Latest news with #Inter-GovernmentalAgreement
Mint
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Mint
Mock drill, missile tests: How India, Pakistan focus on military prowess as fear of ‘war' looms
From a series of bans to ceasefire violations to 'historic' mock drills -- India and Pakistan seem to be now shifting their focus to military prowess as tension between the two neighbours simmers. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, India and Pakistan downgraded their diplomatic ties and have now been conducting test missile launches and military exercises to maintain military and "civil defense" preparedness. Here's how India and Pakistan have been showcasing their combat readiness: India's Ministry of Home Affairs asked several states to conduct mock drills for effective civil defence on May 7. It said the government has decided to organise a civil defence exercise and rehearsal across the 244 categorised civil defence districts in the country on May 7. A drill of such scale was last conducted in 1971, just before India went to war with Pakistan. The measures to be taken during the drill include: > Operationalisation of Air Raid Warning Sirens > Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a "hostile attack" > Provision of crash black out measures > Provision for early camouflaging of vital plants/installations > Updation of evacuation plan and its rehearsal > On May 5, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted combat firing (with reduced explosive) of the indigenously designed and developed Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM). MIGM is designed to enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities against modern stealth ships and submarines. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said "the system will further enhance undersea warfare capabilities of the Indian Navy," the release read. "The system is an advanced underwater naval mine developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories - High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Pune and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh," a release from the Ministry of Defence read. DRDO & Indian Navy conduct combat firing (with reduced explosive) of indigenous Multi-Influence Ground Mine > On May 03, DRDO successfully carried out maiden flight-trials of stratospheric airship platform from the Sheopur trial site in Madhya Pradesh. "...The airship was launched carrying an instrumental payload to an altitude of around 17 km," as per an official release. > On April 28, the Centre and France signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Aircraft (22 Single-Seater and four Twin-Seater) for the Indian Navy. It includes Training, Simulator, Associated Equipment, Weapons and Performance-Based Logistics. It also includes additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). > On April 27, the Indian Navy said its ships undertook successful multiple anti-ship firings to "revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long range precision offensive strike." The Indian Navy stands combat ready, "credible and future ready in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests Anytime Anywhere Anyhow," it posted on X. Pakistan tested two missile launches since Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan earlier claimed it conducted a 'successful' training launch of the Abdali Weapon System— a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 450 kilometres as part of Ex INDUS. Later on May 5, Pakistan said it conducted a "successful training launch of a FATAH Series surface-to-surface missile" on Monday amid escalating tensions with India over the Pahalgam terror attack. Later in May 5, Pakistan said it conducted a "successful training launch of a FATAH Series surface-to-surface missile" on Monday amid escalating tensions with India over the Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan has been conducting "unprovoked firing" across the Line of Control (LoC) for the last 12 days, drawing a measured response from the Indian Army. In a statement on Tuesday, May 6, the Indian Army said Pakistan violated ceasefire on the intervening night of May 5-6 in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani and Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). India took a series of strong actions against Pakistan after at least 26 people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack about two weeks ago. From halting the Indus Waters Treaty to banning Pakistani YouTube channels and movies, India took a slew of countermeasures against Pakistan over its support for cross-border terrorism. In retaliation to India's measures, Pakistan also announced decisions while 'vehemently rejecting' New Delhi's actions. Read here a recap of decisions India and Pakistan took in week 1. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after 26 people were killed in the terror attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region on April 22. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, is believed to be behind terrorist attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran that left 26 people, mostly tourists, dead. Following the attack, India took a slew of actions against Pakistan, blaming the latter for harbouring terrorists and getting involved in cross-border terrorism. Later, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned of an "all-out war" between the two countries. "If there is an all-out attack or something like that, then obviously there will be an all-out war," Asif had told Sky News in the interview around April 24. Asif said on Monday, May 5, that India could carry out a military strike at any moment along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. 'There are reports that India may strike at any point along the LoC… New Delhi will be given a befitting reply,' the minister was quoted by news agency PTI as saying in Islamabad.
