DRDO Launches QRSAM-ER Program To Extend India’s Tactical Air Defence Range

DRDO has initiated the QRSAM-ER program, which is expected to be an Extended Range version of the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile system.

While the current QRSAM has a maximum range of 30 kilometres and altitude of 6 kilometres, the ER variant is being designed to significantly extend these parameters, aligning India’s air defence capabilities with modern threats.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation has already demonstrated success with the baseline QRSAM system, which is intended to provide mobile, quick-reaction protection against aircraft, helicopters, drones, and precision-guided munitions.

The ER version is now being developed to address the limitations of the existing system, particularly its relatively short range and altitude ceiling.

The current QRSAM employs a solid-fuel rocket motor, mid-course guidance via inertial navigation, and terminal homing through an active radar seeker. 

It is supported by a fully integrated command and control system, including battlefield surveillance radars and mobile launchers. The ER variant is expected to retain these features but incorporate a more powerful propulsion system, possibly a dual-pulse rocket motor, to extend its engagement envelope.

Reports suggest that QRSAM-ER will be able to engage targets at ranges well beyond 30 kilometres, potentially in the 60–80 kilometre class, with altitude coverage increased to 10–12 kilometres.

This would place it closer to the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system, bridging the gap between short-range tactical defences and longer-range strategic systems such as the S-400 and the upcoming Project Kusha Extended Range Air Defence System.

The ER variant is also expected to feature improved seekers, possibly combining active radar with infrared homing, to enhance performance against stealthy and manoeuvring targets. Anti-jamming capabilities and network-centric integration with the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System are likely to be standard features, ensuring resilience against electronic warfare.

Development of QRSAM-ER fits into India’s broader layered air defence strategy. With MR-SAM covering 70–100 kilometres, Barak-8 extending to 120 kilometres, and Project Kusha aiming for 150–400 kilometres, the ER version of QRSAM will provide a vital intermediate shield for mobile formations and critical infrastructure. This ensures that India’s air defence grid is not overly reliant on imported systems and can respond to diverse aerial threats across multiple ranges.

The program is also significant from an industrial perspective. Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited are expected to play major roles in radar and missile production, while DRDO laboratories such as Research Centre Imarat will lead design and seeker development.

This reflects India’s continued emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

Trials of QRSAM-ER are anticipated within the next two years, following the successful induction of the baseline QRSAM system.

Once operational, the ER variant will provide the Indian Army and Air Force with a more versatile and survivable air defence solution, capable of countering high-speed aerial threats at extended ranges.

Agencies

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TEJAS-LIFT Should Emerge As Practical Successor To Hawk MK-132 With Dual Combat Role

The availability of advanced simulators has indeed transformed the way air forces approach pilot training. With immersive systems capable of replicating radar operations, electronic warfare environments, and missile engagements, the traditional reliance on advanced trainer jets such as the Hawk MK-132 is being reconsidered.

Modern simulators can replicate the cockpit environment of frontline fighters with remarkable fidelity, reducing the need for dedicated advanced trainers that are limited in scope.

The concept of Lead-In Fighter Trainers (LIFT) has emerged as a practical solution. Unlike conventional trainers, these platforms are designed to be almost fighter-like, providing pilots with a realistic transition to frontline combat aircraft.

The inclusion of a Large Area Display (LAD) allows the cockpit to be reconfigured to simulate different fighter types, giving trainees authentic exposure to the characteristics of multiple aircraft. This ensures that pilots are not only trained in flying but also in managing complex avionics and combat systems.

The TEJAS LIFT or SPORT variant is distinct from the standard Light Combat Aircraft trainer. While the idea has existed for years, it is now seen as the most approachable and practical option.

Unlike a pure trainer, this platform would be fully combat capable, serving as a dual-purpose aircraft. It could act as a mothership for Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) operations, extending its utility beyond training into active combat roles. This dual capability makes it far more valuable than a traditional trainer, which is restricted to instructional duties.

The production of TEJAS has already been streamlined, with the exception of engine supply constraints. Given this progress, the timeline for introducing a LIFT variant is achievable.

In contrast, the HLFT-42 program remains at a conceptual stage and has yet to reach critical design review. Dropping the HLFT-42 would allow resources to be redirected towards more pressing projects, ensuring faster delivery of operationally relevant platforms.

The induction of 150 LIFT aircraft based on the TEJAS design would also make the Kaveri 2.0 engine program more desirable. A large fleet requiring indigenous propulsion would provide the necessary scale to justify investment in the engine’s development, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening India’s aerospace ecosystem. This aligns with the broader push for self-reliance in defence technology.

The Indian Air Force’s requirement for advanced trainers is not simply about replacing ageing Hawks. It is about preparing pilots for a combat environment defined by networked sensors, electronic warfare, long-range missiles, and sophisticated data links.

A LIFT platform with embedded simulation, LAD cockpit adaptability, and combat capability bridges this gap more effectively than a conventional trainer. It reduces the burden on frontline fighters, ensures realistic training, and simultaneously expands the combat fleet.

The shift towards LIFT aircraft reflects a new paradigm in training philosophy. Trainers are no longer seen as limited instructional tools but as versatile combat assets.

