News for 'Secretaries of Defence'

India to get F-35s, Javelin, Stryker combat vehicles from US

India to get F-35s, Javelin, Stryker combat vehicles from US

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

India and the United States have announced a groundbreaking 10-year defence partnership, paving the way for increased military cooperation and potential sales of F-35 stealth fighter jets. The agreement aims to bolster both countries' defence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, with plans for joint production of weapons and platforms. The move comes amid China's growing military presence in the region.

UP traders to boycott Turkish imports over Pak support

UP traders to boycott Turkish imports over Pak support

Rediff.com14 May 2025

India imports goods worth over Rs 1,200 crore from Turkey annually, including a significant share of fruits like apples.

Trouble brews in new WFI! Secretary accuses President of...

Trouble brews in new WFI! Secretary accuses President of...

Rediff.com22 Dec 2023

Hardly 24 hours have passed since the formation of the new wrestling federation and trouble has started brewing within the sports body with Secretary General Prem Chand Lochab demanding postponement of the junior Nationals, saying the President did not follow rules while announcing the dates for the competition.

'Police Encounters Were Done To Create Fear'

'Police Encounters Were Done To Create Fear'

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

'...in the minds of the youth of Assam.' 'Now, no protests happen in Assam because of fear of police encounters.'

Modi reaches Colombo, 10 ambitious outcomes expected

Modi reaches Colombo, 10 ambitious outcomes expected

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka is expected to yield at least 10 ambitious outcomes, including a defense cooperation agreement and frameworks for deeper engagement in the energy sector. The visit comes at a time when Sri Lanka is recovering from an economic crisis, with India providing significant financial assistance. Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will also dedicate several projects built with India's assistance and virtually inaugurate the Sampur solar energy project.

'Pakistanis Called Americans In Panic'

'Pakistanis Called Americans In Panic'

Rediff.com13 May 2025

'The Pakistanis called the US state department and said we agree with India on peace.' 'It was then that US President Donald Trump jumped in and took credit for the ceasefire.'

How Will Lee's Election Impact Asia?

How Will Lee's Election Impact Asia?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

Lee Jae-myung's decisive victory in South Korea's snap presidential election marks a major political shift driven by public backlash against authoritarian, with significant implications for domestic reform and the future of the US-South Korea alliance, observes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Pentagon's deputy secretary of defence Ashton Carter resigns

Pentagon's deputy secretary of defence Ashton Carter resigns

Rediff.com11 Oct 2013

United States Deputy Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter, who played a critical role in boosting Indo-US defence ties, on Friday said that he will step down in December.

BJP And The Long-Standing Preamble Dream

BJP And The Long-Standing Preamble Dream

Rediff.com10 Jul 2025

BJP and RSS leaders are once again pushing to remove the words 'secular' and 'socialist' from the Constitution's Preamble, showing a deeper effort to change India's identity from a diverse, multi-religious republic to a Hindu-first nation, even though they don't have the numbers in Parliament to officially change the Constitution, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

Why did Modi govt change Nehru Memorial to PMs' Museum?

Why did Modi govt change Nehru Memorial to PMs' Museum?

Rediff.com22 May 2025

Nripendra Misra, chairman of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society, said the Nehru Memorial Museum was converted to the Prime Minister's Museum because it was felt that the earlier building was not "democratic." Misra said Prime Minister Narendra Modi wanted to ensure an "element of equity" in the treatment of each prime minister at the museum and that it should display the achievements of all prime ministers.

US Defence Secretary Panetta planning India visit

US Defence Secretary Panetta planning India visit

Rediff.com3 Nov 2011

United States Defence Secretary Leon Panetta, who places much importance to America's relationship with India, is looking forward to his maiden visit to India in his capacity as head of the Pentagon, a senior US official has said.

Pak shelling toll rises to 7 in J-K, more than 25 hurt

Pak shelling toll rises to 7 in J-K, more than 25 hurt

Rediff.com11 May 2025

The casualties were reported hours before India and Pakistan agreed to end hostilities, which soared after the Indian Armed Forces hit terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir earlier this week in response to the Pahalgam attack.

