Quantum Frontiers: India To Take Strategic Leap Into Sub-Surface And Stealth Detection With Development of Quantum Radar

The Indian Navy’s pursuit of indigenous quantum radar reflects a decisive strategic pivot towards quantum-enabled warfare, spearheaded by the Military Quantum Mission.

Officially formalised in January 2026 by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, the mission’s policy framework establishes quantum sensing and metrology as a critical pillar for the Tri-Services.

This initiative seeks to exploit quantum entanglement to identify stealth targets that remain invisible to traditional radio-frequency sensors, effectively neutralizing current electronic countermeasures.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) leads this technological push through its dedicated Quantum Technology Research Centre. Significant milestones achieved between 2025 and 2026 have focused on quantum magnetometers, which function as an "underwater quantum radar" by identifying minute magnetic disturbances from stealth submarines.

While the advanced Virupaksha 4D AESA radar represents the current state-of-the-art, it is viewed as a foundational bridge towards the fully digital and quantum architectures intended for future naval operations.

Strategic necessity drives this development, as the Indian Navy seeks to counter 5G stealth fighters and ultra-silent submarines proliferating in the Indian Ocean. Unlike conventional radars that rely on radio wave reflection and can be deceived by radar-absorbent materials, quantum radar uses non-classical physics to make hiding nearly impossible. Furthermore, these systems are fundamentally resistant to jamming and spoofing, providing a robust counter to sophisticated electronic warfare environments.

Integration is currently focused on the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) frigates, such as the recently commissioned INS Taragiri and INS Dunagiri. Although these vessels presently utilise the MF-STAR AESA radar, they feature modular architectures designed for mid-life upgrades.

Quantum magnetometers are slated to replace traditional magnetic anomaly detectors on these platforms, while their integrated platform management systems are being refined to process the immense data loads inherent to quantum sensing.

The upcoming Project 17B, or Next Generation Frigate, is intended to be the primary home for a permanent indigenous quantum radar. Currently in the design and bidding phase as of early 2026, these "quantum-ready" vessels will include indigenous fire control systems and quantum-enhanced lidar for detecting low-observable drones. They are also expected to incorporate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to ensure entirely unhackable fleet communications.

Submarine platforms, including those under Project 75I and future nuclear attack submarines, are being prioritised for quantum gravimeters. These sensors allow for "ghost" navigation by mapping the ocean floor with extreme precision, removing the need for GPS or active sonar pings.

Additionally, aircraft carriers will likely deploy quantum atomic clocks to provide the precise synchronisation required for fleet-wide electronic warfare, with a phased rollout of these technologies expected as add-on sensors during sea trials between 2027 and 2030.

Agencies

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Indian Navy Explores Drone‑Based Rearming of Warships At Sea

A Shtil medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) being launch by Vertical Launch System

The Indian Navy is exploring an ambitious concept known as Rearming by Drone (REARM‑D) at Sea, which envisions the use of multi‑rotor drones to reload surface‑to‑air missiles into vertical launch system cells onboard warships while at sea.

The Indian Navy has officially released a problem statement titled "Rearming by Drone (REARM-D) at Sea" initiative under the Defence India Start-Up Challenge 14, aiming to tackle the complex task of reloading Vertical Launch System cells at sea without returning to port.

This initiative reflects a forward‑looking approach to naval logistics, aiming to enhance operational endurance and reduce reliance on port facilities for replenishment of critical munitions.

The REARM‑D concept is centred on the deployment of robust, autonomous drones capable of lifting and precisely manoeuvring heavy missile canisters in challenging maritime conditions. These drones would be engineered to handle the weight and dimensions of surface‑to‑air missile reloads, ensuring safe transfer from supply vessels or onboard storage to the vertical launch system cells of frontline warships.

By adopting drone‑based rearming, the Indian Navy seeks to overcome one of the most complex logistical challenges in modern naval warfare: sustaining missile readiness during extended deployments.

Traditional methods of reloading vertical launch systems are cumbersome, requiring port facilities, cranes, and calm conditions.

The REARM‑D initiative aims to bypass these limitations, enabling warships to maintain combat readiness even in contested or remote waters.

The project also highlights the Navy’s increasing emphasis on unmanned systems as force multipliers. Multi‑rotor drones, with their ability to hover, stabilise, and deliver payloads with precision, are well‑suited for the delicate task of aligning missile canisters with vertical launch cells.

