the largest-ever edition of the annual bilateral Balikatan drills beginning early this week, CNN reported.

The 1,600-km mid-range capability missiles which were deployed in northern Luzon of the Philippines could reach China’s coast. “China firmly opposes the US deployment of medium-range ballistic missiles in the Asia-Pacific. Our position is clear and consistent. The US’ move severely threatens the security of regional countries and undermines regional peace and stability,” Wu said. “We hope the relevant country could refrain from opening the door to the devil, which will only end up hurting everyone including itself,” he said.

The BrahMos missiles along with launchers were delivered by India to the Philippines by a transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on April 19. Under the January 2022 deal, India will supply three batteries of the missiles, their launchers and related equipment. It was the first export of the BrahMos missile by India. India has been looking at further expanding defence ties with the Philippines against the backdrop of growing global concerns over China’s increasing military assertiveness in the South China Sea. China claims most of the South China Sea. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims.

The Indian and US missile deliveries arrived in the Philippines as Manila was locked in a bitter naval standoff with the Chinese navy in the South China Sea. The Philippines, backed by the US trying to assert its claims over the South China Sea based on the 2016 ruling by a tribunal of the UN Convention of Law of Seas, (UNCLOS) endorsing its rights. China which boycotted the tribunal however rejected the tribunal findings.

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Pakistani Business leaders Suggest PM Shehbaz To Forge Trade Ties With India

Karachi: In a bid to navigate Pakistan's economic challenges, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened with the business community, aiming to rejuvenate the economy through robust exports. However, amidst expressions of appreciation for the government's recent strides, concerns over political instability loomed large during the hour-long meeting at the CM House in Karachi, Dawn reported.

Acknowledging the government's efforts, Arif Habib, Chief of Arif Habib Group, commended recent developments, stating, "You have made a few handshakes after taking the charge that has produced good results and progress on the IMF deal is one of them." He urged the Prime Minister to extend this spirit of cooperation further, suggesting trade talks with India and reconciliation with jailed PTI leader Imran Khan as potential avenues for bolstering the economy.

"I suggest you do a few more handshakes. One of them is regarding trade with India, which would greatly benefit our economy. Secondly, you should also [patch up] with a resident of Adiala Jail (a reference to jailed PTI leader Imran Khan). Try to fix things at that level as well and I believe that you can do it," he said, according to Dawn.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in response, refrained from addressing the political dimension directly but emphasized his commitment to economic growth. "You all are great minds of business... Let's focus on genuine industrial and agricultural growth and double the exports in the next five years," he urged, highlighting his vision for revitalizing the economy. Drawing inspiration from Bangladesh's economic transformation, he underscored the potential for Pakistan's industrial prowess to soar.

Despite the Prime Minister's optimistic outlook, concerns echoed through the chamber regarding the feasibility of his ambitious plans within the current economic landscape.

Zubair Motiwala, a prominent industrialist, raised poignant questions about the viability of doubling exports amidst rising energy costs. "The prime minister is keen to support the industry by doubling exports and reducing business costs but it seems impossible in the current situation," he lamented, pointing to exorbitant gas and electricity prices that threaten Pakistan's competitiveness in the global market.

Motiwala's presentation shed light on the pressing challenges facing Pakistan's industrial sector, particularly the burden of capacity charges and the escalation of circular debt in the power sector. He emphasised the need for fair gas prices and a strategic approach to tackle surplus electricity, advocating for policies that stimulate industrial growth without exacerbating financial strain.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while refraining from immediate responses to political queries, assured the business community of his commitment to resolving economic hurdles. "I would listen to you and make a plan to put that into action," he affirmed, pledging to convene further discussions to address industry concerns comprehensively.

As the meeting drew to a close, the Prime Minister reiterated his resolve to engage with stakeholders across the country, signalling a collaborative approach to economic revival. "I would soon invite businessmen from all across the country to Islamabad and sit with them till all the issues aren't resolved," he promised, Dawn reported.