Cong leader's 'nimbu-mirchi' jibe at Rafale sparks row; BJP hits back

Cong leader's 'nimbu-mirchi' jibe at Rafale sparks row; BJP hits back

Rediff.com5 May 2025

The Congress' Uttar Pradesh chief Ajay Rai's symbolic gesture of hanging 'nimbu-mirchi' (lemon-chillies) on a toy jet, mocking the Centre's alleged inaction in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, has triggered a political storm. The BJP has condemned the act, calling it an insult to the armed forces. Rai, however, maintained that he was merely highlighting the government's delay in utilizing the Rafale jets. The controversy comes amidst a heated debate over the government's response to the recent terror attack.

Who Is Wing Commander Vyomika Singh?

Who Is Wing Commander Vyomika Singh?

Rediff.com7 May 2025

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh's role at the press briefing for Operation Sindoor is consistent with her experience as a helicopter pilot in Jammu and Kashmir during the course of her career.

India, Pak DGMOs agree to reduce troops in forward areas

India, Pak DGMOs agree to reduce troops in forward areas

Rediff.com12 May 2025

The Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan on Monday deliberated on various aspects of the May 10 understanding reached between the two sides on cessation of hostilities.

Who Says India Is Friendless?

Who Says India Is Friendless?

Rediff.com7 Jun 2025

The reality is that far from being friendless, India is better positioned in the world than at any point post-Cold War, asserts Shekhar Gupta.

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.

Is AIADMK Feeling Uncomfortable With BJP's Politics?

Is AIADMK Feeling Uncomfortable With BJP's Politics?

Rediff.com30 Jun 2025

While acknowledging that they needed strong allies for a chance in the assembly polls, AIADMK cadres seemingly prefer actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam to the BJP, owing to the latter's 'communal agenda' and consequent hardline Hindutva image, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

Indira Gandhi sacked my father as Union secretary: EAM Jaishankar

Indira Gandhi sacked my father as Union secretary: EAM Jaishankar

Rediff.com21 Feb 2023

Jaishankar said his father was also a very upright person, "may be that caused the problem, I don't know".

New CEC who played key role in Art 370 abrogation, Ram temple trust

New CEC who played key role in Art 370 abrogation, Ram temple trust

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

Kumar, who played a key role in implementing decisions following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir during his stint in the Union home ministry, took charge as an election commissioner on March 15, 2024.

Gyanesh Kumar appointed as next CEC

Gyanesh Kumar appointed as next CEC

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

Gyanesh Kumar, a 1988-batch Kerala Cadre IAS officer, has been appointed as the next Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India. Kumar, who was previously an Election Commissioner, will serve until January 26, 2029. His appointment comes amidst controversy as the Congress party demanded the government defer its decision until the Supreme Court concludes its hearing on a petition challenging the composition of the selection panel. Kumar's tenure will see him oversee several state assembly elections, including Bihar, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

'The Ceasefire Is A Band-Aid Solution'

'The Ceasefire Is A Band-Aid Solution'

Rediff.com14 May 2025

'It brings precarious peace because the red lines have shifted. 'The next Pahalgam attack would mean a full scale war.'

CBI names ex-defence secretary SK Sharma, 4 IAF officers in AgustaWestland charge sheet

CBI names ex-defence secretary SK Sharma, 4 IAF officers in AgustaWestland charge sheet

Rediff.com16 Mar 2022

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a supplementary charge sheet in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland scam against former defence secretary Shashi Kant Sharma and four Indian Air Force personnel, officials said Wednesday.

Trump Announces F-35 Jet Deal, Billions in Military Sales To India

Trump Announces F-35 Jet Deal, Billions in Military Sales To India

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

India and the United States have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership in several key areas, with President Donald Trump announcing plans to provide India with F-35 fighter jets and billions of dollars in military supplies. The two leaders also discussed energy cooperation, critical technologies, connectivity, and countering terrorism. They agreed to work together on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and Trump noted India's reforms to welcome US nuclear technologies. Prime Minister Modi said the two countries can shape a better world through their cooperation. Both leaders also addressed the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Modi stressing India's commitment to peace.

Oppn questions 'US-brokered' ceasefire; BJP hails Modi

Oppn questions 'US-brokered' ceasefire; BJP hails Modi

Rediff.com10 May 2025

Hours after, however, firing from the Pakistani side was reported in Akhnoor sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Drones were also seen in the Pir Panjal area.