The specifications outlined for this multi‑rotor drone are ambitious: it must carry payloads exceeding 900 kg to handle missile canisters, sustain more than two hours of endurance, and likely employ a hybrid propulsion system with an internal combustion engine to withstand strong sea winds. Crucially, it must also demonstrate guided precision, hovering steadily to align and lower missiles into designated VLS cells using a winch system.

Their deployment would represent a significant leap in integrating unmanned technologies into core naval operations beyond surveillance and reconnaissance.

Operationalising REARM‑D would demand advances in drone endurance, payload capacity, and stabilisation systems to cope with the dynamic environment of the open sea. It would also require seamless integration with shipboard systems, ensuring that drones can operate safely around radar masts, antennas, and other superstructure elements.

The initiative underscores India’s drive to innovate in naval logistics and sustainment, aligning with broader trends in modern navies worldwide that are experimenting with unmanned solutions for resupply and maintenance.

If successful, REARM‑D could set a precedent for future naval operations, where drones play a pivotal role in sustaining missile‑armed fleets during prolonged missions.

The Indian Navy’s pursuit of drone‑based rearming reflects a strategic recognition that endurance and autonomy are as critical as firepower in modern maritime conflict. By reducing dependence on shore‑based infrastructure and enabling warships to reload at sea, REARM‑D could significantly enhance India’s ability to project power and maintain readiness across the Indo‑Pacific theatre.

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Guardian of The Waves: How Quantum Tech And AI Are Reimagining The Indian Navy’s Fleet

The Indian Navy is embarking on a transformative journey to fortify its maritime prowess by integrating cutting-edge quantum-secure communication and AI-driven predictive maintenance.

This strategic shift, as articulated by Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar, underscores a commitment to safeguarding future warships against the evolving landscape of cyber threats while simultaneously boosting operational efficiency.

By leveraging these advanced technologies, the Navy aims to ensure that its fleet remains resilient, reliable, and technologically superior in increasingly contested waters.

A primary pillar of this advancement is the implementation of quantum-secure communication, which addresses the growing vulnerability of traditional encryption methods to future quantum computing capabilities.

This move is designed to create an impenetrable shield around naval data exchanges, ensuring that sensitive tactical information and command signals remain confidential and immune to interception or decryption by adversaries. Protecting the integrity of the digital backbone is now viewed as essential as the physical armour of the vessels themselves.

In tandem with cybersecurity enhancements, the Navy is pivoting towards AI-based predictive maintenance to revolutionise how it manages the health of its complex machinery. Instead of relying solely on fixed schedules or reactive repairs after a failure occurs, AI algorithms will analyse vast streams of sensor data to forecast potential mechanical issues before they manifest.

This proactive approach is expected to significantly reduce downtime, extend the lifespan of critical shipboard systems, and ensure that warships are always at peak readiness for deployment.

Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar highlighted that these innovations are not merely incremental upgrades but are fundamental to the reliability of future warships. By merging the precision of artificial intelligence with the absolute security of quantum mechanics, the Indian Navy is positioning itself to handle the logistical and security challenges of modern naval warfare.

This dual-focus strategy aims to create a fleet that is both smarter and more secure, capable of maintaining a constant and formidable presence at sea.

Furthermore, the integration of these technologies reflects a broader vision of self-reliance and indigenous technological growth within the Indian defence sector. Developing and deploying these sophisticated systems locally strengthens the domestic industrial base and reduces dependence on foreign hardware and software.

Ultimately, the fusion of quantum security and AI-driven logistics represents a forward-thinking blueprint for a modern, high-tech maritime force ready to defend national interests with unprecedented digital and mechanical endurance.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Iran Backs Trump Ceasefire, Offers Safe Hormuz Passage if Attacks Stop; Trump Pauses Strikes On Iran For 2 Weeks

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Iran has announced a conditional agreement to provide safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks. This offer is strictly contingent upon a complete cessation of military strikes against Iranian territory.

 The move follows the announcement of a proposed ceasefire framework by US President Donald Trump, offering a brief window for negotiations amidst a period of intense regional escalation.

The shift in Washington’s position occurred just moments before a self-imposed deadline that many feared would trigger a full-scale regional conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi characterised the development as a "conditional de-escalation," whereas Iranian state media adopted a more aggressive narrative, describing the US decision to halt hostilities as a "humiliating retreat" for the American president.

Minister Araghchi expressed formal gratitude to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Munir for their mediation efforts. He noted that the pause in fighting resulted from high-level exchanges between Washington and regional stakeholders, involving a 15-point proposal from the United States and a 10-point proposal from Iran. Araghchi confirmed that the general framework of Iran’s proposal had been accepted as a basis for further dialogue.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry stipulated that if attacks against the country cease, their armed forces will suspend defensive operations. During this two-week window, transit through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital chokepoint for twenty percent of the world’s oil—will be permitted through coordination with the Iranian military, subject to technical limitations. Formal negotiations between the two nations are scheduled to commence this Friday in Islamabad.

