India’s Defence Production Quadruples To ₹1.80 Lakh Crore, Exports Surge To ₹39,000 Crore, Says Defence Minister

India’s defence production has surged nearly four-fold since 2014, reaching ₹1.80 lakh crore, while exports have climbed to ₹39,000 crore.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for a ₹472‑crore tank overhaul facility in Jabalpur, which will bridge the Army’s annual shortfall in maintaining its T‑72 and T‑90 tanks.

India’s domestic defence production has expanded dramatically over the past decade. In 2014, the figure stood at ₹46,000 crore. Today, it has reached approximately ₹1.80 lakh crore.

This growth reflects the government’s sustained push under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen sovereign capabilities.

Exports have also risen sharply. From just ₹1,000 crore in 2014, India now exports nearly ₹39,000 crore worth of defence equipment. The government has set a target of achieving ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2028‑29, a figure that appears increasingly attainable given current momentum.

Rajnath Singh emphasised that India is not only manufacturing weapons domestically but also developing the capacity to maintain, overhaul, and upgrade them. He described this as a critical step in building a self‑reliant industrial ecosystem that supports operational readiness.

The Defence Minister laid the foundation stone for a ₹472‑crore facility at the Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ), a unit of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL). Established in 1969, VFJ has a long history of producing military vehicles, including Shaktiman 3‑ton trucks in collaboration with Germany’s MAN and Nissan 1T and Jonga vehicles with Japan’s Nissan Motors Co. The factory complex spans 330 acres, with an adjoining estate covering another 600 acres.

The new facility will overhaul 80 T‑72 and T‑90 tanks annually. The Indian Army requires around 230 tanks to be overhauled each year. At present, the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Avadi handles about 150 tanks annually. The Jabalpur facility will therefore bridge the shortfall, ensuring timely availability of refurbished tanks.

Singh described the project as a major milestone, noting that it would not only strengthen India’s defence capabilities but also generate employment opportunities for local communities. He expressed confidence that the facility would be completed on schedule and to high‑quality standards.

He highlighted that tanks remain relevant in modern warfare despite the advent of drones, precision‑guided weapons, satellites, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare. Modern combat requires integrated capabilities, combining tanks, infantry, artillery, drones, air power, surveillance, and precision weapons.

The overhaul facility will contribute to this integrated vision by equipping tanks with superior sensors and battlefield capabilities.

The Defence Minister pointed out that HVF Avadi has supplied around 4,400 tanks to the Army over the past four decades, underscoring its contribution to India’s armoured strength. He expressed hope that AVNL, with 25 years of experience in overhauling T‑72 and T‑90 variants, would set new benchmarks in quality, productivity, and innovation.

The project is also expected to benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by creating demand for mechanical, electrical, electronic, and hydraulic components. This will strengthen the wider defence‑industrial ecosystem and boost local industry participation.

Singh concluded by stressing that India’s defence sector has taken firm steps towards complete self‑reliance. He said the world’s perception of India is changing, and the country is steadily emerging as a strong hub for defence manufacturing and exports.

PTI

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India Extends AMCA RFP Deadline To October 30 For Private Sector Bidders

The Defence Research and Development Organisation has extended the deadline for submission of requests for proposal for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program.

The new deadline is now October 30, more than two months beyond the original cut-off date. The extension was granted after some bidders requested additional time to complete documentation and cost estimation requirements.

The Aeronautical Development Agency confirmed the revised timeline on Thursday. Bids will be opened the following day to select the development-cum-production partner for the ₹15,000 crore program. The AMCA has been designed by DRDO’s Bangalore-based laboratory and represents India’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter initiative.

The Ministry of Defence and ADA had issued the RFP to three shortlisted entities earlier this year. These include TATA Advanced Systems Limited, which is bidding independently, a consortium led by Larsen & Toubro with Bharat Electronics Limited and Dynamatic Technologies, and another consortium led by Bharat Forge with Bharat Earth Movers Limited and Data Patterns.

The winning bidder will be tasked with building five flying prototypes and one structural test specimen, as well as establishing a dedicated production facility near Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh.

Officials explained that some bidders required more time to secure quotations from supply chain vendors. This was necessary to finalise project cost estimations, which must align with ADA’s calculations. Industry sources noted that this exercise is unprecedented in scale for private aerospace firms in India, making the task particularly complex.

The RFP was originally issued on May 27 to one private company and two consortia, selected from seven entities that had participated in the earlier request for information stage.

The government’s decision to involve private players is intended to break Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s monopoly in fighter aircraft manufacturing and foster a parallel aerospace ecosystem. This approach is designed to provide a level playing field for industry and accelerate indigenous capacity building.

Last year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the AMCA Program Execution Model. Under this framework, ADA will act as the anchor organisation, executing the project through industry partnerships.

The program is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and strengthen India’s aerospace supply chain, while also advancing the country’s strategic self-reliance in defence technology.

