India Pulls The Plug On Russian Su-57 Acquisition, Focuses On Super Sukhoi Modernisation: Defence Secretary Rajesh K Singh

India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has confirmed that New Delhi will not pursue Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter. He stated that India is not considering new Sukhoi variants and will instead modernise its Su-30MKI fleet.

Singh described the licence-built Su-30MKI as a proven backbone of the Indian Air Force. He emphasised that scarce capital will be directed toward sustainment and upgrades rather than an unproven fifth-generation foreign platform.

He said India is actively upgrading the Sukhois produced under licence from Russia. This marks a doctrinal pivot towards indigenous-heavy modernisation, self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat, and sovereign fifth-generation development.

The decision has immediate strategic consequences. Russia’s Su-57E export campaign, promoted by President Vladimir Putin, now faces a hardened Indian refusal. This narrows Moscow’s pool of potential customers amid sanctions and industrial constraints.

Singh’s July stance is tougher than his March 2026 position, when he said no final call had been taken on Russian, American, or French offers. The reversal recalibrates Indo-Russian defence ties, even as India diversifies suppliers under a ten-year cooperation framework signed in December 2025.

Central to India’s plan is the “Super Sukhoi” mid-life upgrade. This program will transform about 260 Su-30MKIs into 4.5-plus-generation fighters with indigenous AESA radar and long-range precision weapons.

The Air Force currently fields 29 to 31 combat squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. MiG-21 retirements and attrition have worsened the shortfall. To restore numbers, India is advancing the MRFA competition for up to 114 Rafales, alongside the indigenous AMCA stealth fighter.

Operation Sindoor in May 2025 validated the Su-30MKI as a strike platform using BrahMos missiles. This reinforced arguments for upgrading proven mass rather than diverting funds to untested imports.

Singh’s July remarks closed the door on Su-57 acquisition. Defence analysts said this removes the fastest route to fifth-generation squadrons before AMCA matures. Every rupee spent on foreign stealth would be denied to Super Sukhoi, AMCA, and Tejas Mk2.

Singh highlighted BrahMos integration as proof of the Su-30MKI’s value. He said India prefers standoff strike reach over premature pursuit of stealth. The stance also signals Russia that India prioritises sovereignty and freedom from sanctions-related sustainment risks.

India still engages Russia on engines, upgrades, and spares to avoid jeopardising its Russian-origin fleet. The policy is not anti-Russian but reflects strategic autonomy, fiscal realism, and industrial self-reliance.

Russia’s Su-57E pitch included 36 to 40 aircraft, local assembly at HAL Nashik, AL-41 engine integration, and support for AMCA. Putin personally promoted joint production after Aero India 2025.

But sanctions have degraded Russia’s ability to source electronics, limiting Su-57 production. Indian planners doubted its maturity, stealth performance, and lifecycle costs. Sustaining a new type under sanctions was judged too risky.

India’s caution also stems from the failed FGFA program (2007–2018). That joint venture collapsed due to delays, costs, and disputes over technology transfer. The Air Force criticised the aircraft’s stealth and avionics. India withdrew in 2018, redirecting effort to AMCA.

The FGFA experience taught India that co-development without source-code sovereignty creates vulnerability. This explains scepticism toward fresh Su-57 offers.

The Super Sukhoi program, launched in 2024, focuses on upgrading in-service airframes. It includes the Virupaksha AESA radar, modern avionics, sensor fusion, secure datalinks, and advanced electronic warfare systems.

Weapons integrated include BrahMos variants, Astra missiles, and Rudram anti-radiation missiles. Indigenous content is targeted at 78 percent, embedding domestic industry across dozens of systems.

The first phase covers 84 aircraft led by HAL, DRDO, and private firms. Costs are estimated at around $7 billion, phased across tranches.

By upgrading proven airframes, India bridges the stealth gap until AMCA matures. This ensures sustainable operational mass without foreign dependency.

India’s force-structure shortfall drives urgency. MRFA discussions for Rafales are advancing, conditioned on domestic production and indigenous integration.

AMCA prototypes are targeted for 2028, with induction likely in the 2030s. This creates a stealth-capability window where adversaries may hold an advantage. Super Sukhoi and Rafales are intended to bridge this gap.

Operation Sindoor reinforced the Su-30MKI’s decisive role. The logistics footprint also favours domestic sustainment, reducing exposure to foreign supply disruptions.

India’s cumulative posture signals strategic autonomy. It integrates quantitative recovery through Rafales, qualitative uplift through Super Sukhoi, and sovereign fifth-generation ambition through AMCA. This layered force design hedges against Indo-Pacific volatility.

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Engine Factory Avadi Achieves Milestone With Indigenous UTD-20 Endurance Test

Engine Factory Avadi has successfully completed a 500-hour endurance test of the indigenous UTD-20 engine on 31 July 2026. This achievement marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its self-reliance in defence propulsion systems.

The UTD-20 is a six-cylinder, V-type, four-stroke high-speed diesel engine that produces 300 horsepower, equivalent to 220 kilowatts, at 2,600 revolutions per minute.