This diplomatic opening represents a dramatic reversal for President Trump, who had issued a dire warning only hours earlier. Before the ceasefire was reached, the President had threatened that "a whole civilisation will die tonight" if Iran failed to reopen the Strait.

However, he later took to social media to announce a "double-sided" ceasefire, claiming that military objectives had been exceeded and that a definitive agreement for long-term peace was within reach.

US officials have indicated that Israel has also consented to the two-week pause and the suspension of its bombing campaign. Despite the agreement, the situation remains precarious, with reports of Iranian missile launches occurring shortly after the announcement. Trump remains optimistic, stating that he expects a final agreement to be "finalised and consummated" during the duration of the ceasefire.

The sudden move toward diplomacy follows a day of devastating military action. Prior to the truce, US and Israeli strikes targeted critical Iranian infrastructure, including transport hubs, bridges, and the primary oil export terminal at Kharg Island. In response, Iran had threatened to expand the conflict to Gulf infrastructure, with reports of explosions in Doha appearing late on Tuesday.

The conflict, now entering its sixth week, has resulted in a heavy humanitarian toll. Estimates suggest that more than 5,000 people have been killed across nearly a dozen countries. This figure includes over 1,600 civilians in Iran, according to various official sources and human rights monitoring groups.

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DRDO's Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) Receives Bomb Threat Email

A significant security alert was triggered at the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru following the receipt of multiple threatening emails.

The facility, operates as a critical laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Upon receiving the alerts, local authorities were immediately notified to manage the escalating situation.

The correspondence, which was authored entirely in the Tamil language, contained an explicit warning that several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) had been concealed throughout the premises. The sender claimed that these devices were timed to detonate during the afternoon, specifically at approximately 1:30 pm. This specific timeline necessitated an urgent response from emergency services to ensure the safety of the personnel on-site.

In response to the gravity of the message, officials ordered a total evacuation of the laboratory. A comprehensive search operation was conducted by the police, assisted by the fire services and a specialised bomb disposal squad. After a thorough sweep of the buildings and grounds, no explosive materials were discovered, and the threat was officially categorised as a hoax.

Beyond the immediate threat of a bomb attack, the emails contained a second, highly specific warning regarding a kidnapping plot. The sender threatened the abduction of the grandson of a prominent and influential politician from Tamil Nadu. This added a layer of political complexity to the investigation, moving it beyond a standard security threat against a military establishment.

Reports indicate that the messages originated from an email address identified as 'Kiruthiha.udhayanidhi@hotmail'. The content of the communication allegedly detailed a plot to kidnap Inbanidhi, who is the grandson of the current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M. K. Stalin. This specific detail has shifted the focus of the investigation toward identifying the person or group attempting to impersonate or target the Chief Minister’s family.

The Central Crime Branch (CCB) has since intensified its efforts to track the digital footprint of the accused and uncover the identity of those behind the emails. While the initial bomb threat was proven false, the authorities are not taking the matter lightly.

As a direct result of these events, security protocols have been significantly bolstered at various defence establishments across the city to prevent further incidents.

PTI

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Satellite Tech Firm Aventel Secures Fresh Order For Strategic Xponder Deployment

Avantel Limited has formally announced that it secured a significant new purchase order from NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) on 6 April 2026. This latest contract is valued at £1.12 million (₹11.59 crore) and focuses on the high-tech communication sector. The agreement stipulates that Avantel will be responsible for the supply, installation, and commissioning of specialised devices for Xponders.

The timeline for this project is relatively swift, with the full execution of the order scheduled for completion by October 2026. This contract represents a deepening of the strategic relationship between Avantel and NSIL. It highlights their collaborative efforts within the rapidly advancing space and communication technology landscape in India.

The Xponder devices in question serve as vital elements for telecommunication network infrastructure. By producing these components domestically, Avantel is supporting the broader national initiative for indigenisation within highly sensitive and strategic technological sectors.

With a history spanning nearly thirty years, Avantel has established itself as a mainstay in the design and production of advanced electronics. The company’s portfolio is diverse, covering communication products, defence electronics, and sophisticated radar systems tailored for both the aerospace and defence industries.

