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Rajnath Singh Urges IAEA to Monitor Pakistan: ‘Are They Safe in Rogue Hands?’

May 15, 2025, 1:29 pm

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has raised a global red alert on Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. Addressing his trip to J&K, Rajnath Singh asked if these weapons are safe in the hands of an “irresponsible and rogue state.” Rajnath Singh urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to intervene and monitor Pakistan’s nuclear stock.

His assertion represents a gravely heightened state of security fears in India since the recent ceasefire and focuses world attention anew on global nuclear management.

Rajnath Singh Raises Alarm from Srinagar

When speaking to Indian troops in Srinagar, Rajnath Singh sent a clear message. He posed the question to the world as to whether the world could trust Pakistan with nuclear weapons. He stated, “Today, from the land of Srinagar, I want to pose a question before the whole world: Are nuclear weapons secure in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue state?”

His comments resonated with increasing Indian fears of the political turmoil and terror group association of Pakistan. He emphasized these weapons are of international concern.

Calls for IAEA Oversight

Carrying his argument a step further, Rajnath Singh called on international agencies to take action. He made a direct appeal to the IAEA. This UN-associated agency oversees peaceful nuclear energy use globally. He indicated that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons need to be placed under the control of the IAEA.

His call implies that India feels Pakistan might no longer be adhering to minimum global safety standards. The move is intended to prevent future dangers that might be caused by Pakistan’s uncontrolled nuclear power.

Call for International Responsibility

The strong statement of Singh demands global accountability. He placed the problem not only on India’s agenda, but on that of the world. As terror attacks increase and political instability in Pakistan intensifies, Rajnath Singh’s words pose a crucial question to the world: Can the world afford not to know who has the trigger?

The world now needs to make a decision. Rajnath Singh has clarified India’s position. The ball is now in the court of the international agencies.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath Hints BrahMos Missile Used in Operation Sindoor: ‘Ask Pakistanis’ | WATCH

May 11, 2025, 5:05 pm

UP CM Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hinted that India employed its lethal BrahMos missile in Operation Sindoor. The remark came a day after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire. The ceasefire followed four days of intense cross-border tension. While officials have not officially confirmed the use of the missile, top leaders have made strong hints.

Their utterances mark a significant change in India’s approach to terror. Now, even terrorist camps on the other side of the border might not be secure anymore.

#WATCH | Lucknow | UP CM Yogi Adityanath says, “You must have seen a glimpse of the BrahMos missile during Operation Sindoor. If you didn’t, then just ask the people of Pakistan about the power of the BrahMos missile. PM Narendra Modi has announced that any act of terrorism going… pic.twitter.com/lv2LzYNcXs

— ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2025

‘Ask Pakistan About It,’ Says Adityanath

During the BrahMos Aerospace Facility inauguration in Lucknow, UP CM Yogi Adityanath made the daring statement. “You got a glimpse of BrahMos during Operation Sindoor,” he stated. “If you didn’t, ask the Pakistanis. They know its power.”

He did not leave it there. He announced that all terrorist attacks would now be considered acts of war. “There will be no solution until we destroy terrorism,” he said. “The time has come. India must unite behind PM Modi.”

He referred to terrorism as “dog’s tail” that would never straighten. “It will never realize peace,” he said. “We have to respond in its language. Operation Sindoor imparted that message in clear tone.”

Rajnath Singh Supports BrahMos as a Signal of Strength

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, seconded the stance. “BrahMos is not an ordinary missile,” he said. “It’s a message. It reflects strength and deterrence of our defence forces.” He applauded the army’s rapid response. For him, the Indian forces imparted justice upon communities that “struck the forehead of Mother India” and “wiped the sindoor off many foreheads.”

Rajnath Singh credited the armed forces for providing the country with a cause to salute. He also made it unequivocally clear that India’s move was not a coincidence—they were calculated and intended.

Operation Sindoor Sends Message Across Borders

Rajnath Singh emphasized that Operation Sindoor was not just a military action. “It’s a symbol of India’s willpower—political, social, and strategic,” he explained. He concluded with a stern threat. “When India acts,” he declared, “no land—foreign or domestic—can shield terrorists or their handlers.”

India has drawn a new line in its war against terror. Operation Sindoor with BrahMos support proves India won’t remain quiet. It will retaliate—swift, fierce, and without limits.