It is primarily used to power Soviet-designed infantry fighting vehicles such as the BMP-1 and BMP-2, which form the backbone of mechanised infantry units.

The technical specifications of the UTD-20 highlight its robust design. It features a six-cylinder, 120-degree Vee configuration with a four-stroke diesel cycle. The engine delivers a maximum torque of 1,030 Newton-metres, ensuring strong pulling power under demanding battlefield conditions.

With a bore and stroke of 150 millimetres by 150 millimetres, the engine achieves a displacement of 15.9 litres, or 15,900 cubic centimetres. Despite its large displacement, the engine maintains a relatively compact weight of approximately 665 to 667 kilograms. A high-temperature liquid cooling system ensures reliable performance even in extreme operational environments.

The endurance test validates the reliability of this indigenous engine under prolonged operational stress. Completing 500 hours of continuous testing demonstrates its ability to withstand sustained battlefield conditions without compromising performance.

This achievement is particularly important as the BMP-1 and BMP-2 remain widely deployed in the Indian Army, and the availability of a locally manufactured engine reduces dependence on foreign suppliers while ensuring long-term sustainability.

The UTD-20 engine has a wide range of applications beyond the BMP series. It powers variants such as the OT-90 Armoured Personnel Carrier, the BREM-2 recovery vehicle, and the PRP-4MU reconnaissance vehicle.

These platforms rely on the engine’s balance of power, torque, and durability to perform specialised roles in combat and support operations. The indigenous production of the UTD-20 ensures that these vehicles can be maintained and upgraded without logistical challenges associated with imported spares.

The successful endurance test also reflects India’s growing expertise in defence manufacturing. Engine Factory Avadi, under the Ordnance Factory Board, has been steadily expanding its capabilities to produce advanced propulsion systems for armoured vehicles.

The indigenous UTD-20 engine represents a critical step in reducing reliance on foreign technology and strengthening India’s defence industrial base. It also aligns with the broader national program of indigenisation, which aims to equip the armed forces with reliable, locally developed systems.

By achieving this milestone, India has demonstrated its ability to sustain and modernise legacy platforms while simultaneously building capacity for future armoured vehicle programs.

The UTD-20 engine, with its proven endurance and technical reliability, will continue to play a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of mechanised forces. Its successful testing underscores the importance of indigenous innovation in securing India’s defence preparedness for the challenges of modern warfare.

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NAL Develops Indigenous Quartz Radome And Composite Innovations For TEJAS Program

The National Aerospace Laboratories has achieved a significant milestone in the Light Combat Aircraft program with the development of a full-scale Radome using advanced quartz–cyanate ester composites. 

This Radome is designed to meet the demanding requirements of the TEJAS MK-2, ensuring electromagnetic transparency while maintaining structural integrity under operational stresses.

The radome represents a critical advancement in indigenous aerospace technology, reducing dependence on imported systems and strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Its design incorporates high-performance composite materials that provide durability against aerodynamic loads, bird strikes, and environmental erosion, while ensuring minimal interference with radar performance.

In addition to the Radome, NAL has fabricated a composite bypass duct using high-temperature polyimide composites. This component is crucial for managing airflow and thermal stresses within the aircraft, offering improved resilience and efficiency compared to conventional metallic structures.

The use of polyimide composites ensures stability under extreme conditions, enhancing the aircraft’s long-term operational reliability.

NAL has also applied co-curing technology for the centre fuselage composite components of the LCA. 

This advanced manufacturing process integrates multiple composite structures into a single curing cycle, reducing weight, improving structural efficiency, and enhancing corrosion resistance.

The co-curing approach represents a leap in aerospace fabrication techniques, aligning with global best practices in advanced fighter aircraft production.

To support operational safety and longevity, NAL developed a fatigue life test rig for the TEJAS SP Trainer’s In-Flight Refuelling probe. This rig enables rigorous evaluation of the probe’s durability under repeated stress cycles, ensuring safe and reliable performance during extended missions. Such testing is vital for certifying components that undergo continuous mechanical loads in demanding flight conditions.

Further extending its contributions, NAL conducted fatigue testing on the AN-32 transport aircraft’s main landing gear hub. The results demonstrated that the hub’s operational life could be extended by an additional 1,000 landings.

This achievement not only enhances fleet availability but also reduces maintenance costs and improves mission readiness for the Indian Air Force.

These developments collectively highlight NAL’s pivotal role in advancing indigenous aerospace technologies. By focusing on composite innovations, fatigue testing, and structural efficiency, the organisation is strengthening India’s capability to produce advanced fighter aircraft and sustain its existing fleet.

The achievements also align with the broader national objective of self-reliance in defence manufacturing, ensuring that future combat platforms are supported by robust domestic technologies.

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India’s ₹90,000‑Crore Submarine Deal With Germany Hinges On Hidden Endurance

India and Germany are close to finalising the ₹90,000‑crore Project‑75I submarine deal, but no contract has yet been signed.

