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Quad Slams Pahalgam Terror Attack, Raises Alarm Over China’s Indo-Pacific Moves

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The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, strongly condemned the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam and voiced serious concerns over China’s assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific during a Foreign Ministers meeting held in Washington.

In a joint statement, the Quad called the Pahalgam attack—which killed 26 people—a “reprehensible act of terrorism,” and urged that the perpetrators, organizers, and financiers be brought to justice without delay. “The Quad unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism,” the statement read.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the summit, emphasized India’s right to self-defense and called on Quad partners to understand the strategic imperatives driving its counterterrorism posture.

The statement also highlighted increasing concern over China’s aggressive military maneuvers in the South and East China Seas. The Quad cited “dangerous and provocative actions,” including the use of water cannons, ramming tactics by Chinese maritime militia, and obstruction of navigation rights, which pose a direct threat to regional peace and stability. Japan and Australia have reportedly faced growing military pressure from Beijing, with live-fire naval exercises near Australian waters earlier this year alarming regional security observers.

The Quad also touched on broader regional issues, including the civil conflict in Myanmar and security threats posed by North Korea. To streamline coordination, the group announced a renewed focus on four key areas: maritime and transnational security, critical and emerging technologies, economic prosperity, and humanitarian assistance.

Among the initiatives unveiled was the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative aimed at securing supply chains for vital resources. A new joint training exercise focused on enhancing shared airlift and logistics capacity will be conducted later this year. Plans were also announced for the “Quad Ports of the Future Partnership,” scheduled to launch in Mumbai in the coming months.

With India set to host the Quad Leaders Summit later this year, momentum is building around deeper strategic cooperation and a collective response to regional threats.

Al-Qaeda-Linked Group Claims Deadly Attack on Mali Army Near Senegal Border

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An al-Qaeda-affiliated group, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), has claimed responsibility for a coordinated attack on multiple Malian army positions, including one in Diboli near the Senegal border. The incident marks a significant escalation of extremist violence into western Mali, a region that has largely remained unaffected until now.

According to a statement by the Malian military, the attack occurred near the border town of Diboli, which serves as a crucial trade and import gateway from Dakar, Senegal. The assault is seen as particularly alarming given the area’s historical stability and its economic importance.

Colonel Majo Souleymane Dembélé, spokesperson for the Malian army, stated on national television that security forces “neutralized” 80 attackers during the confrontation. However, no information was provided on casualties among the soldiers.

Experts are expressing concern over the expansion of violence. “The border region to Senegal is a major gateway for trade and imports from Dakar ports to Mali that had been relatively stable for years,” said Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel program at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. “This will also worry border communities in Senegal.”

Mali has been battling extremist insurgencies for over a decade, involving groups linked to both al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The security crisis has deepened since a series of military coups that led to the expulsion of French forces and the arrival of Russian mercenaries. Despite these shifts, attacks have intensified across Mali and neighboring Burkina Faso, with JNIM strengthening its foothold in both countries.

Lt Gen Pawan Chadha Visits Nashik Artillery Centre, Inaugurates Modern Rehab and Training Facilities

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Lieutenant General Pawan Chadha, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding Maharashtra and Gujarat Area, conducted a strategic visit to the Artillery Centre in Nashik, where he reviewed several infrastructure and training advancements aimed at boosting operational readiness and troop welfare.

During the visit, Lt Gen Chadha inaugurated a newly built Rehabilitation & Fitness Centre exclusively for Agniveer trainees. The facility, designed to manage and prevent long-term sports-related injuries, comes in response to a Army health report that flagged recovery-related challenges affecting up to 15% of new recruits. The centre is expected to play a critical role in enhancing physical resilience and ensuring sustained combat fitness.

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The General also inspected cutting-edge simulator-based training setups that have significantly modernised artillery instruction. According to a Journal of Defense Studies report, such simulators have led to a 30% improvement in combat efficiency among trained troops. Lt Gen Chadha interacted with instructors on-site and praised their role in integrating technology with traditional training methods.

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The tour reflects the Indian Army’s broader vision under Southern Command to adopt innovation and sustainable practices. The push mirrors national trends, including the recent inauguration of India’s first geothermal net-zero military building in Jhansi, demonstrating a balanced focus on ecology and efficiency.

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Military officials based in Nashik welcomed the upgrades, noting that these developments will further cement the Artillery Centre’s status as one of Asia’s premier training establishments. The Centre’s location near the Deolali Cantonment Board and the Combat Army Aviation Training School adds strategic value to the ongoing transformations.