NewSpace India Limited operates as the commercial branch of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Its primary mission is the commercialization of indigenous space technology. Avantel has maintained a consistent and successful partnership with NSIL, previously securing massive contracts that underscore its reliability as a supplier.

Notable past collaborations include a £4.2 million (₹43.25 crore) order for Xponder devices due by August 2025 and a much larger £11.8 million (₹122.58 crore) contract for satellite antennas set for 2027. These substantial deals illustrate Avantel’s pivotal role in providing the hardware necessary for the nation's space and defence programmes.

From a financial perspective, this new order bolsters Avantel’s existing backlog and provides clear revenue visibility for the coming years. It reinforces the company’s market position and proves its technical capacity to deliver complex electronic systems to major government entities.

Regarding potential downsides, the official filing did not specify any immediate risks associated with this particular order. Furthermore, external audits of Avantel’s corporate history show no evidence of significant regulatory issues or concerns regarding its internal governance.

The company does, however, face a competitive market. It operates alongside major industry players such as Tejas Networks, which focuses on optical networking, and Bharat Electronics, a giant in defence electronics. Other notable peers include Hindustan Aeronautics and the telecom-focused ITI Limited.

Moving forward, investors are expected to keep a close watch on how efficiently Avantel meets its October 2026 deadline. The company’s future growth will likely depend on its ability to win further contracts from NSIL and other high-profile clients in the defence and space sectors

 Financial results in the upcoming quarters will serve as a barometer for how these various orders contribute to the firm's overall success.

Agencies

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The Critical Convergence: DRDO Chief Urges Faster Materials Development To Match Rapid Tech Cycles

The Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Dr Samir V Kamat, has highlighted a significant bottleneck in India’s military advancement: the temporal gap between material innovation and system design.

Speaking at a defence seminar in New Delhi on Tuesday, the DRDO chief noted that while the cycle for developing new systems is shrinking rapidly, the material development cycle still languishes between 10 and 15 years.

This discrepancy poses a mounting challenge, as the introduction of next-generation weapons, sensors, and platforms is fundamentally dependent on the evolution of the materials that enable them.

Dr Kamat emphasised that materials are the primary enablers of modern military capability. He cautioned that if India seeks performance levels beyond its current inventory, it must develop the underlying material science domestically. Relying on foreign nations for such technology is, in his view, a flawed strategy.

He explained that international partners typically only share technology after they have integrated it into their own systems and moved on to superior generations. Therefore, for India to achieve true "Atmanirbharta" (self-reliance) and become a global technology leader, material science must be treated as a priority focus area.

The challenges within this sector are multifaceted, ranging from initial investment to the difficulties of industrial scalability. The DRDO chief pointed out that in sectors like drone technology, systems change every couple of years, yet the materials they rely on take over a decade to mature.

To bridge this divide, the materials community is now turning to integrated computational materials engineering, alongside artificial intelligence and machine learning tools. Dr Kamat expressed optimism that these digital interventions could successfully shrink the material development timeline within the next five to ten years.

Once a material is successfully developed, the subsequent hurdle is manufacturing—specifically, converting these materials into usable product forms. While India has achieved a level of self-sufficiency in naval engineering, particularly regarding ship and submarine hulls, other areas remain vulnerable.

Dr Kamat specifically identified the supply chain for critical raw materials as a strategic weakness. He noted that while India possesses the technology to create magnets, it lacks the necessary rare earth metals, a market where China currently maintains a near-total global dominance.

This dependency extends to other vital resources like tungsten. Although India has the technical expertise to manufacture tungsten heavy alloys, it remains heavily reliant on imports for the raw metal itself.

Dr Kamat clarified that these resources are present within India, but the nation has historically neglected extraction technologies and comprehensive exploration. He called for a holistic approach to address these gaps, suggesting that the government’s focus on self-reliance will eventually provide the necessary roadmap to secure these supply chains.

Air Marshal Yalla Umesh of the IAF’s Maintenance Command echoed these sentiments, stressing that the high-performance requirements of military aviation demand exceptional reliability. He remarked that geopolitical shifts and the commercial interests of foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) often force India to seek independent sustenance solutions.

He noted that the work done at base repair depots is already proving crucial in maintaining the air force's war-waging potential amidst these external pressures.

Contributing to the discussion, Air Vice Marshal A K Gangopadhyay described advanced materials as "fundamental and not ornamental" to future aerospace. He used a cinematic metaphor, stating that in the future of flight, materials are not merely supporting actors but the entities that "decide the plot."

While acknowledging India’s "islands of excellence," he warned against complacency, noting that the unforgiving nature of aerospace "punishes self-congratulation." He urged all stakeholders to move beyond isolated successes toward a comprehensive, national "ocean of capabilities."

