HAL Koraput Reaches 2,000 Aero-Engine Milestone As ₹218 Crore Shakti Engine Expansion Boosts Indigenous Defence Manufacturing

India's indigenous defence manufacturing sector is set to achieve another significant milestone as Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh marks the delivery of the 2,000th aero-engine produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's Koraput Division in Odisha.

The achievement reflects nearly six decades of contribution by the facility to the nation's aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The event will also showcase HAL's plans to expand its helicopter engine manufacturing capability through the establishment of a second production line for Shakti engines. The new facility is being created with an investment of ₹218 crore and is intended to meet the growing operational requirements of India's indigenous rotary-wing aircraft fleet.

The Shakti engine serves as the powerplant for the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and the Prachand Light Combat Helicopter, two key indigenous platforms that form an important part of the Armed Forces' aviation capabilities. The additional production capacity is expected to improve engine availability and support future fleet expansion.

HAL's Koraput Division has played a central role in India's aero-engine manufacturing and overhaul activities since its establishment in the 1960s. Over the decades, it has supported numerous military aviation platforms and developed extensive expertise in engine production, maintenance and life-cycle support.

The 2,000th aero-engine delivery represents more than a manufacturing milestone. It highlights the steady growth of India's capability in one of the most technologically demanding areas of aerospace engineering, where indigenous capacity remains strategically important for long-term self-reliance.

The expansion of Shakti engine production aligns with the Government's broader objective of transforming India from a purchaser of defence equipment into a designer, developer and manufacturer of advanced defence systems. Strengthening domestic propulsion capability is regarded as a critical element of that vision.

The development also comes as India continues to increase investment in indigenous aerospace programs and domestic supply chains, ensuring greater operational readiness for the Armed Forces while reducing dependence on overseas sources for critical technologies.

With the delivery of its 2,000th aero-engine and the launch of additional Shakti engine manufacturing capacity, HAL Koraput is reinforcing its position as one of the country's most important aerospace production centres and a key contributor to India's growing defence-industrial base.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

India's Arabian Sea Watchtower Expands: Navy's INS Bitra Set To Strengthen Lakshadweep Security Grid

India is moving ahead with plans to establish a third Indian Navy presence in the Lakshadweep archipelago, with INS Bitra proposed for Bitra Island, the smallest inhabited island in the 36-island chain, India Today reported.

The move follows the establishment of INS Dweeprakshak at Kavaratti and INS Jatayu at Minicoy, further strengthening India's maritime posture in the Arabian Sea.

The Lakshadweep Administration has initiated the process to acquire Bitra Island for strategic and defence purposes. A notification issued by the Revenue Department on 11 July 2025 under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 formally launched a Social Impact Assessment, the first step towards the proposed acquisition.

According to the notification, the objective is the complete transfer of Bitra Island to defence and strategic agencies due to its strategic location and significance for national security.

Bitra occupies only 0.105 square kilometres, making it the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep. The 2011 Census recorded a population of 271 residents living in 105 families. Despite its small size, the island occupies a strategically important position in northern Lakshadweep and is viewed as a key location for improving maritime surveillance coverage.

Its location would help bridge a surveillance gap between Kavaratti and Agatti while providing the Navy with a northern operational anchor in the island chain. Military planners believe the position would improve monitoring of vital shipping lanes crossing the Arabian Sea and strengthen India's ability to track maritime activity across a wider area.

The proposal comes as India places increasing emphasis on maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region. With INS Jatayu at Minicoy already overseeing the strategically important Eight Degree and Nine Degree Channels, Bitra would complement existing facilities by extending monitoring coverage further north. These sea routes are among the world's busiest maritime corridors, linking the Malacca Strait with the Gulf of Aden and the Strait of Hormuz.

Defence planners view the proposed base as an important asset for tracking commercial shipping, countering piracy, disrupting narcotics trafficking networks and maintaining closer observation of growing Chinese activity in the Arabian Sea.

If approved, INS Bitra would become Lakshadweep's third major defence establishment. Officials argue that the facility would close existing surveillance gaps, improve operational reach and enhance the Navy's ability to respond rapidly across the western Indian Ocean.

The project is also expected to follow the Centre's dual-use infrastructure model. Under this approach, military investments support civilian development through improved connectivity, healthcare, transport and employment opportunities.

Similar plans are already underway through the expansion of Agatti airfield and the development of a new airfield at Minicoy integrated with INS Jatayu.

At the same time, the proposal has generated concern among some residents and community representatives. Bitra's population relies heavily on fishing and coconut cultivation, while the surrounding lagoon supports fishing activities used by people from across the Lakshadweep islands. Local voices have raised concerns regarding displacement and livelihood impacts as the acquisition process progresses.

The planned acquisition reflects a broader effort by India to strengthen its strategic footprint across island territories as maritime competition in the Indian Ocean intensifies.

Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's January 2024 visit brought national attention to Lakshadweep, the islands have increasingly emerged not only as a tourism destination but also as a critical component of India's western maritime security architecture.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

TDB-DST Signs Agreement With BigEndian Semiconductors For ₹130 Crore RDI Support To Develop Indigenous Ai Vision SoC

India has taken another step towards strengthening its domestic semiconductor ecosystem after the Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), signed an agreement with Bangalore-based BigEndian Semiconductors for financial support of ₹130 crore through the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund , announced PIB.

The funding support, structured as Optional Convertible Debt (OCD), will support Project VeerAI, a ₹260 crore initiative focused on advancing an indigenous AI Vision System-on-Chip (SoC) from Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-5 to TRL-9 and moving the technology towards commercial deployment.

