News for 'Ministry of Defence'

Defence ministry official dies by suicide, parents allege marital harassment

Defence ministry official dies by suicide, parents allege marital harassment

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

A 30-year-old Assistant Section Officer in the Ministry of Defence died by suicide in Dwarka, Delhi. Her parents have subsequently alleged mental and physical harassment by her husband and in-laws, leading to an FIR being registered and an ongoing police investigation.

Private Defence Firms Get DRDO Missile Tech Boost

Private Defence Firms Get DRDO Missile Tech Boost

Rediff.com6 days ago

The move is meant to enhance the operational capability of the armed forces, reduce import dependence and increase domestic value addition.

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Amid a row surrounding the six martyrs of Operation Sindoor, the defence ministry on Saturday said the nation paid homage to them at the "earliest opportunity", and their memory shall always be honoured with the dignity and reverence, it deserves.

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Rediff.com2 days ago

The reforms, undertaken by the Department of Defence Production, remove stakeholder consultation for exports of non-lethal defence items to most destinations, while retaining safeguards for sensitive countries.

Modi announces overhaul of civil defence in Independence Day address

Modi announces overhaul of civil defence in Independence Day address

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced plans to modernise India's civil defence volunteer force, stating that the existing system, designed for conventional wars, is inadequate against contemporary threats targeting critical infrastructure like refineries, banks, and data centres.

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Built as an expendable, short-duration turbojet engine for single-mission applications, it can power tactical cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, and long-range loitering munitions.

India rejects Israel defence pact reports after Pak-Saudi-Turkiye deal

India rejects Israel defence pact reports after Pak-Saudi-Turkiye deal

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The ministry of external affairs on Friday dismissed as 'fake news' reports alleging that India had requested Israel to sign a defence pact in response to the newly formed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey security framework.

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded armed forces athletes for their medal-winning performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, calling them a 'perfect blend of a soldier and a champion'. He highlighted their strong willpower and the inspiration they provide to the nation, especially the youth. Indian Army athletes secured 16 medals, including 8 gold, contributing significantly to India's overall tally.

Tech delayed is tech denied: IAF chief bats for more Aatmanirbharta in defence

Tech delayed is tech denied: IAF chief bats for more Aatmanirbharta in defence

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, the IAF chief, has strongly advocated for India to achieve greater self-reliance in unmanned aerial systems and other critical defence technologies, stating, "Technology delayed is technology denied." He stressed the importance of indigenous development to avoid dependency on other countries for components.

Shakti Sharma makes history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal

Shakti Sharma makes history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal

Rediff.com1 days ago

Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first woman officer (non-medical) in the Indian Defence Forces to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal. She has been appointed Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters, bringing over three decades of diverse experience, including establishing IAF Chairs of Excellence and commanding a Sainik School.

Banks, railways lead in corruption complaints, shows CVC report

Banks, railways lead in corruption complaints, shows CVC report

Rediff.com12 hours ago

A recent Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) report reveals that over 70,500 corruption complaints were lodged against various government bodies last year, with banks and the Railways accounting for the highest numbers. While a significant portion of these complaints has been disposed of, thousands remain under process, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing corruption within public sector entities.

India's Defence Output Hits New High

India's Defence Output Hits New High

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

'The share of the private sector is at its all-time high of around Rs 42,000 crore in FY26, reflecting its expanding role in the defence ecosystem.'

Iran hits US base after missile strike on wedding celebration

Iran hits US base after missile strike on wedding celebration

Rediff.com18 hours ago

The United States Central Command announced strikes against Iranian military targets, including air defence and communication sites, in retaliation for alleged attacks on commercial shipping and US personnel. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry claims these strikes caused over 50 civilian casualties at a wedding and vowed a firm response. Iran's state media also reported retaliatory ballistic missile and drone attacks on US bases in Jordan and Bahrain, claims which were partially corroborated by Kuwait and Jordan reporting intercepted drones and missiles.

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Rediff.com3 days ago

In a significant development, the Russian side has submitted a detailed proposal to the Defence Ministry in response to the Indian tender for acquiring five more squadrons of the S-400 Sudarshan long-range air defence systems for the Indian Air Force.

India's defence output hits record 1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26

India's defence output hits record 1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

India's annual defence production has reached an all-time high of Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, marking a significant 15.6 per cent growth over the previous fiscal year. This achievement reflects a 110 per cent increase since 2020-21 and highlights the country's expanding defence industrial base, driven by policy support and increased private sector participation.

Chinese arms executive held for leaking secrets to two countries

Chinese arms executive held for leaking secrets to two countries

Rediff.com2 days ago

A Chinese military trading company executive has been arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive defence information to intelligence agencies from two countries, China's top spy and anti-espionage agency said on Monday.

India's Sports Ministry Boosts Cycling With New Campus Certification

India's Sports Ministry Boosts Cycling With New Campus Certification

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The Sports Ministry has launched a certification system for cycle-friendly institutions and campuses, with several prominent academies and universities set to be felicitated for their sustainable mobility practices during the 'Sundays on Cycle' event.

52K Cr Proposals For Armed Forces Cleared With Focus On Air Defence

52K Cr Proposals For Armed Forces Cleared With Focus On Air Defence

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Clearances include next-gen air defence, anti-tank missiles, anti-drone systems, loitering munitions, and naval UAVs.