PTI

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DRDO Chief: 'They'll Give Old Tech' – Why Tech Transfers Won't Help India

Dr Samir V Kamat, the head of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has issued a firm warning regarding India’s reliance on foreign nations for essential material development technology within the defence sector.

He argued that international partners are generally only willing to share specific technologies once they have already integrated them into their own systems and moved on to more advanced iterations. This creates a cycle where India remains a generation behind the global leaders rather than establishing itself as a pioneer.

According to Kamat, if India intends to achieve its ambition of becoming "Atmanirbhar" (Self-Reliant) and a genuine technology leader, material development must become a primary area of focus. He identified a critical disconnect between the pace of material innovation and system engineering. 

Currently, the cycle for developing new materials takes between 10 and 15 years, whereas the development cycle for defence systems is rapidly shrinking. In fast-moving sectors like drone technology, hardware and software can become obsolete in just a year or two.

This discrepancy poses a significant risk: if the creation of new materials cannot keep pace with the demand for new systems, integrating advanced components into modern platforms becomes an increasingly difficult hurdle.

To combat this, the DRDO chief noted that the materials community is now turning to integrated computational materials engineering, alongside artificial intelligence and machine learning tools. He expressed optimism that these digital technologies will successfully compress the material development timeline over the next decade.

Beyond the initial creation of materials, Kamat underlined the importance of the manufacturing stage, specifically the ability to convert raw materials into the precise product forms required for military application.

However, the most pressing bottleneck remains the supply of critical raw materials. For instance, while India possesses the expertise to create magnet technology, it lacks the necessary rare earth metals. This is a strategic vulnerability, as China currently controls 90 per cent of the global rare earth market and a staggering 99 per cent of the heavy rare earths required for high-performance magnets.

The DRDO chief also drew attention to the situation regarding tungsten, which is vital for producing tungsten heavy alloys. Although India has the technological capability to manufacture the alloy, it remains heavily dependent on imports for the raw tungsten itself.

He pointed out that these resources do exist within Indian borders; the issue is that the country has historically neglected the extraction technologies and exploration efforts required to tap into them.

Despite these significant challenges, Kamat remains confident. He believes that the government’s intensified focus on self-reliance will provide the necessary impetus to address gaps in extraction, exploration, and the overall material development cycle, eventually securing India’s strategic independence in the defence sector.

Agencies

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'Bechara UAE Needs Money': Pak Senator Mocks $3.5B Debt Repayment Demand By UAE

As Pakistan prepares to settle a $3.5 billion debt owed to the United Arab Emirates, Senator Mushahid Hussain has characterised the financial obligation as a "brotherly rescue" for a nation he describes as currently being "stuck and helpless.", reported NDTV

Speaking in an interview with Dunya News, the Senator argued that Pakistan has a moral responsibility to support the UAE during what he perceives to be a time of crisis for the Gulf nation.

Using the term "Bechara"—an Urdu word meaning helpless or pitiful—the Senator suggested that the UAE is in urgent need of funds due to prior financial commitments made to Donald Trump. He asserted that as "big brothers," it is incumbent upon Pakistan to assist the UAE if they are facing difficulties. He maintained that Pakistan’s decision to return the funds is the correct one, framing the repayment as a gesture of support for a partner in need.

Hussain emphasised the historical role Pakistan has played in the development of the UAE, specifically citing the instrumental involvement of Pakistani expertise in training the UAE’s armed forces. He noted that the two nations have shared a deep bond since the era of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father and first president of the United Emirates.

The Senator further attributed the UAE's alleged financial strain to regional instability and the drain on reserves caused by a purported $150 billion commitment to President Donald Trump. He suggested that the UAE is currently "stuck" due to its involvement in various Middle Eastern conflicts, specifically naming the wars in Yemen and Sudan, which he believes necessitates Pakistan’s intervention.

In addition to financial commentary, Hussain offered "brotherly advice" regarding the UAE's demographics and its growing relationship with India. He pointed out that out of a total population of 10 million, approximately 4.3 million are Indian nationals. He cautioned the UAE to ensure that these friendly ties do not eventually lead to the country becoming part of "Akhand Bharat," a concept of a Greater India.

According to a senior Pakistani official cited by the newspaper Dawn, Pakistan intends to repay the $3.5 billion by the end of this month. The official stated that the amount would be returned as quickly as possible, stressing that "national dignity" must not be compromised for the sake of financial considerations.