Project VeerAI is centred on the development of a camera-focused AI Vision SoC built on a sovereign technology platform. The effort is intended to address the growing demand for secure, intelligent and application-specific semiconductor solutions developed within India.

A key objective of the program is to create a secure AI chip designed primarily for surveillance applications, particularly CCTV systems, reducing dependence on foreign semiconductor technologies and external supply chains in strategically important sectors.

The proposed platform will integrate artificial intelligence processing with advanced security, privacy and connectivity features, enabling intelligent edge-based data processing while supporting greater technology sovereignty.

Initially, the technology will target CCTV and surveillance deployments across India and countries in the Global South. However, the long-term roadmap extends far beyond surveillance, with planned applications across defence, automotive, industrial and medical sectors.

The initiative seeks to capitalise on India’s expanding VLSI design expertise and semiconductor engineering talent by transforming indigenous design capabilities into a scalable and commercially viable chip platform.

Unlike general-purpose processors, the focus on application-specific SoCs is expected to deliver solutions tailored to defined operational requirements, accelerating development cycles, product deployment and commercialisation opportunities.

The project arrives at a time when intelligent devices and connected systems are becoming increasingly embedded across critical infrastructure. As a result, secure domestic semiconductor technologies are gaining strategic importance for data protection, privacy, device-level intelligence and national technology resilience.

Through the RDI-backed funding, BigEndian Semiconductors will carry out the technology development, validation, integration, testing and scale-up activities necessary to progress the platform from advanced prototype maturity to full commercial readiness.

TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said semiconductors form the foundation of nearly every emerging technology and that strengthening indigenous capabilities in application-specific AI chips is vital for India’s technology ecosystem. He noted that the RDI Fund is designed to support technologies requiring substantial investment to bridge the gap between advanced development and commercial deployment, while also enabling Indian firms to convert domestic semiconductor design expertise into deployable products.

The promoters of BigEndian Semiconductors said the support would accelerate development and validation activities for Project VeerAI, helping move the AI Vision SoC towards commercial readiness. They added that the company remains focused on building a secure semiconductor platform capable of serving surveillance and other critical sectors while leveraging India's indigenous chip-design strengths.

The project also aligns with broader national efforts to expand the country’s semiconductor value chain, strengthen domestic intellectual property creation and establish indigenous alternatives in critical technology domains.

If successfully commercialised, Project VeerAI could create an Indian-developed AI semiconductor platform serving security-sensitive and high-growth markets while reducing reliance on imported technologies.

PIB

Comments

Continue Reading

USPACOM Chief Admiral Samuel Paparo Holds High-Level Defence Talks With Defence Chiefs In India To Deepen Strategic Partnership

Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani with Admiral Samuel Paparo

Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the US Pacific Command (USPACOM), has held a series of high-level engagements with India's senior military leadership during his ongoing visit to New Delhi, underlining the growing strategic depth of the India-US defence relationship, IANS reported.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor hosted Admiral Paparo during the visit and described him as one of America's most consequential military leaders. Paparo leads the United States' oldest and largest geographic combatant command, overseeing around 400,000 military and civilian personnel across a region that covers roughly half of the globe.

During the engagement, Admiral Paparo met Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Tejinder Singh and other senior Indian defence officials.

The gathering highlighted what both sides described as the increasing strength, ambition and strategic significance of the India-US Major Defence Partnership, which has become a central pillar of cooperation between the world's two largest democracies.

Earlier in the visit, Admiral Paparo also met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The discussions focused on advancing bilateral security cooperation and maritime collaboration across the Indo-Pacific, a region that has emerged as a key area of strategic convergence for New Delhi and Washington.

Admiral Paparo arrived in India on Saturday for a six-day official visit aimed at further strengthening military-to-military cooperation and expanding defence engagement between the two countries.

Talks during the visit are centred on several shared security priorities, including digital transformation, emerging and critical technologies, regional strategic stability, defence energy resilience and the challenges posed by an increasingly competitive technology environment.

Maritime security remains another major focus area, reflecting the growing importance both nations place on maintaining a free, open and stable Indo-Pacific as well as safeguarding critical sea lanes and regional stability.

The US Embassy stated that India and the United States are building a future-ready defence partnership capable of addressing emerging security challenges through cooperation in advanced technologies, interoperability and maritime security.

The visit comes amid expanding defence collaboration between the two countries, including joint military exercises, greater operational coordination, technology cooperation and broader Indo-Pacific security engagement.

According to the US Embassy, Admiral Paparo's visit underscores the strength of the India-US Major Defence Partnership and reaffirms the United States' enduring strategic presence and interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

EAM Jaishankar Calls UN 'Largely Irrelevant'; Says Must Reform As Security Council Gridlock Erodes Global Relevance

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has sharply questioned the effectiveness of the United Nations in addressing contemporary global crises, arguing that the organisation has become largely disconnected from major international decision-making because of persistent deadlock within the UN Security Council.

Speaking during a discussion at the 5th Kautilya Economic Conclave in New Delhi, Jaishankar said the UN has struggled to play a meaningful role in some of the world's most pressing challenges, including conflicts in the Gulf, the war in Ukraine, disputes and instability across parts of Africa, and even the COVID pandemic.

According to Jaishankar, the principal reason for this diminished influence is the paralysis within the Security Council, which frequently prevents consensus on critical international issues.