The program will deliver six advanced Type‑214 submarines with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), built in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in partnership with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The real prize is the ability to remain submerged for weeks, a decisive tactical advantage in the Indian Ocean.

India and Germany are negotiating one of the largest defence acquisitions in Indian naval history. The proposed €8‑billion Project‑75I program would see six submarines constructed domestically, combining German design expertise with MDL’s growing shipbuilding capacity.

German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann has repeatedly expressed optimism that the deal could be signed soon, though similar timelines have slipped before. Statements in March and April suggested imminent agreement, yet the July 30 update again emphasised advanced negotiations rather than a completed acquisition.

The submarines are expected to be based on TKMS’s Type‑214 family. This design integrates fuel‑cell AIP technology, which allows submarines to generate electricity without atmospheric oxygen. Conventional diesel‑electric submarines must periodically snorkel to recharge batteries, exposing themselves to detection.

AIP reduces this vulnerability by enabling weeks of submerged endurance, particularly valuable for silent patrols and ambush missions. TKMS claims its latest Type‑214 design combines low acoustic signatures with extended underwater operation, though exact endurance will depend on India’s chosen configuration and mission profile.

AIP does not equate to nuclear propulsion. Nuclear submarines can sustain higher speeds and remain deployed for months, while AIP is most effective for quiet, low‑speed patrols. Yet in contested waters where stealth is paramount, the ability to remain hidden for extended periods is tactically decisive.

India’s current Kalvari‑class Scorpene submarines lack AIP, though the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing an indigenous fuel‑cell AIP system for retrofitting during refits. Thus, India is pursuing both foreign acquisition and domestic innovation simultaneously.

TKMS and MDL formally entered contract negotiations in September 2025. Binding offers included engineering services, advanced submarine components, AIP modules, and combat‑system options. The final value of the deal will depend on the scope of technology transfer and long‑term support arrangements.

For MDL, the contract would secure a multi‑year construction pipeline, preserving specialised submarine‑building skills and expanding indigenous capability. Until signed, however, the project remains a prospective order rather than a confirmed addition to MDL’s portfolio.

Technical details of the Type‑214 design highlight its advanced capabilities. The submarine measures 65 metres in length, displaces 1,860 tonnes submerged, and uses HY‑100 ferromagnetic steel to reduce magnetic signature.

Propulsion combines MTU diesel engines, a Siemens Permasyn electric motor, and hydrogen fuel cells. It achieves speeds of 20 knots submerged, endurance of up to 84 days, and continuous submerged operation for three weeks using AIP.

Armament includes eight 533 mm torpedo tubes capable of launching heavyweight torpedoes and anti‑ship missiles. Combat systems such as the ORCCA suite and ISUS 90 sonar enhance situational awareness and strike capability.

Strategically, the deal reflects India’s push for military self‑reliance and Germany’s growing Indo‑Pacific engagement. With China expanding its naval presence and Pakistan strengthening ties with Beijing, India’s acquisition of advanced AIP‑equipped submarines is critical for deterrence and sea‑lane security.

The partnership also diversifies India’s defence imports away from traditional reliance on Russia, while boosting MDL’s long‑term industrial pipeline. Technology transfer terms are expected to scale indigenous content to 60% by the final vessel, embedding capability within India’s defence ecosystem.

The most important measure of success will not be the number of submarines delivered, but the number of days they can remain hidden beneath the waves. Project‑75I’s strategic value lies in extending India’s underwater endurance and ensuring that capability can be built, maintained, and eventually improved domestically.

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Xi Jinping’s India Visit Marks Historic BRICS Reset And Diplomatic Thaw

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit New Delhi this September for the BRICS Summit, marking his first trip to India in six years.

The visit is scheduled for 12–13 September and would end the freeze that followed the deadly Galwan Valley clashes of June 2020. If realised, it will be a historic diplomatic manoeuvre with the potential to reshape Asian geopolitics.

The anticipated arrival of Xi Jinping reflects intense negotiations to stabilise the 3,488‑kilometre Line of Actual Control. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi recently held preliminary discussions during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, laying the groundwork for this momentous meeting. The symbolism of Xi stepping onto Indian soil after years of hostility is profound.

The deterioration of relations began with the brutal Galwan Valley combat, which killed at least 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese troops. Since then, India has systematically reduced its economic dependence on China, banning technology applications and tightening foreign investment rules for border‑sharing nations. Xi’s visit suggests Beijing recognises the need to thaw this frozen conflict.

To facilitate the visit, rapid diplomatic sequencing is underway. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is finalising plans for strategic talks in Beijing. The Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on border affairs is preparing expert interventions to address friction points in eastern Ladakh. These steps are essential to ensure the summit proceeds smoothly.

The BRICS Summit will convene in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026, with India returning to the hosting chair after five years. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian are also expected to attend, creating opportunities for sideline bilateral security agreements. The gathering will be a showcase of high‑level engagement.

India’s supply chains remain heavily reliant on Chinese intermediate goods, particularly in pharmaceuticals and electronics. Normalising trade protocols is therefore a pressing priority for the Modi administration. The summit provides a platform to address these economic stakes while balancing strategic concerns.