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Rattled Pakistan To Buy More CH-4 Armed Drones From China After India Acquires MQ-9B Drones

Pakistan has ordered 10 more CH-4 armed drones from China. The total cost of the deal will be around USD 24 million

The acquisition of 31 MQ-9B drones by India from the United States of America— it’s a US$ 4 billion deal-- has had Pakistan worried for a while. It's not something the United States will share with Pakistan; it's also something Islamabad cannot afford. So, it turned to the Chinese, and received seven CH-4 armed drones and three more are to follow. While the CH-4 is a formidable weapon, it is largely seen as a pale shadow of the MQ-9, reported TimesNow.

Not satisfied with ten, Pakistan has asked for more, and is spending about $24 million for more CH-4s, which could mean another ten. The official reason is that they will be necessary for anti-terrorist operations in Balochistan, which itself raises a question mark about the regime. Which government will buy armed drones to strike its own countrymen? Pakistan, of course, has used its air force in Balochistan in the past. Then again, if the CH-4 is required against rebels in the troubled province, it is an acknowledgement that the problem is considerably acute.

The CH-4 is armed with air-to-ground missiles and can hit targets from an altitude of 5,000 metres, which is above the range of many air-defence systems. As there is no countering air force involved, the CH-4 which moves at a stately 400 kmph (maximum speed) and is possibly a target for an enemy fighter, will not face that problem over the skies of Balochistan. What will come with it are AR-1 and AR-2 air-to-surface missiles, guided rockets, glide bombs and precision-guided munitions. It can be in the air for over 30 hours.

China has already exported it to several Middle Eastern countries, and of course, Pakistan. It is also with Myanmar. The MQ-9B drones will go to all three services-- eight each to the Army and Air Force and all of them will be stationed in Uttar Pradesh. The Navy will get the remaining ones and they'll be in Tamil Nadu. The Navy has already received two of them on lease and they're doing very well, sources said.

(With Reporting By TimesNow)

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IAF's C-17 Aircraft Airdrops Indigenously Built BMP-2 Platform Successfully

New Delhi: In a joint demonstration of seamless operational collaboration, a C-17 transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force airdropped an indigenously developed heavy platform that can carry a maximum load of over 22 tons.

"Combat Capability Enhancement: Strategic Aerial Delivery of BMP from C-17. In a joint demonstration of seamless operational collaboration, a C-17 aircraft of IAF, in conjunction with the Indian Army and ADRDE, flawlessly airdropped an Indian Army BMP rigged over an indigenised platform of ADRDE at a drop zone in the western sector," the IAF posted on X on Thursday.

"This remarkable feat demonstrated the operational prowess of IAF's air mobility fleet and proved the capability and reliability of domestically developed platforms," they added.

The Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) is a premier defence research laboratory.

Earlier, in a major capability boost, Indian Air Force carried out a successful test firing of an air-launched ballistic missile that can hit targets at over 250 Kms.

The missile was successfully test-fired by a Su-30MKI fighter jet last week at a test range in the island's territory in the Andamans, senior sources in the national security establishment told ANI.

The missile tested by the Indian Air Force in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Israeli-origin Crystal Maze 2 air-launched ballistic missile which is also known as ROCKS.

(With Agency Inputs)

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US Slaps Sanctions On Over A Dozen Companies, Three From India For Trade And Ties With Iran

The United States slapped on Thursday sanctions on over a dozen companies, individuals and vessels, including three from India, for facilitating illicit trade and UAV transfers on behalf of the Iranian military. The US Department of Treasury said these companies, individuals and vessels have played a central role in facilitating and financing the clandestine sale of Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Russia's war in Ukraine.

While Sahara Thunder has been identified as the main front company that oversees Iran's commercial activities in support of these efforts, the three India-based companies to have been slapped with sanctions for supporting Sahara Thunder are Zen Shipping, Port India Private Limited, and Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited.

Iranian military entity Sahara Thunder relies on a vast shipping network involved in the sale and shipment of Iranian commodities on behalf of Iran's Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL) to multiple jurisdictions including the People's Republic of China (PRC), Russia, and Venezuela, the Treasury said.