By integrating advanced simulation, dual-role capability, and indigenous propulsion, India can achieve both operational efficiency and strategic autonomy. The decision to prioritise TEJAS LIFT over HLFT-42 is therefore not only practical but also strategically sound.

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India’s VIHAAN Broadband Chip Secures First-Pass Silicon Milestone, Targets 2027 Production

India has marked a major semiconductor milestone as Chennai-based Aheesa Digital Innovations achieved first-pass silicon success with its VIHAAN broadband chip, built on the indigenous VEGA processor core.

The Ministry of Electronics and IT confirmed that the chip will move towards production tape-out in 2027, strengthening India’s self-reliance in fibre broadband technology.

A tape-out is the final phase of the integrated circuit or semiconductor chip design process. It occurs when the final layout file (usually in GDSII or OASIS format) is sent to a manufacturing foundry to produce the photomasks used for fabrication.

The VIHAAN chip was taped out on Republic Day this year and achieved first-pass silicon success on Independence Day. This symbolic timing underscores its importance as a national achievement in semiconductor design. The chip is a 28-nanometre networking System-on-Chip that integrates compute, broadband access, and system control on a single die.

It is built using the VEGA processor core developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing under the RISC-V architecture. This open-source instruction set architecture allows flexibility, security, and independence from foreign proprietary cores, aligning with India’s strategic goal of technological sovereignty.

The chip is designed specifically for optical fibre access networks. These networks are used by telecom operators to deliver last-mile connectivity to homes and offices, a critical requirement as India expands its digital infrastructure through broadband and 5G services. By deploying VIHAAN, operators can reduce reliance on imported silicon and strengthen domestic supply chains.

The Ministry of Electronics and IT confirmed on 15 August that the chip will now proceed towards production tape-out, targeted for 2027. This step will enable commercial manufacturing and deployment in India’s fibre broadband ecosystem.

The achievement is part of the broader Design Linked Incentive program, which supports Indian start-ups in semiconductor design across applications such as satellite communications, drones, defence systems, automotive electronics, IoT devices, and smart meters.

Aheesa Digital Innovations, a fabless semiconductor start-up headquartered in Chennai, has positioned itself as a key player in broadband networking and security. The company raised approximately ₹40 crore earlier this year from the Tamil Nadu Emerging Sector Seed Fund and private investors. This funding is intended to accelerate product development and support growth in the semiconductor space.

The government has emphasised that semiconductor chip design contributes up to 50 per cent of overall value addition in the semiconductor value chain and accounts for 15–35 per cent of the bill of materials cost of electronic products.

Under the DLI program, chip-design tools have been made available to 455 organisations, including 350 academic institutions and 105 start-ups, to foster innovation and workforce development. Additionally, under the Chips to Start-up program, 245 chip designs have been taped out by 71 academic institutions.

The VIHAAN chip represents not only a technological breakthrough but also a strategic milestone in India’s semiconductor journey. It strengthens the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing dependence on foreign designs and ensuring secure, indigenous solutions for critical broadband infrastructure.

The success of VIHAAN also demonstrates investor confidence in India’s deep-tech ecosystem, with more than $100 million raised cumulatively by DLI-backed firms.

This achievement places Aheesa Digital Innovations among the leading Indian start-ups contributing to the country’s semiconductor roadmap. With production tape-out scheduled for 2027, VIHAAN is expected to play a pivotal role in enabling fibre broadband connectivity across homes and offices, supporting India’s digital transformation and global competitiveness in semiconductor technology.

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Private Sector Yantur Versus DRDO Manik Engine In India’s Indigenous Propulsion Race

The Yantur engines from Paninian India and DRDO’s Manik turbofan represent two distinct approaches to indigenous propulsion: one driven by private-sector innovation and modular adaptability, the other by state-led reliability and mass deployment for cruise missiles.

Together, they highlight India’s evolving aerospace ecosystem where private and public efforts are converging to reduce dependence on foreign propulsion systems.

The Yantur program is India’s first privately developed compact turbofan engine initiative. It is designed to deliver 4.5 kN thrust, scalable up to 12.5 kN, making it suitable for cruise missiles and autonomous combat drones.

Proprietary technologies include advanced combustor design, compressor innovations, diffuser-nozzle aerodynamics, and digital twin health monitoring. Paninian India has filed five patents and is positioning Yantur as a family of propulsion systems for future autonomous platforms.

The Svayatt-L1 cruise missile is its first application, with potential expansion into loitering munitions and collaborative combat aerial vehicles.

The Manik engine, developed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment and manufactured by BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited, is a twin-spool expendable turbofan optimised for cruise missiles.

Delivering between 4.25 and 5 kN thrust, it has already replaced the Russian NPO Saturn 36MT engine in India’s Nirbhay and ITCM missiles. Its pyrotechnic mid-air ignition system is critical for air-launched profiles, while FADEC integration ensures fuel efficiency and thrust modulation even in expendable applications.

Current production is limited to 12 engines per year, creating bottlenecks for India’s projected requirement of nearly 1,000 Nirbhay-class missiles. DRDO is now exploring a 10 kN scaled variant for advanced UAVs like the CATS Warrior.