The 2026 BRICS Summit is historically significant due to its expanded membership. The bloc, originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, added Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE in 2024. For African policymakers, the convergence of Modi and Xi in New Delhi carries immense strategic weight. The continent is a key theatre of competition for Chinese and Indian capital.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative has funded vast infrastructure projects across Africa, while India has countered with maritime security pacts and digital investments. A stabilisation of ties between Beijing and New Delhi could ease geopolitical friction for African states, enabling the BRICS New Development Bank to deploy capital more effectively.

For Xi Jinping, entering India’s highly nationalistic political environment requires strong domestic confidence.

The visit signals Beijing’s recognition that a frozen conflict with a rising economic power is unsustainable, especially while facing strategic friction with the United States in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. It is a calculated move in China’s broader strategic calculus.

For Narendra Modi, hosting Xi projects global statesmanship. By using the multilateral umbrella of BRICS, New Delhi can engage Beijing without appearing to concede diplomatically. The optics of welcoming the Chinese leader strengthen Modi’s image as a decisive actor on the world stage.

Military commanders along the Himalayan frontier remain on high alert. A ceremonial handshake in New Delhi will not erase decades of suspicion, but it represents the most significant effort yet to prevent the Asian century from fracturing along the Himalayas. The summit is poised to be a turning point in regional diplomacy.

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Global Dealmaker, Ruin Within: Pakistan’s Jugular Vein (PoK) Rebellion, Pakistan’s Brutal Split

Pakistan under Field Marshal Asim Munir embodies a paradox that is both striking and dangerous. Abroad, it presents itself as a broker of global instability, mediating conflicts and offering corridors of connectivity. At home, however, it remains coercive, repressive, and deeply fragile, according to an analysis by The Print.

This duality has defined the state for decades, with the military’s ideology preferring perpetual risk over compromise. The consequences are stark. In 2025, Pakistan recorded 3,417 violence-linked fatalities, a 34 per cent increase from the previous year, marking its worst security record in a decade.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan accounted for more than 96 per cent of these deaths. Economically, the country grew by 3.7 per cent in FY2025-26, but remains trapped inside a $7-billion IMF program, with public debt hovering at 68.5 per cent of GDP. Diplomatic agility thus coexists uneasily with structural fragility.

The current crackdown in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir illustrates this contradiction most brutally. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee began in 2023 with demands for cheaper flour, electricity priced against locally generated hydropower, and an end to elite privileges.

Its agenda has since expanded to demand abolition or restructuring of the 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees living elsewhere in Pakistan. These seats, 12 of 45 directly elected and 12 of the 53-member House, are seen by protesters as a mechanism for Islamabad to engineer governments in Muzaffarabad. 

Islamabad, unwilling to relinquish this control, has branded the protesters “state-enemies.” Casualty figures remain contested due to communications blackouts. Reuters conservatively estimated around 30 deaths since June, while JAAC alleges dozens more dead and hundreds wounded.

The political gravity of this revolt is undeniable. Baloch and Pashtun dissent has long been dismissed by the Punjabi establishment as peripheral. But Kashmir is different. Pakistan has spent decades portraying it as its shah rag, or jugular vein. When the supposed vein itself rejects the centre’s control, the metaphor collapses into absurdity.

India has sharpened its response, particularly after Defence Minister Khwaja Asif accused Indian agencies of backing JAAC. New Delhi’s legal position remains rooted in the unanimous 1994 Parliament resolution demanding Pakistan vacate the occupied territories.

Gilgit-Baltistan, however, was largely absent from Indian discourse until Rajnath Singh’s 2022 declaration that India’s journey to resolve Kashmir would only be complete after “reaching Gilgit and Baltistan.” Even now, many Indians conflate Gilgit-Baltistan with so-called Azad Kashmir, overlooking their distinct institutions, populations, and grievances.

This distinction is critical because it is where China enters the picture. Gilgit-Baltistan forms the northern throat of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor. The Karakoram Highway enters Pakistan from Xinjiang through Khunjerab, traverses Punjab and Sindh, and ends at Gwadar in Balochistan. 

China has already seen its interests attacked from Gwadar to Dasu, where five engineers were killed in 2024. Instability now shadows the northern corridor as well. A 68-day traders’ protest halted Khunjerab traffic in 2025, and in 2026 electoral and dam-compensation protests blocked the highway again.

Financially, Beijing’s investments are complex. The CPEC portfolio is valued above $60 billion, mixing commitments, loans, and private power projects. Yet it is far from complete. One assessment counted only 38 of nearly 90 proposed projects finished, with 23 under construction and roughly a third untouched. Analysts such as Andrew Small have described China as Pakistan’s greatest economic hope and trusted military partner.

This logic explains why CPEC might still prevail. In 2025, the two sides launched CPEC 2.0, promising five corridors—growth, livelihood, innovation, green development, and regional connectivity—alongside realignment of the Karakoram Highway, new industrial zones, and the delayed ML-1 railway.