"Sahara Thunder has entered into time-charter contracts with India-based Zen Shipping and Port India Private Limited for the Cook Islands-flagged vessel CHEM (IMO 9240914), which is managed and operated by UAE-based Safe Seas Ship Management FZE," it said.

"Sahara Thunder has used the CHEM to conduct multiple shipments of commodities since 2022. Iran-based Arsang Safe Trading Co. has provided ship management services in support of several Sahara Thunder-related shipments, including those by the CHEM," the Treasury said.

According to the Treasury, Iran-based Asia Marine Crown Agency has served as the port agent in Bandar Abbas, Iran supporting several Sahara Thunder shipments.

"India-based Sea Art Ship Management (OPC) Private Limited and UAE-based company Trans Gulf Agency LLC have worked together to provide ship management services in support of Sahara Thunder. The UAE and Iran-based Coral Trading EST. have purchased Iranian commodities from Sahara Thunder," it said.

"Iran's Ministry of Defence continues to destabilise the region and world with its support to Russia's war in Ukraine, unprecedented attack on Israel, and proliferation of UAVs and other dangerous military hardware to terrorist proxies," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson.

"The United States, in close coordination with our British and Canadian partners, will continue to use all means available to combat those who would finance Iran's destabilising activities," he said.

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India's GalaxEye Developing Military Satellite With Multiple Sensors For Earth Observation

A computer-aided design model of the satellite that GalaxEye Space is developing to conduct Earth observation for defence forces. The satellite will be equipped with SAR and EO sensor for enhanced surveillance

Bangalore-based GalaxEye Space is developing a satellite that can carry multiple sensors for Earth observation to support the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.

Speaking to Janes at the Indian DefSpace Symposium 2024 held in Delhi from 18 to 20 April, Deb Jyoti Pal, senior vice-president of business development at GalaxEye said the company is planning to launch the satellite into space in early 2025 for evaluation.

This low Earth observation (LEO) satellite will host an electro-optic (EO) sensor, and a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) with both sensors capturing data simultaneously to provide a more holistic view of strategic areas of interest, Pal added.

“The SAR sensor can capture data in day and night, and in any weather condition including in foggy or cloudy environment. EO sensors are not able to do this. On the other hand, SAR data can be difficult to interpret. This is where EO data can benefit a user,” Pal said.

“We will capture SAR and EO data, and fuse them to provide the best of both these data to defence forces,” Pal added.

(With Reporting by Janes.com)

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DRDO, A Formidable Force Is Fortifying India’s Defence With Renewed Gumption

DRDO had tested AGNI-5 with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-Entry Vehicle technology

In the realm of national defence, innovation isn’t just an advantage; it’s a necessity. In this arena, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India has continually proven itself as a formidable force, consistently pushing boundaries and setting new standards.

The recent development of the lightest bullet proof jacket capable of protecting against the highest threat level 6 epitomizes DRDO’s unwavering commitment to fortifying India’s defence infrastructure.

The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. Bulletproof jackets are indispensable assets for military personnel and law enforcement officers operating in high-risk environments. Traditionally, these jackets have been bulky and restrictive, hampering mobility and agility. However, DRDO’s breakthrough innovation has shattered these limitations by introducing a lightweight yet robust solution.

At the heart of DRDO’s success lies a culture of relentless research and development. The organization boasts a vast network of scientists, engineers, and technicians who collaborate tirelessly to tackle complex challenges. Their multidisciplinary approach, coupled with cutting-edge technology, has enabled DRDO to stay at the forefront of defense innovation.

The development of the lightest bulletproof jacket underscores DRDO’s commitment to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of India’s armed forces and security personnel. By providing superior protection without compromising mobility, this innovation empowers individuals on the front lines to perform their duties with confidence and agility.

Furthermore, DRDO’s achievement is a testament to India’s growing prowess in defense technology. In an era marked by geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats, the ability to develop and deploy advanced defense solutions is paramount. DRDO’s success not only strengthens India’s defense capabilities but also enhances its stature as a global leader in innovation and technology.

Beyond its immediate impact, DRDO’s innovation has far-reaching implications for the broader defense industry. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible, DRDO inspires collaboration and competition, spurring further advancements in bulletproof technology. This, in turn, fosters a culture of innovation that benefits not only India but also the global community.