He contended that the current structure of the Security Council no longer reflects contemporary global realities or the interests of the wider international community. Highlighting how the UN has expanded from its original 51 member states to 193 countries today, he argued that maintaining an institutional structure rooted in the post-Second World War era is increasingly untenable.

Jaishankar said that expecting the same governing framework to function effectively despite the organisation's dramatic expansion was neither practical nor logical, stressing that the world body must adapt to the realities of the twenty-first century.

The External Affairs Minister also criticised countries that oppose UN reform while citing African interests as justification for delaying change. He noted that Africa has already articulated a clear and unified position during intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform and has formally laid out its expectations regarding future representation.

His remarks come amid growing international discussion on the demand for greater African representation within the Security Council. The African Union's long-standing Common African Position, embodied in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, calls for at least two permanent seats and additional non-permanent representation for the continent in any expanded Council.

Jaishankar argued that continued resistance to reform risks deepening perceptions of irrelevance and ineffectiveness within the United Nations. However, he emphasised that the solution is not to bypass the organisation but to revitalise it through meaningful institutional changes.

While acknowledging the significant contributions made by the United Nations over decades in promoting international cooperation, peacekeeping and development, he maintained that preserving its credibility now depends on its willingness to reform itself and better reflect present-day geopolitical realities.

India has remained one of the strongest advocates of comprehensive UN reform, particularly the expansion of the Security Council in both permanent and non-permanent categories. New Delhi has consistently argued that the existing structure fails to represent emerging powers, developing nations and much of the Global South.

As part of that effort, India continues to work through the G4 grouping comprising India, Japan, Brazil and Germany, while also coordinating with the L.69 Group and a broad coalition of developing countries from Asia, Africa and Latin America to build support for a more representative Security Council.

India has also intensified engagement with Global South nations on the issue, arguing that reform is essential to improve the legitimacy, credibility and effectiveness of the United Nations system.

Any restructuring of the Security Council would require amendments to the UN Charter, a process that demands broad support among member states as well as approval from the existing permanent members, making reform one of the most challenging institutional changes in international diplomacy.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Mecca Pact Activated As Türkiye And Pakistan Commit Rapid Military Deployment To Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Threats

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have agreed to activate the collective defence provisions of the Mecca Defence Alliance and move towards the rapid deployment of military forces and capabilities to the Kingdom in response to continuing Houthi attacks originating from Yemen.

The decision was reached during an emergency meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee of the alliance in Riyadh, where senior political and military officials reviewed the deteriorating security situation and assessed threats directed against Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud stated that the meeting reaffirmed the solidarity and unity of the three nations in confronting what were described as attacks against both the Kingdom and Islam's holiest sites.

The committee agreed to activate collective deterrence measures within the framework of the alliance and to respond collectively to the attacks as well as those deemed responsible for them.

According to the joint statement issued after the talks, the three countries decided to move immediately from political commitments to the practical implementation of their collective defence obligations.

As part of that process, the member states will take the necessary steps to provide the military forces and capabilities previously agreed under the alliance framework and ensure their swift deployment within Saudi Arabia.

The deployments will be carried out in accordance with existing arrangements and the respective national legislation of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan.

Officials said the objective is to strengthen military readiness, deepen operational integration and enhance the collective ability of the three countries to deter and counter emerging security threats.

The meeting also produced a significant institutional development for the alliance, with retired Pakistan Army Lieutenant General Numan Mahmud appointed as the organisation's first Secretary-General for a three-year term.

Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan strongly condemned what they described as attempts to target the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, alongside continued attacks against Saudi cities, civilian infrastructure and economic facilities.

The three states reiterated their categorical rejection of any aggression or threat directed at the Kingdom's security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Participants reviewed political and military consultations conducted prior to the emergency session and formally endorsed a series of recommendations designed to strengthen the alliance's collective response mechanisms.

The joint statement emphasised that the security of each member state is inseparable from the collective security of the other members, underlining the alliance's principle that threats against one country affect all three.

Officials further argued that translating the Mecca Agreement on Collective Defence into operational measures would increase the credibility and effectiveness of deterrence while demonstrating the resolve of the member states to protect their interests.

The latest decision marks an important transition for the alliance, moving it beyond declaratory commitments towards tangible military implementation.

The Mecca Defence Alliance was established as a trilateral security arrangement linking Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey through a collective-defence framework. The agreement is widely viewed as a major new security architecture in the Islamic world, with provisions resembling mutual-defence commitments seen in other military alliances.

The emergency meeting was convened amid escalating regional tensions and a series of Houthi attacks against Saudi territory. Saudi authorities and alliance members have argued that attacks directed at strategic infrastructure, population centres and religious sites require a coordinated response and closer military cooperation among the three partners.

With the activation of collective deterrence mechanisms and preparations for the rapid deployment of military assets, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have now taken their most significant step yet towards operationalising the Mecca Defence Alliance and strengthening joint defence cooperation in the face of growing regional security challenges.

Comments

Continue Reading

India And Switzerland Unveil Five-Year Visa Framework, Advance ₹8.4 Lakh Crore Investment Vision And Strategic Partnership

India and Switzerland have significantly expanded their strategic partnership by signing a landmark Migration and Mobility Partnership (MMP) and a series of complementary agreements aimed at boosting workforce mobility, scientific collaboration, innovation, infrastructure development and long-term investment flows.

The centrepiece of the bilateral package is the new Migration and Mobility Partnership, which introduces multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years, renewable one-year student permits, and structured pathways designed to improve employment opportunities, particularly for young people seeking international experience.