Pentagon Highlights India’s Strategic Importance Amid Upcoming Defense Talks

August 16, 2024, 9:41 am

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will host Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh at the Pentagon on August 23. This meeting emphasizes the significance of the U.S.-India relationship, especially in the context of the Indo-Pacific region, as stated by Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh during a news conference.

The two leaders are expected to discuss various bilateral and regional matters, as well as explore ways to strengthen ties between the two largest democracies.

While specifics of the meeting were not disclosed, Sabrina Singh assured that a detailed readout would be provided afterward. She highlighted the strong military partnership between the U.S. and India, noting that both countries share a deep commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific, with a particular focus on countering China’s influence.

Rajnath Singh’s visit marks his first official trip to the U.S. since Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his third term in June. This visit underscores the ongoing collaboration between the two nations in defense and strategic matters.

‘Martyrs’ Kin To Get Rs 1 Crore Compensation’ Rajnath Singh Responds To Rahul’s Crticism On Agnipath Scheme

July 2, 2024, 1:41 pm

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh responded to Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s criticism of the Agnipath scheme, labeling it as “misinformation.” Singh emphasized that the government provides Rs 1 crore compensation to the families of Agniveers in case of death.

Rahul Gandhi had attacked the scheme in a speech, accusing it of discriminatory practices in compensation and pension for Agniveers. According to the scheme, the compensation for death on duty is Rs 92 lakh, and for death off duty, it is Rs 48 lakh.

The Agnipath scheme recruits Agniveers into the armed forces for a four-year term, including training in the army, air force, and navy. After this period, 25% of Agniveers are offered permanent positions.

Compensation Details:

Agniveers have a non-contributory life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakh.
In case of death during service, an additional ex-gratia amount of Rs 44 lakh is provided.
The family also receives the service fund (Seva Nidhi), including interest and government contributions.
For death not on duty, the kin receive the life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakh and the balance in the Seva Nidhi fund.
If disabled during service, Agniveers receive compensation of Rs 44/25/15 lakh, based on the disability percentage, full pay for the unserved period up to four years, and the Seva Nidhi fund balance.

Salary Structure:

First year: Rs 30,000 per month
Second year: Rs 33,000 per month
Third year: Rs 36,500 per month
Fourth year: Rs 40,000 per month

Each Agniveer contributes 30% of their monthly salary to the service fund, matched by the government. This results in an in-hand salary of Rs 21,900 in the first year, Rs 23,100 in the second year, Rs 25,550 in the third year, and Rs 28,000 in the fourth year.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh Leads Roadshow in Delhi’s Budh Vihar With BJP Candidate Yogendra Chandolia

May 21, 2024, 7:57 pm

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh led a roadshow in Delhi’s Budh Vihar area, showcasing strong support for BJP’s North West Delhi candidate, Yogendra Chandolia. The event drew significant local attention, highlighting the party’s campaign efforts in the region. Singh’s presence underscored the importance of the constituency in the upcoming elections.

#WATCH | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducts a roadshow in Budh Vihar area of Delhi. BJP’s candidate from North West Delhi, Yogendra Chandolia is also with him.#LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/5llv7r54RT

— ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2024

Rajnath, CM Yogi inaugurate country’s first girls’ military school in Vrindavan

January 2, 2024, 1:16 am

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh jointly inaugurated the country’s first Girls’ Military School in Vrindavan on Monday.
Dedicating the Samvid Gurukulam Girls Military School in the Vatsalya Gram campus, established by Sadhvi Ritambhara, to the daughters of the country, CM Yogi stressed the need for bringing out the society of the conservative mindset.

In his address, CM Yogi said that Mission Shakti is a wonderful example of daughters’ safety, respect and self-reliance. “A strong society is not possible without the protection of women power, their respect and self-reliance. For this we all will have to work together. Society will have to be brought out of its conservative ideology.” The Chief Minister also targeted the opposition on the occasion and remarked, “Those who were hesitant in going to Ayodhya are now complaining about not receiving the invitation to attend the consecration ceremony at Ram Temple.”

He also said that it should be the resolve of every citizen to make India a developed country by 2047.
It is worth mentioning here that the Girls’ Military School will impart military training along while following the CBSE curriculum. The school has 120 seats. A written examination will be held on January 21, which will be followed by e-counselling of successful candidates and preparation of the merit list. The session will start from April with three batches of girls. Apart from CBSE education, military education, sports and obstacle training will also be provided to the daughters by ex-servicemen or NCC.

