Government Fast-Tracks Three More Kalvari-Class Submarines To Strengthen Undersea Capability

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed a proposal to build three additional Kalvari-class submarines at the forefront of India's maritime modernisation plans, with construction set to take place at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in collaboration with France's Naval Group, Hindustan Times reported.

The project is estimated to cost around ₹33,000 crore, with a revised proposal expected to be considered by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The move is aimed at preserving the Indian Navy's conventional submarine strength as several ageing platforms approach retirement.

India currently operates six Kalvari-class submarines, the latest being INS Vaghsheer, which was launched in April 2022. However, concerns over declining submarine numbers by the end of the decade have prompted a renewed focus on expanding the fleet.

The strategic urgency has increased due to Pakistan's expected induction of eight Chinese-origin Type-039 Yuan-class submarines between 2028 and 2030. Equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, these submarines are expected to significantly enhance Pakistan's underwater warfare capabilities and pose a greater challenge in the Indian Ocean Region alongside China's growing naval presence.

India's older Shishumar-class and Sindhughosh-class submarines are nearing the end of their operational service lives, creating the need for replacements to maintain credible conventional deterrence and operational readiness.

Although the additional Kalvari-class submarines were previously placed on the back burner, national security planners had initially prioritised Project 75(I), which focuses on next-generation submarines equipped with advanced AIP technology as part of India's long-term submarine acquisition strategy.

The proposed new submarines will incorporate several upgrades over the existing Kalvari fleet. These include NATO-standard torpedoes, DRDO-developed heavyweight torpedoes and submarine-launched SCALP cruise missiles with a strike range of approximately 800 kilometres.

The program is also expected to sustain and further develop India's submarine-building ecosystem at MDL, while enhancing the technical expertise of engineers, designers and skilled workers involved in complex naval construction projects.

Initially, the three new submarines are expected to operate with lead-acid batteries. However, they are being designed with the potential for future upgrades to lithium-ion battery technology, which offers higher energy density, improved endurance, greater underwater speed and enhanced stealth characteristics.

The adoption of lithium-ion batteries could provide a substantial operational advantage and improve overall underwater performance compared with conventional battery systems used by many existing diesel-electric submarines.

Another significant benefit of the expanded Kalvari programme is the potential for India to emerge as a regional submarine manufacturing hub. With extensive technology transfer from France's Naval Group, India may eventually be able to construct submarines for friendly nations such as Indonesia or offer customised export variants.

The revival of the proposal also reflects continuing delays in Project 75(I). One of the factors affecting progress has been the validation process for the indigenous AIP system being developed by DRDO, despite Germany's TKMS having indicated its readiness to provide proven AIP technology for the programme.

The renewed push comes amid growing strategic competition across the Indo-Pacific and persistent instability in the Middle East. Defence planners view a strong conventional submarine fleet as essential for safeguarding sea lanes, protecting national interests and maintaining maritime deterrence.

Alongside conventional submarine expansion, India's nuclear submarine programme continues to advance. The country's ballistic missile submarine fleet is expected to grow further, strengthening its sea-based nuclear deterrent capability.

The Modi government has already approved the construction of two conventionally armed nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). In addition, the Indian Navy is expected to induct another Russian nuclear-powered attack submarine on lease by 2028, further enhancing its underwater warfare capabilities and long-range operational reach.

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Big Boost To Atmanirbhar Bharat: 450 Nagastra-1R Loitering Munitions Delivered To Indian Army

The Indian Army has significantly strengthened its short-range precision-strike capability after receiving 450 Nagastra 1R loitering munitions from Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), marking the largest single-batch delivery of such systems to the service.

Developed in India, the Nagastra-1R is a loitering munition designed for precision attacks against enemy targets. Unlike conventional kamikaze drones, it can abort a mission mid-flight and be safely recovered if engagement is no longer required.

The acquisition was made under the Army's emergency procurement route following extensive technical assessments and live operational trials. Four companies participated in the evaluation process, but SDAL was the only manufacturer to meet all required operational criteria.

The induction comes as loitering munitions assume a growing role in modern warfare, providing commanders with a rapid-response precision-strike option while reducing risk to frontline personnel. Their importance has been underscored by recent operational experiences, including Operation Sindoor.