Despite chronic instability, China is unlikely to abandon this route or its access to the Arabian Sea. Persistent violence may instead push Beijing towards a more visible security posture: deeper intelligence coordination, hardened enclaves, private protection, and perhaps eventually an official outpost. Such a development would concern both India and the United States.

Yet fears of Pakistan’s “Balkanisation” remain improbable. China, Turkey, the US, Gulf financiers, and Pakistan’s army all have strong incentives to prevent state fracture, even if domestic reforms and strategic course corrections are indefinitely postponed.

For India, the reality is clear. Pakistan will remain flailing, punching above its weight internationally while cracking down internally. It will regenerate cross-border infiltration into India as a survival tactic. Pakistan is neither a miraculous winner of global instability nor an imminent ruin.

It is a state monetising disorder while being consumed by disorder; mediating wars overseas while militarising politics at home; offering corridors to others while closing roads to its own citizens. In today’s upended order, muddles can become leverage and puddles may reflect grand ambition.

But no performance can indefinitely reconcile mediation abroad with repression within. Eventually, the mountains return the echo.

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India Extends Invitation To Russia For BRICS Summit In New Delhi

India, as the holder of the BRICS Chairmanship for 2026, has formally extended an invitation to Russia to attend the upcoming 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

The summit is scheduled to take place on 12 and 13 September. The information was reported by Russian news agency TASS, citing a government source, which confirmed that the invitation has already been dispatched.

The source stated clearly that “the invitation to the BRICS summit has been sent to Russia.” This marks another step in India’s preparations to host the high-level gathering of emerging economies. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi also reiterated the country’s readiness to host the summit. 

Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, speaking at the bi-weekly press briefing, emphasised that preparations are underway in full swing. He noted that India, as the chair, is committed to ensuring the summit is conducted with full arrangements in place.

On Wednesday, Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry revealed that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has also been invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the outreach segment of the summit.

The invitation has been forwarded to the Prime Minister’s office for consideration, with the final decision pending. The outreach session of BRICS traditionally includes selected non-member countries and regional leaders, offering them a platform to engage with the bloc’s agenda.

The 18th BRICS Summit will bring together the coalition of eleven member states: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. The outreach format allows for broader participation beyond the core membership, reflecting BRICS’ role as a coalition of developing nations from diverse regions.

India’s chairmanship in 2026 is guided by the overarching theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” This theme underscores the group’s focus on consultation and cooperation on issues of global and regional significance, particularly in the spheres of political and economic governance.

The summit is expected to highlight these priorities while also strengthening India’s diplomatic engagement with both member and non-member states.

The invitation to Russia, alongside Bangladesh’s inclusion in the outreach session, demonstrates India’s intent to foster inclusive dialogue and expand the scope of BRICS cooperation.

It also reflects New Delhi’s broader strategy of positioning itself as a central player in multilateral frameworks, while simultaneously reinforcing bilateral ties with key partners.

ANI

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Is The Indian Rupee Set To Challenge The Dollar in Russia-Bangladesh Deals?

Russia has proposed settling trade with Bangladesh in Indian rupees, a move aimed at bypassing Western sanctions and reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, FirstPost reported.

The plan includes establishing a dedicated payment mechanism and opening a Russian bank branch in Dhaka, potentially expanding the rupee’s role in global commerce.

Russia has reportedly suggested that future trade with Bangladesh be conducted in Indian rupees. This proposal comes as sanctions continue to disrupt payments through Russian banks, making dollar-based transactions increasingly difficult. The idea will be discussed during upcoming bilateral talks, with Moscow pushing for a structured mechanism to facilitate rupee settlements.

The plan also involves opening a Russian bank branch in Dhaka to streamline financial operations. This would allow Bangladesh to settle payments directly in rupees, avoiding complications linked to dollar transactions. Such a step could mark a significant shift in regional trade practices, especially as India has already expanded rupee-based trade settlements with over thirty countries.

Bangladesh has faced challenges in repaying loans for the Russian-backed Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. An earlier attempt to use the Chinese yuan for repayments reportedly failed, leaving Dhaka searching for alternatives. The rupee-based settlement could provide a workable solution, ensuring smoother financial flows and reducing exposure to currency volatility.

If implemented, this arrangement would further strengthen the rupee’s position in international trade. For India, it represents another opportunity to promote its currency as a credible alternative to the dollar in a multipolar financial system. For Russia, it offers a way to bypass restrictions imposed by Western sanctions, while for Bangladesh, it provides a practical mechanism to meet obligations without relying on unstable channels.

The proposal also reflects broader geopolitical shifts. Russia’s outreach to Bangladesh through rupee trade highlights Moscow’s intent to deepen ties with South Asia, while simultaneously supporting India’s ambition to internationalise its currency. This trilateral dynamic could reshape trade flows in the region, especially in sectors like energy, defence, and infrastructure.

Bangladesh’s acceptance of the rupee mechanism would not only ease repayment for the Rooppur project but also open avenues for wider trade in goods and services. It could reduce transaction costs, stabilise payments, and strengthen financial resilience against external shocks. However, successful implementation will depend on the willingness of all parties to establish robust frameworks and ensure confidence in the rupee’s stability.