Moreover, DRDO’s achievement serves as a reminder of the importance of government investment in research and development. As a state-funded organization, DRDO exemplifies the value of strategic investment in scientific and technological advancement. By providing the necessary resources and support, governments can catalyze innovation and drive progress in critical areas such as defense. Looking ahead, DRDO’s success in developing the lightest bulletproof jacket sets a high bar for future endeavors. As threats continue to evolve, so too must our defense capabilities. DRDO’s ongoing commitment to innovation ensures that India remains prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow, safeguarding its national security and protecting its citizens.

(With Agency Inputs)

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India-China Border Situation At Present 'Generally Stable': Chinese Military Reacts To PM Modi's Boundary

The Chinese military on Thursday said the situation along the India-China border "at present" is "generally stable" and both sides have maintained "effective" communication to resolve the military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Defence Ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Wu Qian was reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent interview with Newsweek magazine in which he had expressed hope that through positive and constructive bilateral engagement at the diplomatic and military levels, India and China will be able to restore and sustain peace and tranquillity at their borders.

"At present, the situation in the border areas between China and India is generally stable," Wu said.

"Both the sides have maintained effective communication through diplomatic and military channels had positive constructive dialogue and achieved positive progress," he said while responding to a question on Modi's remarks and also Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's reported comments that India will continue to have dialogue with China to resolve the standoff at the border areas.

Wu said that "both sides have agreed to reach a mutually acceptable solution as soon as possible" to resolve the standoff.

In his interview, Modi said that for India, the relationship with China is important and significant. "It is my belief that we need to urgently address the prolonged situation on our borders so that the abnormality in our bilateral interactions can be put behind us. Stable and peaceful relations between India and China are important for not just our two countries but the entire region and world," he said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in her response to Modi's interview on April 11 said sound and stable China-India relations serve the interests of both countries and are conducive to peace and development in the region and beyond.

Relations between India and China are frozen except for trade ever since the eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong Tso (lake) area. The eastern Ladakh standoff has resulted in a freeze of bilateral ties on all fronts except trade.

The two sides have so far held 21 rounds of corps commanders-level talks to resolve the standoff.

According to the Chinese military, the two sides so far agreed to disengage from four points, namely the Galwan Valley, the Pangong Lake, Hot Springs, and Jianan Daban (Gogra).

India is pressing the PLA to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal.

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J&K Sees Uptick In Militant Activities Amid Polls; Two Army Personnel Injured In Encounter

Two Army personnel were injured in an ongoing encounter in Bandipora area of north Kashmir on Wednesday. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed an uptick in such incidents since the beginning of the Lok Sabha elections.

This is the second encounter in Kashmir valley in less than two weeks. J&K Police said that a contact was established between militants and armed forces on Wednesday morning in Renji forest area of Bandipora's Aragam village and the search operation is going on.

Officials said "two army troopers received bullet wounds during the initial exchange of fire with terrorists and both are stable". The armed forces have pressed helicopters and drones in service for surveillance of the forest area to prevent militants from fleeing. No casualty has been reported from either side, so far.

On April 11, one militant Danish Sheikh, allegedly associated with LeT, was killed in an encounter in Pulwama. On April 17, unidentified gunmen shot dead a migrant from Bihar in Bijbehara area of Anantnag. Police and paramilitary forces have amplified frisking of private vehicles on all major roads in Srinagar in the wake of suspected movement of the militants.

Last few weeks have witnessed an increase in violence in the Union territory, where Lok Sabha elections have been held in just one constituency of Udhampur so far. Polls in other four constituencies are scheduled in the coming phases.

On the other side of Pir Panjal mountain range in Rajouri, suspected militants shot dead a government employee Mohammad Razaq in Shadra Sharief area on April 22.

The administration in Rajouri has also issued an order suspending use of virtual private networks on mobile phones till polls are over on May 7.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

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Indian Army Unveils Selfie Point At Hombotingla Pass Ahead of 25th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas

In a tribute to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, a new selfie point was unveiled at Hombotingla Pass in Ladakh on April 24.