The Nagastra-1R has been tailored specifically to meet the Indian Army's short-range operational requirements. A key feature is its ability to conduct kamikaze-style attacks while retaining an abort-and-recovery capability, improving flexibility and reducing unnecessary losses of equipment.

The system delivers a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of just two metres, enabling highly accurate engagement of designated targets. Its accuracy and overall performance were validated during multiple live-fire trials conducted before procurement approval.

For surveillance and target acquisition, the drone is fitted with a 360-degree gimbal camera and can be equipped with a thermal imaging payload for night-time missions. Proprietary encryption safeguards video feeds and telemetry links, enhancing operational security in contested environments.

The Nagastra-1R is also designed as a cost-effective solution. It features fully reusable launcher systems and incorporates more than 80 per cent indigenous content, supporting India's drive towards greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing while helping to control procurement costs.

Additional reported capabilities of the Nagastra platform include day-and-night reconnaissance, secure communications, precision engagement of soft targets and operation in challenging terrain. The broader Nagastra family has been reported to offer endurance of up to around an hour and precision-guided strike capability with minimal collateral damage.

Earlier this year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that Nagastra drones produced by the Solar Group had been successfully employed during Operation Sindoor. He said the systems accurately struck terrorist targets and demonstrated their strategic value in operational conditions.

Singh also welcomed the development of more advanced Nagastra variants and expressed confidence that the indigenous loitering munition family would provide the Indian armed forces with an increasingly effective capability against future threats.

The delivery of 450 Nagastra-1R systems represents a significant milestone for India's defence-industrial base and further strengthens the Army's ability to conduct precise, intelligence-led strikes at short range while maintaining operational flexibility and cost efficiency.

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Zen Technologies's Showcases ShootEdge India’s Growing Expertise In Specialised Tactical Defence Technology

Ashok Atluri of Zen Technologies recently demonstrated ShootEdge, a specialised tactical adapter designed to enable personnel to engage targets from protected positions without directly exposing themselves to hostile fire.

The system is intended for use with handguns and can also be configured for under-barrel grenade launchers. Its primary purpose is to support close-quarters combat operations by allowing users to fire around corners, over walls and through low gaps while remaining behind cover.

During the demonstration, Atluri explained that ShootEdge addresses one of the key challenges in urban warfare and counter-terror operations: neutralising threats without exposing soldiers or security personnel to direct enemy fire. Instead of leaning into a potentially dangerous line of sight, operators can remain concealed while observing and engaging targets remotely.

The adapter incorporates a swivelling mechanism that enables a weapon to be angled up to 65 degrees in either direction. A built-in day-and-night camera captures the operator’s line of fire and relays real-time imagery to an onboard display, providing situational awareness of areas that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous to observe.

Additional integrated systems include laser aiming aids, infrared capability and an LED illumination unit, enhancing effectiveness in low-light and night-time conditions. The equipment is designed to improve operational safety while maintaining targeting accuracy.

Zen Technologies has stated that the platform is lightweight, compact and balanced for rapid movement in confined environments. Multiple safety mechanisms are incorporated to reduce the risk of accidental discharge, while a recoil-management design helps improve weapon handling.

According to Atluri, the company has already supplied ShootEdge to armed forces, highlighting its practical application beyond the demonstration stage. The technology reflects the increasing sophistication of India's domestic defence industry and its focus on developing niche solutions for modern battlefield requirements.

Products such as ShootEdge illustrate how Indian defence manufacturers are expanding beyond conventional systems to create specialised equipment tailored for urban warfare, counter-terrorism missions, hostage-rescue operations and other high-risk tactical scenarios.

As indigenous defence capabilities continue to advance, innovations of this nature underline the growing breadth of technology being developed within the country.

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China Labels India's Standardisation of 28 Ladakh Locations 'Illegal' As New Delhi Reinforces Official Mapping

India has formally identified and standardised the names of 28 geographical features and strategic locations across Ladakh for inclusion in the official Survey of India map, prompting a sharp reaction from China. The exercise was carried out by the Ministry of Home Affairs in consultation with the Ladakh administration.