The contrast between Yantur and Manik lies in their strategic orientation. Yantur is a private-sector innovation aimed at scalability, modularity, and long-term adaptability across multiple platforms. Manik is a state-developed workhorse designed for immediate deployment in cruise missile systems, with proven reliability but constrained production capacity.

India’s propulsion ecosystem is expanding beyond turbofans. In August 2026, DRDO and Azad Engineering delivered the country’s first indigenous 350 kg thrust-class expendable turbojet engine. This engine is designed for cruise missiles, loitering munitions, target drones, and UAVs.

It marks India’s entry into an exclusive club of nations capable of producing compact military turbojets. Unlike rockets, turbojets continuously ingest air, requiring advanced metallurgy and combustion physics. This milestone reduces dependence on imports and strengthens private-sector participation.

In May 2026, DRDO achieved a breakthrough in hypersonic propulsion with a scramjet engine sustaining combustion for 1,200 seconds at Mach 6. This test, codenamed Mission Agnipankh, demonstrated stable supersonic combustion using boron-based slurry fuel.

It positions India ahead of China’s reported 600-second scramjet run and validates technologies for future hypersonic cruise missiles. Such systems could evade existing air defence networks, enhancing India’s deterrence.

Both engines are vital: Yantur for future autonomy and private-sector competitiveness, Manik for current missile readiness and strategic deterrence.

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Pakistan’s Missiles Targeting Delhi Triggered India’s Deadly BrahMos Strikes In Operation Sindoor

More than seventy-one hours into the May 2025 confrontation between India and Pakistan, Islamabad launched a high-speed missile towards Delhi, CNBCTV18 reported.

This incident, revealed in Discovery’s two-part docuseries Declassified: Operation Sindoor, became the trigger for India’s most intense retaliatory assault. National security analyst Nitin Gokhale explained that the missile was intercepted over Sirsa in Haryana at around 1:30 am on 10 May.

The Ministry of Defence had earlier confirmed that Pakistan had launched a massive attack on Indian military infrastructure using missiles, drones, rockets and other long-range weapons, though it had not publicly identified Delhi as a target.

Indians awoke on 10 May to videos circulating of missile debris scattered in a field near Sirsa. Reports indicated that the threat was neutralised by the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile system operated by an Indian Air Force unit stationed there.

According to Gokhale, this attack on the national capital signalled India to unleash its final retaliatory strike. Responsibility was handed to the Air Force, which deployed BrahMos cruise missiles in a coordinated assault.

Shortly after Pakistan’s attempted strikes, the Indian Air Force targeted airfields, radar installations and command centres deep inside Pakistani territory. This marked India’s first major strike on Pakistani airbases.

The initial wave hit Rafiqui, Sukkur, Rahim Yar Khan and Nur Khan bases, followed by strikes on Sargodha, Bholari and Jacobabad. Within hours, eleven Pakistani bases had been struck. Air Marshal Awadesh Bharti emphasised that the intent was calibrated, designed to demonstrate India’s ability to strike at will without Pakistan being able to respond effectively.

Senior officers detailed the extensive damage inflicted on Pakistani airbases, including runways, hangars and aircraft. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later acknowledged the destruction caused by India’s missile and BrahMos attacks, including damage at Rawalpindi airport.

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh explained that India engaged Pakistan across a front of 1,200 kilometres, penetrating nearly 200 kilometres inside its territory. He noted that all weapons reached their intended targets, underscoring the precision of the strikes.

The BrahMos-A cruise missile was central to this assault, with its high speed and destructive capability making interception nearly impossible. Singh highlighted that its indigenous origin added to its significance.

Within hours of the strikes, Pakistani officials sought urgent contact with New Delhi. Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, contacted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who in turn reached out to India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

India refused mediation, insisting that communication must occur directly between the Directors General of Military Operations of both countries. Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, India’s DGMO, received a message around 9 am that his Pakistani counterpart wished to speak. Technical issues delayed the hotline, but by 3:30 pm the two officers were able to connect.

Maj Gen Kashif Abdullah, Pakistan’s DGMO, requested a ceasefire, acknowledging the heavy damage inflicted by BrahMos strikes. He reportedly said: “Sir, having hit so many BrahMos missiles at us, you should now be satisfied, and we can bring this to a stop.”

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval confirmed that Pakistan repeatedly asked for hostilities to end. India agreed, and by 5:30 pm on 10 May both sides ceased fire. Doval stressed that India’s restraint should not be mistaken for weakness, noting that India had demonstrated its ability to take risks and strike hard regardless of consequences.

The conclusion of Operation Sindoor conveyed a clear message to the world: India possessed both the capability and the resolve to respond decisively to aggression, while retaining control over escalation and disengagement.

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Jindal Defence System And PLR Systems Secure DGQA Certification, Boosting India’s Defence Export Drive

India has taken another step toward strengthening its Make in India defence manufacturing and export ecosystem. On 13 August 2026, the Director General of DGQA, handed over ‘Fit As Per Vendor Specification Certificates’ to two Indian defence companies under the Defence Export Promotion Scheme.

Jindal Defence System Pvt. Ltd., Hisar received certification for its Pistol TS-9 chambered in 9×19 mm.