This initiative, a joint effort by the Indian Army and the Tourism Department of Kargil, honours the valour and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Kargil War.

With the resounding slogan 'I Love Indian Army,' the site offers breathtaking views of Kargil Town and the Mighty Batalik Sector, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the defence of the nation.

The inauguration of this selfie point serves as a tribute to the indomitable spirit of our soldiers and aims to promote tourism and patriotism in the region.

Located amidst the majestic Zanskar ranges of Kargil, this selfie point will serve as a powerful symbol of unity and appreciation for the Indian Army.

Featuring the hashtag #KVDRajatJayanti, the Selfie Point invites visitors to capture and share moments of reverence for the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers.

With panoramic views of the rugged terrain and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes, the selfie point offers a unique opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural splendour of the region.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by veterans, school and college children, leaders and members of religious communities, was a poignant reminder of the courage and valour displayed by our armed forces during the Kargil war.

In addition to honouring our heroes, the selfie point also aims to promote tourism in Kargil and showcase the region's cultural heritage and hospitality.

With its strategic location and stunning vistas, the selfie point is expected to attract tourists from across the country and abroad, while boosting the local economy and fostering a sense of pride among the residents of Kargil.

This is the third such Selfie Point constructed by the Indian Army this month including one each at Khaltse and Hamboting La.

In the conflict, which lasted over two months, the Army managed to push back the Pakistani intruders, who had been occupying certain vantage points in Kargil, raising the Tricolour on the territory wrested from the enemy. On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of "Operation Vijay," declaring victory after a nearly three-month-long battle.

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Search Operation Continues On 2nd Day Post Bandipora Encounter

Srinagar: Police and security forces have continued search operation for second day in Renji forest area of North Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Thursday.

A joint team of Police, Army’s 13RR and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in Renji forest area of Bandipora amid specific information about the presence of at least two & three terrorists on Wednesday.

As the joint team of forces approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired upon them, triggering off a gunfight.

“All exits points have been sealed and lights were installed to prevent terrorists from escaping,” quoting an official news agency Kashmir Scroll reported.

He said that search operation continued throughout the night and it is going on Thursday as well.

(With Agency Inputs)

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'India Can Speak On Its Own VISA Policy': U.S. On Australian Journalist's Claims Not Allowed To Cover Elections; Rebukes Pak Journo

Washington: The US on Thursday (local time) rebuked a Pakistani reporter's questions on allegations of an Australian journalist's claims not allowed to cover Indian general elections and said that the country determines which non-citizens it allows to enter, either as short-term travellers or international journalists.

Responding to a question by a Pakistani reporter on allegations of denial of visa renewal to Australian journalist, Avani Dias, US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "The Government of India can speak to its own visa policy. That's not something I'm going to opine on from here."

Patel further emphasised the role of the free press in the fabric of democracy.

"Broadly, we have been clear with countries around the world about the integral role that a free press plays in the fabric of democracy. That's why we come up here and take questions regularly. But I will let the officials in India speak," he said.

Avani Dias, an Australian journalist claimed that she was not allowed to cover the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and was compelled to leave the country, however, the sources highlighted that her claims are "not correct, misleading and mischievous."

However, sources said that Avani Dias, South Asia Correspondent of Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) was also found to have violated visa rules while undertaking her professional pursuits while "undertaking her professional pursuits."

Meanwhile, at her request, Dias was assured that her visa would be extended for the coverage of the general elections.

Moreover, the sources emphasised that Avani's claims about not being permitted to cover elections are also factually incorrect, adding that covering election activities outside of booths is permitted to all visa-holder journalists.

During the press briefing, Patel also denied making any remark on the internal investigation report by the Indian Government on the alleged assassination plot of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

He said, "I'm not aware of the report that you're referencing. This is ultimately a Department of Justice matter and I will defer to them and let them speak to this."

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is an India-designated terrorist who holds American and Canadian citizenship. He has repeatedly issued threats against India.

