IG Defence Prepares For Trials of India's First Private Micro-Missile Set To Bolster India’s Indigenous Counter-Drone Shield

IG Defence is preparing to conduct the first experimental trial of JWALA, an indigenous private-sector micro-missile that is being developed as a dedicated hard-kill counter-drone interceptor, Economic Times reported.

The system is expected to enter system-level testing in the coming months following the successful test-firing of two solid rocket motors, a key development milestone for the program.

The latest propulsion trials validate one of the most critical elements of the missile's design and pave the way for the integration of all major subsystems ahead of an experimental flight test. The company has already developed most of the missile's core components, including seeker and target-acquisition systems, avionics, the warhead package, and associated electronic subsystems.

JWALA is being designed as a compact and comparatively low-cost kinetic interceptor capable of physically destroying hostile drones. The missile is intended to address the growing requirement for affordable counter-UAS solutions as drones increasingly reshape the economics of modern warfare.

The interceptor is expected to engage targets at ranges between 2 km and 5 km, while its engagement envelope stretches from 50 metres up to 5,000 metres, enabling it to tackle both low-flying and higher-altitude aerial threats. IG Defence has set a design objective of achieving a circular error probable of less than two metres at maximum range.

Propulsion is provided by a dual-pulse solid rocket motor combined with fin-control mechanisms. The recently completed rocket-motor firings served as an important validation of this propulsion architecture as the missile progresses towards full-system integration.

According to the company, JWALA will carry a pre-fragmented high-explosive warhead weighing between 0.5 kg and 1.5 kg. Equipped with a proximity fuze, the missile is intended to function as a hard-kill interceptor capable of neutralising hostile drones before they can threaten protected assets.

The system is also being configured around a truck-mounted multi-canister launcher, giving operators a mobile platform capable of carrying multiple interceptors for sustained counter-drone operations. Reaction time is projected to be under seven seconds from target detection to missile launch, enabling a rapid response against emerging aerial threats.

A key feature of the project is its integration into IG Defence's AI-enabled GRID Defend battle-management ecosystem. Rather than operating as a standalone weapon, JWALA will serve as the hard-kill effector within a broader sensor-to-shooter architecture linking surveillance assets, command systems and engagement platforms.

GRID Defend has been designed to combine target detection, identification, tracking, threat assessment and engagement management within a unified operational framework. By fusing inputs from multiple sensors into a common operational picture, the network can coordinate authorised responses against aerial threats more effectively.

IG Defence founder and CEO Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya said the company is building an intelligent defence architecture that integrates sensors, artificial intelligence, command systems and effectors into a single network capable of executing authorised counter-UAS missions from detection through engagement.

The growing proliferation of drones in contemporary conflicts has highlighted the need for interceptor solutions that can be produced and fielded in significant numbers. While many conventional air-defence missiles remain expensive, low-cost unmanned systems can be deployed at scale, creating demand for affordable defensive layers with sufficient interceptor depth.

Wing Commander Anoop Sharma (Retd), AVP at IG Defence, noted that counter-UAS systems must evolve alongside rapidly changing drone threats.

He emphasised the importance of affordable interceptors that can be manufactured and deployed in meaningful quantities, describing the successful propulsion tests as an important step towards establishing an indigenous hard-kill capability.

The company has already demonstrated its T-SHUL BEAM counter-drone system during the Indian Air Force's Dronathon 2026 exercise. Unlike JWALA's kinetic approach, T-SHUL BEAM employs electronic countermeasures as a soft-kill solution while operating through the same GRID architecture, highlighting IG Defence's effort to develop layered and integrated counter-drone capabilities.

With further integration, reliability and manufacturability work still ahead, JWALA represents one of the most ambitious private-sector efforts in India's emerging missile-development landscape. If upcoming trials prove successful, the system could provide an additional indigenous and cost-effective hard-kill layer for counter-drone operations, combining a compact interceptor, mobile launcher and AI-driven battle-management network into a single operational solution.

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DRDO Pune Develops, Tests Indigenous STANAG-6 Armour Panels for Next-Gen Combat Vehicles

India’s push towards self-reliance in military protection systems has received a significant boost after the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully developed and tested an indigenous lightweight STANAG-6 compliant armour solution designed to withstand 30mm armour-piercing ammunition.

The armour panels have been developed by DRDO’s Research & Development Establishment (Engineers), Pune, also known as R&DE(E), one of the organisation’s key laboratories involved in advanced engineering solutions for the armed forces.

Following the successful development and testing phase, DRDO has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) for Transfer of Technology (ToT) to Indian industry partners, enabling domestic companies to manufacture the armour panels on a larger scale.

The technology is intended for integration into next-generation Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), Light Tanks and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs), platforms that are expected to play a central role in the future modernisation of the Indian Army’s armoured forces.

The indigenous armour system combines high levels of ballistic protection with reduced weight, a critical requirement for modern combat vehicles that must balance mobility, survivability and operational performance across varied terrains.

STANAG Level 6 protection is among the highest recognised protection standards for armoured vehicles against medium-calibre kinetic threats, making the successful indigenous development of such armour a notable milestone for India’s defence materials and vehicle-protection ecosystem.

The move to transfer the technology to domestic manufacturers is expected to accelerate industrial adoption, strengthen indigenous supply chains and reduce dependence on imported armour technologies for future armoured vehicle programs.

The development also aligns with the Government of India’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which seeks to expand local defence manufacturing capabilities and enhance private-sector participation in advanced military technologies.

By opening the technology to Indian vendors through the ToT route, DRDO is aiming to ensure that the lightweight armour solution moves rapidly from laboratory success to large-scale production, supporting future armoured vehicle requirements while strengthening the nation’s indigenous defence manufacturing base.

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IAF Pursues Multiple Fighter Acquisition Tracks To Stem Squadron Shortfall

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is intensifying efforts across several parallel acquisition and manufacturing programs as it seeks to arrest a steady decline in its fighter strength, with Air Chief Marshal AP Singh warning that continued delays in aircraft inductions are beginning to affect operational capability.

Speaking ahead of the 94th Air Force Day celebrations in New Delhi, the Air Chief highlighted that the IAF currently operates just 29 fighter squadrons, significantly below its authorised strength of 42.5 squadrons.