Western Air and Northern Army Commanders Hold Strategic Meeting to Boost Joint Operations

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In a key development to enhance inter-service coordination, Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command, and Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, held a high-level strategic meeting today. The discussions centered on strengthening joint force application in a multi-domain operational environment, particularly in the western sector, which remains highly sensitive due to its proximity to both the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

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This engagement signifies a progressive move toward closer collaboration between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, echoing the shifting nature of modern warfare. Both commands have historically played vital roles in defending national interests, especially during conflicts like the 1999 Kargil War. The Western Air Command, established in 1963 after the Sino-Indian conflict, and the Northern Command, re-raised in 1972, continue to be at the forefront of India’s defense architecture.

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Appointed earlier this year, Air Marshal Mishra and Lt Gen Sharma underlined the urgency of achieving greater interoperability between services. Their meeting aligns with the Indian military’s broader doctrinal emphasis on integrated theatre commands and network-centric warfare, which includes cyber and space domains. Analysts highlight that such coordination could raise operational effectiveness by up to 35% in high-threat scenarios, referencing global benchmarks in joint military operations.

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The dialogue reflects India’s determination to evolve its defense posture in response to shifting geopolitical dynamics, ensuring greater synergy across air and ground forces in regions of strategic importance.

DRDO’s DEAL Successfully Conducts Field Trials of SDR Manpack and CTCS in Uttarakhand

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The Defence Electronics Application Laboratory (DEAL), a DRDO lab based in Dehradun, has successfully completed field trials of two advanced indigenous communication systems — the Software Defined Radio (SDR) Manpack and the Compact Transhorizon Communication System (CTCS). The trials were carried out in the challenging terrain of Joshimath in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and other key user agencies.

The field evaluation involved active participation from officers representing various security and paramilitary forces, including the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Border Security Force (BSF), Assam Rifles, Intelligence Bureau (IB), National Security Guard (NSG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and other allied agencies.

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The trials were designed to rigorously assess system performance in diverse terrain and operational environments. Key parameters as defined in the Qualitative Requirements (QRs) and Technical Documents (TDs) were verified in real-world conditions. Both the SDR Manpack and CTCS demonstrated robust and reliable functionality, successfully meeting user-defined operational benchmarks.

This milestone marks a significant step forward in India’s quest for self-reliance in mission-critical communication technology. The successful trials reaffirm DRDO’s commitment to equipping national security forces with state-of-the-art, indigenous communication solutions tailored for demanding operational needs.

Four Women Officers Now Hold Top IG Positions in CISF, Marking Historic Milestone

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In a significant development for gender representation in India’s paramilitary forces, four women officers of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) have been appointed to Inspector General (IG)-rank leadership roles across critical and sensitive units. The CISF announced the development on Monday, calling it a “historic milestone” and the highest proportion of women at this level among all armed forces of the Union.

Of the eight IG-rank positions in the CISF—four reserved for IPS officers and four for CISF cadre—women now occupy 50% of the CISF cadre posts. The four women officers are IG Shanti Jaidev, who heads the Eastern Sector, IG Neelima Rani heading the Central Sector, IG Jyoti Sinha overseeing security for the Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, and IG Pratibha Aggarwal in charge of Technology and Provisioning at CISF headquarters.

In a statement, the CISF said the appointments are in line with India’s larger national goal of empowering women through the Nari Shakti initiative. “With women rising to leadership positions, CISF is not just marking a milestone—it is leading a movement towards true representation and meaningful participation in uniformed services,” the force stated.

The move has been welcomed by former and serving officials. A mid-level CISF officer noted that IGs play a key role in managing sectors and frontiers, supported by Deputy IGs in day-to-day operations, and make vital decisions. “Having women officers, that too from the CISF’s own cadre, is an achievement and a great move,” the officer said.

Retired IPS officer Meeran Chadha Borwankar, who once headed the Mumbai crime branch and the Bureau of Police Research and Development, called the appointments a positive shift for women in uniform. “Having four women in top leadership positions of CISF is a very positive signal of change in our society. We need high visibility of women leaders in all fields. It encourages girls to be ambitious and motivates families to invest in girl education,” she said.

With a strength of over 200,000 personnel, the CISF secures 359 vital installations across India, including airports, nuclear plants, oil refineries, hydro power projects, and key infrastructures in border and insurgency-prone regions. The force is also entrusted with the security of the Indian Parliament.

This development follows the appointment of Nina Singh as CISF’s former Director General, making her only the second woman in history to lead a central paramilitary force. The growing visibility of women in top security roles reflects a changing paradigm in India’s approach to gender inclusivity within the armed forces.