ANI

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India’s Space Start-Ups Poised To Challenge Global Giants

The global space race is undergoing a transformation at a pace unimaginable a decade ago. Space exploration is no longer the exclusive preserve of Governments and national agencies. It is being reshaped by private enterprise, commercial capital and rapid technological innovation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call during his interaction with the founders of 20 space start-ups on National Space Day for India to build a global aura around its private space sector comes at the right moment.

The next phase of India’s space journey must rest not merely on national prestige but on a genuine commercial space ecosystem capable of competing with the world’s best.

This transformation is most visible in the United States, where NASA no longer holds a monopoly over access to space. Private companies have become dominant forces in launch technology, satellite systems, reusable rockets and space-based communications.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX has redefined what private enterprise can achieve beyond the atmosphere. The lesson is clear: the future of space will belong as much to nimble companies as to traditional state agencies.

This matters because space technology is becoming the backbone of everyday life. Satellites underpin navigation, broadcasting, disaster response, weather forecasting and strategic communication. The next leap is wireless, satellite-delivered connectivity that reduces reliance on vast physical cabling networks stretching across lakhs of kilometres.

Starlink has demonstrated that high-speed connectivity can be beamed from orbit, particularly to remote terrain where laying conventional infrastructure is costly or impractical.

The applications extend well beyond communication. Agriculture, India’s most vital sector, stands to gain enormously. Satellite imagery and weather data can help farmers track crop health, assess soil and moisture conditions, and anticipate adverse weather before it strikes.

Better forecasting of rainfall and extreme weather events can sharpen agricultural planning and cut losses. Space-based data can equally support livestock and dairy management, environmental monitoring, water conservation and disaster preparedness. Modi himself urged start-up founders to explore these opportunities further.

India embarks on this new era with a strong foundation. ISRO has repeatedly shown that extraordinary achievement does not require extravagant spending. Its reputation for delivering ambitious missions at remarkably low cost has earned global respect.

Chandrayaan-3’s successful lunar landing, commemorated each year on National Space Day, proved India’s technological maturity and its capacity for missions of global significance. Yet Government achievement alone cannot sustain leadership in a commercial space economy.

ISRO has laid the foundation, but the baton must now be shared with private enterprise. ISRO should continue to anchor frontier research and strategic missions, while private players bring speed, capital, commercial discipline and appetite for risk that Government institutions cannot always match.

Early signs are encouraging. Skyroot Aerospace, India’s first space-tech unicorn, has already flown the country’s first privately built rocket into orbit. Its founders speak of scaling from one launch a month to one a week and eventually several a day.

Alongside it, a growing cluster of firms spanning launch services, satellites, earth observation and space situational awareness is attracting serious investment and international contracts.

One start-up reportedly secured eight launch contracts within a month of its debut flight. India’s deepest asset remains its scientific and engineering talent. There is now a real opportunity to draw back Indian-origin professionals who built careers abroad.

Unlike the structured recruitment pathways of public institutions, private companies can hire laterally, reward niche expertise and assemble multidisciplinary teams quickly. This flexibility could prove decisive in the global contest for talent.

None of this will succeed without policy stability. Investors committing large sums to rockets and satellites need confidence that rules will not shift arbitrarily. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on consistency and trust is well placed.

A predictable regulatory environment and reliable access to infrastructure will unlock entrepreneurial risk-taking more effectively than rhetoric. India has proven scientific capability, cost competitiveness, deep talent and a maturing entrepreneurial culture. The space juggernaut has begun to move, and the momentum is unmistakable.

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Congress Seeks Kargil-Style Review of Operation Sindoor After Chauhan’s Kirana Hills Disclosure

Congress has demanded a Kargil-style review of Operation Sindoor after General Anil Chauhan’s remarks about a possible accidental strike on Pakistan’s Kirana Hills, sparking a major political debate on military transparency and accountability, CNN-News18 reported.

The controversy has intensified calls for structured assessment of India’s defence operations amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan.

The Congress party has formally questioned the government following General Chauhan’s disclosure that a loitering munition deployed during Operation Sindoor may have struck the Kirana Hills near Sargodha in Pakistan. The site is linked to nuclear facilities, making the revelation highly sensitive.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that such headline-grabbing revelations cannot substitute for a structured review. He demanded a comprehensive assessment similar to the Kargil Review Committee of 1999, which had been chaired by K. Subrahmanyam and tabled its findings in Parliament in 2000.

Ramesh recalled that Chauhan had earlier made significant disclosures in Singapore in May 2025, and his latest remarks at the Vivekananda International Foundation in August 2026 had raised understandable concern. He emphasised that repeated revelations in interviews and lectures, whether deliberate or not, should not replace a formal inquiry.

General Chauhan’s comments included a clarification that Indian forces did not deliberately target Kirana Hills, but that one of the many loitering munitions sent towards Sargodha may have lost its running capacity and hit a hill. He backed Air Marshal A.K. Bharti, who had earlier denied that Kirana Hills was struck.