These funds were originally part of external assistance provided in 2019 via the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development to stabilise Pakistan’s balance of payments.

This repayment occurs while Pakistan is participating in an International Monetary Fund programme that necessitates securing around $12.5 billion in rollovers from partners such as China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. These funds are essential for maintaining the country's foreign exchange reserves and meeting its external financing obligations.

Currently, Pakistan’s central bank reserves are valued at $16.3 billion. However, the scheduled repayment to the UAE will reduce these reserves by 18 per cent. This significant reduction is expected to weaken the nation’s external buffers and its ability to cover imports.

This fiscal pressure is compounded by the ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has led to rising oil and commodity prices, further impacting the Pakistani economy.

NDTV

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NSA Ajit Doval Hosts Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman for Dinner, Charts Path To Reset Bilateral Ties

In a significant diplomatic move, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman for a dinner meeting on Tuesday evening in New Delhi.

This meeting occurred only hours after Rahman arrived in the Indian capital for a three-day official visit. The primary objective of this high-level mission is to repair bilateral relations that have endured over 18 months of heightened diplomatic friction between the two neighbouring nations.

This visit marks the first senior-level engagement with India by the newly formed Bangladesh Nationalist Party government. Led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the administration assumed power in February following the recent parliamentary elections.

According to individuals familiar with the proceedings, the discussions between Doval and Rahman covered various facets of India-Bangladesh relations, with a specific emphasis on establishing a fresh momentum for future cooperation.

While there has been no official statement released regarding the dinner meeting, the composition of the Bangladeshi delegation highlights its importance. Minister Rahman was accompanied by Humayun Kabir, who serves as the foreign affairs adviser to the Prime Minister.

This preparatory engagement sets the stage for a busy diplomatic schedule, including extensive talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday, as well as meetings with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

The arrival of the delegation was marked by a warm public welcome from External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. On social media, Jaiswal noted that India and Bangladesh share historic ties rooted in strong people-to-people connections.

He expressed confidence that Rahman’s visit would serve to further bolster the partnership between the two countries, which had seen a major downturn following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024.

Efforts to stabilise the relationship began earlier this year when Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri represented India at the inauguration of Tarique Rahman in Dhaka on 17 February. This followed a landslide victory for his party in the polls.

The Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry stated that Dhaka intends to focus on stability and continuous development based on mutual trust, dignity, respect, and shared interests during these high-level consultations.

The upcoming discussions with Minister Jaishankar are expected to be pivotal in starting a new phase of the bilateral relationship. A major technical point on the agenda is the renewal of the Ganga Water Treaty.

Originally signed in December 1996 to manage water sharing between the two riparian states, the treaty is set to expire this year. It remains to be seen whether the long-standing and contentious issue of the Teesta river water sharing will also be raised during these sessions.

Beyond water management, several sensitive political and economic issues loom over the talks. Dhaka has consistently demanded the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been residing in India since fleeing the mass anti-government protests in August 2024.

Additionally, Bangladesh is expected to request additional fuel supplies from India to mitigate shortages caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Finally, the talks are likely to address practical hurdles to bilateral cooperation, including trade barriers and the easing of visa restrictions. The Bangladeshi side is particularly keen on relaxing the current limitations imposed on tourist and business visas. Both nations hope this visit will lay a sustainable foundation for elevating their cooperation to a more fruitful level in the years to come.

PTI

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Pakistan’s Strategic Inconsistencies Fuels China's Growing Frustrations Signal Cracks In Pak's All-Weather Alliance

China, frequently characterised as Pakistan's "all-weather friend", has started to exhibit noticeable discomfort regarding the current state of the bilateral relationship.

During a recent high-level visit to China, the Pakistani Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, attempted to secure Beijing's support for Islamabad’s self-styled mediation initiatives.

However, Pakistani analysts suggest that Chinese officials responded with a measure of caution, advising Pakistan to first address the internal contradictions within its own regional policies, particularly concerning its conduct in Afghanistan.

Beijing’s primary anxieties stem from the belief that Pakistan's inconsistent approach could jeopardise China’s vital strategic interests in the region. These interests are multifaceted, encompassing security stability in Xinjiang, secure access to Afghanistan’s vast untapped mineral wealth, and the broader success of economic and connectivity projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. The Chinese leadership appears increasingly concerned that instability or contradictory manoeuvres by Islamabad could undermine these long-term goals.

Furthermore, China has expressed displeasure over Pakistan’s perceived efforts to weaken the Taliban. From Beijing's perspective, such actions threaten the fragile stability of Afghanistan—a nation where China has placed significant diplomatic and strategic stakes and has recently committed to massive infrastructure projects.