He stressed that the service must induct between 36 and 40 fighter aircraft every year merely to stabilise its force structure, effectively requiring the addition of around two fighter squadrons annually.

According to the Air Chief, delays in planned inductions are now having a tangible impact on combat preparedness. He acknowledged that schedule slippages are common in major military projects but noted that the present delays have been particularly severe.

A major concern remains the induction of the TEJAS MK-1A light combat aircraft. The IAF has ordered a total of 180 TEJAS MK-1A fighters and views the aircraft as a critical component of its efforts to rebuild squadron strength.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has committed to increasing production capacity to as many as 24 aircraft annually through its manufacturing facilities in Bangalore and Nashik. Accelerating deliveries from these production lines is viewed as essential if the IAF is to reverse the downward trend in fighter numbers.

The service continues to place strong emphasis on indigenous combat aircraft development. Alongside the TEJAS MK-1A, the IAF is also looking forward to future inductions of the TEJAS MK-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India's planned fifth-generation stealth fighter.

At the same time, the Air Force is maintaining a pragmatic approach towards fifth-generation combat aircraft requirements. While the AMCA remains India's primary route to acquiring an indigenous stealth fighter capability, the IAF has indicated that it could consider a foreign fifth-generation platform if significant delays emerge in the domestic program.

Russia has been actively promoting its Su-57 stealth fighter to India as a potential option. However, senior defence officials have repeatedly underlined that the AMCA remains the country's preferred pathway to attaining advanced stealth combat capabilities.

The urgency surrounding fifth-generation fighters is being shaped by changing regional security dynamics. China is continuing to expand its fleet of stealth combat aircraft while simultaneously developing more advanced sixth-generation fighter concepts. Pakistan is also expected to acquire a Chinese fifth-generation platform, further increasing pressure on the IAF to modernise rapidly.

On the conventional fighter acquisition front, the Air Force provided its clearest indication yet regarding the long-awaited 114-aircraft Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program.

The IAF hopes that negotiations can be completed and the contract signed within the current financial year ending in March 2027, provided discussions progress as planned.

The Dassault Rafale is widely regarded as the leading contender for the requirement. Plans envisage a substantial proportion of the aircraft being manufactured in India under a Make in India framework, building upon the experience of operating the existing fleet of 36 Rafales already in service.

The Rafale fleet has become one of the IAF's most capable assets and a future deal would significantly strengthen the service's ability to bridge the current squadron deficit while domestic manufacturing programs mature.

The Air Force also addressed growing interest in unmanned systems, dismissing suggestions that drones require an entirely separate command structure.

IAF leadership argued that the service has operated unmanned platforms for many years and views them as force multipliers that complement manned aircraft rather than as an independent combat arm.

This philosophy is reflected in the Weapons Systems Branch established by the IAF in 2022. The branch is responsible for operating surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air missiles, remotely piloted aircraft and weapons systems aboard twin-seat and multi-crew platforms.

Taken together, the IAF's strategy reflects a multi-pronged effort to manage a widening capability gap. The service is simultaneously pushing for faster TEJAS production, encouraging greater private-sector participation in fighter manufacturing, advancing the MRFA procurement, preparing future TEJAS MK-2 and AMCA inductions, and retaining the option of a foreign fifth-generation fighter should domestic timelines slip further.

Despite these contingency plans, the Air Force has made clear that the long-term objective remains the creation of a predominantly indigenous combat fleet capable of meeting India's future air power requirements.

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India's RAKSHA Blueprint Sets Course For A Decade of Strategic Defence Diplomacy

The defence ministry called defence diplomacy "a core pillar of India's foreign policy" and said the document gives a clear, actionable vision for the coming decade, wrote Vallari Parashar on News18.com

India has formally outlined a long-term strategy for defence diplomacy with the launch of RAKSHA, a 10-year roadmap unveiled by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Kartavya Bhawan in New Delhi in September 2026.

The document marks a shift from largely transaction-based international defence engagement towards a structured framework that integrates strategic partnerships, military training, defence exports and maritime cooperation.

The Ministry of Defence described defence diplomacy as a core pillar of India's foreign policy and said RAKSHA provides a clear and actionable vision for the coming decade. The framework is intended to align national security objectives with international cooperation while ensuring continuity beyond the tenure of any single government.

Until now, many defence engagements, including joint exercises, training opportunities, defence agreements, export arrangements and lines of credit, were typically pursued on a country-by-country basis. RAKSHA seeks to bring these separate efforts together under a unified long-term strategy involving the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of External Affairs, the armed services and the National Security Council Secretariat.

A major focus is the expansion of security partnerships with friendly nations through bilateral and multilateral mechanisms. Training remains central to this approach, building on India's established role in educating foreign military officers at institutions such as the National Defence College in New Delhi and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington.

Defence exports form another key pillar. Indian missions overseas will play a greater role in promoting domestically manufactured military equipment, supporting the government's ambition to position India as a reliable long-term defence supplier.

Defence exports reached ₹38,424 crore during 2025-26, representing growth of 62.66 per cent compared with the previous year. Defence Public Sector Undertakings contributed ₹21,071 crore, while the private sector accounted for ₹17,353 crore. India currently exports defence equipment to more than 80 countries and is targeting exports of ₹50,000 crore by 2029-30.

The strategy recognises that successful exports create enduring relationships because military platforms require decades of maintenance support, spare parts, upgrades and crew training. This sustained engagement strengthens links between Indian industry, the armed forces and partner nations.

RAKSHA also supports deeper industrial cooperation with advanced economies. This was reflected in discussions between Rajnath Singh and Belgium's Defence and Trade Minister Theo Francken, where both sides reviewed defence ties and industrial collaboration. The engagement highlighted India's interest in manufacturing partnerships and technology cooperation alongside export growth.

Maritime security remains a central element of the roadmap. Building on the SAGAR vision introduced in 2015 and the MAHASAGAR initiative announced in 2025, India aims to strengthen its role as a security provider and first responder across the Indian Ocean Region. The importance of this objective has increased amid expanding Chinese naval activity, including the operation of a military base in Djibouti since 2017 and a growing presence of Chinese research and survey vessels in regional waters.

Through greater maritime cooperation, training initiatives and support for littoral and island nations, India seeks to establish a broader network of trusted partners that complements its naval deployments and reinforces regional stability.