Expressing his gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister, CM Yogi said that they have given permission for the admission of girls in Sainik Schools. “The tradition of Sainik Schools in the country started in Uttar Pradesh in 1960 when Dr. Sampurnanand ji was the Chief Minister. Dr. Sampurnanand ji had established the first Sainik School of his country in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. I got the opportunity to visit Sainik School, Lucknow in 2017, in the capacity of the chief minister, who is the chairman of the school. There, I came to know that girls were not admitted to that school. So, I said that from the next session girls should also be admitted to the school. We started this programme there in 2018. Sainik School Lucknow has also been fortunate that the highest medal of service to the country, Param Vir Chakra, has been awarded to one of its students, Manoj Pandey, who attained martyrdom while protecting the country in the Kargil war.

Our government named Sainik School Doctor of Lucknow after Captain Manoj Pandey.”
CM Yogi added that today Sainik School is bringing army discipline to young boys and girls, which will help the country move forward and make the world realize the power of India. “When 140 crore Indians in one voice will take up the task of protecting India’s honour, pride and glory, no power on earth will be able to stop them. Our responsibilities may vary but wherever we are we have to we have to work with the resolve to increase India’s prestige globally.”

CM Yogi said the priority of every citizen should be nation first, followed by religion, family and self. “If all Indian work with this feeling, we will definitely achieve the goal of a developed India set before us by Prime Minister Modi by 2047”, he asserted.
CM Yogi also administered several oaths to the people on the occasion, including setting themselves free from servile mentality, work towards making India developed and taking pride in heritage while staying united and performing civic duties.

CM Yogi stated further: “We have always known that Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Movement was going on in Ayodhya and Vishwa Hindu Parishad was providing leadership to this movement under the guidance of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and revered saints. At that time we all used to say that the people of India themselves would resolve the issue of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. The day every follower of Sanatan Dharma will shout Jai Shri Ram in unison, the path to Shri Ram’s birthplace will automatically be paved.”

Referring to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, CM Yogi emphasized the transformation of Ayodhya that has taken place in the recent years. He remarked: “Earlier, the roads were poor and there was a single rail line. Today, we have provided four-lane connectivity from all sides. Four-lane and six-lane roads will be available not only outside Ayodhya but also inside. A visit to Ayodhya post January 22, will remind you of Treta Yug. Thousands of years ago, Lord Ram came to Ayodhya by Pushpak Viman, and now the International Airport has also been inaugurated in Ayodhya. The railway line has been connected with a double line, which has been inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi himself. Besides, five-six new stations are being developed in and around Ayodhya.”

CM Yogi said that the government has started efforts to connect Ayodhya through waterways also after having connected it through road, rail and air. Taking a jibe at the opposition, he said that those who used to shy away from visiting Ayodhya, or even mentioning its name, are looking forward to getting invitations to visit the city. This change has come over because you realised your power.”

Rajnath meets families of three civilians killed in Poonch

December 28, 2023, 1:31 am

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday met the families of three civilians who were killed near the site of an anti-terrorist operation in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Earlier, four Army personnel were killed and three others were injured after heavily armed terrorists ambushed two Army vehicles near Thanamandi in the Rajouri sector on Thursday last week.

Rajnath Singh was accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Singh.
After meeting the defence minister, the brother of the victim, Noor Mohammad, said that Rajnath Singh had assured them of justice.
“We told him about the incident, and he assured us justice would be done. Whatever happened to us was bad, and he assured us that justice would be given.
We hope it will be done,” Mohammad said.
Meanwhile, Mohamad Sadiq, uncle of the victim, said that justice should be given in quick time.

“Justice should be done and justice should be given in a timely manner. We welcome the Defence Minister, who came and met us and assured us of justice,” he added.
Shehnaz Ganai, ex-MLC, said that the defence minister and LG came and he met victim families and assured justice would be given.
“Raksha Mantri and LG came and he met victim families and he assured justice would be served and judicial probe would be done. Our Rajouri Poonch people are always with country, I want to say to people of that we should fight against those people who want to create havoc in our country,” Ganai said.