Alongside the mobility framework, both countries concluded an Agreement on the Exchange of Young Professionals. The arrangement will initially allow the annual exchange of 300 young professionals from each country, with the possibility of increasing the quota to 500. The agreement also streamlines verification procedures for nationality and residency, reducing processing timelines to between 30 and 90 days.

In a further boost to cooperation, India and Switzerland signed a Memorandum of Understanding focused on transportation technologies, mobility systems and infrastructure. The partnership covers electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnelling and circular-economy initiatives, while encouraging technology transfer, public-private partnerships, academic collaboration and sustainable infrastructure investment.

Scientific and technological cooperation formed another major pillar of the agreements announced during the visit.

A Letter of Intent signed between India's Department of Science and Technology and the Swiss National Science Foundation establishes a framework for long-term joint research projects, exploratory scientific initiatives and institutional cooperation.

An implementation arrangement between the Department of Science and Technology and Zurich University of Applied Sciences will launch an Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training program aimed at supporting early-stage Start-Ups through capability development and technology transfer.

The two countries also inaugurated the first Indo-Swiss Research Flagship event, designed to strengthen collaboration between researchers, promote knowledge-sharing, support young scientists and accelerate the transfer of new technologies and methodologies.

The agreements were finalised during delegation-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, where both leaders also witnessed the exchange of multiple bilateral understandings.

Prime Minister Modi described the India-Switzerland relationship as a centuries-old partnership built on innovation, infrastructure and advanced technology, stating that both nations are now preparing to take cooperation to a higher level.

A major focus of the discussions was the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which entered into force in October 2025. The agreement represents India's first free trade agreement with a European economic bloc and is regarded as one of the most ambitious economic partnerships undertaken by New Delhi.

Under the framework, EFTA members comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein have committed to facilitating investments worth approximately ₹8.4 lakh crore over the next 15 years while supporting the creation of one million direct jobs in India.

Prime Minister Modi said the agreement provides an ambitious blueprint centred on investment, innovation, employment and shared prosperity. He noted that both countries have taken measures to improve market access for Indian exports while facilitating greater bilateral investment.

The Prime Minister highlighted opportunities for increased Indian exports in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles and engineering products. At the same time, India aims to attract additional Swiss investment in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing and sustainability-focused industries.

Beyond economic ties, Modi stressed that India and Switzerland remain committed to democratic values, the rule of law, diplomacy and dialogue. He said both countries would continue working together in support of global peace and stability.

Referring to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, the Prime Minister reiterated India's support for meaningful peace initiatives and underscored the need for reforms in international institutions to address emerging global challenges more effectively.

The discussions also identified new avenues for military exchanges, defence manufacturing cooperation and expanded collaboration in the civilian nuclear energy sector.

President Parmelin, who is on a three-day State visit to India, characterised the implementation of the India-EFTA trade agreement as highly encouraging. He said interest among Swiss companies has been exceptionally strong since the pact entered into force and expressed confidence that it would substantially increase bilateral trade in the coming years.

The Swiss leader described the arrangement as a mutually beneficial partnership that combines Swiss technological expertise, innovation and long-term capital with India's scale, skilled workforce and growing importance in global value chains.

Swiss companies have already shown increasing interest across sectors including transportation, logistics, manufacturing, financial services, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, electronics and technology, reflecting growing momentum behind the investment commitments.

President Parmelin also praised India's role in global technology governance and its advocacy for developing nations. He commended New Delhi's efforts to amplify Global South perspectives in international technology discussions.

Looking ahead, Switzerland is preparing to host the next global AI summit in Geneva in 2027 and has invited India to play an active role in shaping future discussions on responsible and equitable artificial intelligence.

The Swiss President highlighted Switzerland's International Computation and AI Network initiative, which seeks to encourage wider access to advanced technologies, promote collaborative research and support the equitable distribution of AI-driven benefits across regions.

The visit marks President Parmelin's 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.

He is accompanied by a high-level delegation of senior officials and business leaders, reflecting the growing importance both countries attach to strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology, innovation and workforce mobility.

The flurry of agreements announced in New Delhi signals a broadening India-Switzerland partnership that now extends well beyond traditional trade ties into talent mobility, research collaboration, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure development, artificial intelligence and long-term strategic investment.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

US Ambassador Sergio Gor Hosts Admiral Paparo As India And US Step Up Defence Cooperation

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor hosted Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the US Pacific Command, at a high-level dinner in New Delhi as part of the Admiral’s visit to India from 5 to 8 October.

The engagement formed part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening the US-India Major Defence Partnership and enhancing military-to-military cooperation between the two countries.

Held at Roosevelt House, the gathering brought together senior military and strategic leadership from both nations at a time when Washington and New Delhi are seeking to deepen collaboration across defence, security, technology and regional stability initiatives.

Gor described Admiral Paparo as one of America’s most consequential military leaders and noted that he commands the United States’ oldest and largest geographic combatant command. The command oversees approximately 400,000 military and civilian personnel across a vast area covering roughly half of the globe.

The US Ambassador stated that the event underscored the importance of the bilateral defence relationship and provided an opportunity for senior officials from both countries to engage on shared strategic priorities.

Among the Indian military leaders present were Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, along with other senior defence officials.

According to the US Embassy, the evening demonstrated the growing strength, ambition and significance of the US-India Major Defence Partnership, which has continued to expand through greater defence cooperation, interoperability, advanced technology engagement and regional security coordination.