Although the document does not explicitly refer to the Global South, its emphasis on capacity building, affordable defence equipment and maritime assistance is particularly relevant for nations across Africa, Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. Recent defence engagements, including the BrahMos missile agreement with the Philippines and defence purchases by Armenia, illustrate this growing dimension of India's international outreach.

The roadmap also faces significant challenges. Financing remains a critical issue because competitors such as China, Turkey and South Korea frequently offer attractive export credit arrangements alongside defence sales. India must also demonstrate consistent delivery performance and long-term support capabilities if it hopes to expand its market share internationally.

The government has not yet disclosed detailed mechanisms for implementing or reviewing RAKSHA over its 10-year lifespan. Ultimately, the initiative's success will depend not only on securing defence contracts but also on maintaining training commitments, delivering spare parts promptly, supporting technology cooperation where feasible and sustaining long-term strategic engagement with partner countries.

RAKSHA establishes a comprehensive direction for India's defence diplomacy. Its effectiveness will be measured by whether India can transform expanding defence manufacturing capabilities into enduring international partnerships over the next decade.

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DRDO Plans Laser-Armed Dhruv And Rudra Helicopters For India’s Next Generation Counter-Drone Battle

India is exploring a new frontier in battlefield technology as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) examines the possibility of equipping the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and the armed Rudra helicopter with laser-based directed-energy weapons designed to defeat emerging drone threats, Times of India reported.

The move reflects the rapidly changing character of modern warfare, where unmanned aerial systems have become increasingly common across frontline environments. Military planners are now facing a growing challenge from surveillance drones, loitering munitions and coordinated drone swarms capable of overwhelming conventional air-defence systems.

To address this threat, DRDO is studying the integration of an airborne laser pod that could provide helicopters with a dedicated counter-drone capability. The proposed system would combine advanced thermal imaging sensors, a laser rangefinder and a precision beam-directing mechanism. These components would work together to detect, track, identify and engage hostile unmanned aerial vehicles in real time.

Unlike conventional interceptor-based solutions, a directed-energy weapon uses concentrated laser energy to damage or destroy a target without requiring the launch of a missile. This provides a significant operational advantage against low-cost drones, particularly in situations where large numbers of unmanned aircraft are deployed simultaneously. A laser weapon delivers its effect at the speed of light, eliminating the delay associated with missile flight times.

The technology also offers the prospect of dramatically reducing engagement costs. Traditional air-defence missiles can be expensive, making them less economical when used against relatively inexpensive commercial or military drones.

Directed-energy systems change this equation by relying primarily on electrical power rather than expendable interceptors. This means a platform could potentially engage numerous targets without rapidly depleting missile inventories. Such a capability is becoming increasingly relevant as drone warfare expands across modern conflict zones.

The proposed helicopter-mounted laser system could provide Indian forces with a mobile and flexible defensive shield. ALH Dhruv and Rudra helicopters operating near the Line of Control could use the technology to neutralise hostile surveillance drones before they gather intelligence on troop deployments and military infrastructure. The capability could also be employed to defend forward operating bases that are increasingly vulnerable to unmanned aerial attacks. Military convoys moving through sensitive regions could similarly benefit from aerial protection against reconnaissance and strike drones.

The concept aligns with a broader global trend towards directed-energy weapons. Several major military powers are investing heavily in high-energy laser systems as an answer to the rapid proliferation of unmanned threats. India has also accelerated its efforts in this field through a number of indigenous directed-energy weapon projects.

DRDO has already demonstrated a 30-kilowatt class laser-directed energy weapon capable of engaging drones, unmanned aircraft and surveillance equipment. The system demonstrated the ability to inflict structural damage on drone targets and disable hostile sensors during testing. Trials have shown that such weapons can engage drone swarms as well as fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.

DRDO's work in directed-energy technology is not limited to existing systems. The organisation is pursuing increasingly powerful laser weapons intended to expand operational range and lethality. These efforts form part of a broader strategy aimed at creating layered counter-drone and air-defence capabilities across multiple domains.

The helicopter laser concept represents an important extension of this vision. While ground-mounted directed-energy weapons offer protection for fixed installations and strategic assets, airborne platforms could provide significantly greater mobility. A helicopter equipped with a laser weapon could rapidly reposition in response to emerging threats and cover large operational areas.

It could also provide protection to forces operating in remote and mountainous terrain where deploying conventional air-defence systems may be more difficult. Despite its promise, considerable technical challenges remain before such a capability can enter service. One of the most significant hurdles involves generating sufficient electrical power aboard a helicopter.

Directed-energy weapons require substantial energy to produce an effective laser beam. Ensuring reliable power generation without excessively affecting aircraft performance will be a major engineering task. Thermal management presents another challenge. High-energy laser systems generate large amounts of heat during operation. Efficient cooling systems will therefore be essential if the weapon is to sustain multiple engagements during a mission.

Environmental conditions can also affect laser performance. Dust, smoke, haze, water vapour and other atmospheric factors can absorb or scatter laser energy, reducing effectiveness against distant targets. This means the operational performance of airborne laser weapons could vary depending on terrain, weather and battlefield conditions.

Engineers will need to ensure that future systems remain effective across a wide range of operational environments. The challenge is particularly relevant for India, where armed forces operate from deserts and coastal regions to high-altitude mountain sectors. Another key requirement will be the integration of lightweight and compact components suitable for helicopter operations.

Any airborne laser pod must balance firepower, weight, power consumption and aerodynamic performance. Achieving that balance will be essential for successful deployment aboard ALH Dhruv and Rudra helicopters. The growing use of drones in military operations has made such technological developments increasingly important.

Recent conflicts around the world have demonstrated how relatively inexpensive unmanned systems can conduct surveillance, locate air-defence assets, direct artillery fire and launch precision attacks. Drone swarms, in particular, pose a serious challenge because they can saturate traditional defensive systems. Directed-energy weapons are widely viewed as one of the most promising solutions to this emerging threat.

As India continues to strengthen its indigenous defence technology ecosystem, laser-equipped helicopters could eventually become a key component of future battlefield operations. If successfully developed, the capability would provide the Indian armed forces with a highly responsive and cost-effective means of countering unmanned aerial threats.

