News for 'Department of Military Affairs'

Iran Plays Hardball With India's Hormuz Requests

Iran Plays Hardball With India's Hormuz Requests

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

'I suspect that Bangladesh being given permission stuck in India's official craw, and this story was an attempt to balance the scales by giving the impression that a similar waiver had been given to India as well.'

India counters Pak's actions, strikes 8 military installations

India counters Pak's actions, strikes 8 military installations

Rediff.com10 May 2025

Pakistani military targets at Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur and Chunian were engaged using air-launched precision weapons from Indian fighter jets and the retaliation largely focused on command and control centres, radar sites and weapon storage areas, Qureshi said.

Days after Munir's visit, Pak air chief goes to US

Days after Munir's visit, Pak air chief goes to US

Rediff.com3 Jul 2025

Pakistan's Air Force Chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu visited the US to enhance bilateral defence cooperation, following a similar visit by the Army Chief. The visit included meetings with US military and political leaders to discuss regional security, counter-terrorism efforts, and future cooperation.

Willing to work with India on border issue, says Chinese military

Willing to work with India on border issue, says Chinese military

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

China's military has said it is willing to work with India to find a solution to the border issue, while also pushing for sound and stable defence ties. The statement comes after recent meetings between officials from both countries to normalize relations following a prolonged period of tension.

US tariff threat puts India's Chabahar port plans in doubt

US tariff threat puts India's Chabahar port plans in doubt

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

India is evaluating its involvement in the Chabahar port project in Iran due to potential US tariffs. The US had granted India a waiver for the project, but it expires soon. India is exploring options to continue supporting the port's development while minimizing exposure to US sanctions.

5 Indians kidnapped in Mali as Al Qaeda-linked outfit closes in

5 Indians kidnapped in Mali as Al Qaeda-linked outfit closes in

Rediff.com10 Nov 2025

The embassy of India in Bamako said it was "aware of the unfortunate incident" involving the kidnapping of five Indian nationals in Mali on November 6 and is working closely with local authorities and the concerned company to ensure their "safe release as quickly as possible."

Gogoi underwent 'some kind of training in Pak': Sarma

Gogoi underwent 'some kind of training in Pak': Sarma

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi of having a 'deeper connection' with a Pakistani national and violating FCRA rules, prompting calls for a national probe.

Indian-origin US advisor arrested for keeping 'TOP SECRET' docs

Indian-origin US advisor arrested for keeping 'TOP SECRET' docs

Rediff.com15 Oct 2025

According to the Justice Department, Tellis, 64, the Tata Chair for Strategic Affairs and a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment think-tank, served as an unpaid senior adviser to the State Department and was also a contractor with the Office of Net Assessment at the Department of Defense.

US military aircraft bringing back Indian migrants

US military aircraft bringing back Indian migrants

Rediff.com5 Feb 2025

The United States has deported a group of Indian migrants on a military transport aircraft, marking the first such deportation to India as part of President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration. The US embassy in New Delhi confirmed that Washington is tightening immigration laws and removing illegal migrants. The deportation comes as India and the US are finalizing details for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington in February. India has indicated its willingness to work with the US on addressing illegal immigration, and has said it will take back all Indians who have overstayed or are in the US without documentation.

Govt empowers COAS to call Territorial Army for help

Govt empowers COAS to call Territorial Army for help

Rediff.com9 May 2025

The central government has empowered the Army Chief to call out 'every officer and every enrolled person' of the Territorial Army (TA) to provide for essential guard or to be embodied to support or supplement the regular Army.

Top Chinese diplomat, touted to be next foreign minister, detained

Top Chinese diplomat, touted to be next foreign minister, detained

Rediff.com10 Aug 2025

The 61-year-old senior diplomat was taken away for questioning in late July after returning to Beijing from an overseas work trip, the paper reported, quoting people familiar with the matter.

India, China review LAC situation, set stage for high-level talks

India, China review LAC situation, set stage for high-level talks

Rediff.com24 Jul 2025

India and China reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and prepared for the next Special Representatives' dialogue on the boundary question.

Why Is The US So Fond Of Asim Munir?

Why Is The US So Fond Of Asim Munir?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

Sections in the US State Department and Pentagon have always felt more comfortable dealing with all powerful Pakistani generals instead of elected civilians, points out Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

Modi to meet Putin after Tianjin SCO Summit: Will Ukraine figure?

Modi to meet Putin after Tianjin SCO Summit: Will Ukraine figure?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2025

During a special briefing in Tianjin, Misri confirmed that the prime minister will first address the SCO plenary session before meeting President Putin.