The Indian Army said on Saturday that it is conducting an inquiry into the deaths of three civilians in the Poonch-Rajouri sector, where militants launched an attack on army personnel on December 21, killing four soldiers.
Amid the recent increase in attacks on its troops, the Indian Army is planning to increase the number of troops in the Poonch-Rajouri sector to curb the activities of the Pakistani terrorists there, sources said on Monday.

“An additional brigade-size formation had been moved into the area a few months ago. It is planned that another brigade will come there along with a few other units to support counter-terrorist operations,” sources in the Army said.

The move is expected to strengthen the counter-terrorist grid in the area and increase the confidence of the local population.
The local police have also strengthened their intelligence network and are expected to beef it up further.
The security forces have also managed to cut down on terrorist activities in the Kashmir valley.

INS Imphal dedicated to nation

December 27, 2023, 2:06 am

The Chief of Naval staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar, on Tuesday introduced the Indian Navy’s latest stealth-guided missile destroyer ‘INS Imphal’, the first warship to have been named after a city from the northeast.
Warship Imphal, which can fire extended-range supersonic BrahMos missiles, was commissioned into the Indian Navy in Mumbai on Tuesday in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

The Navy Chief further said, “The name Imphal is very significant. This is the first time we are naming a major warship after a city in the Northeast of Bharat.”
“We have a community of about 400 personnel from Manipur and it just symbolises the way warship functions with personnel from all over the country, all districts, all blocks, all working together for one single cause which is of holding our tricolour and fulfilling the mission of the ship,” said Admiral R Hari Kumar.
“Warship Imphal also reflects the same ethos of multicultural, multifaith, multiclass and all sorts of unifying sentiment. Ek Bharat Shesh Bharat is the underlying theme,” the official added.

The chief of naval staff also spoke on the anti-piracy and anti-drone strike operations by the Indian Navy and said that robust action would be taken against the increasing number of drone and piracy attacks.
“You are aware that the Navy is undertaking antipiracy and anti-drone strike operations. It is a matter of concern now that the number of attacks has gone up. To put it into correct perspective, since November 19, there have been altogether 30 drone and piracy attacks,” said the official.

“So between November 19 to date, about 35 days, that roughly translates to one attack per day or so. If we look to the previous year before we had barely 4-5 incidents. The frequency has definitely gone up,” he said.
“The Navy has decided to take very robust action to protect merchant shipping. About 50per cent of these 30 attacks have happened in the Red Sea and no attacks have happened against any of the Indian-flagged merchant vessels. We’re going to board and search all the suspicious vessels. We will put in additional units to bring this under control, added the Navy Chief.

Earlier in the day, the Navy official said, “INS Imphal will not only tackle physical threats that emanate at or from the seas, but more importantly, through the demonstrated strength of an integrated Bharat, she will deter nefarious designs, trying to subvert our national unity.”
“Even as we speak, we have four destroyers of 15 Alpha and Bravo class deployed to counter piracy and drone attacks on merchant shipping, he added.

INS Imphal is a state-of-the-art warship, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, with significant contributions from the public and private sectors, including MSMEs, and the DRDO.
INS Imphal is the third ship of the Visakhapatnam-class stealth-guided missile destroyer.

Rajnath Singh, BJP Observers Arrive in Jaipur for BJP CM Selection Meeting

December 12, 2023, 2:16 pm

Union Defense Minister and BJP’s appointed observer for Rajasthan, Rajnath Singh, along with other party representatives Vinod Tawde and Saroj Pandey, made their arrival on Tuesday to participate in the crucial legislature party meeting. The meeting aims to decide on the appointment of the new Chief Minister for the state, with Singh and the other observers welcomed by former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and state BJP chief CP Joshi.

Pralhad Joshi, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister, and Rajasthan BJP Election in-charge, also attended the important meeting to discuss and finalize the selection of the new Chief Minister, which was scheduled for the evening.

Commenting ahead of the Congress legislative party meeting set for the same day, Rajasthan BJP Chief CP Joshi stated that he is not vying for the Chief Minister’s position. “The Legislature Party meeting will happen today. The observers will reach us today. Everything will be clear by 5 p.m. today. I am not in this race to become the CM,” mentioned Joshi.