Although the technology remains under development and significant engineering obstacles remain, DRDO's exploration of airborne laser weapons signals a clear recognition that future conflicts will be shaped increasingly by drone warfare.

The potential integration of directed-energy systems onto ALH Dhruv and Rudra helicopters represents an important step towards ensuring that India's rotary-wing fleet remains prepared for the demands of the next generation battlefield.

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Pakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index As Death Toll Climbs To 1,139 In 2025

According to a report by WION, For the first time on record, Pakistan now stands as the world's most terrorism-affected nation, according to the Global Terrorism Index 2026 released by the Institute for Economics & Peace.

The Sydney-based think tank's annual assessment reveals that Pakistan suffered 1,139 deaths across 1,045 terrorist incidents in 2025 alone, pushing terrorism-related fatalities up by almost 6% compared to 2024.

The report highlights that Pakistan recorded 1,139 terrorism-related fatalities and 1,045 incidents during 2025, representing a death toll increase of nearly 6% compared to the previous year.

Persistent counter-terror operations and cross-border militant activity along the Afghanistan-Pakistan borderlands drove this surge in fatalities, making Pakistan the central global focus of militant impact while overtaking Burkina Faso.

This grim milestone represents Pakistan's deadliest year from terrorism since 2013 and extends an unbroken six-year streak of escalating violence. Until now, Burkina Faso had held the unfortunate distinction of leading the index, but Pakistan's deteriorating security situation has seen it overtake the West African nation in 2025.

The report identifies two primary drivers behind the surge: the Taliban's 2021 takeover of Afghanistan, which opened new avenues for cross-border militant movements, and the intensified operations of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan alongside the Balochistan Liberation Army. The TTP, in particular, has been singled out as not only Pakistan's most lethal insurgent outfit but also the third-deadliest terrorist organisation worldwide.

Geographically, the violence has been heavily concentrated in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, regions that have long been flashpoints for separatist and Islamist militant activity. Beyond the death toll, the human cost in 2025 included 1,595 injuries and 655 hostages taken during attacks.

The Global Terrorism Index, now in its thirteenth edition, assesses 163 nations covering 99.7% of humanity, using a composite score that factors in deaths, injuries, hostages and property destruction. Despite a global decline in terrorism-related deaths to a ten-year low, Pakistan's trajectory runs counter to this positive worldwide pattern.

Reacting to the findings, former Pakistani diplomat Husain Haqqani remarked that decades of nurturing militant proxies had finally come back to haunt Islamabad, likening the situation to keeping snakes in one's own backyard.

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GalaxEye Secures US Patent For OptoSAR Technology As 30-Satellite Constellation Plans Gather Pace

Indian space-tech Start-Up GalaxEye has secured a US patent for its proprietary OptoSAR imaging technology, marking a significant milestone in its effort to build a planned 30-satellite Earth observation constellation, Economic Times reported.

The patent strengthens the company's intellectual property portfolio and provides a foundation for scaling its next generation of satellites. According to GalaxEye, the technology combines optical imaging with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), enabling the collection of highly aligned Earth observation data that remains effective even through cloud cover, smoke, poor weather conditions and darkness.

The patented architecture synchronises optical and microwave sensors at the system level, allowing simultaneous, spatially and temporally matched data acquisition. This addresses a longstanding challenge within the Earth observation sector, where optical and radar imagery are often captured separately and combined later through post-processing, potentially creating temporal gaps and spatial misalignment.

Pranit Mehta, Co-Founder and Vice-President of Sales at GalaxEye, described the patent as a foundational element of the firm's future roadmap. He noted that the technology will support the development of larger satellites and ultimately enable the deployment of the company's planned constellation, while ensuring that critical technologies are developed domestically rather than licensed from overseas providers.

The achievement comes as the global commercial satellite imaging market continues to expand rapidly. Industry estimates place the market at approximately $6.55 billion in 2024, with projections suggesting it could exceed $20 billion by 2033 as demand for high-quality Earth observation data increases across multiple industries.

GalaxEye originated from the IIT Madras ecosystem and has emerged as one of India's most closely watched private space companies. Its technology has applications across defence, agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, insurance, maritime intelligence and disaster management, sectors that increasingly require near real-time and all-weather imaging capabilities.

The company's first operational OptoSAR satellite, Mission Drishti, was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in May. The satellite represented a major technological demonstration for GalaxEye and, at roughly 190 kg, was among the most significant privately developed Earth observation spacecraft produced in India.

However, the mission encountered a setback in July when a solar storm affected a critical onboard system, resulting in a loss of communication with the spacecraft. Despite the incident, the satellite had successfully completed approximately 85 per cent of its commissioning objectives and validated key aspects of the OptoSAR concept.

The disruption delayed the company's ability to begin commercial service delivery despite having already established a network of channel partners spanning more than 80 countries. Those partnerships were intended to support the rollout of imaging services to international customers across government, commercial and strategic sectors.

Looking ahead, GalaxEye plans to launch two larger and more capable satellites within the next two years. These next-generation spacecraft are expected to deliver improved imaging performance and higher-resolution data products, further advancing the company's commercial Earth observation ambitions.

The Start-Up has raised approximately $21 million in funding, equivalent to around ₹176 crore, to support technology development, satellite deployment and constellation expansion.

The newly granted US patent follows earlier protection secured in India and further validates technology that company leadership describes as an indigenous innovation developed entirely within India.

The patent is expected to strengthen GalaxEye's position as it competes in the increasingly strategic global Earth observation market and works towards establishing a multi-satellite network capable of providing persistent, all-weather intelligence from space.

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Manufacturing Momentum: Powering A Self-Reliant India’s Global Rise

As India marks its 80th Independence Day, the manufacturing sector has emerged as a cornerstone of economic growth, industrial resilience and self-reliance. Driven by the Make in India vision and supported by reforms such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, BHAVYA and targeted initiatives for electronics and MSMEs, the country has steadily strengthened its position as a leading global manufacturing destination, announced PIB.

PM GatiShakti and the National Logistics Policy have also helped improve infrastructure integration, multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency, making Indian manufacturing increasingly competitive.

Manufacturing now contributes around 16-17% of India’s GDP and provides employment to more than 27 million people. Manufacturing Gross Value Added recorded a CAGR of 10.88% between 2022-23 and 2025-26, while manufacturing output expanded by 7.8% in June 2026.

