News for 'Defence Staff'

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Two Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers have been arrested in Pune for allegedly removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph from a government polytechnic office. The incident occurred during a visit by MNS leader Amit Thackeray, who is also facing a case related to the alleged act. BJP criticised the MNS leader for political immaturity.

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Former Indian Army Chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma, who led the Army from 1988 to 1990 and was a veteran of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, has passed away at the age of 96. He was a highly decorated officer, receiving the AVSM and PVSM, and came from a distinguished military family, being the younger brother of India's first PVC awardee, Major Som Nath Sharma.

US colonel survived 50 hours after jet downed in Iran

US colonel survived 50 hours after jet downed in Iran

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A US Air Force colonel, identified by his call sign 'Bravo', survived nearly 50 hours behind Iranian lines after his F-15E fighter jet was shot down near Isfahan. Despite severe injuries, he evaded Iranian forces and was eventually rescued in a complex operation involving US military and intelligence personnel, highlighting a daring mission to leave no man behind.

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The plan includes three such formations: A China-focused Northern Theatre Command, a Pakistan-focused Western Theatre Command, and a Maritime Theatre Command.

Govt begins efforts to join sixth-gen fighter jet programme: Parl panel

Govt begins efforts to join sixth-gen fighter jet programme: Parl panel

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The defence ministryh has "initiated efforts" to join the sixth-generation fighter aircraft development programme, Future Combat Air System (FCAS), spearheaded by the French government, and sought from it the roadmap to acquire such aircraft, a parliamentary panel has said.

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Rediff.com11 May 2026

'General Subramani's appointment as military adviser in the NSCS has given him insight into decision-making at the apex level prior to formally taking over as CDS.'

Gen Bipin Rawat appointed India's first Chief of Defence Staff

Gen Bipin Rawat appointed India's first Chief of Defence Staff

Rediff.com30 Dec 2019

Gen Rawat will be able to serve as CDS for a period of up to three years after the government amended the rules extending the age of retirement to 65 years.

President Murmu Highlights Durand Cup's Role In Nurturing Indian Football Talent

President Murmu Highlights Durand Cup's Role In Nurturing Indian Football Talent

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the Durand Cup 2026 trophy, marking the start of preparations for Asia's oldest football tournament. She highlighted the tournament's role in nurturing talent, promoting sportsmanship, and connecting people, while also drawing parallels to India's vision of becoming a developed nation.

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The American military's air-defence missile inventories, including Patriot and THAAD interceptors, are significantly depleted due to the ongoing five-month confrontation with Iran. A CSIS assessment reveals a steep drop in reserve stocks, raising concerns about the US's capacity to maintain Middle East operations and address other global security challenges. This depletion could force the US and its allies to take higher operational risks.

Patna court grants anticipatory bail to Khan Sir in firing case

Patna court grants anticipatory bail to Khan Sir in firing case

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Educator Faisal Khan, known as Khan Sir, along with three staff members and two security guards, has been granted anticipatory bail by a Patna court in connection with a firing incident at his coaching institute. The incident involved vandalism and alleged aerial firing by guards in self-defence, leading to counter-allegations between Khan Sir and a rival.

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

General Dhiraj Seth has been appointed as the new Chief of the Army Staff, taking command of the 1.3 million-strong Indian Army. He brings nearly four decades of extensive experience, including commanding two operational Army commands along the western front, and will lead the force in its pursuit of self-reliance and readiness amidst dynamic global geo-strategic challenges.

Delhi Gymkhana members challenges Centre's eviction notice in HC

Delhi Gymkhana members challenges Centre's eviction notice in HC

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Centre had previously informed the high court it would not take forceful possession of the land by June 5, stating it would follow due legal procedure.

Indian-American army surgeon removes brain tumour through patient's nose

Indian-American army surgeon removes brain tumour through patient's nose

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

An Indian-American US Army surgeon in an innovative procedure removed a golf ball-sized tumour developed at the base of the brain by sending an endoscopic device through the patient's nose. Major Jagatkumar Patel, an anterior surgeon at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre near Washington, DC, along with neurosurgeon Army Lt Col Charles Miller, carried out the surgical procedure on Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Andy Archer, who lived with the tumour for 15 years.

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Two former Chinese defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, were sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve over graft charges, official media reported.

Bail to Shiv Sena corporator who thrashed doctors at hospital

Bail to Shiv Sena corporator who thrashed doctors at hospital

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and three associates have been granted bail by a Thane court after being arrested for allegedly assaulting doctors and medical staff at a civic-run hospital in Dombivli. The incident, which occurred after a family was advised to shift a newborn, sparked widespread outrage and led to their arrest following a viral video and pressure from the Indian Medical Association.

13-year court battle led to Tarun Tejpal's conviction for rape

13-year court battle led to Tarun Tejpal's conviction for rape

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has convicted former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal for the sexual assault of a junior colleague in 2013, overturning his 2021 acquittal by a trial court.

Post of Chief of Defence Staff a must: Naik

Post of Chief of Defence Staff a must: Naik

Rediff.com30 Mar 2010

Supporting the demand for creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) for the Armed forces, Air Chief Marshal P V Naik on Tuesday said the appointment, however, could be done only after the country decides on the best-suited CDS model for it.

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

If an OTT series can make a young person curious about the armed forces, make a family understand the sacrifices made by those in uniform, or simply make someone walk up to a veteran and say, "Thank you for your service," then it has achieved something far more important than merely getting its history right, notes Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has defended the CoE against criticism regarding slow player recovery, stating that cricketers are not 'machines' and rehabilitation timelines can vary.