Expressing thoughts on the unfolding scenario, BJP MP Kirodi Lal Meena hinted at a possible surprise, stating, “The analysis of people turned out wrong in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Whatever honorable PM Modi has told the observer and after a one-to-one discussion, the candidate for Chief Minister will be designated. We should be ready for the surprise.”

Amidst anticipation, BJP MLA Jogeshwar Garg highlighted the unpredictable nature of the situation, adding, “As it has happened in two other states, the same process will happen in Rajasthan also… All three observers are coming to Jaipur, and they will decide the Chief Minister after the legislative party meeting.”

The meeting follows a previous gathering of supporters at former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje’s residence, indicating her prominence as one of the front runners for the CM’s post. In the recent Rajasthan assembly polls, the BJP secured 115 seats out of 199, leading to the displacement of the incumbent Ashok Gehlot government, while the Congress won 69 seats.

Cyclone Michaung: Chennai Reservoirs Reach Full Capacity; Relief Measures Underway

December 7, 2023, 5:58 pm

Cyclone Michaung Updates: In the wake of Cyclone Michaung, the reservoirs in Chennai, notably Lake Puzhal, have reached their maximum capacity, prompting government officials to assure residents of safety despite concerns over the surging water levels.

Water Resources Minister Durai Murugan and Commercial Tax and Registration Minister P Moorthy inspected Lake Puzhal, assuring the public of the safety measures in place. Murugan highlighted that these reservoirs were originally designed to manage moderate rainfall and that the recent cyclone’s intensity was unexpected after almost five decades. However, he reassured citizens, stating that officials had taken the necessary precautions to minimize damage. Despite the inflow being substantial, they released only a small portion of water to maintain a safe water level.

Lake Puzhal, a vital water source for Chennai, reached its full capacity, raising concerns. However, officials affirmed that efforts are in place to keep the water levels safe, averting any risks to the lake or residents.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the approval of a Rs 561.29 crore urban flood mitigation project for the Chennai Basin. This initiative aims to bolster the city’s resilience against floods.

Severe cyclonic storm Michaung has affected Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Though the extent of damage is varied, many areas of these states are inundated, thus affecting standing crops.

To help the state Governments with the management of relief necessitated by the cyclonic…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 7, 2023

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas and held discussions with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to evaluate the situation. They were briefed on the cyclone’s impact and discussed the necessary relief efforts, emphasizing a collective and proactive response to the crisis.

PM Shri @narendramodi has directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to release in advance the Central share of 2nd installment of SDRF of Rs 493.60 to Andhra Pradesh and Rs 450 crore to Tamil Nadu. The Centre had already released 1st installment of same amount to both the States: RM

— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) December 7, 2023

Singh assured that the Central Government had released the initial installment of the State Disaster Response Fund, with directions to expedite the second installment. Further, the Central Government released the second installment of the State Disaster Relief Fund in advance to Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, acknowledging the impact of Cyclone Michaung on both states.

Rajnath Singh Conducts Aerial Survey of Cyclone Michaung-Hit Areas in Tamil Nadu

December 7, 2023, 2:54 pm

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh undertook an aerial survey of the cyclone-affected regions in Tamil Nadu and engaged in discussions with Chief Minister MK Stalin to evaluate the aftermath and assess required relief measures.

Authorities from the National Disaster Management Authority, Police, Navy, and other departments joined the meeting between the Defense Minister and the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister after the aerial survey. During this session, Singh was briefed on the cyclone’s impact, the resultant damage, and the requisite assistance needed from the Center.

In an earlier social media post, Rajnath Singh conveyed his departure from New Delhi to Chennai to assess the flood situation caused by Cyclone Michaung. The agenda included an aerial survey of the affected areas and a comprehensive review of the situation in collaboration with the state government.

Leaving New Delhi for Chennai to assess the flood situation caused due to ‘Michaung’ Cyclone in Tamil Nadu. Shall conduct an aerial survey of the affected areas and also review the situation with the State Government.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 7, 2023

During the aerial survey, the Defense Minister was accompanied by Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, and the state’s chief secretary.

Meanwhile, the Central government quickly released an advance share of the second installment of the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF), totaling Rs 493.60 crore for Andhra Pradesh and Rs 450 crore for Tamil Nadu, in recognition of the impact of Cyclone Michaung on both states.