Merchandise exports rose to ₹3.76 lakh crore ($44.24 billion) in July 2026, compared with approximately ₹3.14 lakh crore ($36.98 billion) a year earlier, underlining the sector’s growing contribution to national prosperity.

India’s defence manufacturing landscape has undergone a historic transformation over the past decade. Indigenous defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, representing growth of 15.6% over the previous year and a significant increase from ₹46,429 crore in FY 2014-15.

Defence exports climbed from ₹686 crore in FY 2013-14 to ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, with Indian-made defence products now reaching more than 80 countries worldwide and recording growth exceeding 5,500% over twelve years.

Public sector undertakings accounted for roughly 76% of defence production in FY 2025-26, while the private sector’s contribution increased to 24%, highlighting expanding private participation. Ten Positive Indigenisation Lists covering 5,521 items had been notified by May 2026, accelerating self-reliance. The Srijan Defence Equipment Empowerment Platform now supports more than 41,000 vendors and approximately 2.7 lakh products, strengthening domestic defence supply chains.

Electronics manufacturing has become one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy. Total electronics production increased from ₹11.32 lakh crore in FY 2024-25 to ₹13.11 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, reflecting annual growth of 15.8%.

Since FY 2014-15, electronics production has expanded from nearly ₹1.9 lakh crore to ₹13.11 lakh crore, while exports have risen from about ₹38,000 crore to ₹4.24 lakh crore. Mobile phone production grew from roughly ₹18,000 crore to ₹6.27 lakh crore, and exports surged from approximately ₹1,500 crore to ₹2.59 lakh crore.

India’s semiconductor ambitions have gathered considerable momentum. The Semicon India Program 1.0, approved in 2021 with an outlay of ₹76,000 crore, laid the foundation for a domestic semiconductor ecosystem.

Building on that effort, SEMICON 2.0 was approved in July 2026 with a budget of ₹1.28 lakh crore. Twelve manufacturing projects worth more than ₹1.64 lakh crore have been approved, including silicon fabrication, silicon carbide fabrication, gallium nitride Micro LED display manufacturing and advanced packaging facilities.

Three approved companies, Micron, Kaynes and CG Semi, have already commenced commercial production, while another facility is expected to begin operations during 2026. Together, these projects are intended to serve sectors ranging from consumer electronics and telecommunications to automobiles, aerospace and industrial manufacturing.

India’s mobile manufacturing success story continues to accelerate. Nearly 99.2% of mobile phones sold domestically are now manufactured within the country, which has become the world’s second-largest mobile phone producer by volume. India has transitioned from a net importer to a net exporter of mobile phones since 2014, with smartphones becoming the country’s largest individual export commodity in FY 2025-26, surpassing petroleum products and gems and jewellery.

The PLI scheme for Large Scale Electronic Manufacturing has attracted investments of around ₹96,000 crore, while domestic value addition reached 23% in FY 2023-24. A new Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme approved in July 2026 carries an allocation of ₹62,500 crore for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31, offering incentives of 2.25% to 5% and additional support for local sourcing, Indian brands, design capabilities and research and development.

India’s pharmaceutical industry remains one of the world’s most important healthcare suppliers. Ranked third globally by volume and eleventh by value, the country supplies around 20% of global generic medicines and a substantial share of vaccines. The sector recorded a turnover of ₹4.72 lakh crore during 2024-25.

Three pharmaceutical PLI schemes with a combined allocation of ₹25,360 crore have attracted investments exceeding ₹51,997 crore and generated cumulative sales of ₹3.88 lakh crore, including exports worth more than ₹2.43 lakh crore.

Manufacturing capability has been established for 218 APIs, key starting materials and drug intermediates, alongside 57 medical devices, including MRI systems, CT scanners, ultrasound equipment and critical implants.

Medical device exports rose from ₹26,915 crore in 2019-20 to ₹42,360 crore in 2024-25, while domestic manufacturing expanded from ₹28,000 crore to ₹41,500 crore. Three Bulk Drug Parks have been approved in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh, while the Biopharma SHAKTI scheme announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 earmarks ₹10,000 crore over five years to strengthen innovation and healthcare manufacturing.

Textiles and apparel continue to play a vital role in industrial development and employment generation. The sector supports more than 45 million livelihoods, making it the second-largest employer after agriculture. Strong raw material availability, integrated value chains and leadership in cotton production and cotton yarn exports provide India with significant competitive advantages.

The textiles sector contributes around 2% of GDP, 11% of manufacturing GVA and 9% of merchandise exports. Textile and apparel exports reached $37.7 billion, equivalent to approximately ₹3.20 lakh crore, in FY 2025, accounting for 4.1% of global textile and apparel exports and making India the world’s sixth-largest exporter. Government initiatives including PM MITRA Parks, the National Technical Textiles Mission, the Textiles Export Promotion Mission, the National Fibre Mission and the Mission for Cotton Productivity are expected to further enhance competitiveness.

The maritime manufacturing sector is also receiving substantial policy support. A comprehensive package worth ₹69,725 crore announced in 2025 aims to strengthen shipbuilding capacity, maritime finance and workforce development. Under the Shipbuilding Development Scheme, ₹19,989 crore has been allocated to raise annual shipbuilding capacity to 4.5 million Gross Tonnage.

Greenfield shipbuilding clusters are planned in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, while existing shipyards are eligible for capital assistance to modernise infrastructure and expand operations. A Maritime Development Fund with a ₹25,000 crore corpus includes a ₹20,000 crore Maritime Investment Fund and a ₹5,000 crore Interest Incentivisation Fund to support long-term sector financing.

An additional ₹24,736 crore has been earmarked under the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme. The Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 with funding of ₹10,000 crore over five years, seeks to expand annual container manufacturing capacity to 7.5 lakh TEUs, around ten times current levels. In July 2026, India unveiled its first domestically manufactured EXIM shipping container for A.P. Moller-Maersk at Dadri, Uttar Pradesh.

India’s automobile industry remains among the strongest globally. The country is the world’s largest market for two-wheelers and three-wheelers and the third-largest market for passenger and commercial vehicles. The sector supports more than 30 million jobs directly and indirectly.