This development underscores the growing trend of countries seeking alternatives to the dollar in global trade. With India’s rupee gaining traction and Russia actively promoting non-dollar settlements, Bangladesh could become a key participant in this evolving financial landscape.

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India Reaffirms Robust Framework On Strategic Trade Controls Amid Defence Exports To Israel

India has reiterated that it possesses a robust legal and regulatory framework governing strategic trade controls.

The Ministry of External Affairs made this clear during its regular media briefing on Friday, addressing concerns raised in a report alleging that Indian military supplies to Israel could be used in operations in the Gaza Strip.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that India’s export of dual-use items and technologies is carried out strictly in accordance with national laws and consistent with international obligations.

He stated that India’s framework ensures compliance with both domestic regulations and international commitments, reinforcing the country’s credibility in managing sensitive exports.

An Amnesty International report had alleged that India continued supplying arms to Israel despite the risk of their use in military operations in Gaza. The MEA’s response sought to underline that India’s export practices are governed by a strong system of checks and balances, ensuring accountability and adherence to obligations under global non-proliferation regimes.

Defence cooperation between India and Israel has grown significantly in scope and scale over recent years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel earlier this year added further momentum to bilateral ties.

During the visit, both countries agreed to explore the development of Tech Gateway mechanisms designed to facilitate collaborative research and development initiatives, technology validation processes, pilot projects, and joint development activities between their innovation ecosystems.

The two nations also recognised the strategic importance of Artificial Intelligence as a key driver of innovation. They agreed to deepen cooperation in AI talent and expertise, aiming to strengthen their respective innovation ecosystems and foster joint advancements in critical technologies.

This collaboration reflects the broader ambition of both countries to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their defence and strategic frameworks.

India’s emphasis on a robust regulatory framework for strategic trade controls demonstrates its commitment to responsible defence exports. At the same time, its expanding cooperation with Israel highlights the balance it seeks to maintain between adhering to international obligations and advancing strategic partnerships in defence and technology.

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Arab Nations Back Trump’s Gaza Roadmap But Demand Israeli Withdrawal And Palestinian Statehood

Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Qatar have formally welcomed the announcement of US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace roadmap, describing it as a historic step but insisting that genuine peace requires the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

The draft plan, released on Thursday, sets out a phased process to begin within 14 days of approval by all parties. It builds on the earlier 20‑point Gaza peace plan, transforming it into a phased implementation framework after eight months of negotiations that followed the release of hostages and the return of bodies.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised Trump’s leadership and commended mediator nations including Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, the United States, and the Board of Peace. Riyadh stressed that the agreement must be carried out in a timely, credible, and irreversible manner.

It highlighted the need for full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, deployment of an International Stabilization Force, and unhindered humanitarian assistance and reconstruction support.

Saudi Arabia also emphasised the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and the preservation of Palestinian territorial unity, stating that the agreement must mark the beginning of a political track toward self‑determination and eventual statehood.

Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates echoed this position, welcoming Trump’s announcement on disarmament and withdrawal arrangements. Amman called for strict execution schedules and affirmed the necessity of complete Israeli military withdrawal, deployment of an international stabilisation force, and guaranteed humanitarian aid. Jordan reiterated that the agreement must serve as a launchpad toward the two‑state solution, with an independent Palestinian state established on the lines of June 4, 1967, and East Jerusalem as its capital.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al‑Thani held a telephone conversation with Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Dr Khalil Al Hayya. Sheikh Mohammed welcomed Hamas’s acceptance of the roadmap for completing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, expressing hope that it would alleviate human suffering and bring stability.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry stressed the need for the international community to pressure Israel to fulfil its obligations and cease violations of Palestinian rights, ensuring the roadmap’s completion and peace in Gaza.

Significantly, Hamas has agreed for the first time to a detailed roadmap to surrender its weapons and relinquish governing authority in Gaza. US officials described this as the most important breakthrough since the ceasefire began.

President Trump hailed the development as a major diplomatic achievement, declaring that disarming Hamas was previously thought impossible. He linked the success to progress with Iran, arguing that the breakthrough demonstrates the effectiveness of his regional strategy. Trump described it as a big step for the Middle East, noting that global observers were impressed by the progress.

This roadmap represents the most comprehensive attempt yet to stabilise Gaza, combining disarmament, international oversight, humanitarian relief, and a political track toward Palestinian statehood. Arab nations have welcomed the initiative but remain firm that only full Israeli withdrawal and recognition of Palestinian rights can deliver lasting peace.

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US Envoy Sergio Gor Meets Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman, Highlights Trade And Regional Cooperation

US Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs Sergio Gor paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, on Saturday morning.

The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the two leaders exchanged views on a wide range of issues of mutual interest. Discussions covered bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the United States, the expansion of trade and investment, and regional cooperation.

This meeting follows Gor’s earlier engagement with Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi on Friday. The two diplomats met at a city hotel in Dhaka, where they discussed matters of mutual interest. While details of the conversation were not disclosed, a US diplomatic source described it as a “good meeting.”