The Congress also referred to claims about a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 29 April 2025 after the Pahalgam terror attack. According to Ramesh, Modi had told the forces that Pakistan must be taught a “big lesson” through an “unthinkable” action, insisting there should be no failure and that evidence must be preserved.

Operation Sindoor was launched in May 2025 in retaliation for the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack. Indian forces struck nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Sargodha airbase. The operation demonstrated India’s ability to calibrate its military response while maintaining escalation control.

Chauhan also rejected claims that U.S. President Donald Trump had mediated the ceasefire, asserting that the cessation of hostilities was decided solely between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan. He questioned how information about the ceasefire reached the U.S. side before India’s announcement, insisting it had not leaked from India.

The Congress demand highlights broader concerns about military transparency, operational disclosures, and accountability in defence strategy. The party insists that Parliament and the public deserve clarity on the nature, impact, and risks of Operation Sindoor.

The debate underscores the delicate balance between military secrecy and political accountability in India’s handling of cross-border operations. It also reflects the heightened sensitivity of actions near nuclear-linked sites, where even accidental strikes can carry grave strategic implications.

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Why India’s Sukhoi Su-30MKI Thrives On Two-Person Teamwork

India’s Su-30MKI requires two crew members because its demanding combat missions involve simultaneous control of flight manoeuvres, radar operation, and long-range weapons management, WION reported.

The pilot and Weapon Systems Officer divide responsibilities to reduce fatigue, enhance situational awareness, and provide a critical safety margin during extended missions.

The Su-30MKI is a twin-seat fighter designed for complex aerial warfare. Unlike single-seat jets such as the Rafale or F-16, the Su-30MKI’s cockpit is built to accommodate both a pilot and a Weapon Systems Officer. This arrangement reflects the aircraft’s role as a heavy, multi-role platform capable of long-range missions, intensive dogfighting, and advanced electronic warfare.

The pilot’s primary responsibility is flying the aircraft. He manages manoeuvres, engages in dogfights, and ensures the jet maintains tactical positioning. The Su-30MKI’s supermanoeuvrability, enabled by thrust-vectoring engines, demands constant attention during close combat. The pilot must focus on controlling the aircraft’s agility while maintaining awareness of enemy threats.

The Weapon Systems Officer, seated behind the pilot, operates the radar, electronic warfare systems, and long-range weapons. He manages target acquisition, missile guidance, and sensor data.

This division of labour allows the pilot to concentrate on flying while the WSO ensures that the aircraft’s advanced avionics and weaponry are fully utilised. The Su-30MKI’s radar can track multiple targets at long distances, requiring dedicated monitoring and rapid decision-making.

Extended missions often last several hours, especially when the aircraft is deployed for long-range patrols or strike operations. Having two crew members reduces fatigue, as tasks are shared rather than concentrated on a single pilot. This teamwork enhances endurance and ensures that both flying and weapons management remain sharp throughout the mission.

Safety is another critical factor. In high-stress combat environments, the presence of a second crew member provides redundancy. If the pilot becomes incapacitated or overwhelmed, the WSO can assist in navigation, communication, or even emergency procedures. This dual-crew system adds resilience to the aircraft’s operations.

The Su-30MKI’s design philosophy mirrors that of other heavy twin-seat fighters such as the American F-15E Strike Eagle and Russian Su-34. These aircraft also rely on two crew members to handle the complexity of modern combat systems. India’s choice reflects its need for a versatile platform capable of both air superiority and precision strike missions across vast distances.

Inside the cockpit, teamwork becomes a decisive advantage. The pilot and WSO coordinate seamlessly, with the pilot manoeuvring the jet into position while the WSO locks onto targets and manages weapons.

This synergy ensures that the Su-30MKI can dominate both close-range dogfights and beyond-visual-range engagements.

The Indian Air Force values this dual-crew arrangement as a force multiplier. It allows the Su-30MKI to operate effectively in diverse roles, from defending airspace to conducting deep strike missions.

The combination of raw power, advanced sensors, and shared workload makes the aircraft a cornerstone of India’s aerial combat doctrine.

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Draft Rules On Foreign Reactor Technology Threaten To Stall India's Nuclear Ambitions

India’s ambitious plan to expand nuclear power to 100 GW by 2047 is facing uncertainty as new draft rules impose stricter approval requirements on foreign reactor technology, potentially slowing investment and limiting access to advanced designs, Reuters reported.

Industry experts warn that this could blunt India’s nuclear reform and stall deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs), a technology seen as vital for rapid decarbonisation.

India’s new draft nuclear framework has raised concerns among both domestic and foreign stakeholders. The rules require imported reactors to have operational and licensing certifications from their country of origin, alongside separate design approval from India’s atomic energy regulator before construction can begin.