Times of Oman
29-04-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Dassault welcomes Rafale Marine deal, reaffirms commitment to India's 'sovereignty' and 'strategic challenges'
Saint-Cloud: Dassault Aviation CEO and chairman Eric Trappier, on Monday welcomed the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) between India and France for the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft for the Indian Navy, underlining the 70-year-old relationship between the two countries and reaffirming Dassault Aviation's commitment to standing by India in its pursuit of "sovereign power", addressing "strategic challenges", and supporting its "ambitious vision for the future". In an official statement from Dassault Aviation, Trappier said, "On behalf of Dassault Aviation and its partners, I would like to thank the Indian authorities, with whom we have been working for more than 70 years, for their confidence in us and reaffirm our unwavering determination to stand by their side to contribute to India's expression of its sovereign power, its strategic challenges and its ambitious vision of the future." The Dassault aviation CEO was present at the signing of the Inter-Governmental Agreement between India and France. This agreement follows the announcement in July 2023 that the Rafale Marine would be selected, making the Indian Navy the first user of this aircraft outside of France, after an international consultation. As per Dassault, the agreement confirms that Indian authorities are satisfied with the aircraft's capabilities and wish to expand its operational use. It further added, "This new acquisition testifies to the importance of the strategic relationship between India and France and the recognition of the Rafale as an essential vector of national sovereignty." It continued, "It honours Dassault Aviation's commitment to meeting the operational needs of the Indian Forces since the induction of the Toofany seven decades ago, and its determination, through its significant contribution to the 'Make in India' policy and the 'Skill India' initiative, to make its presence in India a success in the service of Indian interests." The Rafale Marine will give the Indian Armed Forces state-of-the-art capabilities, and the Indian Navy will benefit from the French Navy's experience, which already operates this aircraft. In addition to the 36 Rafales already in service with the Indian Air Force, the Rafale Marine will help strengthen national sovereignty and India's role as a major international player. On Monday, India and France signed the Inter-Governmental Agreement for the procurement of 26 Rafale Aircraft (22 Single-Seater and four Twin-Seater) for the Indian Navy, according to the Ministry of Defence. The agreement includes training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and performance-based logistics. It also covers additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IGA was signed by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and French Minister of Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu. The signed copies of the agreement, aircraft package supply protocol, and weapons package supply protocol were exchanged by Indian and French officials at Nausena Bhawan in New Delhi on April 28, 2025, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The agreement supports the government's focus on 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India), as it includes the transfer of technology for the integration, repair, and maintenance of weapons in India. The statement read, "In line with the Government's thrust on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the agreement includes the transfer of technology for the integration of indigenous weapons in India. It also includes setting up production facilities for the Rafale fuselage as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons in India. The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs and revenue for a large number of MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) in setting up, production, and running these facilities."
The Hindu
28-04-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Top news of the day from The Hindu - April 28, 2025
J&K Assembly passes resolution denouncing Pahalgam attack The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly unanimously passed a resolution, moved by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary during a special session of the Assembly, on Monday (April 28, 2025) expressing shock and anguish over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and resolved to fight resolutely to defeat the nefarious designs to disturb communal harmony and hinder progress. The move was passed by voice vote. Concluding a discussion on the resolution, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the tourism portfolio, condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and admitted that he had failed in his responsibility of ensuring a safe return for tourists. Putin declares 72-hour May ceasefire to mark WW2 victory Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Monday (April 28, 2025) declared a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine on May 8-10 to mark the World War II Victory Day, as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration decides whether a deal to end the more than three-year war is within reach. The Kremlin said that the truce will start at 0000 on May 8 (2100 GMT on May 7) and last through the end of May 10. The Kremlin said that Mr. Putin ordered the full cessation of hostilities on 'humanitarian grounds' to mark the May 9 holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany. India, France conclude agreement for 26 Rafale-M jets for Navy India and France formally concluded the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets valued at around ₹63,000 Crore on Monday (April 28, 2025). The deal was concluded in a formal ceremony attended by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and French Ambassador in India Thoerry Mathou at Nau Sena Bhawan. In addition to the IGA, several associated Government to Business agreements were also concluded. Kharge slams PM Modi for skipping all-party meet on Pahalgam attack Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday (April 28, 2025) targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for skipping the all-party meeting called to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead. Mr. Kharge said that in this hour of crisis, everyone wants to fight together, 'But the BJP wants to spread venom and divide people'. 'It is the misfortune of the country that when the pride of the country was hurt, you [PM Modi] were giving an election speech in Bihar,' he said, addressing the 'Samvidhan Bachao' rally in Jaipur. SC notice to Centre, others on plea to ban sexually explicit content on OTT, social media platforms The Supreme Court on Monday (April 28, 2025) sought responses from the Centre and others on a plea seeking a direction to take appropriate steps to prohibit streaming of sexually explicit content on OTT and social media platforms. A bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and Augustine George Masih said the petition raises an important concern, and the issue was within the domain of the executive or the legislature. 'As it is, there are allegations that we are encroaching upon the legislature and executive power,' Justice Gavai said. Supreme Court orders return of passport to Ranveer Allahbadia The Supreme Court on Monday (April 28, 2025) allowed the return of the passport to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia to enable him to travel abroad for work. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh relaxed the condition after the Assam and Maharashtra Governments said the investigation against him was complete. The bench asked Mr. Allahbadia to approach the Maharashtra cyber police bureau for the return of his passport. 