Admiral Paparo’s visit is also expected to include discussions with Indian counterparts on a range of shared priorities, including maritime security, emerging and critical technologies, digital transformation, strategic stability and defence energy resilience. These areas have increasingly become central pillars of the evolving strategic relationship between the two countries.

The US Embassy noted that Admiral Paparo was recently featured on the cover of TIME magazine in a profile examining his role in maintaining American military readiness in the Indo-Pacific and strengthening deterrence across the region.

Also attending the dinner was Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, who is visiting India with a delegation representing business and industry interests. His presence highlighted the growing economic dimension of the bilateral relationship and the increasing role of American states, companies and innovators in expanding trade, investment and commercial cooperation with India.

The Embassy emphasised that the event reflected the broadening scope of US-India ties, where expanding defence cooperation is increasingly complemented by stronger economic engagement, technology partnerships and strategic coordination across the Indo-Pacific.

The visit comes amid continuing efforts by both nations to build a future-ready partnership capable of addressing emerging security challenges, strengthening maritime cooperation and supporting a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region. The United States has repeatedly described India as a key strategic partner in the region, while both countries continue to deepen collaboration across defence, economic and technological domains.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Modi-Parmelin Summit Puts Spotlight On 3Ts, Trade, Technology And Talent As India-Switzerland Ties Enter New Phase: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening India-Switzerland relations, with a strong emphasis on advancing the three pillars of bilateral cooperation: Trade, Technology and Talent.

Speaking after delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (West) Sibi George said President Parmelin’s visit is the first bilateral visit by a Swiss President to India in nearly a decade, following the visit of President Doris Leuthard in August 2017.

George noted that the latest engagement restores momentum to high-level political exchanges between the two countries. India’s last state-level visit to Switzerland was undertaken by former President Ram Nath Kovind in September 2019, while Prime Minister Modi visited Switzerland in 2016 and later attended the World Economic Forum summit in Davos in 2018.

A central focus of the discussions was the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which has emerged as the key economic pillar of the relationship. The agreement is expected to drive substantial long-term investment and industrial cooperation between India and the EFTA bloc comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

According to the MEA, successful implementation of TEPA could facilitate investment worth about ₹8.4 lakh crore into India over the next 15 years and support the creation of one million direct jobs. The agreement is also the first trade pact involving India to include a specific investment and employment commitment.

Switzerland remains India’s 15th-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding ₹2.1 lakh crore. Swiss investments in India have crossed approximately ₹92,000 crore, while more than 340 Swiss companies operate across sectors including pharmaceuticals, precision engineering, logistics and financial services.

The two leaders reviewed ongoing infrastructure partnerships that highlight Swiss technological expertise in India. Swiss company VSL Engineering has played a role in the construction of the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, the world’s highest railway bridge. Swiss technology supplied by Bartholet has also been deployed in the Varanasi urban ropeway project, India’s first urban ropeway transport system.

Swiss involvement in major Indian infrastructure projects extends to aviation as well, with Flughafen Zurich investing in the development of the Noida International Airport at Jewar.

During their talks, Prime Minister Modi and President Parmelin assessed cooperation across trade, investment, infrastructure, science, technology, innovation, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, skills development, mobility, nuclear energy, space, climate action, environmental protection and cultural exchanges.

Both sides also identified opportunities in emerging sectors, including advanced manufacturing, precision engineering and artificial intelligence. The growing popularity of Ayurveda and Yoga in Switzerland was also acknowledged.

A major outcome of the visit was the exchange of five key agreements aimed at strengthening people-to-people links and professional mobility. These include the Migration and Mobility Partnership and the Exchange of Young Professionals Agreement, both designed to facilitate movement of skilled professionals, students and researchers between the two countries.

Additional outcomes included a mobility cooperation arrangement involving Switzerland’s Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research and India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a Letter of Intent between India’s Department of Science and Technology and the Swiss National Science Foundation, and an implementation agreement involving Zurich University of Applied Sciences and the Department of Science and Technology.

Science and technology cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, particularly joint initiatives focused on green electric mobility and clean energy policy. President Parmelin is also scheduled to participate in the Indo-Swiss Research Flagship event and the Prosperity Summit linked to TEPA implementation.

Artificial intelligence emerged as another important area of engagement. Prime Minister Modi expressed India’s readiness to support Switzerland as Geneva prepares to host the next global AI Summit in June 2027, with both sides emphasising responsible AI governance, ethical technology deployment and skills development.

In the strategic domain, India and Switzerland agreed to explore greater defence cooperation through training programmes and industry-to-industry partnerships. Swiss firms were encouraged to examine opportunities under the Make in India initiative through joint development and production projects.

The Swiss side’s expertise in high-altitude and mountain medicine, trauma care and emergency response was also highlighted as an area with potential for future collaboration.

Prime Minister Modi additionally invited Swiss participation in WAVES 2.0, encouraged leading Swiss universities to establish campuses in India and urged Swiss financial institutions to expand their presence in GIFT City, Gujarat.

Beyond bilateral matters, both leaders reaffirmed their support for dialogue, diplomacy, respect for international law and a stronger multilateral order at a time of significant global uncertainty.

George said the priority following the summit is to convert the understandings reached during the visit into tangible projects, investments and partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes.

President Parmelin described his meeting with Prime Minister Modi as a reflection of the excellent relationship between the two countries, built on mutual trust, respect and strong economic foundations. He said the discussions provided an important opportunity to reinforce the shared commitment to taking the partnership to a higher level.