Vehicle production increased from 22.65 million units in FY 2020-21 to 31.03 million units in FY 2024-25, while overall production expanded by nearly 33% between FY 2014-15 and FY 2024-25. The Automobile and Auto Components PLI scheme, with an allocation of ₹25,938 crore, attracted investments of ₹44,326 crore by March 2026 and generated 67,820 jobs.

Electric mobility has received a major boost through the PM E-DRIVE scheme, launched with an outlay of ₹10,900 crore. The initiative targets incentives for approximately 28.30 lakh electric vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, ambulances and trucks. Funding has also been allocated for 14,028 electric buses, of which 14,000 have already been deployed, alongside ₹2,000 crore for public charging infrastructure.

India’s solar photovoltaic manufacturing sector has expanded rapidly and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17-20% through FY 2030. The domestic market is valued at around ₹32,400 crore, supported by rising demand and large-scale capacity creation.

Solar module manufacturing capacity listed under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers reached 100 GW in August 2025, compared with approximately 2.3 GW in 2014. Solar cell manufacturing capacity increased from less than 1.2 GW to 25 GW by March 2025. The government’s high-efficiency solar PV module PLI scheme, backed by ₹24,000 crore across two phases, has awarded 48 GW of integrated PV manufacturing capacity. Solar PV exports in FY 2024-25 were eight times higher than in FY 2017-18.

Taken together, these developments illustrate the steady expansion of India’s manufacturing capabilities across defence, electronics, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, textiles, maritime industries, automobiles and renewable energy. Backed by sustained policy support, infrastructure improvements, investment inflows and growing private-sector participation, the country is increasingly positioning itself as a globally competitive manufacturing powerhouse while advancing the goal of a stronger and more self-reliant economy.

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India-Europe AI Alliance Signals Decades-Long Technology Integration

India and Europe are rapidly moving beyond a conventional free trade relationship and towards what increasingly resembles a deeply integrated artificial intelligence and advanced technology partnership.

At the centre of this shift is the growing alignment of semiconductor manufacturing, AI research, digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, creating interconnected ecosystems that could shape innovation on both continents for decades.

A major development came in May 2026 when TATA Electronics signed a strategic partnership agreement with Dutch semiconductor equipment leader ASML to support India's first commercial 300 mm semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat.

The fab, valued at approximately ₹91,000 crore, is designed for a production capacity of up to 50,000 wafers per month and will manufacture chips across process nodes ranging from 28 nm to 110 nm for automotive, mobile, communications and AI applications.

The collaboration goes beyond equipment supply. ASML will provide advanced lithography systems, support workforce development, strengthen supply chains and contribute to research capabilities required for the long-term success of India's semiconductor ecosystem. The project represents one of the most significant steps in India's ambition to establish a domestic chip manufacturing base.

At the same time, India and France have expanded cooperation in AI-enabled healthcare through the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health at AIIMS Delhi. Developed in partnership with Sorbonne University and the Paris Brain Institute, the centre is focused on AI-driven diagnostics, multimodal brain biomarkers and low-field MRI technologies capable of delivering affordable and scalable medical imaging solutions across India.

European investment in India's AI infrastructure is also accelerating. Spanish technology company Submer has committed roughly ₹19,000 crore towards a major AI-ready data-centre campus near Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.

The project is expected to deliver up to 1 GW of liquid-cooled computing capacity while supporting thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. The investment ranks among the largest European commitments to AI and digital infrastructure in India and reflects the growing demand for high-performance computing resources required by advanced AI workloads.

Germany has emerged as another key partner. During the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi in February 2026, India and Germany launched an AI Pact focused on industrial AI deployment across manufacturing, mobility, energy, healthcare and other strategic sectors.

The agreement also promotes collaboration on trustworthy AI, talent mobility, research infrastructure, sector-specific AI models and discussions concerning the implementation of the EU AI Act alongside India's AI Mission.

The broader framework underpinning these initiatives is the India-EU Free Trade Agreement concluded in January 2026. The agreement strengthens technology cooperation by creating formal channels between European and Indian AI institutions, encouraging collaboration on AI governance, safety standards and innovation.

It also supports discussions on India's association with Horizon Europe, the European Union's €93.5 billion research and innovation programme, potentially providing Indian institutions and companies with greater access to collaborative research opportunities across Europe.

Alongside this effort, the establishment of a European Legal Gateway Office is intended to facilitate the movement of Indian ICT professionals, researchers and technology talent into European laboratories, universities and industrial research centres.

Taken together, these developments indicate a relationship that extends far beyond traditional outsourcing models. The emerging partnership is increasingly characterised by joint semiconductor production, shared AI research, common innovation frameworks, advanced computing infrastructure, healthcare collaboration and regulatory coordination.

Rather than operating as separate technology ecosystems, India and Europe are gradually building interconnected capabilities across chips, compute, talent, research and AI governance, creating a long-term strategic technology alignment whose effects could be felt for decades.

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Swiss President Guy Parmelin Receives Ceremonial Welcome As India-Switzerland Ties Enter New Growth Phase

Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday as he began a three-day State visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Swiss leader received a Guard of Honour in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, marking the formal commencement of his first-ever State visit to India.

President Parmelin arrived in India on October 5 and will remain in the country until October 7. The visit is focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, workforce mobility, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

He is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior government officials and business leaders, underlining the strong economic and commercial dimension of the visit.

This is Parmelin's second visit to India in 2026, having previously travelled to New Delhi in February to participate in the AI Impact Summit, where he also engaged with Indian leaders on emerging technology cooperation.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Parmelin are scheduled to hold extensive bilateral discussions reviewing progress across key sectors, including commerce, investment, scientific collaboration, innovation, mobility and cultural engagement. The two leaders will also exchange views on major regional and international developments and cooperation in multilateral forums.

President Parmelin is also set to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host an official banquet in his honour. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will separately call on the visiting Swiss leader during his stay.

A major highlight of the visit will be Parmelin's participation in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7, commemorating the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). The agreement has become a key pillar of economic engagement between India and the four-member European Free Trade Association comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

Among EFTA nations, Switzerland remains India's largest trade and investment partner, making the relationship particularly significant as both countries seek deeper cooperation in advanced manufacturing, innovation, clean technologies, pharmaceuticals, financial services and high-value industries.