This dual requirement could significantly extend approval timelines compared to earlier processes, where site and construction approvals could proceed concurrently while design clearance was awaited.

The framework follows the passage of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act in 2025, which opened the nuclear sector to private participation. 

India is counting on nearly $210 billion in investments to raise nuclear capacity almost tenfold to 100 GW over the next two decades. Coal currently supplies most of India’s electricity, making nuclear expansion a cornerstone of its clean energy transition.

NPCIL, the country’s sole nuclear operator, is already executing a 14-GW expansion program through 2032. However, meeting the 100-GW target will require private capital and new reactor technologies. 

Indian conglomerates such as TATA Power, Adani Power, and Reliance Industries, along with foreign firms including Russia’s ROSATOM, France’s EDF, and U.S.-based GE Hitachi, have engaged in talks with the government. Yet, many are withholding investment commitments until the final rules are published. Companies have until 4 September to provide feedback.

Legal experts such as Suhaan Mukerji of PLR Chambers argue that the draft rules risk undermining the promise of the nuclear act by discriminating against foreign technology. He warned that SMRs, which India has identified as promising due to their smaller size and lower upfront costs, could be “dead in the water” under the proposed framework. Most SMR designs are only beginning commercial deployment globally, meaning they may not qualify under India’s rules.

Government officials involved in drafting the framework insist that the measures prioritise safety and align with international regulatory practices.

The rules also introduce a composite licence covering construction, operation, and decommissioning, alongside financial safeguards such as mandatory insurance against nuclear damage. However, industry executives caution that India risks losing access to newer technologies if it adopts an approach better suited to mature nuclear markets.

Another major concern is the absence of binding timelines for design approvals, which could delay project development. Shri Venkatesh of SKV law firm noted that without clear deadlines, developers face uncertainty that hampers financing decisions.

The draft also omits key commercial details, including tariff determination, expected returns, and minimum qualifications for operators. Earlier internal drafts reportedly contained more specifics, but these were excluded from the public consultation version.

Executives from both Indian and foreign companies have repeatedly sought clarity on issues such as fuel tie-ups, reprocessing, and exclusion-zone requirements. The lack of detail raises fears that investment decisions will be delayed, jeopardising India’s nuclear expansion goals. The rules are expected to be finalised within three months after consultation.

India’s nuclear ambitions remain vast, but unless the framework balances safety with investor confidence and technological openness, the country risks slowing its progress toward becoming a leader in the global nuclear renaissance.

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PM Modi And President Putin To Strengthen Strategic Ties At SCO Summit In Bishkek

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek from 31 August to 1 September.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the meeting during a special briefing on the Prime Minister’s upcoming four-day visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George stated that several bilateral meetings are being planned depending on time and convenience. He confirmed that a meeting between the leaders of India and Russia has been scheduled during the summit.

The two leaders are expected to review the broader India-Russia relationship. George highlighted that the recent India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission held in Moscow was highly successful, and the leaders will review the entire gamut of bilateral ties during their discussions in Bishkek.

The announcement follows External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s meeting with Putin at the Kremlin earlier this month. Jaishankar conveyed Modi’s good wishes and briefed Putin on the outcomes of the IRIGC meeting, emphasising the continued growth in bilateral economic cooperation.

Jaishankar also outlined Modi’s plans for upcoming high-level engagements with Putin, including the SCO Summit, the BRICS Summit in New Delhi in mid-September, and the annual summit at a mutually convenient time. He said India and Russia have a strong picture of cooperation to present.

Putin responded warmly, asking Jaishankar to convey his best wishes to Modi. He expressed hope to meet the Prime Minister soon at the SCO Summit and noted that their schedules would likely allow another meeting later this year.

PM Modi’s visit to Uzbekistan will take place from 29 to 30 August at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This will be followed by his trip to Bishkek from 31 August to 1 September for the SCO Summit.

The Prime Minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with other SCO leaders during the summit. The MEA has said details of these meetings will be conveyed once finalised.

India-Russia ties remain anchored in defence, energy, nuclear power, and space cooperation, alongside rapidly expanding trade. Bilateral trade has grown significantly in recent years, driven by India’s imports of Russian crude oil, coal, fertilizers, and other commodities.

The two governments are working towards achieving $100 billion in trade by 2030, with initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime route aimed at reducing costs and improving connectivity.

The SCO Summit in Bishkek is expected to provide a platform for Modi and Putin to strengthen strategic coordination, review progress in economic and defence cooperation, and discuss regional security challenges.

Their meeting will also set the stage for Putin’s visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, underscoring the depth of the partnership between New Delhi and Moscow.

ANI

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Pakistan And Kuwait Seal Strategic Defence Protocol To Deepen Military Cooperation

Pakistan and Kuwait have signed a new defence agreement aimed at significantly enhancing bilateral military cooperation.

The accord, titled Protocol Agreement-2026, was formalised during a meeting between Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Kuwaiti Defence Minister Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Sabah at the Ministry of Defence in Rawalpindi.