On June 25, Gor had publicly extended his best wishes to Dinesh Trivedi upon his assumption of duties as India’s new High Commissioner to Bangladesh. At that time, Gor emphasised his intention to work closely with Trivedi in his role as US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia.

Highlighting his meeting with Prime Minister Rahman, Gor posted on X that he had called on the Bangladeshi leader to discuss opportunities to strengthen economic cooperation and enhance the partnership between the United States and Bangladesh. He stressed that this is a priority for Washington and expressed confidence that working together could deliver tangible results.

During his visit, Gor also met Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Thursday evening. On Friday, he travelled to Cox’s Bazar to visit the Rohingya refugee camps, underscoring the humanitarian dimension of US engagement in Bangladesh.

In parallel, the United States updated its travel advisory for Bangladesh on Thursday. The advisory was revised from Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) to Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution). According to the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, this change reflects growing US confidence in the country’s security environment and stability.

The improvement in the advisory is attributed to visible progress in law and order under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman over the past six months. The Foreign Ministry noted that the decision highlights the positive trajectory of the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and the United States.

The visit by the US Special Envoy and the subsequent travel advisory update signal Washington’s recognition of Bangladesh’s efforts to strengthen governance, stability, and regional cooperation. It also reflects the United States’ intent to deepen economic and strategic ties with Dhaka at a time of evolving regional dynamics.

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Army Shoots Down Pakistani Spy Drone Near LoC, Memory Card Seized

The Indian Army has successfully neutralised a Pakistani surveillance drone that was spotted hovering dangerously close to sensitive military installations in the Khour sector of Jammu along the Line of Control. Troops acted swiftly as the UAV entered Indian airspace, bringing it down before it could complete its mission.

Security officials confirmed that the drone was being used to monitor Army deployments, bunkers, and strategic positions near the border. During the search of the wreckage, a 64 GB Lexar memory card was recovered. Initial examination suggests that the card contains photographs and videos of Indian Army positions and other sensitive locations, pointing to a deliberate reconnaissance mission.

The UAV is believed to be a Chinese-made surveillance drone equipped with advanced navigation systems and object-recognition technology. Its design and payload indicate that it was deployed specifically to map troop movements and deployment patterns.

The drone and its memory card have now been sent for detailed forensic analysis to determine the extent of intelligence gathered and to reconstruct its flight path.

Preliminary assessments highlight that the drone was on a dedicated mission to collect intelligence on Indian positions.

This incident underscores Pakistan’s heightened surveillance attempts along the Jammu border, which have increased in recent months. Security forces have since stepped up anti-drone measures in the sector, deploying additional patrols and electronic monitoring systems to prevent further intrusions.

Sources revealed that a comprehensive investigation is underway to trace the origin of the drone and identify handlers across the border.

The Army has reiterated its firm stance that any attempt to breach Indian airspace for espionage will be met with decisive action.

This latest incident highlights the growing role of unmanned aerial systems in cross-border intelligence operations and the need for robust counter-drone programs to safeguard national security.

Agencies

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'Predicated On Our National Priorities' India Reaffirms Energy Security Priorities Amid US Senate Bill Targeting Russian Oil Imports

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated that national priorities and the energy needs of its 1.4 billion citizens remain the guiding principles of its energy security policy, even as Washington advances a sanctions bill targeting major importers of Russian oil.

Speaking at the weekly media briefing, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that New Delhi is closely monitoring the legislative developments in the United States. He stressed that India’s position on energy security has been consistently articulated and remains unchanged.

Jaiswal explained that India’s energy procurement strategy is designed to ensure reliable, uninterrupted, and affordable supplies. He noted that the country sources energy from multiple global partners, including the United States, to safeguard its domestic requirements.

He underlined that the policy is predicated on national priorities and the imperative of securing energy for India’s vast population. Diversification of sources, he said, is central to this approach, with imports spanning across regions to balance affordability and reliability.

Despite the proposed punitive measures from Capitol Hill, Indian officials emphasised that diplomatic engagement with Washington continues. Jaiswal confirmed that India remains in dialogue with relevant stakeholders in the United States at multiple levels to address concerns arising from the bill.

The legislation in question, formally titled the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, was passed in the US Senate earlier this week with an overwhelming 86-12 vote. The bipartisan support underscored Washington’s continued backing for Ukraine and also served as a tribute to Senator Graham, who passed away unexpectedly earlier in July.

The draft law empowers the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on the top five importers of Russian energy. It also extends to nations assisting Moscow in circumventing sanctions through indirect channels.

The measure is expected to predominantly affect China and India, alongside other countries identified as significant buyers of Russian hydrocarbons. In addition, the bill includes a provision to impose a blanket 500 per cent tariff on all Russian imports into the United States.

The legislation, if enacted, would significantly expand executive authority in Washington, enabling the administration to recalibrate trade duties and sanctions in line with evolving geopolitical and energy market dynamics.