Over 4,500 Runners Unite for Panchshil Soldierathon Bombay Sappers: A Stirring Salute to the Indian Armed Forces

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In an unforgettable morning of grit, gratitude and glory, more than 4,500 runners converged at the historic Bombay Sappers Parade Ground for the Panchshil Soldierathon Bombay Sappers – a powerful tribute to heroism ,courage & sacrifice of Indian Armed Forces and a monumental leap forward in the Fit Bharat Movement.

Organized by Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat, India’s largest community-led fitness initiative, in collaboration with Panchshil Realty, the event brought together soldiers, veterans, civilians, students, and fitness enthusiasts, all united by a shared mission: to run with pride, purpose and patriotism.

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A Run Like No Other

The event featured three categories — a 10 km timed run, 5 km fun run, and 3 km walk-each resonating with emotion and intent. The flag-off at 6:45 AM by Governor General V. K. Singh and Southern Army Commander Lt. General Dhiraj Seth created a surge of energy and pride across the participants .

What made this run truly exceptional was the rare opportunity to run shoulder-to-shoulder with Indian Army soldiers – heroes who exemplify valor, discipline and unwavering commitment to the nation.

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Running for a Greater Cause

Beyond medals and miles, Soldierathon always stood in support of our wounded soldiers of Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, Kirkee- a sanctuary of healing for soldiers who have sustained life-altering injuries in the line of duty. The event served as a collective expression of respect and responsibility, raising awareness and solidarity for India’s wounded warriors.

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Fitness with Purpose- Patriotism in Motion

The soul behind this national movement, Major Surendra Poonia, VSM (Ex-Special Forces) along with Mrs. Shilpa Bhagat, continues to drive Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat with the vision of creating a healthier, stronger and more united Bharat where fitness becomes a form of tribute to the forces that protect us.

“Panchshil Soldierathon wasn’t about clocking kilometers. It was about honoring lives. Every step was a salute & tribute . We are deeply indebted to our Indian Army, Military Seniors ,to every runner, volunteer and especially to our partners like Panchshil Realty who made this vision a reality,” said Major Surendra Poonia, VSM.
“We urge every citizen to adopt the ethics, sacrifice and discipline of our forces not just in times of conflict, but in everyday life. That is the true spirit of nation-building.”

Indian Army’s Apache Attack Helicopters to Begin Arriving in July After 18-Month Delay

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The Indian Army’s long-awaited Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters are finally expected to begin arriving this month, according to a report by The Sunday Guardian Live. The $800 million deal, signed in February 2020 during then-U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to India, has faced multiple delays, pushing delivery timelines back by over 18 months.

Originally scheduled for full delivery by February 2024, the contract involves six advanced combat helicopters meant for the Army Aviation Corps. As of June 2025, none had been delivered, leaving the 451 Aviation Squadron—raised in March 2024 at Nagtalao, Jodhpur—non-operational despite being fully manned and trained.

The delays were attributed by Boeing to global supply chain disruptions and technical issues, including a critical fault in the electrical power generator that could produce hazardous cockpit smoke. Revised delivery timelines set in September 2024 projected the first deliveries by February 2025, but they too were missed. Defense sources now confirm that the first batch of three Apaches is expected to arrive in July 2025, with the remaining three scheduled for October–November.

India’s lower ranking in the U.S. Defense Priorities and Allocations System Program (DPAS-T) was cited as another factor causing procurement bottlenecks. Diplomatic efforts between April and May 2024 improved India’s DPAS standing, yet residual supply chain challenges have continued to impact the schedule.

The AH-64E Apache is a formidable combat platform, often referred to as a “flying tank.” It boasts advanced sensors and targeting systems, Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, Stinger air-to-air missiles, and a 30mm chin-mounted gun that fires 625 armor-piercing rounds per minute. Its ability to coordinate with unmanned aerial vehicles and conduct deep reconnaissance missions makes it especially valuable in desert warfare, particularly near the Pakistan border. The helicopters are designed to operate alongside the Indian Air Force’s existing fleet of 22 AH-64Es, inducted between 2019 and 2021 under a separate $3.1 billion contract.

The Apache acquisition supports the Indian Army’s broader effort to establish its own attack helicopter squadrons, separate from the Air Force. This organizational shift is driven by the need for direct, responsive close-air support in armored combat scenarios and aligns with India’s evolving Cold Start Doctrine, which emphasizes rapid mobilization and precision strikes against regional adversaries.