The three-day state visit concluded with both sides signalling that the future trajectory of India-Switzerland relations will increasingly be driven by closer cooperation in trade, advanced technologies, innovation, talent mobility and investment-led growth.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

India’s AI Leadership Wins Swiss Backing As Geneva Prepares To Carry Forward New Delhi Summit Vision

Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin has praised India’s growing influence in global governance and technology policy, describing the country as an increasingly important geopolitical actor and a key partner in shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence.

Speaking alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi following bilateral talks in New Delhi, Parmelin said Switzerland values India’s commitment to dialogue, cooperation and active participation in international forums at a time when the global landscape is becoming increasingly fragmented.

He emphasised that strong and dynamic partnerships with major democratic nations such as India are essential for strengthening multilateral cooperation and collectively addressing global challenges.

A major focus of the discussions was Artificial Intelligence governance, with the Swiss leader highlighting India’s role in hosting the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. He commended India for promoting inclusive technology frameworks that ensure developing nations have a meaningful voice in global AI discussions.

Parmelin noted that Switzerland considers India’s stewardship of the summit highly significant and said discussions with Prime Minister Modi confirmed the close alignment of priorities between the two countries.

As Switzerland prepares to host the next edition of the global AI summit in Geneva in 2027, Parmelin described India as a crucial partner and reiterated Bern’s commitment to maintaining continuity between the New Delhi and Geneva gatherings.

The Swiss President particularly praised India’s efforts to amplify underrepresented voices in international technology debates, especially those of countries from the Global South, arguing that New Delhi has emerged as an important advocate for more inclusive digital governance.

Looking ahead, Parmelin outlined Switzerland’s plans to advance equitable access to AI through initiatives such as the International Computation and AI Network (ICAIN), which aims to promote fair distribution of technological benefits, expand knowledge-sharing and strengthen AI research cooperation across different regions.

He said Switzerland is refining the thematic agenda for the Geneva summit and examining ways to deepen cooperation with strategic partners, while expressing his expectation of strong Indian participation when the event convenes next year.

The remarks reflect a broader evolution in international AI diplomacy. Recent global AI summits have progressively shifted from a narrow focus on AI safety towards practical implementation, inclusive access, economic development and international governance, with India’s 2026 summit widely recognised for bringing Global South priorities into the centre of the conversation.

The AI Impact Summit 2026, held in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February, concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact, endorsed by 88 countries and international organisations.

Guided by the principle of “Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya” or “Welfare for All, Happiness for All”, the declaration states that the benefits of Artificial Intelligence should be distributed equitably across humanity.

It calls for stronger international cooperation and broader stakeholder participation while respecting national sovereignty, advocating accessible, secure and trustworthy AI frameworks that serve people and support sustainable development.

The declaration is built around seven “Chakras” or pillars: democratising AI resources, economic growth and social good, secure and trusted AI systems, AI for science, social empowerment through wider access, human capital development, and resilient, innovative and energy-efficient AI systems.

President Parmelin arrived in India on Monday for a three-day State visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, with the visit focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology, innovation and workforce mobility.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Swiss President is accompanied by a high-level delegation of senior government officials and business leaders.

The trip marks Parmelin’s first State visit to India and his second visit to the country in 2026, having previously travelled to New Delhi for the AI Impact Summit in February.

During the visit, he is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host a State banquet in his honour.

A key engagement on the itinerary is Parmelin’s participation in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on 7 October, which marks the first anniversary of the implementation of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association bloc.

The visit comes amid sustained high-level engagement between New Delhi and Bern. The last State visit by an Indian President to Switzerland took place in 2019, while Prime Minister Modi visited Switzerland in 2016 and 2018.

Parmelin’s remarks underline the growing convergence between India and Switzerland on technology governance, multilateral cooperation and responsible AI development, with both countries seeking to shape a framework that balances innovation, inclusion and international collaboration.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Three Indians Safe After Black Sea Vessel Attack That Killed Two Crew Members

All three Indian nationals aboard the commercial vessel MV Royad Mammadov are safe after the ship came under attack in the Black Sea, although one Indian crew member sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment in Romania.

The incident resulted in the deaths of two foreign nationals and left several other crew members injured, prompting a medical evacuation and emergency response operation.

According to the Embassy of India in Romania, the vessel was attacked while operating in the Black Sea. Preliminary information indicated two fatalities among non-Indian crew members, while injured personnel were transported to Romania for treatment.

The embassy subsequently confirmed that all three Indian nationals on board were out of danger. One of the Indians suffered injuries and is currently undergoing treatment, with Indian diplomatic officials maintaining close contact with hospital authorities to monitor his condition.

Indian officials have spoken directly with the affected crew members and assured them of all possible assistance. The embassy stated that it remains committed to supporting the welfare and wellbeing of the Indian seafarers involved in the incident.

Indian Ambassador to Romania, Manoj Mohapatra, personally spoke with the three Indian nationals receiving care at Constanța County Hospital. He also held discussions with the hospital's chief physician, who confirmed that all three Indians were in stable condition, in good health and receiving the necessary medical care.

The Indian mission continues to work closely with Romanian authorities and other relevant agencies to gather further details about the attack while ensuring continued assistance for the Indian crew members.

Additional reports indicate that the vessel was operating in the western Black Sea near Romania's Exclusive Economic Zone when a fire broke out on board. Romanian rescue authorities launched a major search-and-rescue operation, evacuating survivors and transferring injured crew members for urgent medical treatment.