PLR Systems (India) Ltd., Kanpur was awarded certification covering four defence products. These certifications are expected to enhance the credibility of the companies’ offerings in international markets and support India’s growing presence in the global defence sector.

The Defence Export Promotion Scheme is designed to ensure that Indian defence products meet stringent quality standards and vendor specifications. Certification under this scheme provides assurance to international buyers about product reliability, performance, and adherence to technical requirements. This step is seen as crucial in building trust with foreign customers and expanding India’s export footprint.

India’s defence industry has been steadily moving from import substitution to export orientation. The government has set ambitious targets of achieving ₹3 lakh crore in defence production and ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.

Certification initiatives such as these are expected to play a vital role in meeting those targets by enabling Indian companies to compete in global defence programs.

The certification of Jindal Defence System and PLR Systems highlights the increasing role of private sector companies in India’s defence ecosystem. Both firms have invested in advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, and product innovation to align with international standards.

Their inclusion under the Defence Export Promotion Scheme demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting private industry in accessing global markets.

This development also ties into the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where India seeks to build self-reliance in defence manufacturing while simultaneously becoming a net exporter of defence technologies.

By expanding its indigenous base and ensuring product credibility, India is positioning itself as a reliable partner in global supply chains.

India’s defence exports have already reached nearly 100 countries, with over 145 exporters active in the sector. The addition of certified products from Jindal Defence System and PLR Systems will further diversify India’s export portfolio and strengthen its reputation as a producer of high-quality defence equipment.

From Make in India to Export from India, the country’s defence industry is steadily going global. The certification of these companies marks another milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a recognised hub for defence manufacturing and exports.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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'Wherever They Are...': Pursue Pahalgam Terrorist Savages Anywhere, Operation Sindoor Detailed By NSA Doval In PM Modi’s Directive

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has revealed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s uncompromising directive following the Pahalgam terror attack of 22 April 2025.

NSA Doval stated that the Prime Minister made it clear India would pursue the perpetrators “wherever they are,” whether on earth, in the sky or in hell. This remark, delivered in the Discovery docuseries Declassified: Operation Sindoor, underscores the determination behind India’s military response.

NSA Doval recalled his immediate interaction with the Prime Minister upon his return from Saudi Arabia, where he had been during the attack. At the airport, Modi demanded clarity on the perpetrators, asking, “Who has done it? Who is responsible? We should be very clear who the perpetrators are. I want it immediately.” Doval credited India’s intelligence agencies for swiftly identifying those responsible, enabling rapid decision-making.

The Pahalgam attack claimed 26 civilian lives, shocking the nation. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on 7 May 2025, striking terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The objective was clear: to destroy enemy camps, particularly those linked to the attack. Doval emphasised that India’s tolerance should not be mistaken for weakness, declaring that the country could take risks and strike hard irrespective of consequences.

He further stressed that India’s fight to preserve sovereignty had “no limits.” He said, “Once anything starts, we are willing to go as far as it is necessary for a nation to preserve its sovereignty, and there are no limits on that. We fight till the last drop of blood.”

Operation Sindoor expanded into a wider confrontation after Pakistan launched offensives, leading to Indian counter-offensives. The conflict lasted nearly 88 hours before an understanding was reached on 10 May.

Former Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, also featured in the docuseries, stated that Pakistan was told unequivocally that talks and terror could not proceed together. Operation Sindoor was not limited to military action; it included diplomatic, economic and information-related measures.

India placed the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance, pending Pakistan’s credible renunciation of terrorism. This was part of a broader strategy combining military strength with international outreach and domestic preparedness.

The three terrorists directly involved in the Pahalgam attack were later eliminated in Operation Mahadev by the Army, CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police. Prime Minister Modi described Operation Sindoor as more than a military campaign, calling it a reflection of the sentiments of millions of Indians and an unbroken pledge of justice.

He said, “We remain committed to taking strong steps to safeguard India and its people. On the battlefield, we have always defeated Pakistan, and this time Operation Sindoor has added a new dimension.”

The docuseries features accounts from senior military leadership, including General Upendra Dwivedi, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai and General Anil Chauhan. 

Together, they provide a comprehensive view of the decisions and events that shaped one of the most serious military confrontations between India and Pakistan in recent years. The narrative highlights the synergy of India’s armed forces under clear political directives and the resolve to ensure justice for the victims of Pahalgam.

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India’s National Critical Mineral Mission Anchors Energy Security And Green Technology Drive

India’s ₹34,300 crore National Critical Mineral Mission has emerged as the cornerstone of its energy security strategy, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasising self-reliance in lithium, cobalt, and nickel during his Independence Day address.

The mission is designed to power advanced technologies, AI, and green energy while reducing absolute import dependence.

The National Critical Mineral Mission carries a seven-year financial outlay combining ₹16,300 crore from budgetary allocations and ₹18,000 crore from public enterprises. This funding is directed towards scaling domestic mining, deep-sea exploration, and recycling.

The Geological Survey of India has already intensified exploration, with over 230 projects underway in 2025–26. The National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust has sanctioned more than 120 projects since 2024, including support for private exploration agencies.

Four dedicated processing hubs are planned across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. These hubs will form the backbone of domestic value chains for battery elements, enabling India to move beyond raw extraction into refining and advanced processing.