The delays have sparked debate on India’s reliance on foreign defense suppliers. Some analysts speculate that the Biden administration’s lukewarm diplomatic posture towards India—due to its neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict—may have contributed to the slowdown. However, with the Trump administration’s return, signs point to a renewed emphasis on U.S.-India defense cooperation.

Despite the delays, the Apache program remains strategically important. Boeing’s partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. in Hyderabad, which manufactures Apache fuselages with 90% locally sourced components, reflects India’s ambitions under the Make in India initiative and highlights the growing role of domestic industry in global defense supply chains.

India and Pakistan Exchange Lists of Civilian Prisoners and Fishermen

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India and Pakistan today exchanged, through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad, the lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen held in each other’s custody. This biannual exercise is conducted under the provisions of the 2008 bilateral Agreement on Consular Access, which mandates such exchanges on January 1 and July 1 every year.

India has shared the names of 382 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen in its custody who are Pakistani or believed to be Pakistani nationals. In return, Pakistan has shared the names of 45 civilian prisoners and 193 fishermen in its custody who are Indian or believed to be Indian nationals.

The Government of India has called for the early release and repatriation of Indian civilian prisoners, fishermen along with their boats, and missing defence personnel from Pakistani custody. Pakistan has been specifically urged to expedite the release of 159 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences. Additionally, India has asked Pakistan to provide immediate consular access to 26 civilian prisoners and fishermen who are believed to be Indian nationals but have not been granted access so far.

India has also called on Pakistan to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of all Indian and believed-to-be-Indian prisoners and fishermen in its custody, pending their release and repatriation.

India reiterated its commitment to addressing all humanitarian issues, including those involving prisoners and fishermen in each other’s countries, on a priority basis. In this context, India has also requested Pakistan to complete nationality verification of 80 believed-to-be-Pakistani civilian prisoners and fishermen currently in Indian custody, whose repatriation is delayed due to lack of confirmation.

Since 2014, sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the repatriation of 2,661 Indian fishermen and 71 Indian civilian prisoners from Pakistan. This includes 500 fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners repatriated since 2023.

INS Tamal Commissioned in Russia, Marking End of Foreign-Built Warship Era for Indian Navy

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The Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal, its latest Tushil-class stealth frigate, at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, in a ceremony that marked the end of India’s era of foreign-built warships. The commissioning was presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, in the presence of senior Indian and Russian defence officials.

INS Tamal is the second of the Tushil-class frigates, an upgraded variant of the Talwar and Teg-class warships derived from Russia’s Project 1135.6 (Krivak class). With this induction, India concludes its longstanding practice of importing frontline warships, signaling a full transition to domestic naval construction in line with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.

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The first of the class, INS Tushil, was commissioned in December 2024. Both ships are part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, also known as the Sword Arm. Under the Inter-Governmental Agreement with Russia, two additional frigates—Triput and Tavasya—are being constructed at Goa Shipyard Limited through transfer of technology, underscoring the shift toward self-reliant production.

INS Tamal features more than 30 percent indigenous content, including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile. The ship is armed with Shtil vertical launch surface-to-air missiles, an upgraded A190 100 mm gun, anti-submarine rocket systems, heavyweight torpedoes, and advanced radar and electronic warfare suites. New-generation sensors such as the EO/IR Sandal V system enhance situational awareness, while network-centric warfare capabilities are supported through modern SATCOM, data links, and secure communication systems.

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Its aviation facilities allow for operations by Kamov-28 multirole helicopters and Kamov-31 airborne early warning helicopters, significantly extending the ship’s operational envelope. Powered by a COGAG propulsion system, Tamal achieves speeds above 30 knots with extended endurance and a high firepower-to-tonnage ratio.

The Tushil-class project is among the largest foreign naval shipbuilding contracts executed globally and symbolizes the historical depth of Indo-Russian defence ties. The legacy dates back to the mid-1960s, when India, unable to secure advanced naval systems from Western nations, turned to the Soviet Union. The USSR provided submarines, missile boats, and supersonic fighters, enabling India to strengthen its maritime forces and achieve decisive outcomes during the 1971 war.

The Indo-Russian partnership continued to flourish post-1971, with key equipment transfers including Nanuchka and Kashin class vessels, Kilo class submarines, maritime patrol aircraft like the TU-142 and IL-38, and eventually the retrofitted aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. The joint development of the BrahMos missile further cemented this cooperation.

INS Tamal’s commissioning marks not just the addition of a potent warship to India’s fleet, but also the symbolic close of a chapter that saw India emerge as a major naval power with support from a longstanding ally. As India now focuses on indigenous shipbuilding, the legacy of this partnership remains embedded in the Navy’s operational strength and strategic growth.