There is a palpable worry in Beijing that Pakistan might be covertly advancing a Washington-led agenda in Afghanistan to regain access to the Bagram military base, a move that would directly conflict with China’s regional dominance.

In an attempt to manage these escalating tensions, China took the proactive step of organising a meeting between representatives of the Taliban and Pakistan in Ürümqi. This mediation process is currently ongoing as Beijing seeks to harmonise the differing objectives of its neighbours. Simultaneously, there are undeniable indicators that China’s financial appetite for large-scale projects, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has begun to diminish significantly.

Ultimately, these developments underscore a fundamental truth: a nation cannot successfully align itself with all global powers simultaneously without incurring serious diplomatic costs. Foreign policy is not a matter of managing daily narratives or pursuing short-term optics; its efficacy is measured over decades. 

Pakistan’s ambition to be viewed as a decisive global actor remains hampered by deep-seated structural constraints, including heavy economic dependence, geopolitical boundaries, and strategic inconsistencies. Unless these core issues are resolved, Islamabad’s claims of international influence will continue to emerge briefly before fading into irrelevance.

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Riyadh Demands Immediate Repayment of $6.3 Billion Loan As Pakistan-Saudi Relations Hit Historic Low

The traditionally robust alliance between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan appears to be fracturing as Riyadh has reportedly demanded the immediate repayment of a $6.3 billion loan, reported NDTV.

This financial recall serves as a stark signal of the deep-seated frustration currently brewing within the Saudi leadership, targeting a relationship that both nations have historically described as ironclad.

This development is particularly significant when viewed through the lens of the long-standing mutual defence understanding between the two countries. Under the terms of this strategic pact, any external attack on one nation is effectively treated as an attack on both, necessitating a united and firm military or diplomatic response.

However, recent geopolitical shifts have tested the limits of this commitment. Despite the explicit nature of their defence agreement, Pakistan failed to provide the unwavering support Riyadh expected during the ongoing crisis with Iran. Instead of standing firmly alongside its Gulf ally, Islamabad opted to position itself as a neutral 'mediator' between the two rival powers.

This shift toward a balanced diplomatic stance has been perceived by Saudi authorities as a departure from Pakistan's prior security obligations. The demand for the multi-billion dollar repayment is widely interpreted as a direct consequence of this perceived diplomatic pivot, indicating that the era of unconditional Saudi financial support may be coming to a close.

The escalating tension highlights a growing divergence in the national interests of the two states. While Pakistan seeks to avoid entanglement in regional sectarian or political conflicts, Saudi Arabia’s insistence on the immediate return of its capital suggests that Riyadh no longer views the 'special relationship' as a sufficient reason to overlook Islamabad's lack of strategic alignment.

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Artemis-II Concludes 7-Hour Moon Flyby, Exits Lunar Sphere of Influence

A stunning photo from the far side of the moon, captured from Orion spacecraft of Earth (NASA)

On Monday, 6 April, at 1:56 pm EDT, the four-strong crew of the Artemis II test flight achieved a historic milestone by reaching a distance of 248,655 miles from Earth.

This feat officially broke the record for the farthest distance ever travelled by humans, a title previously held by the Apollo 13 mission since 1970.

The mission began at 6:35 pm EDT on 1 April, when the spacecraft lifted off from launch pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The international crew consists of NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency.

Having now concluded a seven-hour flyby of the Moon, the Orion spacecraft has officially departed the lunar sphere of influence. This term describes the region where the Moon's gravitational pull is stronger than that of the Earth. With this stage complete, the crew members are now on their return journey home.

Throughout the flight, the astronauts have been engaging in live conversations that were scheduled before their departure. They are currently more than halfway through the mission and are focusing on putting the Orion spacecraft through an extensive series of planned tests.

These evaluations cover a wide range of critical systems including life support, propulsion, power, thermal management, and navigation. The crew is responsible for conducting manual operations, monitoring automated activities, and performing proximity operations to assess the spacecraft's performance in deep space.

In addition to technical testing, the astronauts are assessing the habitability and crew interfaces of the vessel. They are also participating in various science activities, such as human health studies and observations of the lunar surface, which are intended to guide science operations for future missions to the Moon.

The crew is also practising essential mission-critical tasks, such as making trajectory adjustments and managing communications at lunar distances. These activities include piloting Orion during vital flight phases to validate the spacecraft’s performance with a crew on board.

The mission is set to conclude with a controlled re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. The spacecraft is scheduled to splash down in the waters off the coast of San Diego at approximately 8:07 pm EDT on Friday, 10 April.