The newly recognised locations include peaks, mountains, passes, glaciers, land areas, a valley, a lake, a river and other water bodies. According to the government, the objective is to improve accurate identification, strengthen official cartography and enhance public awareness of the region.

China criticised the move, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stating that Beijing does not recognise the Union Territory of Ladakh and regards India's standardisation of place names as "illegal and invalid". She further asserted China's position regarding the western sector of the disputed boundary.

India has consistently rejected such claims and maintains that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of the country. New Delhi has reiterated that administrative measures concerning these areas do not alter its established position on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Among the locations included in the exercise are Atisha Giri, Kanishka Peak, Karun Pir, Martand Giri, Drak Karpo, Jolmori, Rinchen Zangpo, Sakyasri Giri, Marpa Lotsava Ri, Milarepa Kangri, Shiva Ri, Zorawar Peak and Maheshvara Ri. The list also covers Chapchingal Pass, Shachmirk Pass, Parpik Glacier, Skamri Glacier, Brangsa Land, Kuksel, Dehra Compass, Gogra, Kumarayana Point, Panglung, Shamal Lungpa, Shkorga Valley, Guru Rinpoche Lake, Yangpa River and Hot Spring.

Several of these sites, particularly Gogra and Hot Spring, gained strategic importance during the eastern Ladakh border stand-off that began in 2020. Both locations were significant friction points between Indian and Chinese forces and remain important for patrolling activities along the Line of Actual Control.

The naming exercise is part of a broader effort to establish clear and standardised geographical references in a sensitive frontier region. By incorporating the 28 locations into official maps, India aims to improve administrative clarity, geographical consistency and territorial documentation.

The development has once again highlighted the continuing differences between New Delhi and Beijing over the unresolved boundary dispute, even as both sides have undertaken disengagement measures in certain areas since the 2020 stand-off.

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'Ladakh Integral Part, No Denial Can Change This' Say MEA As India Reaffirms Ladakh's Status After China Objects To Official Place Names

India has firmly reiterated that Ladakh is an integral and inalienable part of the country after China objected to New Delhi's decision to identify and standardise the names of 28 strategic locations and geographical features across the Union Territory for official mapping purposes.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in consultation with the Ladakh administration, formally identified 28 locations, including mountain peaks, passes, land areas and water bodies. These names will be incorporated into the official maps produced by the Survey of India.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the initiative is intended to ensure the accurate identification of these locations and improve public awareness and recognition of important geographical features across Ladakh.

Responding to China's criticism, India underlined that the exercise concerns locations that lie within its sovereign territory and does not alter the established reality of the region's status.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the Union Territory of Ladakh remains an integral and inalienable part of India, stressing that no amount of denial by the Chinese side can change this established fact.

The move comes amid continuing differences between India and China over their unresolved boundary dispute in eastern Ladakh, where both sides have undertaken diplomatic and military engagements in recent years to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control.

The standardisation of place names is also expected to support governance, administration, mapping accuracy, infrastructure planning and emergency response efforts in strategically significant border regions.

India has consistently rejected attempts by other countries to rename or make territorial claims over areas it considers part of its sovereign territory, maintaining that such actions carry no legal validity and do not affect its territorial integrity.

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Jio Unveils Ambitious 1,600-Satellite Vision To Expand Connectivity Across India As Elon Musk's Starlink Awaits Final Clearances

Reliance Jio has outlined an ambitious space-based connectivity roadmap, unveiling its proposed ‘Sovereign Satellite Connectivity’ initiative at India Mobile Congress 2026 in New Delhi.

The plan centres on a constellation of around 1,600 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites supported by 23 ground stations across India, designed to complement the company’s existing mobile and fibre networks rather than replace them.

Jio aims to extend connectivity to locations where conventional telecom infrastructure remains difficult or uneconomical to deploy. Key target areas include remote villages, islands, border outposts and maritime regions.

The proposed network is intended to provide coverage across land and sea, with Jio outlining a long-term goal of reaching more than 6,00,000 villages through a hybrid satellite-and-terrestrial communications system.

The company has also highlighted potential use cases beyond consumer connectivity, including enterprise services, remote industrial sites, aviation, maritime operations, government applications, defence communications and disaster response.