The visit also reflects the steady momentum in high-level bilateral engagement. The last State visit by an Indian President to Switzerland took place in 2019, while Prime Minister Modi visited the European nation in 2016 and 2018. The two countries have long enjoyed friendly relations founded on democratic values, mutual trust and regular diplomatic exchanges.

Indian officials view the visit as an opportunity to further deepen cooperation in emerging sectors while strengthening an already robust economic and strategic partnership between New Delhi and Bern.

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EAM Jaishankar, Swiss President Parmelin Reinforce India-EFTA Partnership As TEPA Enters New Phase

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin during the latter’s three-day State visit to India, underscoring the growing momentum in India-Switzerland relations and the expanding opportunities emerging from the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA).

Following the meeting, Jaishankar said he appreciated President Parmelin’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties and expressed confidence that the Swiss leader’s discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would further strengthen cooperation across a broad spectrum of sectors.

The diplomatic engagement comes at a significant moment for India and the European Free Trade Association, comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, as both sides mark the first anniversary of TEPA’s entry into force on 1 October 2025.

President Parmelin described his visit as an important milestone in advancing the long-standing partnership between India and Switzerland. Speaking after receiving a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, he said the visit highlighted the importance both nations attach to their relationship and provided an opportunity to shape the future of bilateral cooperation.

Welcomed by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Swiss leader emphasised that India-Switzerland ties are founded on shared democratic values, trust and mutual respect.

He noted that the relationship has evolved into a broad partnership spanning politics, trade, investment, technology, innovation and people-to-people exchanges. Parmelin said his visit would help deepen and strengthen cooperation while also allowing both sides to exchange views on major bilateral and global issues.

A key focus of the visit is the India-EFTA TEPA, which was signed on 10 March 2024 and became operational on 1 October 2025. The agreement is regarded as one of India’s most significant trade arrangements with developed European economies and is designed to enhance trade, investment and economic collaboration between the partners.

President Parmelin said the anniversary of TEPA offered an opportunity not only to celebrate the progress achieved so far but also to chart the next phase of cooperation between India and the EFTA countries.

The Swiss President arrived in India at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi and is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior government officials and business leaders. His visit is aimed at expanding collaboration in trade, investment, science, technology, innovation and workforce mobility.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this is Parmelin’s first State visit to India and his second trip to the country in 2026, having previously travelled to New Delhi in February to participate in the AI Impact Summit.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Parmelin are scheduled to hold comprehensive bilateral talks covering trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, mobility, cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties. Discussions will also address regional developments, global challenges and multilateral cooperation.

President Parmelin is also expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host a State banquet in his honour.

An important highlight of the visit will be his participation in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on 7 October. The summit is expected to review progress under TEPA and explore fresh opportunities for expanding commercial links, investment flows and industrial partnerships between India and the EFTA bloc.

The trade agreement carries additional strategic significance because it includes a long-term EFTA commitment to facilitate investments worth nearly ₹8.4 lakh crore in India over 15 years and support the creation of one million direct jobs, making it one of the most ambitious economic partnership frameworks negotiated by India with a European grouping.

Among the four EFTA member nations, Switzerland remains India’s largest trade and investment partner, reflecting the central role it plays in the broader India-EFTA economic relationship.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit reflects the steady momentum in bilateral ties and is expected to deepen cooperation in both traditional and emerging sectors of mutual interest.

The visit also continues a pattern of sustained high-level engagement between the two countries. The most recent State visit by an Indian President to Switzerland took place in 2019, while Prime Minister Modi visited the country in 2016 and again in 2018.

With TEPA entering its second year of implementation and both sides seeking to expand collaboration in advanced technology, innovation, manufacturing, investment and skills mobility, President Parmelin’s visit is being viewed as an important step towards strengthening one of India’s most significant partnerships in Europe.

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PM Modi-Swiss Prez Parmelin Talks Spotlight Trade, Technology And TEPA As India-Switzerland Partnership Gains Momentum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, with both sides seeking to deepen cooperation across trade, investment, technology, innovation and people-to-people ties.

The meeting formed the centrepiece of President Parmelin's three-day State visit to India, his first State visit to the country and his second visit this year following his participation in the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi in February.

Earlier in the day, the Swiss leader paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by laying a wreath at Rajghat. He was accompanied by his wife, Caroline Parmelin.

President Parmelin was also accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi. The occasion reflected the importance both nations attach to a relationship that has steadily expanded beyond traditional economic engagement into emerging sectors such as advanced technology, innovation, research and mobility.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called on the visiting Swiss President and welcomed his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Jaishankar highlighted the growing potential created by the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) and expressed confidence that discussions with Prime Minister Modi would further advance cooperation across multiple sectors.

Speaking after the ceremonial reception, President Parmelin described the visit as a significant opportunity to reinforce the importance of India-Switzerland relations. He noted that the partnership is founded upon shared democratic values, trust and mutual respect.

The Swiss President said his visit should serve as a stepping stone towards further growth and the strengthening of what he characterised as a broad, close and long-standing partnership. He added that the two countries were well placed to exchange views on both bilateral priorities and major global developments.

A major focus of the visit is the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement entering into force. President Parmelin said the milestone offered an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements so far but also to shape the future direction of cooperation between the partners.

TEPA, signed on 10 March 2024 and operational since 1 October 2025, is a landmark free trade agreement between India and the four European Free Trade Association member states: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. The agreement is expected to boost trade, investment flows, market access and long-term economic collaboration.

President Parmelin is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior government officials and business leaders, underlining the strong commercial dimension of the visit. Discussions are expected to cover trade and investment, scientific research, technological innovation, workforce mobility, education and broader economic cooperation.

During his stay, the Swiss President is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host a state banquet in his honour.

The visit will culminate in President Parmelin's participation in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on 7 October, an event marking one year since TEPA became operational and providing a platform to review progress under the agreement.

Switzerland remains India's largest trade and investment partner among EFTA countries, making the relationship particularly significant for both sides as they seek to expand economic engagement and attract greater investment.