China appoints naval commander as defence minister 2 months after Li's ouster

China appoints naval commander as defence minister 2 months after Li's ouster

Rediff.com29 Dec 2023

Dong, whose age is not known, has served in all major naval divisions in the PLAN.

JD, Usha Vance to visit India next week amid tariff war

JD, Usha Vance to visit India next week amid tariff war

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

US Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha, the first Indian-American Second Lady, are set to visit India early next week. Vance will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit. The visit comes amid global concerns over President Donald Trump's policy on tariffs. Vance's visit is likely to be more of a private trip though it will have official components.

New FBI chief Kash Patel traces his roots to Gujarat village

New FBI chief Kash Patel traces his roots to Gujarat village

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Kash Patel, the first Indian-American to head the FBI, has traced his roots to Bhadran village in Gujarat's Anand district. Patel's family migrated to Uganda 70 to 80 years ago, before selling their ancestral houses and moving to foreign countries. Patel was born in New York and is a trained lawyer who is an ice-hockey fan.

Blackout back in many Punjab districts after Pak breaches truce

Blackout back in many Punjab districts after Pak breaches truce

Rediff.com11 May 2025

Blackout measures have been imposed in many districts including Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Patiala, Moga, Kapurthala, and Muktsar districts.

BCCI Slams 'Baseless' Attack On Rohit

BCCI Slams 'Baseless' Attack On Rohit

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

'When the team is playing in the Champions Trophy and doing well, this is the time when one needs to support Team India.' 'These comments shouldn't be passed.'

India appeals UK court ruling on Bhandari extradition

India appeals UK court ruling on Bhandari extradition

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The Indian government as respondent in Sanjay Bhandari extradition case has sought permission from the London high court to appeal against the discharge of the defence sector consultant wanted in Delhi to face charges of alleged tax evasion and money laundering.

Which Pakistan General Will Deal With Jaish?

Which Pakistan General Will Deal With Jaish?

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

The Pakistan army's Bahawalpur Corps has always had a special significance for India as it keeps an eye on the Jaish e Mohammed, explains Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

China-Russia Bhai Bhai: What India Can Expect

China-Russia Bhai Bhai: What India Can Expect

Rediff.com30 May 2025

China appears determined to upgrade Pakistan's military capabilities, sufficient to ensure local parity with India, alerts former foreign secretary Ambassador Shyam Saran.

Delhi HC imposes Rs 25,000 cost on BJP's Shazia Ilmi

Delhi HC imposes Rs 25,000 cost on BJP's Shazia Ilmi

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

The Delhi high court on Friday imposed Rs 25,000 costs on Bharatiya Janata Party leader Shazia Ilmi for 'wilfully suppressing' complete facts in her plea alleging defamation and violation of her privacy during a show hosted by journalist Rajdeep Sardesai.

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.

NASA, SpaceX launch mission to bring Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home

NASA, SpaceX launch mission to bring Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the ISS for nine months after reaching there in June last year. They were supposed to stay there for about a week.

Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar new CVC: Sources

Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar new CVC: Sources

Rediff.com2 Jul 2011

Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar was on Saturday unanimously chosen the next chief vigilance commissioner, four months after the Supreme Court had quashed the appointment of P J Thomas to the post.

'Counter-Productive For India To Create Upstream And Downstream Acrimony'

'Counter-Productive For India To Create Upstream And Downstream Acrimony'

Rediff.com12 May 2025

'China has thus far been cautious, emphasising its focus on development rather than weaponising water resources.'

'India Missed Opportunity To Take Back Parts Of PoK'

'India Missed Opportunity To Take Back Parts Of PoK'

Rediff.com14 May 2025

'Had Haji Pir and/or Skardu been taken, the message would have gone out not just to General Asim Munir and his cohort in the Pakistan army but to the Pakistani people that every terrorist incident in India would lead to substantial loss of territory in PoK.'

Pak defence secretary in India for Siachen talks

Pak defence secretary in India for Siachen talks

Rediff.com28 May 2011

Pakistan's Defence Secretary Lieutenant General (Retired) Syed Ather Ali arrived in New Delhi on Saturday for the 12th round of defence secretary-level talks on the long- pending Siachen issue, which is being resumed after a gap of three years. "Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar will lead the Indian delegation during the two-day talks. India and Pakistan decided to resume the talks last year after both prime ministers met in Thimpu," defence ministry officials said.