Direct-to-device calling in rural areas forms part of the broader vision, potentially enabling connectivity even where mobile towers are unavailable.

A key element of the proposal is Jio’s intention to develop and operate the entire satellite value chain within India, encompassing design, engineering, integration, testing, launch, deployment and operational management.

The initiative arrives as India’s satellite communications sector gathers momentum and competition intensifies among companies seeking to expand broadband access through space-based networks.

However, the project remains a proposal at this stage. The 1,600 satellites and 23 ground stations are not yet operational, and the constellation is expected to be developed in phases over several years.

Reports indicate Jio is targeting an initial test flight in 2027 before moving towards a broader deployment programme, subject to regulatory approvals, infrastructure development and execution timelines.

If realised, the project could significantly strengthen India’s digital infrastructure by helping bring reliable connectivity to some of the country’s most hard-to-reach locations.

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IIT-Madras-Backed Hub And Medhastra Join Forces To Advance Indigenous Defence Technology

IIT-Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation and Hyderabad-based Medhastra Techsystems Private Limited have entered into a collaboration to develop indigenous defence technologies, supporting India’s drive to reduce dependence on foreign defence systems and strengthen strategic self-reliance.

The partnership will focus on sovereign artificial intelligence, cognitive electronic warfare, multi-sensor data fusion, undersea sensing and autonomous platforms. These areas are regarded as critical for the future of defence capability and technological sovereignty.

IITM Pravartak, a Technology Innovation Hub is hosted by the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, operates under the Department of Science and Technology’s National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems. Its work spans sensors, networking, actuators and control systems.

Medhastra develops AI-powered defence systems for India’s armed forces, specialising in the integration of data from multiple sensors to improve operational awareness and support autonomous capabilities in defence environments.

Through the collaboration, Medhastra will become part of the IIT-Madras innovation ecosystem, gaining access to a leading research, deep-tech and technology translation environment. The arrangement is expected to facilitate joint research initiatives, faculty collaboration, laboratory access and student engagement.

The partnership combines IIT-Madras’ research strengths and innovation infrastructure with Medhastra’s expertise in defence applications. Both organisations aim to accelerate the transition of technologies from research laboratories to operational deployment.

According to IITM Pravartak Chief Executive Officer MJ Shankar Raman, indigenous innovation in defence artificial intelligence is essential for India’s strategic self-reliance. He stated that the collaboration is intended to help transform research outcomes into deployable technologies while supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Medhastra Founder and Chief Executive Officer Abinav Varma Kalidindi described joining the IIT-Madras ecosystem as a significant milestone for the company. He noted that IIT-Madras and IITM Pravartak have established a strong reputation for converting Indian research into practical impact.

The memorandum of understanding reflects a broader effort to strengthen cooperation between academia and industry in developing indigenous defence technologies. The initiative aligns with the Government’s objective of enhancing domestic capability and self-sufficiency in the defence sector.

Established in 1959, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras is recognised as an Institution of Eminence and is among India’s leading centres for engineering, research and innovation. Its wider ecosystem includes the IIT-Madras Research Park and the IIT-Madras Incubation Cell.

Medhastra Techsystems Private Limited is a Hyderabad-based defence technology company focused on developing AI-enabled systems for India’s armed forces, with a particular emphasis on advanced sensing, autonomous operations and decision-support capabilities.

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BIMSTEC Nations Urged To Deepen Security Cooperation Against Terrorism And Cross-Border Crime: Amit Shah

India has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with BIMSTEC member states to combat terrorism, organised crime and illegal drug trafficking, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah calling for stronger regional coordination to tackle increasingly sophisticated cross-border criminal networks.

Speaking at the first BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, Shah said criminal syndicates frequently exploit weaknesses across national boundaries, making regional cooperation essential. He noted that the nature and operations of these networks are evolving rapidly, requiring coordinated and practical responses from member countries.

The inaugural meeting brought together representatives of the seven BIMSTEC nations as efforts intensify to strengthen collective action against transnational security threats. Shah described the event as a significant milestone for India and said BIMSTEC had emerged as a key platform for regional integration, economic collaboration and collective security.