A ₹500 crore allocation has been earmarked for mineral processing parks, while nine premier institutes have been recognised as Centres of Excellence to drive research and development in beneficiation, separation, and recycling technologies.

Global partnerships remain a critical pillar. India is pursuing overseas asset acquisitions, with public sector undertakings tasked to secure up to 50 foreign mines by 2030. Agreements with Argentina, Australia, Japan, and Myanmar have already been signed, focusing on lithium brine blocks, rare earths, and cobalt reserves.

The mission also envisages a Critical Mineral Corridor, linking domestic and international allies to ensure resilient supply chains.

Offshore exploration has been opened up in previously restricted coastal waters. This includes deep-sea mining initiatives for polymetallic nodules and hydrocarbon reserves, aligning with India’s broader energy diversification goals.

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act was amended in 2025 to allow exploration licences for deep-seated minerals, encouraging private-sector participation.

The mission also incorporates recycling as a major thrust. A ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme was launched in October 2025 to promote recovery of minerals from tailings, fly ash, and red mud. Pilot projects are underway to recover cobalt and nickel from industrial waste streams.

The government aims to recycle 400 kilotons of material by 2031, reducing reliance on imports and supporting circular economy principles.

India’s reserves of rare earth oxides, estimated at seven million tonnes, are significant but face regulatory challenges due to thorium and uranium content. State-owned entities dominate extraction, but the mission seeks to gradually expand private participation under strict safeguards.

The strategic importance of this mission lies in its alignment with national clean energy and defence goals. Critical minerals underpin electric mobility, renewable energy storage, aerospace, and AI-driven technologies. By building domestic capacity and securing overseas assets, India aims to achieve substantial strategic self-reliance, even if complete independence from imports remains unattainable.

Timelines remain a challenge, as mineral discoveries often take over a decade to translate into production. However, the mission’s integrated approach—combining exploration, processing, recycling, and global partnerships—offers India a realistic pathway to becoming a major hub in the critical minerals value chain.

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Adani Green’s Khavda Park Emerges As The World’s Largest Renewable Energy Hub

The Khavda Renewable Energy Park in Gujarat is emerging as the world’s largest clean energy hub. Spread across 726 square kilometres, nearly five times the size of Paris, the project is transforming barren salt desert land near the border into a global powerhouse of renewable energy.

The park is designed to deliver 30 gigawatts of clean energy capacity, with 20 GW from solar and 10 GW from wind. This scale of generation is equivalent to powering the residential energy needs of entire nations such as Chile, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland or Canada. Nearly 10 GW is already operational, with full completion targeted by 2030.

The project is spearheaded largely by Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), but it is also being developed through major public-private partnerships involving NTPC, NHPC and KPI Green. This collaborative model reflects India’s ambition to combine industrial capacity with national energy goals.

Infographic by Green Fuel Journal

Khavda’s hybrid energy model integrates vast solar panel arrays with large wind turbine installations in a single zone. This combination ensures a more balanced and reliable supply of clean power by harnessing both sun and wind resources. The facility also incorporates large-scale battery energy storage systems to capture surplus electricity and release it during peak demand, strengthening grid stability.

The renewable park directly supports India’s national target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity. It is expected to power roughly 18 million Indian homes, contributing significantly to the country’s energy independence and climate commitments.

Built on barren wasteland with no forests, farming or major habitation, the project avoids ecological displacement while creating new opportunities for sustainable development. With an estimated investment of 18 billion dollars, the park is also generating employment for more than 15,000 people, making it both an energy and socio-economic transformation program.

The Khavda site has already operationalised nearly 10 GW of renewable capacity, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of India’s clean energy expansion. By 2030, the park will stand as a benchmark for global-scale renewable integration, positioning India at the forefront of the energy transition.

AGEL has invested heavily in advanced renewable technologies, including bifacial solar modules with single-axis trackers and India’s largest 5.2 MW onshore wind turbines. It has also pioneered waterless robotic cleaning systems, reducing water usage to near zero while maximising efficiency. The project is supported by a centralised AI-driven control room, enabling real-time monitoring and optimisation at an unprecedented scale.

NTPC Green Energy Limited, through its subsidiary NTPC Renewable Energy Limited, is also playing a significant role in Khavda. It has commissioned multiple phases of solar capacity, including 270 MW at Khavda-II and 64.76 MW at Khavda Solar PV Project, contributing to India’s clean energy expansion.

By the end of FY 2026, NTPC’s renewable arm had crossed the 10 GW milestone, with Khavda being a central component of its portfolio. NTPC’s phased commissioning strategy ensures steady additions while managing grid integration challenges.

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a defining feature of Khavda’s infrastructure. AGEL has commissioned the world’s largest single-location battery storage system outside China, with a capacity of 3.37 GWh.

This deployment was completed in just ten months, making it one of the fastest utility-scale battery projects globally. The system can store enough clean energy to power nearly one million homes for a day, supporting peak electricity demand in cities or even entire states.

Integrated with advanced energy management systems and lithium-ion technologies, the BESS ensures grid stability, reduces transmission congestion, and enables renewable energy to be delivered reliably round-the-clock. AGEL plans to scale this to 50 GWh over the next five years, cementing Khavda’s role as a global leader in renewable storage.