Defence Commanders Get Bigger Financial Powers

Defence Commanders Get Bigger Financial Powers

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Army, Navy and Air Force commanders received enhanced powers to address urgent operational requirements quickly.

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.

Revealed: What Modi said to Iranian President about war

Revealed: What Modi said to Iranian President about war

Rediff.com2 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the SCO summit, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the West Asia conflict and expressing India's desire to expand and diversify trade with Iran. Pezeshkian, in turn, urged India to leverage its contacts to promote peace.

Arunachal BJP MP flags public concern over Chinese incursions

Arunachal BJP MP flags public concern over Chinese incursions

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Arunachal Pradesh MP Tapir Gao underscores the critical importance of heeding local warnings regarding alleged Chinese incursions along the Line of Actual Control, amidst ongoing border tensions and official denials.

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

For the first time in Independence Day celebrations, 'Vande Mataram' will be rendered at the Red Fort complex during the 79th anniversary on August 15, followed by the recitation of the National Anthem, marking 150 years of the National Song's legacy.

I-Day 2026: 1,057 jawans get Gallantry, Service medals; CRPF tops with 86

I-Day 2026: 1,057 jawans get Gallantry, Service medals; CRPF tops with 86

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Centre has announced the awarding of 1057 Gallantry and Service Medals to personnel from Police, Fire Service, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services on Independence Day, recognising their exceptional bravery and distinguished service.

Defence Forces Pedal For Fit India Campaign

Defence Forces Pedal For Fit India Campaign

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The 73rd edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle saw participation from defence forces and citizens at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

DRDO's unclassified data leaked, of 2020-22 vintage: Officials

DRDO's unclassified data leaked, of 2020-22 vintage: Officials

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has dismissed recent media reports of an alleged cybersecurity incident and data breach as "incorrect and unverified." Officials clarified that investigations found no evidence of an active cyber attack or data exfiltration, stating that any leaked data is unclassified, outdated, and fabricated by threat actors for financial gain.

President Murmu approves 78 gallantry awards, 13 posthumous ahead of I-Day

President Murmu approves 78 gallantry awards, 13 posthumous ahead of I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

President Droupadi Murmu on Friday approved 78 gallantry awards, including 13 posthumously, to the personnel of the defence forces and central armed police forces on the eve of 80th Independence Day.

Modi meets Putin, urges him to end Ukraine war

Modi meets Putin, urges him to end Ukraine war

Rediff.com2 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to move from 'endless war to the end of war' in Ukraine, emphasising that a peaceful resolution is humanity's shared priority.

Bihar, UP on high alert as Nepal floods raise Gandak surge threat

Bihar, UP on high alert as Nepal floods raise Gandak surge threat

Rediff.com7 days ago

Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are on high alert following devastating flash floods in Nepal's Gandak river system, prompting emergency measures including evacuations and continuous monitoring by central and state authorities.

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

For the first time in history, the national song 'Vande Mataram' will be sung at the Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

Cabinet, Home Secretaries Get One-Year Extension

Cabinet, Home Secretaries Get One-Year Extension

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan and Home Secretary Govind Mohan have been granted a one-year extension in their service by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Somanathan's tenure is extended beyond August 2026, and Mohan's beyond August 2026, up to August 2027, under special provisions for key government officials.

Nagaland churches body opposes compulsory 'Vande Mataram'

Nagaland churches body opposes compulsory 'Vande Mataram'

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Nagaland Baptist Church Council has voiced strong opposition to any directive making the singing of 'Vande Mataram' compulsory, especially for Christians. They argue that patriotism should not be reduced to forced conformity and that India's constitutional values of liberty, pluralism, and freedom of conscience must be respected. The council also called for dialogue and sensitivity from state institutions.

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (retd) has been appointed as India's next Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding Gen Anil Chauhan. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has been named the next Chief of the Naval Staff, succeeding Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. Lt Gen Subramani's primary mandate will be to implement the military theaterisation plan and bolster tri-services synergy.

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

An Indian crew member was killed and six other Indian nationals were among eight injured when Iranian cruise missiles struck two UAE tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating regional tensions and drawing strong condemnation from the UAE.

Northern Borders 'Stable Yet Sensitive': Defence Ministry

Northern Borders 'Stable Yet Sensitive': Defence Ministry

Rediff.com3 Jan 2026

The deployment of the army in all sectors along the Line of Actual Control, the de facto border between India and China, is 'robust, well poised and prepared to deal with any emerging contingency'.

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

R V S Mani, former Under Secretary of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has alleged that drug trafficking was a regular practice by Pakistani cricket teams and delegations visiting India, linking it to the 2006 doping scandal involving Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, and even the death of coach Bob Woolmer.

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Congress leader K C Venugopal has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding privilege proceedings against Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for allegedly "misleading" Parliament regarding Indian soldier casualties post the Pahalgam terror attack and during Operation Sindoor.

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former India women's hockey captain Asunta Lakra has formally challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denies all allegations as "false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory," and highlights issues with the committee's constitution and the incomplete documentation provided. This challenge comes amidst a broader context of sexual harassment allegations in Jharkhand hockey and institutional intimidation claims.

Modi reviews global conflict impact on India's energy, supply chains

Modi reviews global conflict impact on India's energy, supply chains

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday discussed with a group of senior ministers the prevailing global security situation and how to maintain supply chain uninterrupted despite conflicts in different zones, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

A central government committee has upheld the ban on the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, citing concerns over India's sovereignty and integrity, sparking political debate in Punjab.