Reaffirming India's longstanding commitment to peaceful coexistence, Shah said the country remained guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and continued to prioritise human welfare, peace and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. He stressed that India does not believe in aggression or domination and has consistently supported the peaceful resolution of differences.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks at the sixth BIMSTEC Summit held in Thailand on 4 April 2025, Shah said BIMSTEC should be viewed not only as a regional grouping but also as a model for inclusive development and security. He emphasised that member states must now translate political cooperation into practical mechanisms that enhance public safety and improve the effectiveness of law-enforcement agencies.

Shah said Home Ministers across the region share a responsibility to build operational frameworks that strengthen both citizen security and institutional capabilities. He underlined the importance of intelligence sharing, coordinated enforcement measures and stronger cooperation among security agencies to address emerging threats.

Earlier, Shah welcomed participating delegations and said the historic gathering reflected the shared determination of BIMSTEC countries to confront terrorism, transnational organised crime, narcotics trafficking, radicalisation, human trafficking, illicit financial flows and cyber threats through decisive coordination.

BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka from South Asia, along with Myanmar and Thailand from South-East Asia. The grouping serves as a bridge between the two regions and promotes cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including security, connectivity, trade and economic development.

The BIMSTEC region is home to approximately 1.7 billion people, representing around 22 per cent of the global population. Collectively, the member states account for an economy valued at roughly ₹420 lakh crore ($5 trillion), highlighting the strategic and economic significance of deeper regional cooperation.

The first BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting reflects a shared commitment among member nations to enhance regional security architecture and address threats that increasingly transcend national borders, with growing emphasis on coordinated action, institutional capacity building and long-term stability across the Bay of Bengal region.

ANI

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India, Czech Republic Deepen Defence Industry Partnership To Advance Make In India And Aatmanirbhar Bharat

India and the Czech Republic have agreed to expand their defence industrial cooperation, reinforcing support for the Government of India's Make In India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

During a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Czech Republic First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlíček reviewed the full spectrum of defence industry collaboration between the two countries.

Both leaders welcomed the steady progress achieved through existing partnerships and noted the success of several joint ventures established by Indian and Czech defence companies.

The two sides agreed to further broaden cooperation through the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee, which serves as the principal framework for strengthening defence industry ties and facilitating future collaborative projects.

In a message shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated that the discussions covered the entire range of defence industrial cooperation and highlighted the achievements of multiple joint ventures. He added that both countries had agreed to expand collaboration further under the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee to support the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The meeting placed particular emphasis on deepening defence manufacturing cooperation, with both governments expressing support for greater industrial engagement and enhanced collaboration aimed at strengthening India's domestic defence production capabilities.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international peace and security issues. They acknowledged the importance of closer cooperation in promoting stability and addressing emerging security challenges.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the relationship between India and the Czech Republic continues to be underpinned by longstanding historical and cultural connections, alongside shared values of mutual trust, respect and partnership.

Havlíček is undertaking a four-day visit to India, during which he is engaging with government ministries, trade representatives and business leaders. His itinerary also includes visits to industrial facilities in Bangalore and Mumbai.

The discussions form part of broader efforts by both nations to expand defence industry cooperation, encourage technology partnerships, promote joint manufacturing opportunities and strengthen long-term strategic engagement through the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee.

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Canadian FM Anita Anand’s India Visit To Deepen Trade, Energy, Security And Defence Cooperation

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has arrived in India for talks designed to accelerate a broad-based partnership covering trade, energy, security and defence, as New Delhi and Ottawa intensify efforts to strengthen ties after a period of renewed diplomatic engagement.

Her discussions with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will centre on priorities identified in the bilateral roadmap, including economic cooperation, mobility, energy collaboration and stronger people-to-people connections. The meeting represents their 11th engagement since September 2025, reflecting increasingly frequent high-level contact.

A key objective of the visit is to maintain momentum in negotiations for the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The fifth negotiating round is already underway, with both governments aiming to finalise the agreement by the end of 2026. Critical minerals, aerospace and energy have emerged as major pillars of the proposed economic partnership.

Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu is accompanying the Canadian delegation, which includes almost 300 business leaders. The mission, Canada's largest commercial delegation to India in more than three decades, is focused on securing opportunities in clean energy, technology, life sciences, aerospace, agri-food and forestry.

Ottawa has set an ambitious goal of increasing bilateral trade with India from approximately $30 billion to more than $70 billion by 2030. Official figures show total two-way trade reached $30.4 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing economic significance of the relationship.

During her stay in New Delhi, Anand will also attend the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, where she is expected to outline Canada's view of middle-power cooperation in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment and reinforce Canada's commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit forms part of a wider regional tour that concludes in the UAE, where Anand will meet senior political and business leaders to discuss trade, artificial intelligence, innovation, security and defence cooperation.

Collectively, the India and UAE engagements reflect Canada's broader strategy of expanding economic partnerships and strengthening strategic relationships across the Indo-Pacific and Middle East.

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Trump Dismisses Claims of Russian And Chinese Assistance To Iran, Says They Have Too Much To Lose

US President Donald Trump has rejected allegations that Russia and China are assisting Iran, stating that he does not believe either country is providing support to Tehran. He argued that both Moscow and Beijing have too much at stake to become involved and said any such activity would be detected quickly by the United States.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticised what he described as claims from political opponents that Russia and China were helping Iran. He maintained that, even if any assistance were occurring, it would be at a very limited level, adding that he does not believe such support exists.

Trump's comments come against the backdrop of recent high-level engagements with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, centred on energy, trade, economic co-operation and wider bilateral relations.

Last week, Trump held a telephone conversation with Putin that reportedly lasted around 90 minutes. According to Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov, the discussion was substantive and cordial, covering energy supplies, economic initiatives and international issues.

Following the call, Trump announced a proposed arrangement under which Russia would supply large quantities of diesel fuel to both American and global markets. The plan includes an initial shipment of more than 300,000 tons, followed by a further 500,000 tons in November and an additional 1,000,000 tons thereafter.

Trump also stated that, subject to refinery conditions, Russia would subsequently deliver a further 30,00,000 tons of diesel fuel within a relatively short period.

Linking the proposal to global energy markets, Trump said the additional Russian supplies, combined with what he described as US control over the Strait of Hormuz, would contribute to a rapid decline in diesel prices for consumers in the United States and internationally.

The remarks reflect a broader warming in US-Russia economic engagement under Trump's administration, with energy security and fuel affordability emerging as key areas of focus amid continuing volatility in global energy markets.

Trump's recent diplomatic outreach has also included closer engagement with China. Xi Jinping visited Washington in September for a three-day trip, marking his second meeting with Trump in less than six months.

According to the White House, the discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties, economic co-operation and long-term strategic interests between the world's two largest economies.

Following the summit, the United States and China agreed to provide more favourable tariff treatment for non-sensitive goods worth approximately ₹2.52 lakh crore in each direction. The two countries also established a new dialogue mechanism on emerging technologies.

The leaders further operationalised the US-China Board of Trade and the US-China Board of Investment, institutions that were established during the May 2026 summit in Beijing to promote commercial and investment co-operation.

As part of the economic agreements, China also committed to importing at least 10 million metric tons of US coal across 2027 and 2028, highlighting ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen trade links despite broader geopolitical competition.

Trump's rejection of claims regarding Russian and Chinese support for Iran therefore comes at a time when his administration is pursuing active engagement with both powers, particularly in the areas of trade, energy and economic co-operation, while seeking to avoid further escalation of tensions involving Tehran.

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Singapore Deputy PM Gan Kim Yong Visits India To Deepen Economic Partnership And Trade Cooperation

Singapore Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy and Trade and Industry (Trade) Gan Kim Yong is undertaking a visit to India from 13 to 15 October as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation and reinforce the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

His visit will include engagements in New Delhi and Chennai, where he is scheduled to meet government representatives, business leaders and institutional partners to advance economic collaboration and explore new areas of partnership.

In New Delhi on 13 and 14 October, Gan will hold discussions with senior Indian officials and industry figures. The meetings are aimed at enhancing trade, investment and broader economic links between Singapore and India, which have developed into one of the region’s most significant strategic economic partnerships.