India’s response highlights its determination to balance strategic autonomy with pragmatic engagement, ensuring that energy security remains firmly anchored in national interest while navigating the complexities of global diplomacy.

ANI

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ECONOMIC UPSWING: Made In India Phones Drive Global Surge As Exports Hit ₹2.59 Lakh Crore

India’s mobile phone exports have witnessed an extraordinary surge, rising 165 times over the past decade to reach approximately ₹2.59 lakh crore in FY 2025-26. This marks a dramatic increase from just ₹1,500 crore in FY 2014-15, according to Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw’s statement in Parliament.

Domestic mobile phone production has also expanded significantly, growing around 33 times during the same period. Production rose from ₹18,000 crore in FY 2014-15 to ₹6.27 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, underscoring India’s transformation into a global hub for smartphone manufacturing.

The broader electronics manufacturing sector has experienced nearly sevenfold growth. Output increased from about ₹1.9 lakh crore in FY 2014-15 to ₹13.11 lakh crore in FY 2025-26. Exports of electronics rose 11 times, climbing from nearly ₹38,000 crore to ₹4.24 lakh crore, reflecting the success of targeted government policies.

The government has implemented measures to strengthen electronics manufacturing across the value chain, including semiconductors and memory chips. The Semicon India Program, launched in January 2022, has been pivotal in supporting semiconductor fabrication units, display fabs, packaging facilities, and indigenous chip design capabilities.

Progress in memory chip manufacturing has already been achieved. Micron is producing DRAM, NAND Flash Memory, and Solid State Drives in India, while Sahasra is manufacturing NAND Flash Memory. This marks a significant step in diversifying India’s electronics ecosystem.

Global memory chip supplies have tightened due to rising demand from artificial intelligence servers, data centres, and advanced computing applications. This has led to firmer memory chip prices, making domestic production even more critical for India’s strategic positioning.

The Union Cabinet has approved Semicon 2.0 to further strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem. This initiative aims to expand opportunities in semiconductor manufacturing, chip design, and related industries, while ensuring resilience in India’s electronics supply chain.

The government emphasised that these initiatives will help meet both domestic and global demand, while advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. By building a robust and resilient electronics manufacturing ecosystem, India is positioning itself as a trusted global supply chain hub.

Agencies

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Pakistan’s Defence Minister Labels PoK Protesters As 'Enemies Like India' Amid Deadly Crackdown

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has triggered outrage by defending the killing of at least 32 protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), equating them with “Enemies like India.”

His remarks come amid escalating unrest, widespread violence, and mounting international condemnation of Islamabad’s heavy-handed tactics.

The Defence Minister’s statement was made during ongoing protests in Rawalakot and Mirpur, where Pakistani forces have been accused of opening direct fire on civilians. Asif declared that demonstrators in Azad Kashmir should be treated as enemies, placing them in the same category as India.

His comments were captured in a viral video that has intensified scrutiny of Pakistan’s governance and its treatment of dissent in the disputed territory.

Reports confirm that over 90 people have been killed since 5 June during the unrest, with most victims linked to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), an organisation banned by Islamabad for highlighting human rights abuses.

Among the dead was Usman Nazir, the younger brother of JAAC founding member Umar Nazir. Videos circulating on social media show Pakistani security personnel firing on civilians, loading bodies into vehicles, and leaving streets littered with corpses and abandoned motorbikes.

The crackdown coincided with the first phase of legislative assembly elections in PoK, where the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured nine of thirteen seats amid allegations of rigging. 

India has dismissed the elections as a “cosmetic exercise” designed to legitimise Pakistan’s illegal occupation, while pointing to the protests as evidence of widespread dissatisfaction with Islamabad’s policies.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi condemned the killings, describing them as brutal oppression and calling for accountability.

The JAAC has been at the forefront of demonstrations demanding the abolition of twelve reserved assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees, which protesters argue are manipulated to install Islamabad’s preferred leadership.

The organisation insists its campaign is peaceful, but Pakistani authorities accuse activists of carrying weapons and attempting to seize Muzaffarabad and Mirpur by force. Adviser Rana Sanaullah claimed protesters had presented 38 demands, but Asif categorically ruled out dialogue, branding them as enemies.

International reaction has been swift. The United Nations, European Union, United States, and several Western governments have expressed concern over the killings and suppression of democratic rights. Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have condemned the disproportionate use of force and called for an independent investigation.

The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) has appealed to global institutions to intervene urgently to protect civilians and uphold international law.

The unrest highlights deep-rooted grievances in PoK, including economic exploitation, prolonged power cuts of up to 20 hours daily, inflated tariffs, and restricted food supplies. Protesters accuse Islamabad of extracting resources while denying fundamental rights.

The violence has further destabilised the region, with markets shut, internet services disrupted, and widespread fear among residents.

The controversy surrounding Khawaja Asif’s remarks is expected to fuel regional tensions, intensify India-Pakistan hostilities, and deepen international debate over civil liberties and governance in PoK. 

Calls for accountability and justice continue to grow louder as the death toll rises and Islamabad faces mounting pressure to halt its crackdown.

Agencies

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