The Kuwaiti delegation was accompanied by Lieutenant General Khalid Al-Shriaan, Chief of General Staff of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces. The discussions centred on matters of mutual interest, with a particular emphasis on strengthening defence relations, expanding security cooperation, and consolidating bilateral military ties.

This new protocol builds upon the Defence Cooperation Agreement-2023, creating a more comprehensive framework for collaboration. Under the latest arrangement, Pakistan’s Armed Forces will provide assistance to their Kuwaiti counterparts in diverse areas including training, capacity building, border management, and other mutually agreed fields of defence cooperation.

The official statement highlighted that the agreement reflects the deep trust, mutual respect, and shared strategic interests that underpin the longstanding defence relationship between the two nations. It was described as a step forward in reinforcing the brotherly bond between Pakistan and Kuwait.

In a separate statement, the Pakistan Army confirmed that the Kuwaiti delegation also met Field Marshal Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. Their discussions focused on regional security, bilateral defence cooperation, and broader matters of mutual interest.

The agreement comes at a time when Pakistan has been actively expanding its defence diplomacy across the Middle East and beyond. Kuwait, with its strategic location in the Gulf, has long been a partner in regional security initiatives.

The enhanced cooperation is expected to contribute to stability in the wider region, particularly in areas concerning border management and counter-terrorism.

Pakistan’s defence diplomacy has increasingly emphasised training and capacity building as instruments of influence. Its military institutions have historically trained officers from Gulf countries, and the new protocol is likely to expand such exchanges. Kuwait, in turn, benefits from Pakistan’s extensive experience in counter-terrorism and border security, areas of growing importance given regional instability.

The timing of the agreement also reflects Kuwait’s interest in diversifying its defence partnerships. While traditionally reliant on Western defence suppliers, Kuwait has sought to broaden its military cooperation with regional partners. Pakistan’s large military establishment, nuclear deterrence, and experience in multinational operations make it a valuable partner.

This development adds another dimension to Pakistan’s evolving defence diplomacy, which has recently included agreements with Somalia and participation in the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement alongside Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The Kuwait pact strengthens Islamabad’s footprint in the Gulf, reinforcing its role as a security provider despite economic challenges.

The Protocol Agreement-2026 thus marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-Kuwait relations, signalling a shared commitment to regional stability and defence collaboration.

It underscores the strategic importance of military partnerships in shaping the security architecture of the Gulf and South Asia.

PTI

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India-Japan Economic Partnership Enters New Era As Piyush Goyal Concludes Productive Visit

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has reflected on his four-day official visit to Japan, describing it as "highly productive" and a turning point in the India-Japan economic partnership. 

He visited three major Japanese cities between 24 and 27 August, leading a nearly 200-member business delegation, and emphasised the growing collaboration in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, clean energy and robotics.

In a detailed Substack post, Goyal explained that the longstanding friendship between India and Japan was evolving. For decades, the relationship had been built on a familiar model of Japanese capital and technology combined with India's market and talent pool.

He cited examples such as Suzuki, Honda, the Delhi Metro and the Dedicated Freight Corridor as valuable contributions. However, he stressed that this template was now too limited for the scale of cooperation both countries required.

He noted that discussions during his visit extended beyond manufacturing to broader issues of economic security and strategic cooperation. He highlighted resilient supply chains, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, clean energy, defence-linked manufacturing, space and robotics for ageing societies as key areas of focus. These sectors form the foundation of what both countries are calling the India-Japan Next Generation Economic Partnership, which he insisted was more than just a slogan.

Goyal recalled the investment target set during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan in 2025, where both countries agreed on JPY 10 trillion in Japanese private investment in India over the next decade. He said that every effort during his recent visit was directed towards achieving this ambitious goal.

Speaking to ANI at the conclusion of his trip, Goyal reported strong excitement among Japanese businesses. He highlighted the participation of more than 200 industry representatives from India and abroad, who engaged in extensive business-to-business interactions. He stressed that these engagements were already translating into tangible investment opportunities.

As an example, he mentioned a robotics company he had met in Tokyo on Monday, which by Thursday in Osaka had already identified an Indian partner for investment and manufacturing robots in India. He said this demonstrated that results were beginning to emerge quickly, with significant potential visible across sectors.

Goyal emphasised that the possibilities arising from India-Japan economic engagement were limitless. He underlined the need to shape India's industrial future through these partnerships, moving beyond traditional trade towards investment, technology and manufacturing collaborations.

The visit coincided with the designation of 2026 as the "India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons," marking 75 years of diplomatic relations. Goyal said the strong response from Japanese businesses and the early progress in areas such as robotics showed the potential for the partnership to expand into new domains of strategic and economic cooperation.

The Minister concluded that the trip was not only about discussions but also about concrete outcomes, with early investments already taking shape. He described the visit as a significant step in advancing the India-Japan partnership into a new era of collaboration, innovation and shared growth.