He will then travel to Chennai on 15 October for engagements with business leaders and representatives of Singaporean companies operating in India. The discussions will focus on expanding commercial opportunities and strengthening cooperation in key growth sectors.

Tamil Nadu remains a particularly important partner for Singapore. As India’s second-largest state economy and a major industrial centre, it attracts significant Singaporean business interest across manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy, real estate and digital services.

During his time in Chennai, Gan will also visit ITE Education Services (ITEES), which is supporting the implementation of the National Centre of Excellence for Advanced Manufacturing.

The initiative is a bilateral project conducted under the Singapore Cooperation Program and reflects the growing emphasis on skills development and advanced industrial capabilities.

The visit forms part of Singapore’s wider efforts to reaffirm and expand its multifaceted relationship with India through closer engagement with governments, businesses and educational institutions.

While in New Delhi, Gan will also participate in the 8th Bloomberg New Economy Forum. As a member of the forum’s Advisory Board, he is expected to join a panel examining how countries are pursuing greater self-sufficiency in an evolving global economic environment.

Gan is accompanied by officials from Singapore’s Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry, the Economic Development Board and Enterprise Singapore, underscoring the significance Singapore places on deepening economic engagement with India and supporting future growth opportunities between the two nations.

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India Urges UN To Classify Major Terrorist Acts As Crimes Against Humanity

R Mythili, Counsellor (Legal Adviser) at India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations

India has called on the United Nations to ensure that terrorist acts meeting the requisite legal threshold are recognised within the framework of crimes against humanity, arguing that such offences should be appropriately reflected in any future international legal instrument on the subject.

Speaking during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly's Sixth Committee, R Mythili, Counsellor (Legal Adviser) at India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, outlined New Delhi's position during discussions on the proposed international framework for the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity.

India stressed that while international cooperation remains essential, the primary responsibility for preventing, investigating and prosecuting crimes against humanity must rest with sovereign states through their own legal and judicial systems.

The country underscored the importance of preserving the primacy of territorial and national jurisdictions, while maintaining respect for state sovereignty and the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of nations.

New Delhi argued that any future convention on crimes against humanity should complement existing international legal mechanisms rather than duplicate them. It cautioned against simply transferring provisions from existing international regimes into a new treaty without careful consideration of their suitability and effectiveness.

India further advocated the use of broadly accepted principles of international law, stronger national institutional capacities, and transparent, inclusive negotiations as the basis for developing an effective and widely accepted international framework.

The intervention reflects India's long-standing position that terrorism remains one of the gravest threats to international peace and security and that serious terrorist offences should not escape accountability under evolving international legal norms.

India's remarks also align with its wider counter-terrorism strategy pursued over the past decade, marked by stronger legal frameworks, institutional reforms and enhanced intelligence coordination between central and state authorities.

Efforts to combat cross-border terrorism, dismantle terror-financing networks and modernise policing and security capabilities have strengthened the country's national security architecture. Expanded cyber-security capabilities have also improved preparedness against emerging digital threats.

According to the government's stated assessment, these measures have contributed to improvements in internal security indicators, including reductions in terrorist incidents and lower casualties among civilians and security personnel, while supporting broader public safety, development and national resilience objectives.

Through its statement, India reiterated support for an international convention on crimes against humanity that respects national jurisdiction, avoids duplication of existing legal mechanisms and is developed through transparent and inclusive negotiations, while ensuring that qualifying terrorist acts are appropriately addressed within the crimes against humanity framework.

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Former UK PM Rishi Sunak Says India Increasingly Able To Pursue Independent Path Amid Shifting Global Order

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said countries such as India and those in the Gulf are increasingly capable of pursuing their own strategic interests in a changing international landscape, rather than consistently aligning with either the United States or China.

Speaking during the panel discussion, The End of Predictability, at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026 in New Delhi, Sunak said the world was moving away from the multilateral, rules-based framework that had underpinned global commerce and international relations for decades.

He argued that former US President Donald Trump should be viewed as a symptom rather than the cause of wider geopolitical changes, adding that the international system had yet to settle into a new equilibrium. According to Sunak, this uncertainty was generating significant geopolitical risks and potential dangers.