Agencies

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US And Israel Launch Large-Scale Strikes On Iranian Infrastructure As Trump Deadline Expires

The United States military has conducted precision strikes against military targets on Kharg Island, a critical oil export hub situated near the Strait of Hormuz.

According to reports from Axios, which cited a senior American official, the operation took place on Tuesday following reports of explosions on the island by the semi-official Iranian news agency Mehr. 

The Wall Street Journal has further indicated that the scale of the operation was extensive, with the US military reportedly striking more than fifty specific targets across the island.

These military actions occurred only hours before a deadline imposed by US President Donald Trump. The President had previously demanded that Tehran agree to a ceasefire deal with Washington and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

This follows a period of intense rhetoric, including a social media post on 30 March where the President threatened to obliterate Iran's electric generating plants, oil wells, and desalination facilities as part of a final campaign.

Despite the intensity of the strikes, US Vice President JD Vance stated on Tuesday that the operations on Kharg Island do not represent a shift in American strategy. This sentiment was echoed by a US official speaking to Reuters, who clarified that the additional strikes were focused strictly on military targets and did not impact the island's vital oil infrastructure. This distinction is significant given the President's previous public considerations regarding whether the US might seize or destroy the facility entirely.

The geopolitical tension is further compounded by simultaneous actions from the Israeli military. The IDF confirmed it had completed a wide-scale wave of strikes against dozens of infrastructure sites belonging to what it termed the "Iranian terror regime" across various regions of the country.

While the Israeli military did not provide specific details regarding the targets, the timing coincides with President Trump's warnings that Iran would "pay a big price" for its recent conduct.

Kharg Island remains a point of extreme vulnerability for the Iranian economy, as it facilitates nearly 90 per cent of the nation’s oil exports. Because much of Iran's mainland coastline is too shallow for large tankers, the island's deep-water capabilities are indispensable for its energy trade.

Its geographic position, situated opposite US military bases in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, leaves it highly exposed during periods of heightened conflict.

The current escalation follows Iran's decision to close the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most vital oil transit routes in the world. This move has caused significant turbulence in global energy prices and prompted the current American ultimatum.

President Trump has warned that continued failure to comply with US demands will result in a massive, simultaneous bombing campaign specifically targeting every electric generating plant and bridge across the Iranian territory.

Agencies

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Iran Supreme Leader 'Unconscious', Not Involved In Decision-Making: Report

New reports have emerged suggesting that Iran’s recently appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is currently unconscious and incapacitated, rendering him unable to participate in any state decision-making.

The 56-year-old cleric was reportedly wounded in the same US-Israeli airstrikes on 28 February that claimed the life of his father, Ali Khamenei. He is said to be receiving treatment for a severe medical condition in the holy city of Qom, marking the first time the leader’s specific location has been disclosed since the conflict began.

A diplomatic memo, cited by The Times and believed to be based on intelligence shared between American, Israeli, and Gulf agencies, indicates that the younger Khamenei’s condition is critical. This development comes as the body of his father, the elder Khamenei, is prepared for burial in Qom, a city 87 miles south of Tehran that serves as the spiritual heart of Shia clerical authority.

Intelligence suggests that preparations are underway for a large mausoleum designed to hold multiple graves, implying that other family members may eventually be interred alongside the late leader.

Speculation regarding Mojtaba Khamenei’s health has intensified due to the fact that he has neither been seen nor heard from in public since being chosen to succeed his father in early March.

Although several statements have been attributed to him on Iranian state television, none have featured a recording of his actual voice.

This lack of proof of life has bolstered claims that the regime is attempting to mask the severity of his injuries, which some reports suggest include a coma, a broken leg, and significant facial trauma.

In an apparent effort to project strength, Tehran recently released an AI-produced video depicting the leader walking into a war room to analyse maps of Israel’s Dimona nuclear facility. However, this digital fabrication has done little to quash rumours of his instability.

Iran has already confirmed that the younger Khamenei was wounded in the strikes that also killed his mother, his wife Zahra Haddad-Adel, and one of his sons on the opening day of a war that has now gripped the Middle East for over five weeks.

While Iranian officials maintain that the new Supreme Leader remains firmly in charge of the country’s affairs, the reported intelligence paints a picture of a regime in a state of suspended animation.

The possibility that Mojtaba may himself be buried in the new mausoleum suggests that the succession crisis may be far from resolved. Currently, neither Washington nor Tehran has issued an official statement regarding the specific claims of his unconscious state.

Agencies

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