As per the US Justice Department indictment, an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, who is currently in custody, has been charged with the murder-for-hire of Pannun. The US Justice Department had claimed that an Indian government employee, who was not identified in the indictment filed, had recruited Gupta to hire a hitman to allegedly assassinate Pannun, which was foiled by US authorities.

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10 Indians Working As Support Staff With Russian Military Returned Home: MEA

Ten Indian nationals working as support staff with the Russian military have been released and have returned to India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi has been pressing Russia to ensure the return of all other citizens serving in similar positions in the Russian military.

"Ten such individuals have come back to India and they have been released and they have returned home," Jaiswal said at his weekly media briefing.

After two Indians, working as support staff with the Russian military lost their lives, India last month called on its nationals to not risk their lives by taking up such jobs.

Jaiswal said the Indian side is very actively pursuing the case of all Indians serving with the Russian military at various levels, including with the foreign ministry, defence ministry and several other organisations in Russia.

"We are committed to bring back all the people who so far have got in touch with us and want to be released and repatriated and return back home," he said.

"We have been assured by the Russian side that the other Indians who are there, they'll also be released and will return home. We are working out those details," he said.

On the case of an Indian national from Jammu and Kashmir serving in the Russian military and whose relatives were allegedly asked by Indian officials to get in touch with Russian authorities to ensure his release, Jaiswal said Indian officials are in touch with Russian authorities over it.

We remain committed to bring him back as well, he said.

There were reports that said around 200 Indian nationals were recruited since last year to work as support with the Russian military.

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Encounter Breaks Out Between Terrorists And Security Forces In Sopore; Security On Alert

Sopore: An encounter broke out on Thursday between security forces and terrorists at Check Mohalla Nowpora in Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir. According to Kashmir Zone Police, the police and security forces are on full alert.

The incident comes early 20 days after a migrant worker was injured after being shot at by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian. Reportedly, he sustained injuries in his abdomen and arm.

"When the security forces closed on the hiding terrorists, they fired at the security forces triggering an encounter which is now going on," an official said.

This comes as the operation to trace the terrorists, hiding in a forested area of Bandipora area, is still on after two soldiers were injured on Wednesday when they opened fire at security forces.

In the past few years, there have been several similar incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. Recently, a migrant worker Amritpal Singh, who was a resident of Punjab, was shot dead in Srinagar. The non-local workers often become targets of the terrorists.

In a separate incident, the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police a joint search operation in Uri, Baramulla on Thursday, and one suspected individual was apprehended. The search operation was launched based on specific inputs from intelligence agencies, the Indian Army's Chinar Corps said.

"Based on specific inputs from intelligence agencies, a Joint Search Operation was launched by #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice today in Uri, Baramulla. One suspected individual has been apprehended along with recovery of 01xPistol & other war-like stores," the Chinar Corps, Indian Army stated in a post on X.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

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Croatia Gets French Fighter Jets In Major Arms Purchase

Croatia took delivery Thursday of six Rafale fighter jets it has bought from France in the country’s biggest arms purchase since its 1991 war of independence.

The used warplanes — the first part of a 12-jet deal — touched down in the capital Zagreb, heralding a major overhaul of Croatia’s air force, which is replacing its fleet of ageing Soviet-era MiGs.

Outgoing Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and other top officials held an arrival ceremony for the planes, which were flown by Croatian pilots after months of training in France.

Plenkovic hailed what he called “the biggest day for the strengthening of the Croatian army and air force” in years.

“We have a deterrent power that we have not had before,” said Plenkovic.

“This is changing our international position, including in NATO and the European Union.”

In 2021, Croatia agreed to buy the 12 jets in a deal worth one billion euros ($1.3 billion) — its biggest arms purchase since it fought to break away from the former Yugoslavia three decades ago.

The EU member chose the French package over bids from Israel, Sweden, and the United States.

Croatia joined NATO in 2009 and the EU four years later.

Last year, Zagreb spent slightly below NATO’s recommended threshold of two percent of gross domestic product on defense, according to the alliance’s figures.

Pressure has risen for NATO members to respect their spending targets after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Croatia’s neighbour and long time rival Serbia is also hoping to sign a deal to purchase Rafale jets from France soon.

(With Agency Inputs)

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