The combined efforts of Adani Green Energy, NTPC, and other partners at Khavda highlight India’s ambition to lead the global clean energy transition.

The integration of solar, wind, and battery storage at gigawatt scale is unprecedented, and the socio-economic impact is equally significant, with over 15,000 jobs created and billions invested. Khavda is not just a renewable park; it is a blueprint for future energy systems worldwide.

This initiative is more than an infrastructure project. It is a statement of India’s scale, ambition and determination to lead in clean energy. The future of energy is being built in India, and Khavda is at the heart of that transformation.

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Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth’s Nepal Visit To Strengthen Defence Cooperation

General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff of India, has arrived in Nepal for an official visit scheduled from 17 to 19 August.

His visit comes at a time when India and Nepal continue to deepen their defence cooperation and military-to-military ties, reflecting the enduring strategic partnership between the two neighbours.

On Monday, General Seth will lay a wreath at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel and receive a Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters.

He will hold discussions with the Chief of the Army Staff of the Nepali Army and will be briefed by the Director General Military Operations of the Nepali Army on issues of mutual interest. These engagements highlight the operational and strategic coordination between the two armies.

Later, General Seth will attend the Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan in Kathmandu. In line with the longstanding tradition between the Indian and Nepali Armies, he will be conferred the Honorary Rank of General of the Nepali Army by President Ram Chandra Paudel.

This symbolic gesture underscores the unique military bond shared by the two nations, a tradition that has been maintained for decades.

On 18 August, General Seth will address student officers of the Army Command and Staff Course at Shivapuri. He will interact with instructors and foreign student officers, fostering academic and professional exchanges.

He will also meet senior dignitaries of Nepal to discuss matters of mutual interest, further strengthening defence diplomacy and institutional ties.

On 19 August, General Seth will attend an Ex-Servicemen Rally in Pokhara. He will felicitate Veer Naris and Gallantry Awardees, recognising their sacrifices and contributions.

He will also interact with Indian Army veterans residing in Nepal, reinforcing the bond between the armed forces and the veteran community. He will return to India later the same day.

The Defence Ministry emphasised that India and Nepal share historical, social and cultural linkages that remain unparalleled globally. The relationship is often described as the ‘Roti Beti Ka Rishta’, symbolising familial and cultural ties.

Connections such as Janakpur-Ayodhya and Lumbini-Bodhgaya further highlight the civilizational and spiritual bonds between the two nations. These ties, combined with democratic principles and shared interests in regional peace and stability, make India and Nepal natural partners.

The visit by General Seth underscores the deep-rooted historical, cultural and military ties between India and Nepal. It provides an opportunity to explore new avenues of cooperation between the two armies, ensuring that defence relations continue to evolve in line with regional and global challenges. 

The engagements during this visit reaffirm the commitment of both nations to strengthening their partnership and safeguarding regional stability.

ANI

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Saudi Arabia And Global Leaders Extend Warm Greetings To India On 80th Independence Day

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended warm greetings to President Droupadi Murmu on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, King Salman sent a congratulatory cable to President Murmu. He wished her continued good health and happiness, while extending his wishes for steady progress and prosperity to the government and people of India.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques praised the distinguished relations between Saudi Arabia and India. He emphasised the shared commitment of both nations to advancing cooperation across all fields, reflecting the depth of bilateral ties.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent a separate message to President Murmu. He conveyed his wishes for her good health and happiness, and expressed hope for continued progress and prosperity for the government and people of India.

The greetings from Saudi Arabia came as India marked its 80th Independence Day, with wishes pouring in from across the world.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed India’s remarkable progress in economic, social, scientific and technological spheres. He noted that India rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena.

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening its partnership with India and strengthening the enduring friendship between the two peoples.

French President Emmanuel Macron extended warm wishes to the people of India on the landmark occasion. His message highlighted the importance of the growing partnership between Paris and New Delhi.

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as his “elder brother,” expressed hope that the friendship and close bond between the two nations would continue to flourish.

The messages from global leaders underline the breadth of India’s diplomatic engagement. They reflect the emphasis placed on friendship, cooperation and the pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous region.

The greetings also highlight India’s rising stature in the international community, with leaders across continents reaffirming their commitment to stronger partnerships with New Delhi.

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India’s Strategic Leap With NASA’s Moon Base Program

India’s participation in NASA’s Moon Base program will be transformative, giving ISRO access to advanced technologies, shared scientific data, and deep-space mission experience that would be prohibitively expensive to develop alone.

This collaboration positions India as a central player in global lunar exploration and accelerates its ambitions for human spaceflight and interplanetary missions.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, joined by acting Associate Administrator Lori Glaze and Moon Base Program Executive Carlos Garcia-Galan, held a news conference at NASA headquarters in Washington DC on 26 May 2026. The briefing outlined updated plans for the Moon Base initiative, which aims to establish a long-term human presence on the lunar surface.

The facility is envisioned as a permanent outpost near the lunar south pole. This location was chosen for its extended sunlight exposure and the presence of permanently shadowed craters containing significant deposits of water ice. These resources are expected to be crucial for sustaining human life and supporting scientific exploration.