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PM Modi’s Four-Day Visit To Uzbekistan And Kyrgyz Republic To Boost SCO And Strategic Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from 29 August to 1 September. The visit will include a bilateral engagement in Tashkent and participation in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek.

This marks his fourth visit to Uzbekistan and his second bilateral trip to the country, undertaken at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

During his State Visit to Tashkent, the Prime Minister will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev. The discussions are expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan.

The two leaders will review cooperation across trade, investment, defence, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people ties. They will also deliberate on advancing shared developmental visions, namely Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the Shastri Memorial in Tashkent and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies. His program will also include a banquet lunch hosted by President Mirziyoyev in his honour. The visit is intended to reaffirm the close and multi-faceted strategic partnership between the two nations.

India and Uzbekistan have maintained extensive and fruitful engagements over the years in both bilateral and multilateral formats. India is among Uzbekistan’s top ten trading partners, with bilateral trade and investments together close to $1 billion. Cooperation spans critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, education, information technology and healthcare.

More than 16,000 Indian students are currently studying in Uzbekistan, supported by four Indian university campuses. Major Indian investments in Uzbekistan include pharmaceuticals, amusement parks, automobile components and education.

From Tashkent, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Bishkek in the Kyrgyz Republic from 31 August to 1 September at the invitation of President Sadyr Zhaparov. He will attend the 26th SCO Summit, which coincides with the organisation’s 25th anniversary.

India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017, after holding observer status since 2005. The SCO currently comprises ten member states, along with dialogue partners and observers. The organisation was established to address terrorism, separatism and extremism, and has since expanded into broader areas of cooperation.

India has previously chaired the SCO Council of Heads of Government in 2020 and the SCO Council of Heads of State during 2022–23. Prime Minister Modi’s engagement with the SCO has been guided by the SECURE framework, which he articulated in 2018.

SECURE stands for Security, Economy and Trade, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment. More recently, at the SCO Summit in Tianjin, he highlighted Security, Connectivity and Opportunity as key elements of India’s engagement.

At the Bishkek summit, Prime Minister Modi will address SCO leaders and underline India’s priorities of security, connectivity and opportunity. He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with leaders of SCO member states on the sidelines. Additionally, he will attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Central Asia.

The four-day visit is expected to deepen India’s strategic and economic engagement with Uzbekistan and strengthen its participation in the SCO. It will also advance cooperation with Central Asian partners across security, connectivity, trade, technology, education and culture, reinforcing India’s outreach in the region.

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India And Canada Set Ambitious Trade And Investment Targets With Bilateral Treaty Talks

India has expressed its readiness to begin negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty with Canada at the earliest opportunity.

This announcement came as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne concluded the inaugural Canada-India Finance Ministers' Economic and Financial Dialogue.

The two sides agreed to work towards expanding bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion, equivalent to ₹4.65 lakh crore, by 2030, according to the official joint statement released by the Ministry of Finance.

The dialogue focused on strengthening economic and financial cooperation, with emphasis on enhanced trade and investment. It builds upon the commitment made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their meeting in New Delhi in March 2026, where both leaders pledged to strengthen bilateral economic and financial cooperation and to conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) talks by the end of 2026.

India’s readiness to initiate negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty was highlighted as a key step in advancing economic ties. The ministers exchanged views on global macroeconomic developments and domestic policy priorities, while underlining the mutual benefits of stronger bilateral economic and investment relations. They reaffirmed their aspiration to expand trade to CAD 70 billion by 2030.

The dialogue also welcomed the growing investment relationship between India and Canada, recognising the role of long-term institutional capital in strengthening bilateral ties. The ministers noted the substantial presence of Canadian pension funds and other institutional investors in India and discussed measures to facilitate greater engagement between Indian and Canadian financial institutions and investors.

Tax legislation was another area of focus, with both sides stressing the importance of stability and certainty for taxpayers in respect of their investments. They explored commercially viable investment opportunities across sectors of mutual interest, including energy, infrastructure, and technology.

Financial-sector cooperation featured prominently, with discussions on payments modernisation, financial stability, FinTech innovation, capital markets development, and measures to combat financial crime. The ministers agreed to support engagement between relevant authorities and stakeholders on cross-border remittances and merchant payments.

They also welcomed opportunities to broaden the use of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Canada through partnerships with payment service providers. Such efforts are expected to contribute to faster, more efficient, and cost-effective payments, while supporting bilateral trade, tourism, education, and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in both countries.

On economic security, the ministers recognised the importance of resilient and diversified supply chains for sustainable growth. They agreed to pursue cooperation in strategic sectors, including critical minerals, which are vital for energy transition and advanced technologies.

Following the dialogue, Sitharaman and Champagne participated in joint engagements with representatives from Canada’s financial services, FinTech, technology, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and energy and natural resources sectors.