Enough Russian nuke subs to counter Trump's 2: Russia downplays US threat

Enough Russian nuke subs to counter Trump's 2: Russia downplays US threat

Rediff.com2 Aug 2025

A Russian Parliament member claims Russia has enough nuclear submarines to counter US deployments, following statements by Donald Trump and Dmitry Medvedev.

'New Delhi Can Hobnob With Moscow And Beijing, But...'

'New Delhi Can Hobnob With Moscow And Beijing, But...'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2025

'...it should not delude itself into thinking that India's security or its great-power ambitions will be advanced by those partnerships.'
'Instead, what India should focus on is on riding out the next three-and-a-half years of Trump's presidency with minimal damage to itself.'

CDS acknowledges loss of jets during Operation Sindoor, but...

CDS acknowledges loss of jets during Operation Sindoor, but...

Rediff.com31 May 2025

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Saturday acknowledged losses of aircraft in India's recent military hostilities with Pakistan but dismissed as 'absolutely incorrect' Islamabad's claim of downing six Indian fighter jets.

Need to address de-escalation: Jaishankar in Beijing

Need to address de-escalation: Jaishankar in Beijing

Rediff.com14 Jul 2025

India and China should build on 'good progress' in normalising the bilateral ties to address border-related issues including de-escalation, and it is essential to avoid 'restrictive trade measures and roadblocks', External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday during talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Why J&K Border Villages Are Safe Haven For Terrorists

Why J&K Border Villages Are Safe Haven For Terrorists

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

'Why have we failed to address the issue of ensuring a requisite buffer zone in J&K, given that cross-border links of some J&K politicians are known?', asks Lieutenant General Prakash Katoch (retd).

'Trump frustrated with India trade talks, feels 25% tariff will fix issues'

'Trump frustrated with India trade talks, feels 25% tariff will fix issues'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2025

US President Donald Trump expresses frustration with the lack of progress in trade talks with India, imposing a 25% tariff. The move comes amid concerns over trade deficits and India's reliance on Russian military equipment and energy.

Don't know...: Trump on India citing US trade with Russia

Don't know...: Trump on India citing US trade with Russia

Rediff.com6 Aug 2025

President Trump addresses questions about US imports from Russia and India's stance on purchasing Russian oil, hinting at potential tariffs.

'Assault on peace, order': Trump slams LA protests

'Assault on peace, order': Trump slams LA protests

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom said Trump is "pulling a military dragnet" across Los Angeles.

2 Indians killed, one abducted in terror attack in Niger

2 Indians killed, one abducted in terror attack in Niger

Rediff.com20 Jul 2025

In a heinous terror attack, two Indians were killed while one was abducted in the Dosso region of Niger, as noted by the Indian Embassy in Niger.

Beginning Of The End For Trump?

Beginning Of The End For Trump?

Rediff.com16 Jul 2025

Unless Donald Trump takes a major U turn, this is possibly the beginning of the end for Trumpian politics, argues Colonel Anil A Athale (retd). Unless President Trump takes a major U turn, this is possibly the 'beginning of the end' for Trumpian politics driven by TV trp's, points out Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

20 Ways the Indian Military CHANGED

20 Ways the Indian Military CHANGED

Rediff.com12 Jun 2021

20 defence ministry reforms 'is a reflection of the resolve of the government to make the defence sector stronger and more efficient.'

'India's Confidence In The US Is Shattered'

'India's Confidence In The US Is Shattered'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2025

'The current strain in the relationship is serious and likely to be long lasting.' 'Even if Trump suddenly changes his attitude toward India -- which he is entirely capable of doing -- it is unlikely that New Delhi will be able to pick up the pieces and respond as if nothing has happened.'

Why is PM not denying Trump's claims? Rahul doubles down

Why is PM not denying Trump's claims? Rahul doubles down

Rediff.com30 Jul 2025

The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of being unable to deny US President Donald Trump's claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan due to a 'weak wicket' and potential cover-ups. Congress leaders assert that Modi's silence implies a tacit acceptance of Trump's assertions, potentially driven by pressure for a favorable trade deal.

Pahalgam attack: Cong alleges intelligence failure, blames Amit Shah

Pahalgam attack: Cong alleges intelligence failure, blames Amit Shah

Rediff.com21 May 2025

The Congress leaders maintained that Indian defence forces had attained complete superiority and dominance over Pakistan before the sudden "ceasefire" was announced by US President Donald Trump.