The Moon Base will be constructed piece by piece, gradually expanding into humankind’s first settlement on another celestial body. NASA has set its sights on achieving this milestone around 2030, beginning with robotic missions and infrastructure development before human crews arrive.

The announcement comes amid intensifying global competition in space exploration. The United States views the Moon not as a distant frontier but as an extension of Earth’s geopolitical landscape, particularly in the context of its rivalry with China. The Moon Base program is therefore both a scientific endeavour and a strategic initiative to secure leadership in space.

At the ninth India-U.S. Civil Space Joint Working Group meeting held at ISRO headquarters, NASA formally invited the Indian Space Research Organisation to participate in the Moon Base program. This invitation is framed within the Artemis Accords partnership, which promotes cooperation, interoperability, and data sharing among signatory nations.

India’s potential involvement in the Moon Base program aligns with its broader ambitions in space exploration.

The country is already preparing for its first crewed mission under the Gaganyaan project in 2027, followed by plans to build a national space station by 2035 and place an astronaut on the lunar surface by 2040. Participation in NASA’s initiative could accelerate India’s progress and deepen its collaboration with the United States.

For India, the benefits are immense. Access to shared scientific data will strengthen its research institutions. Collaboration on advanced technologies such as power systems, life support, and resource utilisation will enhance ISRO’s capabilities.

Indian industry could gain opportunities to supply components, instruments, or services for lunar missions, boosting the domestic space economy. The partnership also provides Indian scientists and engineers with exposure to cutting-edge practices in deep-space mission planning and execution.

The Moon Base program is expected to serve as a stepping stone for future missions to Mars and beyond. By mastering the challenges of living and working on the Moon, NASA and its partners aim to develop the technologies and operational expertise required for deeper space exploration. India’s involvement ensures it will be part of this next giant leap.

The initiative reflects a broader shift in how humanity perceives the Moon. As L.P. Hartley once wrote, “The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.”

In contrast, the Moon today is no longer a foreign world but an extension of Earth’s political and scientific ambitions, shaped by the manoeuvring of nations seeking to secure their place in the next chapter of space exploration.

Agencies

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ONGC Secures US Licence To Resume Full Venezuela Operations And Eyes Operatorship

State‑owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has secured a licence from the United States Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, enabling it to resume full operations in Venezuela after years of restricted activity due to sanctions.

The approval removes a major obstacle for ONGC’s Venezuelan investments and opens the door for expanded production, new agreements, and potential operatorship of projects currently managed by Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA.

Anupam Agarwal, ONGC’s director‑finance, confirmed the development during an investor call following the company’s first quarter earnings announcement.

Agarwal stated that ONGC now has complete freedom to pursue its Venezuelan projects, as the sanction‑related risks that previously limited operations have been lifted. ONGC Videsh Ltd, the overseas investment arm of the company, holds a 40 per cent interest in the San Cristobal oil project, with PDVSA retaining the remainder.

It also has an 11 per cent stake in the Carabobo project, which is still under development. The licence will allow ONGC to manage finances for these ventures and recover a pending dividend exceeding USD 500 million.

The company is already engaged in discussions with Venezuelan authorities and joint‑venture partners regarding its stakes in San Cristobal and Carabobo. ONGC anticipates positive developments soon, including new agreements and the possible transfer of operatorship from PDVSA.

The licence is particularly significant because US sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector have long complicated financial transactions, investments, and operations involving Venezuelan crude. ONGC had therefore scaled back its activities despite its established presence in the country.

With the licence in place, ONGC can now invest in raising production levels. San Cristobal produced approximately 0.265 million tons of oil equivalent in FY26, which represents only a fraction of its potential. The company intends to increase output substantially.

Venezuela’s importance lies in its vast reserves, with OPEC estimating proven crude oil reserves at about 303 billion barrels, surpassing Saudi Arabia. However, years of underinvestment, sanctions, and operational challenges have constrained production, leaving considerable scope for development.

Agarwal highlighted that Venezuela’s newly enacted petroleum law offers fiscal incentives for resource development, improving the investment climate for foreign companies and their local partners.

ONGC’s focus will be on shallow, onshore fields, where it can leverage its expertise from domestic operations in Western India, particularly Mehsana and Ahmedabad. The company views these projects as a natural extension of its capabilities and is keen to accelerate development now that sanctions‑related constraints have eased.

Expressing optimism, Agarwal said ONGC is bullish on Venezuela and expects new agreements and potential operatorship transfers from PDVSA in the near future.

ONGC Videsh had invested in Venezuelan oil assets through joint ventures, but Washington’s sanctions periodically restricted operations and dealings with PDVSA.

The renewed push into Venezuela aligns with India’s broader strategy to secure overseas oil resources and diversify its supply base amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

For ONGC, gaining greater operational control over Venezuelan fields could position the company to play a larger role in unlocking some of the world’s most significant undeveloped and underproduced hydrocarbon resources.

The licence marks a turning point, allowing ONGC to transform constrained ventures into growth opportunities and strengthen India’s energy security.

PTI

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US Vows Indefinite Naval Blockade of Iran Amid Rising Tensions

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has declared that the United States Navy can sustain its blockade of Iranian ports “indefinitely” by rotating ships in and out of the region, reinforcing Washington’s determination to maintain pressure on Tehran despite stalled ceasefire talks and rising global oil concerns.