The visit takes place against the backdrop of sustained high-level exchanges between New Delhi and Bern. The most recent State visit by an Indian President to Switzerland occurred in 2019, while Prime Minister Modi travelled to the European nation in 2016 and 2018.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit is expected to further strengthen the longstanding and friendly relationship between India and Switzerland, while opening new avenues for cooperation in areas of mutual interest and reinforcing an already expanding strategic and economic partnership.

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Indian Navy Sailor Held In Pakistan Honey Trap Spy Case Over Alleged Leak of Sensitive Naval Intelligence

A 31-year-old Indian Navy sailor has been arrested on allegations of passing classified maritime intelligence to a Pakistani operative after reportedly being ensnared in a social media-based honey trap.

The sailor, identified as Pradeep Mukherjee, was taken into custody on 3 October at INS Agrani in Coimbatore by the Andhra Pradesh Police Counter Intelligence (CI) cell. Authorities allege that he transmitted sensitive information linked to Indian naval operations.

Mukherjee, a native of West Bengal, had been attending a management development course at the naval leadership training establishment and had spent around a week at the facility before investigators moved in.

He joined the Indian Navy in 2014 and was serving with the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam at the time of the alleged offence.

According to investigators, a woman suspected of being associated with Pakistani intelligence established contact with the sailor several months ago through social media. The online relationship allegedly developed over time and was subsequently used to gain access to sensitive military information.

Investigators suspect that details relating to strategic naval assets, fleet movements and aspects of the operational framework of the Visakhapatnam naval base were shared. The extent of the information allegedly transmitted remains under investigation.

The case forms part of a wider espionage probe being handled by the Andhra Pradesh Police Counter Intelligence unit, a specialised agency responsible for tackling cross-border espionage activities and terror-related threats.

The inquiry reportedly began after authorities detected suspicious digital activity linked to Mukherjee. Investigators are understood to have monitored his communications and digital footprint before carrying out the arrest.

Officials are now assessing the full scope of the alleged security breach, including whether any additional individuals may have been involved and whether the information shared could have affected operational security. Reports indicate that agencies are examining the broader dimensions of the suspected espionage network.

The arrest highlights continuing concerns within Indian security agencies regarding honey-trap operations conducted through social media platforms, where intelligence handlers are alleged to cultivate online relationships with military personnel in an attempt to gather sensitive information. The case remains under investigation.

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PM Modi Meets Swiss President Guy Parmelin At Hyderabad House; Talks Spotlight Trade And Innovation Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, continuing a series of high-level engagements during the Swiss leader’s three-day State visit to India.

The discussions form part of a broader effort by both nations to deepen cooperation across trade, investment, science, technology, innovation and mobility.

Earlier in the day, President Parmelin paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, where he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony accompanied by his wife, Caroline Parmelin.

The visiting Swiss leader also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Following the meeting, Jaishankar welcomed President Parmelin’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation and expressed confidence that the discussions with Prime Minister Modi would advance engagement across multiple sectors.

President Parmelin described his visit as a significant opportunity to strengthen what he called a close, broad and long-standing partnership between India and Switzerland.

After receiving a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, the Swiss President highlighted the importance both countries place on their bilateral relationship.

He noted that India-Switzerland ties are rooted in shared democratic values, trust and mutual respect, adding that the visit represents a stepping stone towards further growth and deeper cooperation.

President Parmelin said he was pleased to exchange views with Indian leaders on matters of bilateral and global importance, while also marking an important milestone in economic relations between the two countries.

A central focus of the visit is the first anniversary of the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which came into force on 1 October 2025 after being signed on 10 March 2024. The agreement links India with EFTA members Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein and is regarded as one of India’s most significant recent trade arrangements with European partners.

Describing the occasion as the right moment to celebrate achievements while shaping future cooperation, Parmelin emphasised the importance of building on the momentum generated by TEPA.

The Swiss President arrived in India at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi and is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior government officials and business leaders. The visit is his first State visit to India and his second trip to the country in 2026, following his participation in the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi earlier this year.

During the talks, both sides are reviewing progress in areas including trade and investment, science, technology, innovation, mobility, cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties. They are also expected to exchange views on regional and global developments and cooperation in multilateral forums.

President Parmelin is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host an official banquet in his honour.

The visit gains additional significance as the Swiss leader is set to participate in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on 7 October, an event intended to assess progress under TEPA and identify new investment and business opportunities between India and EFTA countries.

Switzerland remains India’s largest trade and investment partner among EFTA member states, making economic cooperation a key pillar of the relationship. Swiss authorities have also highlighted growing collaboration in education, research, innovation and investment, with more than 330 Swiss companies currently operating in India.

The visit takes place against the backdrop of sustained high-level engagement between New Delhi and Bern. The most recent State visit by an Indian President to Switzerland took place in 2019, while Prime Minister Modi visited Switzerland in 2016 and 2018.

Indian officials have expressed confidence that President Parmelin’s visit will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between the two countries and open new avenues for cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

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PTI's Long March Intensifies Tensions In Pakistan

Pakistan's political confrontation intensified on 4 October 2026 as PTI formally began its long march towards Islamabad after negotiations with the federal government ended in deadlock. The first convoy departed from Gandi Chowk in Lakki Marwat under the leadership of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.

The march is designed as a phased mobilisation across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Participants are travelling through Karak, Kohat, Peshawar and surrounding areas before converging at Khairabad later this week, where party leaders are expected to unveil the next stage of the campaign.

The failed talks had been viewed as a final opportunity to avert the protest. However, sharp differences remained over counter-terrorism coordination, access to Imran Khan and concerns surrounding his medical treatment, leading both sides to abandon efforts to reach a compromise.

At the centre of PTI's demands is the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The party is also pressing for hospital-based medical examinations by his personal doctors, improved healthcare arrangements for Bushra Bibi and the release of Khan's sisters together with detained party workers.

The federal government has responded with extensive security preparations. Routes leading into Islamabad have been fortified with containers, while police and paramilitary forces have been placed on heightened alert to prevent disruption in the capital.

Government officials have stressed that any unlawful activity during the march will be dealt with through legal channels. Meanwhile, consultations between federal and provincial authorities have fuelled speculation about stronger constitutional measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should the political standoff continue to escalate.

The unfolding mobilisation represents one of PTI's most significant protest efforts in recent years and is likely to shape Pakistan's political landscape in the days ahead as both sides remain firmly entrenched in their positions.

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