These engagements highlighted shared priorities and opportunities for long-term growth and expanded collaboration among businesses, financial institutions, and other stakeholders.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic and financial ties through regular dialogue and advancing concrete cooperation and tangible outcomes in areas of mutual interest. The next Canada-India Economic and Financial Dialogue is scheduled for 2027.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the dialogue aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as macroeconomic developments, the financial sector, bilateral investment, and shared international economic priorities. Sitharaman is on an official visit to Canada and the United States from August 25 to September 2.

During the Canada leg, she is participating in investment and business roundtables and holding meetings with Canadian companies, with discussions focusing on energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.

Economic engagement between India and Canada has gathered pace in recent months. Bilateral merchandise trade stood at around $8 billion in 2025-26, with India’s exports at $4.67 billion and imports at $3.28 billion, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The two countries are also negotiating CEPA, with a target of raising bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030.

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India–Thailand Wargames Enter Full Swing As Exercise MAITREE-XV Kicks Off

ExerciseExercise MAITREE-XV between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army is currently underway, showcasing the growing defence cooperation between the two nations.

The joint exercise is being conducted with full vigour, focusing on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in jungle and urban environments. It highlights the shared commitment of India and Thailand to strengthen military-to-military ties and enhance operational synergy.

Meanwhile, in Manipur, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh chaired a high-level security meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on Thursday evening. The meeting was convened in response to the 15-day ultimatum issued earlier on August 12, directing individuals in possession of illegal weapons to surrender them. Officials confirmed that the meeting was also prompted by Thursday’s tragic incident along the IT Road in Kangpokpi district, where four innocent civilians were brutally gunned down.

The government condemned the killings in the strongest terms. The Chief Minister instructed security officials to apprehend and take strict action against the perpetrators. The meeting resolved that stringent measures would be taken against any individual, regardless of community, found in possession of illegal arms and weapons.

It was further decided that cadres of militant outfits under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement or engaged in peace talks with the government would face serious consequences if found carrying weapons outside their designated camps.

The developments underscore the fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnic tensions and insurgent activities continue to pose challenges.

The state government’s decision to enforce strict measures against illegal arms possession reflects its determination to restore peace and stability. At the same time, the ongoing Exercise MAITREE-XV with the Thai Army demonstrates India’s broader regional focus on strengthening defence cooperation and preparedness against unconventional threats.

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Chabahar Port Key To India’s Central Asia Connectivity Drive Says India

India has reiterated that the Chabahar Port remains a vital element of its connectivity strategy with Central Asia. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that New Delhi has consistently maintained the position that the region should enjoy reliable, secure and commercially viable access to India.

This was underlined by MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George during a special briefing ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic.

George explained that connectivity is a very important aspect of India’s relationship with Central Asia. He stressed that India has a consistently held position on ensuring such access and is examining the feasibility of strengthening this connectivity.

He noted that Chabahar is one of the important aspects of this engagement and confirmed that India will continue to monitor the situation and take it forward.

He further highlighted that connectivity with Central Asia is a key element of India’s engagement with the region, which carries both historical and strategic dimensions. He pointed out that India has a civilizational connection with Central Asia and today this has evolved into a strategic engagement. He cited Uzbekistan as an example, noting that India has a strategic partnership with the country.

George added that India would continue working with countries in Central Asia to strengthen both physical connectivity and other modes of connectivity between the two regions. He emphasised that India will remain engaged with the countries in the region to explore ways of enhancing connectivity in all forms.

India had first proposed developing the Chabahar Port in 2003 to create an alternative route for Indian goods to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. The plan envisaged road and rail connectivity under the International North-South Transport Corridor. However, progress slowed due to US sanctions on Iran linked to its suspected nuclear program.

India Ports Global Limited (IPGL), through its wholly owned subsidiary India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ), has been operating the port since 2018. In May 2024, India and Iran signed a 10-year contract for the operation of the Shahid-Beheshti Terminal at Chabahar.

The project is aimed at strengthening connectivity with Afghanistan and expanding India’s trade and economic engagement with Central Asia.

The timing of these remarks is significant as they come ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit to Uzbekistan from 29–30 August, followed by his visit to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 31 August to 1 September to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. During the visit, Modi is expected to hold discussions on strengthening India’s strategic partnership with Uzbekistan, including connectivity and other areas of mutual interest.

The Chabahar Port continues to be seen as a strategic asset for India, offering a reliable route to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. It also strengthens India’s role in the International North-South Transport Corridor, linking South Asia with Eurasia.

The port’s operation under IPGL has been a cornerstone of India’s regional connectivity program, with the government determined to ensure its continuity despite external pressures.

ANI

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India To Engage With SCO Institutionally Despite Pakistan’s 2027 Chairship

India has clarified that it will continue to engage with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as an institution, regardless of Pakistan assuming the chairship of the grouping in 2027.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India views the SCO as an important organisation and will deal with it as an entity, while decisions regarding engagement with individual countries will be taken separately by the appropriate authorities.

MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George made these remarks during a special briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visits to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. He was responding to questions on how India perceives Pakistan taking over the SCO chair after the Bishkek summit scheduled from 31 August to 1 September.

George emphasised that India’s engagement with the SCO is institutional. He explained that while Pakistan will assume the chair, India’s participation in specific engagements involving individual countries will be decided by the relevant authorities at the appropriate time. He underlined that India’s participation will be determined accordingly.

The remarks come amid speculation over India’s participation in SCO-related engagements under Pakistan’s chairship, particularly given New Delhi’s longstanding concerns over cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. George reiterated India’s firm position on terrorism, stressing that India has zero tolerance towards terrorism and will continue to push for collective global action against it.

He stated that India has consistently made its position clear on terrorism originating from its neighbourhood. He added that India will continue to do everything possible to ensure that the international community unites in the fight against terrorism. This reflects India’s broader diplomatic stance of linking multilateral cooperation with counter-terrorism imperatives.

Pakistan is scheduled to host the SCO summit in 2027. Islamabad has already indicated that it will invite all member states, including India, in accordance with the organisation’s procedures. Last month, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi confirmed that invitations would be extended to all SCO member states at the level of Heads of State or Government.

He explained that Presidents and Prime Ministers participate interchangeably in SCO summits and meetings of Heads of Government, and Pakistan would invite all leaders accordingly.

The SCO currently comprises ten member states: Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India became a full member of the organisation in 2017. The grouping also includes Afghanistan and Mongolia as observer states, along with fifteen dialogue partners such as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Egypt, Kuwait, Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to travel to Uzbekistan from 29 to 30 August for a bilateral visit. He will then proceed to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 31 August to 1 September to participate in the 26th SCO Summit.

At the Bishkek summit, Modi is expected to address the gathering and outline India’s priorities within the SCO framework, focusing on Security, Connectivity and Opportunity. He is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with SCO leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

India’s approach underscores its commitment to the SCO as a multilateral platform while maintaining a cautious stance towards Pakistan’s role as chair. The emphasis on terrorism highlights India’s determination to ensure that its participation in the organisation remains consistent with its national security concerns and diplomatic principles.

ANI

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Indian Navy Receives Samarthak, First Indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel Built By L&T

Samarthak, the Indian Navy’s first indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel, has been delivered by Larsen & Toubro at Kattupalli on 27 August 2026.

With over 75 percent indigenous content, it represents a major stride in India’s naval modernisation and self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Samarthak has been conceived as a versatile trial and evaluation platform. It is engineered to support maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, offshore patrolling, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The vessel’s design ensures flexibility across a wide spectrum of missions, making it a dependable enabler for the Navy’s evolving requirements.

The ship has been aptly named Samarthak, meaning “The Proponent.” This name reflects its intended role as a reliable supporter of multiple missions. True to its designation, Samarthak is not confined to a single task but embodies the concept of a multi-purpose vessel, capable of adapting to diverse operational needs.

The vessel was built under a ₹887 crore “Buy (Indian)” contract signed between the Ministry of Defence and L&T in March 2022. Originally scheduled for delivery in May 2025, the timeline was revised, with the ship finally handed over in August 2026.

It was launched on 14 October 2024 at Kattupalli, in a ceremony presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, then Chief of Naval Staff.

Samarthak measures approximately 107 metres in length and 18.6 metres in width, with a displacement exceeding 3,750 tons. It is designed to attain a maximum speed of 15 knots. Its dimensions and propulsion allow it to serve as a trials platform for indigenous equipment, supporting the testing and evaluation of weapons, sensors, and other naval systems under development.

The vessel can tow ships, launch and recover different types of targets, operate uncrewed autonomous vehicles, and support the launch and recovery of torpedoes. It is also intended to facilitate aerial, surface, and underwater targets used during gunnery and anti-submarine warfare exercises. These capabilities make Samarthak a critical asset for India’s naval research and development program.

Beyond trials, Samarthak is engineered to provide salvage support, logistics missions to India’s island territories, and humanitarian operations with limited hospital capability. Its ability to function in disaster relief roles underscores its importance in safeguarding lives during crises, while its logistics support enhances India’s maritime reach.

The delivery of Samarthak marks another milestone in the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding journey. It reaffirms the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and stands as a testament to India’s pursuit of a self-sustaining domestic defence industrial ecosystem.

With more than 75 percent indigenous content, the vessel highlights the growing strength of India’s defence manufacturing base.

Samarthak is the first of two multi-purpose vessels ordered under this contract. Its induction will significantly enhance the Navy’s capacity to conduct trials, support surveillance, and undertake humanitarian missions. A date for its formal commissioning into service has not yet been disclosed, but its delivery signals readiness for operational deployment.

Agencies

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