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana produced in Delhi court, post remand After the completion of his NIA remand, 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana was on Monday (April 28, 2025) produced before a Delhi court. Rana was produced before special NIA judge Chander Jit Singh after his 18-day NIA custody got over. Senior advocate Dayan Krishnan and special public prosecutor Narender Mann are likely to advance arguments on behalf of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in an in-camera hearing. Senior Indian diplomat holds talks with Taliban's acting foreign minister in Kabul India's point-person on Afghanistan, Anand Prakash, held talks with Taliban's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and discussed political and trade issues, Afghan media reported on Sunday (April 27, 2025). In the meeting held in Kabul, the acting foreign minister emphasised the expansion of political and economic relations with India, Tolo news reported. T.N. Government moves Bill to name CM Stalin as Chancellor of proposed Kalaignar University The Tamil Nadu Government is planning to name Chief Minister M.K. Stalin as the Chancellor of the proposed Kalaignar University to be established in Kumbakonam. Minister for Higher Education Govi. Chezhiaan moved a Bill in this regard in the Assembly on Tuesday (April 28, 2025). According to the Bill, the Chief Minister would be the Chancellor of the varsity and the Minister of Higher Education the Pro-Chancellor. The Chancellor would appoint the Vice-Chancellor from a panel of three names recommended by a committee. Conclave to elect new Pope to start on May 7, says Vatican Catholic cardinals meeting in Rome on Monday (April 28, 2025) have set May 7 as the start date for the Conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis, the Vatican spokesman said. The date was decided during a closed-door meeting of cardinals at the Vatican, the first since the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday (April 26, 2025). The cardinals will take part in a solemn mass at St Peter's Basilica, after which those eligible to vote will gather in the Sistine Chapel for the secretive ballot, spokesman Matteo Bruni said. Death toll in Iran port explosion rises to at least 46 killed, with over 1,000 injured The death toll from a huge explosion that rocked one of Iran's main ports rose Monday (April 28, 2025) to 46 people killed, authorities said. Iranian state television offered the toll from the blast at Shahid Rajaei port near Bandar Abbas, citing local officials. A fire still burned at the site, some two days after the initial explosion on Saturday (April 26, 2025), just as Iran began a third round of negotiations with the United States over its rapidly advancing nuclear program. Over 1,000 people suffered injuries in the blast.
United News of India
28-04-2025
- Business
- United News of India
India inks deal with France for 26 Rafale-Marine aircraft for Indian Navy
New Delhi, Apr 28 (UNI) The prowess of the Indian Navy is set to get a boost as it will be receiving 26 state-of-the-art Rafale fighter planes from France under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA), amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. The IGA has been signed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Armed Forces of France Sebastien Lecornu and copies of the agreement along with the pacts on aircraft package, supply protocol and weapons package supply protocol were exchanged by Indian and French officials in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, here on Monday. The cost of the 26 Rafale Marine Aircraft (22 Single-Seater and four Twin-Seater) is estimated to be Rs 63,000 crore, although the price was not mentioned in the official statement issued by the Defence Ministry. The statement said that the IGA includes training, simulator, associated equipment, weapons and performance-based logistics. It also includes additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). In line with the government's thrust on 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', the agreement includes transfer of technology for integration of indigenous weapons in India. It also includes setting up of production facility for Rafale fuselage as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities for aircraft engine, sensors and weapons in India. The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs and revenue for a large number of MSMEs in setting up, production and running of these facilities. Manufactured by France's Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-borne combat-ready aircraft with proven operational capabilities in maritime environment. The delivery of these aircraft would be completed by 2030, with the crew undergoing training in France and India. Rafale-Marine has commonality with the Rafale being operated by IAF. Its procurement will substantially enhance joint operational capability, besides optimising training and logistics for the aircraft for both Indian Navy and IAF. The induction would lead to the addition of a potent force multiplier to the Indian Navy's aircraft carriers, substantially boosting the nation's air power at sea. UNI RBE CS
Times of Oman
28-04-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
:India, France ink inter-governmental agreement for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for Navy
New Delhi : India and France on Monday inked an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Aircraft (22 Single-Seater and four Twin-Seater) for the Indian Navy, a statement by the Ministry of Defence said. "The agreement includes Training, Simulator, Associated Equipment, Weapons and Performance-Based Logistics. It also includes additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF)," the statement said. "The IGA has been signed by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Armed Forces of France Mr Sebastien Lecornu. The signed copies of the agreement, aircraft package supply protocol and weapons package supply protocol were exchanged by Indian and French officials in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh at Nausena Bhawan, New Delhi on April 28, 2025," the statement read. The agreement is in line with government's thrust on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as it includes transfer of technology for integration, repair and maintenance of weapons in India. "In line with the Government's thrust on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the agreement includes Transfer of Technology for integration of indigenous weapons in India. It also includes setting up of production facility for Rafale Fuselage as well as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities for aircraft engine, sensors and weapons in India. The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs and revenue for a large number of MSMEs in setting up, production and running of these facilities," the statement read. "Manufactured by France's Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-borne combat-ready aircraft with proven operational capabilities in maritime environment. The delivery of these aircraft would be completed by 2030, with the crew undergoing training in France and India," as per the statement. "Rafale-Marine has commonality with the Rafale being operated by IAF. Its procurement will substantially enhance joint operational capability, besides optimising training and logistics for the aircraft for both Indian Navy and IAF. The induction would lead to the addition of a potent force multiplier to the Indian Navy's aircraft carriers, substantially boosting the nation's air power at sea," the statement concluded.