'Rubio's Call To Munir Was Critical'

'Rubio's Call To Munir Was Critical'

Rediff.com12 May 2025

'Fears in Washington began to intensify when it was realised that subsequent Pakistani and Indian attacks on major military facilities -- which were significant in terms of geographic scope and intensity -- could rapidly take both sides to where neither actually wanted to go.' 'The US objective was to stop the fighting as soon as possible. Everything else was secondary.'

Centre to announce 4-year military recruitment scheme

Centre to announce 4-year military recruitment scheme

Rediff.com13 Jun 2022

The Centre is likely to announce the Agnipath recruitment scheme for the defence forces under which troops would be recruited only for four-year tenures.

Maldives assumes control of Indian chopper, civilian crew post military exit

Maldives assumes control of Indian chopper, civilian crew post military exit

Rediff.com7 Mar 2024

The principal director of plans, policy, and resources management for the Maldives National Defence Force, Colonel Ahmed Mujuthaba Mohamed said that discussions are underway for withdrawing Indian troops from the Maldives.

None of our business: J D Vance on India-Pak conflict

None of our business: J D Vance on India-Pak conflict

Rediff.com9 May 2025

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the US has said it will not get involved in the conflict, stressing that it is "fundamentally none of our business." While acknowledging concerns about a potential nuclear war, Vice President J D Vance emphasized that the US cannot control India and Pakistan, but can encourage them to de-escalate. The US has also reiterated its support for direct dialogue between the two countries and encouraged efforts to improve communications.

US urges India, Pak to de-escalate; backs New Delhi

US urges India, Pak to de-escalate; backs New Delhi

Rediff.com1 May 2025

The United States on Thursday said it supports India's right to defend itself and its fight against terrorism as US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth dialled Defence Minister Rajnath Singh amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack.

Iran shutting Hormuz Strait will impact Indian economy: Experts

Iran shutting Hormuz Strait will impact Indian economy: Experts

Rediff.com22 Jun 2025

The Israel-Iran conflict has entered a 'decisive phase' after the United States bombed three major Iranian nuclear sites Sunday morning, feel strategic affairs experts with some of them arguing it was Washington, DC's 'responsibility' to not get involved in the military standoff.

In Riyadh, Trump Again Claims Credit For Ceasefire

In Riyadh, Trump Again Claims Credit For Ceasefire

Rediff.com14 May 2025

'I said, fellas, come on, let's make a deal, let's do some trading, let's not trade nuclear missiles, let's trade the things that you make so beautifully, and they both have very powerful leaders, very strong leaders, smart leaders, and it all stopped.'

Oppn raises Pahalgam, Trump's remarks, Bihar SIR in session eve meet

Oppn raises Pahalgam, Trump's remarks, Bihar SIR in session eve meet

Rediff.com21 Jul 2025

At the customary meeting ahead of the session beginning Monday, the opposition raised various issues, including voter roll revision in Bihar, the Pahalgam terror attack and Trump's 'ceasefire' claims.

Myanmar earthquake toll rises to 1,644; over 3,000 injured

Myanmar earthquake toll rises to 1,644; over 3,000 injured

Rediff.com29 Mar 2025

The death toll from a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar has risen to more than 1,000, as rescue workers continue to recover bodies from the ruins of collapsed buildings.

'Ameriki papa ne war rukwa di kya': Cong's swipe at govt

'Ameriki papa ne war rukwa di kya': Cong's swipe at govt

Rediff.com14 May 2025

With United States President Donald Trump reiterating his claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, the Congress on Wednesday asked what do the 'typically loquacious' Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have to say about this revelation and did they 'mortgage' India's security interests in the face of US 'pressure'.

Sirens blare as mock drills conducted across country

Sirens blare as mock drills conducted across country

Rediff.com8 May 2025

India conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills simulating multiple hostile scenarios like air raids, fire emergencies, and rescue operations across several states and union territories. The drills, dubbed 'Operation Abhyaas,' aimed to enhance emergency preparedness in light of recent terror attacks. The exercises involved coordinated efforts by various agencies, including civil defence personnel, police, fire and emergency services, and the military. Mock drills were conducted at various locations, including railway stations, malls, and high-rise buildings, showcasing the response capabilities of authorities in different emergency scenarios. The drills highlighted the importance of public awareness and cooperation in dealing with real-time emergencies.

India, China hold talks to ensure effective border management

India, China hold talks to ensure effective border management

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

India and China held diplomatic talks in Beijing, focusing on effective border management and the resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. The meeting explored measures and proposals to implement decisions made during the Special Representatives (SR) dialogue in December. Both sides agreed to work together for the next SR meeting in India later this year.