Despite improving weather conditions, parts of Chennai remained under water due to persistent heavy rainfall following the cyclone’s landfall. Several areas remained inundated, including Pallikaranai and the Jerusalem College of Engineering. Furthermore, heavy rains in the Kodaikanal Hills caused overflowing waterfalls in the Dindigul district.

Conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas in Chennai and nearby rural areas. pic.twitter.com/0zl8HbMbdC

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 7, 2023

As conditions ameliorated, the Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train service resumed normal operations, departing from Chennai Central (MMC) station for Tiruttani. Schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu were closed due to severe flooding, along with six taluks in the region.

In response to the crisis, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted relief operations, airdropping 2,300 kg of relief materials in flood-affected areas of Chennai. These efforts were coordinated with the Tamil Nadu government and various state agencies providing relief materials.

Expressing his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sympathies to the families who lost loved ones due to Cyclone Michaung. He affirmed the government’s relentless efforts to assist those affected, ensuring continued support until normalcy is fully restored.

Congress Sets Agenda: Parliamentary Strategy Group Meeting Today for Winter Session Plans

December 4, 2023, 12:33 pm

The Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group is set to convene on Monday at 5 p.m., led by Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, to outline the roadmap for the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament.

Simultaneously, opposition leaders agreed to address the alleged breach related to the Ethics Committee report’s pre-publication leak to the media in an all-party meeting of the INDIA bloc, deliberating on the possible ramifications of this disclosure.

Amidst the preparation for the Winter Session’s commencement, TMC MP Mahua Moitra previously highlighted a breach of Parliamentary rules after media reports cited findings from the Ethics Committee, stating concerns about the violation of procedural norms.

The upcoming Winter Session is expected to be contentious, particularly because the Ethics Committee is scheduled to present its findings on the cash-for-question allegations involving Mahua Moitra. Opposition parties have maintained their opposition to certain government bills on the session’s agenda, most notably the bill governing appointments to the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners.

To ensure a smooth session, the government held an all-party meeting on Saturday, chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, to streamline discussions across party lines during the 15 sittings scheduled between December 4 and December 22.

With 21 bills on the government’s agenda, including proposals to replace key legislative acts like the IPC, the Indian Evidence Act, and the CrPC, Congress members affirmed their intent to prioritize issues affecting the public. They demanded discussions on the Ethics Committee’s report concerning allegations against TMC MP Mahua Moitra.

The upcoming session stands poised for robust debates and deliberations, with the Congress-led Strategy Group strategizing their approach and multiple parties aligning their agendas to ensure comprehensive discussions while addressing the contentious issues at hand.

PM Modi Takes to the Air on Tejas Aircraft; Marks Successful Completion

November 25, 2023, 1:44 pm

In a notable display of confidence in India’s indigenous defence capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a sortie on a Tejas aircraft at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) site in Bengaluru. The prime minister shared his sentiments on the experience, stating, “We successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country’s indigenous capabilities and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential.”

Successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country’s indigenous capabilities, and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential. pic.twitter.com/4aO6Wf9XYO

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 25, 2023

The sortie was part of the prime minister’s visit to review HAL’s manufacturing facilities, including those dedicated to the Tejas jets. Narendra Modi has been a vocal advocate for enhancing indigenous defence production, and the Tejas aircraft stands as a prominent example of India’s prowess in this domain.

According to Defense Minister Rajnath Singh earlier this year, India’s defence exports reached a historic high of 15,920 crore in fiscal year 2022-2023. The Tejas aircraft has sparked international interest, with several countries expressing interest in purchasing it. During Modi’s state visit to the United States, GE Aerospace inked an agreement with HAL to collaboratively produce engines for the Mk-II version of the Tejas.

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the Chief of Air Staff, revealed in October that the Indian Air Force is nearing the end of a Rs.1.15 lakh crore deal to acquire an additional batch of 97 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft. This move, along with the upgrade of 84 Sukhoi-30MKI jets at a cost of 60,000 crore, demonstrates India’s commitment to improving its air defence capabilities.

The Tejas aircraft, a single-engine multi-role fighter, is designed to operate effectively in high-threat air environments. Its capabilities span air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike roles, reflecting India’s strides in advancing its aerial capabilities. The prime minister’s sortie not only showcased the technological prowess of the Tejas but also symbolized the nation’s dedication to self-reliance in defence production.