Sunak highlighted China's emergence as a peer competitor to the United States across economic, military and technological domains, describing this as one of the defining developments shaping the modern global economy.

He said nations such as India and several Gulf states now possess greater economic and strategic influence, enabling them to make decisions based primarily on their own national interests. As a result, these countries would not necessarily support either Washington or Beijing on every issue.

Addressing global security concerns, Sunak noted that the number of state-based armed conflicts had risen sharply, reaching 61 worldwide, the highest level since the Second World War. He said this trend was a cause for concern and reflected growing instability across the international system.

In a light-hearted remark, Sunak suggested that Donald Trump might view those conflicts as opportunities to secure a Nobel Peace Prize through diplomatic intervention.

He also referred to comments made by the US President's deputy chief of staff, who argued that the modern international environment was increasingly governed by force, strength and power.

While describing that interpretation as somewhat extreme, Sunak acknowledged that hard power was becoming more significant. He said governments were increasingly recognising that economic security, national security and technological capability were closely interconnected.

According to Sunak, this convergence of geopolitical, economic and technological challenges has created what he characterised as a world of growing unpredictability and a complex mixture of risks for governments, businesses and investors.

The discussion explored how political and business leaders can navigate an era increasingly defined by uncertainty, fragmentation and disruption.

The panel also featured Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, and Jonathan Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blackstone.

The Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026 is being held in New Delhi from 13 October to 15 October under the theme, A World in Play: Defining the New Levers of Power, bringing together global policymakers, business leaders and investors to discuss the changing balance of economic and geopolitical influence.

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Musk’s $366 Million Republican Spending Draws Fresh ‘Oligarchy’ Attack From Bernie Sanders

US Senator Bernie Sanders has sharply criticised billionaire Elon Musk over his reported political spending, accusing the SpaceX chief executive of using his vast wealth to influence American politics and strengthen Republican control of Congress ahead of the US midterm elections.

In a post on X, Sanders argued that Musk had already benefited enormously from backing Donald Trump’s successful presidential campaign. Sanders said Musk had spent $290 million to help elect Trump and had subsequently seen his wealth rise by $696 billion, making him the world’s first trillionaire.

According to Sanders, those gains had not curbed Musk’s political involvement. He alleged that Musk is now spending a further $366 million to help Republicans retain control of Congress, urging voters to “stop Musk” and “stop oligarchy”.

The criticism follows reports that Musk has become the largest individual political donor of the election cycle. Recent disclosures indicate he has spent $276 million since July, including $158 million channelled to a super PAC supporting Republican Senate candidates.

Supporters of the spending argue that it is intended to improve Republican electoral prospects in what is historically a challenging environment for the party during midterm elections. Representatives of America PAC said the investments were designed to help Republicans communicate their message more effectively to voters.

The debate over Musk’s political influence comes amid separate controversy surrounding Starlink’s efforts to expand in India’s satellite communications sector.

Responding to an online discussion about Starlink’s prospects in India, Musk claimed that powerful business interests were preventing the company’s entry into the market in order to protect their dominant positions. He alleged that a small number of influential figures were attempting to preserve a monopolistic grip over satellite connectivity services in the country.

India’s Ministry of Communications rejected any suggestion of discrimination, stating that the regulatory framework governing satellite communications is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory for all participants.

The Ministry said that all operators seeking to offer satellite communication services must satisfy applicable national security requirements before progressing through the authorisation process. It also noted that licences had already been granted to three global mobile personal communication by satellite service providers using non-geostationary satellite orbit technology, with security evaluations continuing for all licensees.

Officials further clarified that every authorised operator must demonstrate compliance with security conditions designed to protect users and their data. Spectrum allocation can proceed only after the relevant assessment procedures have been completed.

Musk’s accusations regarding alleged oligarchic influence in India have attracted attention because of similar criticism being directed at him in the United States. While claiming that entrenched commercial interests are restricting competition in India, Musk is simultaneously facing scrutiny over the scale of his own political spending in America.

Sanders has argued that Musk’s increasing fortune, combined with his substantial financial support for Republican candidates and organisations, illustrates the growing influence of billionaire wealth within the US political system and raises broader questions about the concentration of political power among a small number of ultra-wealthy individuals.

ANI

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