The announcement underscores America’s intent to combine military and economic isolation against Iran.

The United States has warned that its naval blockade of Iran will continue without a set end date. Pete Hegseth explained that the Navy’s operational capacity allows for indefinite enforcement, as vessels can be rotated to maintain a constant presence. He made these remarks while visiting Panama, addressing sailors aboard the USS Gridley, a guided-missile destroyer that had previously been deployed to the Middle East.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly asserted that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, describing the blockade as a “wall of steel.” He insisted that Iran cannot break through the restrictions, emphasising that Washington will keep the strait under its command.

Since the war began in late February with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, Tehran effectively shut the strait, a vital artery through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas once flowed.

The blockade has already redirected more than fifty commercial vessels attempting to bypass restrictions. US forces have disabled three ships and boarded two others, demonstrating the military’s readiness to enforce compliance.

In one incident, a US Navy MH-60 helicopter fired Hellfire missiles into the engine room of a Panama-flagged vessel after it ignored repeated warnings.

Iran has rejected Washington’s claims of control, with officials insisting that the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked until Tehran’s conditions are met.

These demands include the removal of economic sanctions and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Iranian military spokesmen have accused the US of fabrications and warned that “fake intelligence” could lead to dangerous miscalculations. Tehran has also continued to strike back with missiles and drones against US allies in the region, while targeting commercial ships transiting the strait without its authorisation.

The blockade has inflicted severe economic damage on Iran, cutting off its primary source of hard currency.

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has plummeted, with only eight vessels recorded on a recent day compared to pre-war averages of 130 to 140 ships. Oil markets have reacted sharply, with Brent crude settling at $87.07 a barrel, reflecting both supply disruptions and weakened global demand.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced that new economic measures will be introduced, promising “unprecedented isolation” against Iran. He stated that the combination of sanctions and the blockade would ensure that nothing enters or leaves Iranian ports, intensifying the pressure on Tehran’s already fragile economy.

Despite these measures, questions have been raised about the sustainability of the blockade. Reports from the USS Abraham Lincoln, the flagship carrier, have highlighted dire conditions among sailors, including accounts of crew members attempting to jump overboard.

Such concerns have prompted debate within Washington about the long-term viability of maintaining such a high-intensity operation.

The confrontation remains unresolved, with both sides signalling determination. While Washington insists that Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions under strict verification, Tehran continues to demand relief from sanctions before reopening the strait. The deadlock has left the region tense, with the blockade shaping both military and economic dynamics across the Middle East.

Agencies

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Eve Air Mobility Completes First Transition Flight In eVTOL Development

Eve Air Mobility has successfully completed its first partial transition flight, marking a critical milestone in its eVTOL development program.

The test validated the activation of the rear pusher propeller in flight, confirming a key design feature and advancing the aircraft toward efficient wing-borne flight. This achievement positions Eve closer to scalable urban air mobility operations.

Eve Air Mobility announced that its engineering prototype achieved the first partial transition flight in early August 2026. The flight involved activating the aircraft’s rear pusher propulsion system while airborne, a defining step in moving from vertical lift to forward wing-borne flight.

This transition is one of the most complex and vital phases in eVTOL development, as it determines the aircraft’s ability to operate efficiently in real-world conditions.

During the test, the aircraft reached a stabilised speed of 27 knots and a maximum ground speed of 30 knots. The pusher propeller was activated up to 1,200 RPM, enabling the aircraft to travel approximately 0.84 nautical miles in 3 minutes and 9 seconds. The prototype attained a maximum altitude of 90 feet above ground level, demonstrating controlled stability throughout the manoeuvre.

The successful activation of the pusher propulsion system validates a crucial aspect of the aircraft’s design. He noted that this milestone brings the company closer to delivering safe, efficient, and scalable air mobility solutions.

The data collected during the flight will support further envelope expansion, enabling higher speeds and more complex transition testing in the future.

The transition phase is central to proving the viability of eVTOL aircraft. Unlike conventional helicopters, eVTOLs must demonstrate seamless movement from vertical hover to sustained wing-borne flight. This capability is essential for achieving longer ranges, higher efficiency, and reduced energy consumption, all of which are critical for commercial viability in urban air mobility.

Eve’s engineering team continues to conduct structural and load analyses to support future testing. The company plans to expand the flight envelope progressively, including datalink testing to validate radio link performance at speeds up to 50 knots. Additional flights with pusher activation will form part of the broader transition campaign, ensuring that the aircraft meets stringent safety and performance standards.

Eve Air Mobility is pursuing a holistic approach to urban air mobility. Alongside its advanced eVTOL project, the company is developing a global services and support network and a unique air traffic management solution. These initiatives are designed to accelerate the adoption of electric air taxis and integrate them seamlessly into existing transport ecosystems.

The successful partial transition flight represents a significant step forward in Eve’s journey toward certification and commercial deployment.

It demonstrates not only the technical maturity of the aircraft but also the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable urban air mobility. As testing continues, Eve is expected to refine its design further, paving the way for future passenger operations in cities worldwide.

Agencies

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