The ship was reportedly carrying a multinational crew that included Indian and Azerbaijani nationals. Several reports suggest the vessel was transporting grain from Ukraine towards Italy when the incident occurred, highlighting the continued risks facing commercial shipping operating in the conflict-affected Black Sea region.

The attack comes amid growing concerns over maritime security across several strategic waterways, including the Persian Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea. Commercial vessels have repeatedly faced threats in these regions, raising international concerns over the safety of merchant shipping and civilian seafarers.

The issue was highlighted by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his address to the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where he warned that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers had become a serious challenge to global maritime security.

Jaishankar noted that Indian seafarers, along with mariners from other countries, had lost their lives in recent attacks and described such incidents as completely unacceptable.

He also emphasised India's participation alongside Liberia and 23 partner countries in an international coalition aimed at mobilising global opinion in defence of commercial shipping routes and freedom of navigation.

Stressing the importance of maritime stability, Jaishankar urged the international community to ensure that the safety and security of shipping and seafarers are never compromised and underscored the importance of adhering to international law.

The External Affairs Minister further called for restraint and de-escalation in the Gulf region to protect civilian crews, safeguard global trade flows and prevent disruptions to international energy supplies.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Swiss President Backs PM Modi's Peace Push As Ukraine Conflict, UN Reforms And Global Stability Feature In Talks

Swiss President Guy Parmelin has underlined growing strategic alignment between India and Switzerland, revealing that his discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi focused on major international challenges, including the war in Ukraine, multilateral reform and the future of global diplomacy.

Addressing a joint media interaction, Parmelin said the talks reflected the convergence of two democracies with deep commitments to democratic governance, institutional freedom and international cooperation.

Describing India as the world's largest democracy and Switzerland as one of the world's oldest democracies, the Swiss President said both nations share important values centred on civil society, academic freedom, media independence and democratic accountability.

Parmelin noted that the worsening international security environment was a significant focus of the discussions. He confirmed that ongoing conflict zones, particularly the Ukraine war, featured prominently during exchanges with Prime Minister Modi.

He also said the two leaders discussed reforms to the United Nations system and broader multilateral institutions, while highlighting Geneva's role as one of the world's foremost centres for international diplomacy and dialogue.

According to the Swiss leader, the current geopolitical environment is marked by instability, economic uncertainty and increasing fragmentation, making constructive partnerships and diplomatic engagement more important than ever.

He stressed that countries must work towards mutually beneficial outcomes and strengthen cooperation to address shared global challenges.

Parmelin added that India and Switzerland found substantial common ground on several international issues, including the future governance of Artificial Intelligence, multilateral cooperation and mechanisms for addressing emerging global risks.

The Swiss President further disclosed that both governments have instructed their respective working groups to accelerate negotiations and intensify efforts to resolve outstanding bilateral matters, signalling a push towards faster implementation of key initiatives.

His remarks came against the backdrop of India's increasingly active role in efforts to end the Ukraine conflict. While New Delhi has consistently advocated dialogue and diplomacy since the beginning of the war, recent developments suggest India's role is expanding beyond traditional calls for peace.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha recently confirmed that India has formally presented a peace initiative aimed at helping resolve the conflict. According to Kyiv, India has submitted what is being regarded as the most comprehensive proposal among several international plans currently under consideration.

Sybiha stated that Ukraine is examining four separate peace proposals, including those put forward by Turkey, Egypt, the United States and India, with the Indian proposal receiving particular attention because of its breadth and scope.

On the Russian side, President Vladimir Putin has also publicly acknowledged Prime Minister Modi's diplomatic efforts, saying the Indian leader has offered constructive ideas that could contribute to a peaceful settlement.

Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly maintained that the conflict cannot be resolved on the battlefield and that lasting peace can only emerge through negotiations, dialogue and sustained diplomatic engagement.

The India-Switzerland discussions also took place during a period of expanding bilateral cooperation. Both countries have been deepening engagement in trade, investment, technology, innovation, mobility and Artificial Intelligence, while working to strengthen the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership framework and reinforce collaboration in emerging sectors.

Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, Parmelin's remarks highlighted Switzerland's support for diplomatic solutions and reflected growing international recognition of India's role as a credible voice in efforts to promote peace, dialogue and reform of the global governance architecture.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Swiss President Guy Parmelin Sees India-EFTA Pact Driving Trade, Investment And Jobs Growth

Switzerland has expressed strong confidence in the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), with Swiss President Guy Parmelin stating that the pact is expected to significantly strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties in the years ahead.

Speaking during his visit to India, Parmelin said the agreement, which entered into force in October 2025, has already generated substantial interest among businesses across the EFTA bloc. He described the implementation of TEPA as highly positive and said company engagement with the agreement has been strong since its launch.

According to the Swiss President, the agreement lays the foundations for a deeper and more durable economic partnership by encouraging long-term investment, job creation, innovation and sustainable economic growth in both countries.

Parmelin noted that the investment-focused nature of TEPA creates a mutually beneficial framework. Switzerland brings advanced technologies, specialist expertise, innovation capabilities and a long-term investment outlook, while India offers scale, a rapidly expanding economy, a highly skilled workforce and an increasingly important position in global value chains.

Under the agreement, the EFTA nations comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein have committed to facilitating investments worth approximately ₹8.3 lakh crore in India over a 15-year period. The initiative has the potential to create one million direct jobs.