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A large-scale civil defence mock drill was conducted across Delhi, simulating a hostile attack scenario to test preparedness and response systems.

HC grants bail to Shiv Sena corporator in doctor assault case, externs him

HC grants bail to Shiv Sena corporator in doctor assault case, externs him

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has granted bail to Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and four others accused of assaulting doctors at a municipal hospital in Thane, ordering a fast-tracked, time-bound trial and imposing strict conditions including staying outside Maharashtra until the chargesheet is filed.

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth named next Army Chief

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth named next Army Chief

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, currently the Vice Chief of Army, has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff, taking over from Gen Upendra Dwivedi on June 30. He brings nearly four decades of distinguished military experience, having commanded various formations and held key strategic appointments.

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Centre's response regarding pleas from Delhi Gymkhana Club members and staff challenging a show-cause notice for eviction. The court has asked the Solicitor General to ensure the Estate Officer's hearing is adjourned until after the next court date, indicating judicial oversight in the ongoing dispute over the club's 27.3-acre premises.

Kuwait, Bahrain attacked; Jordan downs 4 Iranian missiles

Kuwait, Bahrain attacked; Jordan downs 4 Iranian missiles

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Kuwait's air defence systems engaged 'hostile aerial targets', Jordan intercepted four missiles, and Bahrain sounded warning sirens after Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting US military installations in the region.

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The US Embassy acknowledged the attack in a post on X, urging Americans to avoid the facility 'until further notice' and announcing that all appointments had been cancelled.

Jharkhand: 6th round of talks held as student leader's health worsens

Jharkhand: 6th round of talks held as student leader's health worsens

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government is holding fresh discussions with student aspirants protesting alleged recruitment exam irregularities, even as the health of key protest leader Devendra Nath Mahto has significantly deteriorated after being on an indefinite hunger strike for about a week.

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A government primary school headmistress in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, was suspended and an FIR registered against her after she allegedly brandished a knife and cleaver on school premises. The incident, which was captured on video, led to an inquiry. The teacher claimed she carried the weapons for personal safety, while her husband suggested mental health issues.

'This Is How The Indian Air Force Will Fight Going Forward'

'This Is How The Indian Air Force Will Fight Going Forward'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The IAF's future operational concepts could involve indigenous Tejas combat aircraft coordinating in real time with multiple Ghatak RPSAs, each carrying a different mission payload ranging from electronic warfare systems and targeting sensors to precision munitions.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Under Mission Sudarshan Chakra, the country's national security shield is to be expanded by 2035 to ensure comprehensive protection of both strategic and civilian critical infrastructure.

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'We won not (only) because we were able to carry out long-range precision strikes.' 'That is, of course, one of the reasons but we had better situational awareness about what's happening than Pakistan.'

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

Iran's defence minister, Guards commander killed in US-Israel strikes: Report

Iran's defence minister, Guards commander killed in US-Israel strikes: Report

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

A joint attack by the United States and Israel on Iran has triggered a massive military confrontation in the Middle-East.

India's Women's Hockey Team Dominates Nations Cup, Earns Pro League Promotion

India's Women's Hockey Team Dominates Nations Cup, Earns Pro League Promotion

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The Indian women's hockey team, led by coach Sjoerd Marijne, won the Nations Cup in Auckland, defeating New Zealand 2-0 in the final. This victory secures their promotion back to the FIH Pro League. Despite the win, Marijne emphasised the need to improve field-goal conversion, while captain Salima Tete highlighted the team's strong mindset and the confidence boost ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

'Sudarshan Chakra will be mother of all air defence systems'

'Sudarshan Chakra will be mother of all air defence systems'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2025

A top military official has revealed details about India's proposed air defence system, Sudarshan Chakra, describing it as a comprehensive system that will include counter-drone, counter-UAV, and counter-hypersonic capabilities.

Delhi to get first underground nuclear and chemical command centre

Delhi to get first underground nuclear and chemical command centre

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Delhi is set to establish its first underground Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) command centre at the new Delhi Fire Services headquarters, a facility designed to ensure uninterrupted coordination and protection for personnel during nuclear warfare, radiological leaks, or chemical disasters.

Nine Maha cops get life term in 2011 custodial death case

Nine Maha cops get life term in 2011 custodial death case

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A court in Washim, Maharashtra, has sentenced nine police personnel to life imprisonment for the 2011 custodial death of Begya Pawar. The court found them guilty of murder, wrongful confinement, and causing grievous hurt, ruling their actions were "serious and brutal" and not part of public duty. The victim died after being brutally beaten to extort a confession, and the police attempted to cover up the incident with a fabricated FIR.

Ram Temple Trust holds series of meetings; eyes administrative overhaul

Ram Temple Trust holds series of meetings; eyes administrative overhaul

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Amidst an ongoing SIT probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram temple donations, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri held a series of meetings in Ayodhya. These discussions followed the acceptance of resignations from former general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, and the Trust's decision to overhaul its administrative structure, including appointing a professional CEO. Rai, who has adopted a vow of silence, questioned the State Bank of India's role in the donation counting process, while Giri defended Rai but acknowledged his trust in the wrong people. The SIT probe is expanding to examine the Trust's financial transactions and administrative processes.

India Women Storm To Hockey Nations Cup Title; Secure Pro League Return

India Women Storm To Hockey Nations Cup Title; Secure Pro League Return

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Indian Women's Hockey team secured their second FIH Women's Nations Cup title by defeating hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final.