Providing an update on progress towards that commitment, Parmelin said Swiss companies have already made or announced investment plans spanning transportation and logistics, financial services, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, technology and electronics.

He added that these efforts have been reinforced by more than 150 investment promotion and outreach activities carried out by Switzerland and the other EFTA member states since 2024.

The Swiss President said India-Switzerland relations have become increasingly close and dynamic in recent years. He highlighted trade and investment, research and innovation, and sustainable development as key areas where cooperation can be further expanded.

Parmelin described TEPA as both a symbol of the strong collaboration between the two countries and a critical platform for advancing economic engagement over the coming years.

The agreement is regarded as one of India’s most significant trade arrangements with a European economic bloc, providing improved market access, greater investment certainty and enhanced opportunities for business collaboration across multiple high-value sectors.

His remarks come as India and Switzerland seek to broaden their economic and strategic engagement, with both sides exploring new avenues for cooperation in technology, industry and innovation.

Parmelin also identified India as an important partner in the lead-up to the next AI Summit in Geneva in June 2027. He expressed optimism that growing people-to-people connections would complement expanding commercial ties and further strengthen the overall relationship between the two countries.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

India-EU Trade Deal An ‘Almost Historic Step’, Says Wolfgang Ischinger As Strategic Partnership Expands

Munich Security Conference Foundation Council President Wolfgang Ischinger has described the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement as an “almost historic step”, underlining the growing strategic, economic and security partnership between India and Europe.

During a visit to New Delhi, Ischinger held high-level discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and was scheduled to meet Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He used the opportunity to highlight the strengthening relationship between India, Germany and the wider European Union.

The veteran German diplomat said India's foreign policy independence and strategic autonomy make it one of Europe’s most trusted international partners. According to him, Europe places significant value on working with reliable nations, and India’s long-standing position outside formal military alliances enhances its credibility on the global stage.

He stressed that trust remains the most important currency in diplomacy and said Europe views India as a dependable partner whose commitments can be relied upon. This foundation of trust, he argued, creates opportunities for even deeper cooperation in the years ahead.

Reflecting on the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement, Ischinger noted that it represents the largest and most comprehensive trade agreement ever negotiated by the European Union. He described the deal as a milestone achievement but urged both sides to regard it as the beginning, rather than the culmination, of a broader partnership.

He emphasised that India and Europe should now focus on expanding collaboration beyond trade and finance into a wide range of sectors, including science, education, advanced technology and security.

Particular attention was given to artificial intelligence, which Ischinger identified as a major area of shared interest. He pointed to India’s vast talent pool of software engineers and technology companies, arguing that these strengths align naturally with European ambitions in emerging technologies.

Beyond artificial intelligence, he highlighted opportunities for cooperation in scientific research, biotechnology, critical raw materials, innovation and industrial development. In his view, the scope for expanding the Europe-India relationship is exceptionally broad and continues to grow.

Ischinger also drew attention to maritime security, noting that both India and Europe have significant interests in maintaining stability across critical sea lanes. He suggested that security cooperation could become an increasingly important pillar of the partnership alongside economic engagement.

Addressing geopolitical issues, he reaffirmed India’s central role in Europe’s Indo-Pacific strategy. Describing New Delhi as Europe’s primary partner in the region, he said India occupies a pivotal position in Europe’s approach towards the Indo-Pacific and wider Asian security architecture.

The former ambassador further reiterated his support for India’s long-standing aspiration to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. He described the absence of such reform as unfortunate and argued that India has earned a place among the permanent members given its global stature and influence.

His remarks come at a time when India-EU relations are entering a new phase of engagement. The Free Trade Agreement, whose negotiations concluded in January 2026 after years of discussions, is regarded by both sides as one of the most significant trade accords ever reached between two major democratic economies. European institutions have projected that the agreement will boost trade, investment flows, supply-chain resilience and cooperation in sectors ranging from digital trade to advanced manufacturing.

Concluding his visit, Ischinger expressed hope that senior Indian ministers would participate in the forthcoming Munich Security Conference in Germany, providing another opportunity for India and Europe to engage with leading policymakers on major international security and strategic challenges.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Nigeria Military Aircraft Crash Kills 32 In One of Nation’s Deadliest Air Disasters In Recent Years

A Nigerian military ATR-42 aircraft crashed in Ondo State in south-western Nigeria on 5 October, killing all 32 people on board in one of the country's deadliest aviation disasters in recent years.

The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members while operating a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos when it went down near the coastal town of Igbokoda in Ondo State.

According to Nigerian authorities, air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at 0813 GMT. Repeated attempts to re-establish radio communication proved unsuccessful before the aircraft was later confirmed to have crashed.

The wreckage was subsequently located near a naval base in Igbokoda, prompting the deployment of search and rescue teams to the accident site.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu later confirmed that there were no survivors and expressed profound sadness over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families of the victims and to the Nigerian Air Force.

The President stated that he had been briefed by the Chief of Air Staff and had directed the Nigerian Air Force to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the cause of the crash in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said the aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, disappeared during its journey from Benin City to Lagos before investigators confirmed that it had crashed near Igbokoda.

The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that the ATR-42 had been flying a routine mission when the accident occurred and said emergency responders and relevant authorities were mobilised immediately following the loss of contact.

The crash represents one of Nigeria's most serious aviation tragedies in recent years and has renewed attention on military aviation safety as investigators begin examining the circumstances that led to the loss of the aircraft.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the accident, and a formal investigation is expected to examine flight operations, communications records and technical factors surrounding the crash.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading