News for 'Secretaries of Defence'

Chamoli avalanche: 8 bodies recovered, recue op ends

Chamoli avalanche: 8 bodies recovered, recue op ends

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

The bodies of the last four of the trapped labourers were pulled out from the site of the avalanche-hit Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp in Chamoli on Sunday, taking the death toll to eight as authorities ended the nearly 60-hour rescue operation.

Greenland Anger Forces US To Trim Trip

Greenland Anger Forces US To Trim Trip

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

Confronted by outrage in Greenland, the US has scaled down a proposed visit to the island.

Amid controversy, Churchill Brothers get I-League trophy from AIFF

Amid controversy, Churchill Brothers get I-League trophy from AIFF

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

Now AIFF's move to hand the trophy to Churchill Brother, just hours after the CAS order staying the federation's decision to declare the club as champions, could provoke international scrutiny, including from FIFA.

'Persona non grata': Israel bans UN chief from entering country

'Persona non grata': Israel bans UN chief from entering country

Rediff.com2 Oct 2024

Earlier in response to Iran's rocket barrage on Israel on Tuesday night the UN Chief had said, "I condemn the broadening of the Middle East conflict with escalation after escalation. This must stop. We absolutely need a ceasefire.."

Jaishankar serving those whom his father called Asura: Trinamool MP

Jaishankar serving those whom his father called Asura: Trinamool MP

Rediff.com22 Feb 2023

Taking to Twitter, Jawhar Sircar wrote, 'S Jaishankar's father, K Subramanyam said 'Dharma was killed in Gujarat (2002 Riots). Those who failed to protect innocent citizens are guilty of adharma. Rama...would have used his bow against the 'Asura' rulers of Gujarat.' Shame on son --serving Asura!'

Mission to bring back Sunita Williams, Wilmore delayed

Mission to bring back Sunita Williams, Wilmore delayed

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and SpaceX on Wednesday scrubbed the launch attempt of the agency's Crew-10 mission to the International Space Station due to a 'hydraulic system issue with a ground support clamp arm for the Falcon 9 rocket at Launch Complex 39A' at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Why is US Secretary of Defence Panetta so angry?

Why is US Secretary of Defence Panetta so angry?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2012

It was one thing to hold India to ransom and periodically threaten nuclear blackmail. But it was not going to work against the US. The US, as always, learned the hard way that it was not or need not be all that dependent on Pakistani cooperation and generosity, says Vikram Sood.

India, Qatar to double trade in next 5 yrs; discuss Israel-Hamas issue

India, Qatar to double trade in next 5 yrs; discuss Israel-Hamas issue

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

India and Qatar on Tuesday agreed to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership and double bilateral trade to USD 28 billion over the next five years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani signed agreements and MoUs to strengthen economic cooperation, including a revised double taxation avoidance agreement. The strategic partnership will cover the "entire spectrum" of the bilateral relationship, including trade, energy security, and regional and international cooperation. Both leaders also discussed ways to further strengthen and broaden the energy partnership, including "exploring mutual investments." The Amir's visit provided an "excellent opportunity" for the top leadership of the two countries to discuss and "cement a strategic partnership for enhanced future cooperation."

US defence secretary arrives in India on 3-day visit

US defence secretary arrives in India on 3-day visit

Rediff.com7 Aug 2014

US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel arrived in New Delhi on Thursday on a three-day visit and is expected to discuss regional security situation, defence deals worth over Rs 20,000 crore and joint military hardware development projects with the Indian political and military leadership.

Pentagon: Investing in defence ties with India to...

Pentagon: Investing in defence ties with India to...

Rediff.com10 Feb 2023

The US is making investments in defence ties with India to uphold a favourable balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, a top Pentagon official told lawmakers Thursday indicating that strengthening ties with New Delhi is one of the key factors to address the pacing challenge from China.

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump on Monday vowed to work towards a 'trusted' partnership with a focus on boosting India-US cooperation in areas of trade, energy and defence in their first phone conversation since the American leader's inauguration last week.

Goodbye, Dr Singh

Goodbye, Dr Singh

Rediff.com28 Dec 2024

Dr Manmohan Singh's mortal remains were consigned to the flames at the Nigambodh Ghat in New Delhi on Saturday, December 28, 2024 amid the chanting of religious hymns.

Singh assumes charge as divestment secretary

Singh assumes charge as divestment secretary

Rediff.com1 Jul 2003

Dhirendra Singh on Tuesday assumed charge as the new divestment secretary, following Monday's high level bureaucratic reshuffle.

Our ties shouldn't be transactional, says outgoing US envoy

Our ties shouldn't be transactional, says outgoing US envoy

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

Richard Verma, the highest-ranking Indian-American official in the State Department, has expressed optimism about the future of US-India ties and emphasized the need to base the relationship on shared values rather than mere transactional dealings. Verma, who previously served as America's Ambassador to India, stressed the importance of the Quad in defending the international order, highlighting its shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Operation Sindoor: 'Escalation Can't Be Ruled Out'

Operation Sindoor: 'Escalation Can't Be Ruled Out'

Rediff.com7 May 2025

'It could take the form of sporadic LoC violation through heavy artillery and mortar fire, focusing on border villages where the Hindu Dogra population is predominant.'

Why Subianto Is The R-Day Chief Guest

Why Subianto Is The R-Day Chief Guest

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

India is trying hard to erase Indonesia's wariness about New Delhi, building security cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean. If Indonesia decides to buy the Brahmos missile, it would further strengthen relations between the world's most populous nation and the most populous Islamic country.

Bangladesh foreign secy meets Indian envoy over border tensions

Bangladesh foreign secy meets Indian envoy over border tensions

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Bangladesh has summoned the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka over border tensions, accusing India of violating a bilateral agreement by constructing fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangla border. The development comes after Bangladesh officials alleged that India had halted construction of barbed wire fencing due to strong opposition from the Border Guard Bangladesh and local residents.

Chuck Hagel sworn-in as new US defence secretary

Chuck Hagel sworn-in as new US defence secretary

Rediff.com27 Feb 2013

Former Republican senator Chuck Hagel was on Wednesday sworn-in as the new United States defence secretary, in the midst of a controversy over his remarks that India "financed problems" for Pakistan in Afghanistan.

A few final steps to be completed: Misri on Rana's extradition

A few final steps to be completed: Misri on Rana's extradition

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

The United States has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. The decision was announced by President Donald Trump during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the White House. India is currently working on the logistics of Rana's surrender and extradition, with several final steps to be completed before he is sent back to India. The joint statement issued by India and the US during Prime Minister Modi's visit reaffirmed their commitment to fighting terrorism and eliminating terrorist safe havens. The leaders also called on Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks. Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is currently lodged at a metropolitan detention center in Los Angeles. He is associated with Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 attacks.

India, China complete 80-90% troop disengagement in Demchok, Depsang

India, China complete 80-90% troop disengagement in Demchok, Depsang

Rediff.com28 Oct 2024

Defence sources stated that the disengagement involves removing infrastructure and withdrawing troops from both sides. The process is expected to be completed by Tuesday.

US ex-defence secy, architect of modern Indo-US security ties, Carter dies

US ex-defence secy, architect of modern Indo-US security ties, Carter dies

Rediff.com26 Oct 2022

In a tribute, President Joe Biden called him a "born patriot", while Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hailed him as a thought-provoking global strategist.

Modi to visit France, US; meet Trump on Feb 12 amid deportation row

Modi to visit France, US; meet Trump on Feb 12 amid deportation row

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a two-day working visit to the US from February 12 during which he will meet President Donald Trump, the external affairs ministry announced. The visit will give further impetus and direction to India-US bilateral relationship. Prior to his US visit, Modi will be in France from February 10-12 to co-chair the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. He will also visit Cadarache, the site of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor of which India is a partner. During his visit to France from February 10-12, Modi and Macron will also address the India-France CEOs forum. The prime minister and Macron will travel to Marseille where they will inaugurate the Consulate General of India. The leaders will also visit the war cemetery and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers in World War 1. Modi and Macron will visit Cadarache, the site of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). There has been a very close rapport between Trump and Modi, dating back to the US leader's first term. There is a clear convergence of interests between the two countries in several areas, including trade, investment, technology, defense cooperation, counterterrorism, Indo-Pacific security, and people-to-people relations.

Defence Chiefs Host Farewell Banquet For President

Defence Chiefs Host Farewell Banquet For President

Rediff.com14 Jul 2022

On Wednesday, July 13, 2022, the President -- who is the supreme commander of Indian's armed forces -- attended a farewell banquet hosted in his honour by the Chiefs of Staff Committee in New Delhi.

India, China agree to work on 'roadmap' to rebuild trust

India, China agree to work on 'roadmap' to rebuild trust

Rediff.com20 Nov 2024

India and China have agreed to work towards a "roadmap" for rebuilding mutual trust following the border standoff in eastern Ladakh, according to a statement from the Indian Defence Ministry. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun in Vientiane, Laos, on the sidelines of a regional security conclave. Singh called for drawing lessons from the "unfortunate border clashes" of 2020 and emphasized the need for cooperation rather than conflict. Both sides agreed to work towards a roadmap for rebuilding mutual trust and understanding, and a meeting of the Special Representatives and Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism will also take place soon.

Adani role in defence sector comes as fresh ammo for Oppn

Adani role in defence sector comes as fresh ammo for Oppn

Rediff.com15 Mar 2023

Several Opposition leaders, including former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday attacked the government over a media report claiming that a key Adani group investor is also co-owner with the conglomerate in a defence firm.

'Amen': How world reacted to Trump-Zelensky's fiery clash

'Amen': How world reacted to Trump-Zelensky's fiery clash

Rediff.com1 Mar 2025

The heated exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy and the resulting outpouring of support for the Ukrainian leader highlighted the deep fissures that have emerged between America and Europe over Ukraine.

Gold Hits Rs 90K, Jewellery Demand Takes A Hit

Gold Hits Rs 90K, Jewellery Demand Takes A Hit

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

The trigger for international gold prices rising to $3,000 per ounce was Germany's upcoming heavy government borrowing.

Will India Have A Peace Keeping Role In Ukraine?

Will India Have A Peace Keeping Role In Ukraine?

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

A peace keeping role for India is a distinct possibility. Indian military has both the numbers and experience to carry out this job, observes Colonel Anil A Athale (Retd).

Iranian missiles target Mossad headquarters, US sends F-16s

Iranian missiles target Mossad headquarters, US sends F-16s

Rediff.com2 Oct 2024

Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, told Press TV that the Nevatim air base, the Netzarim military facility and the Tel Nof intelligence unit, were hit in the Tuesday night attack dubbed 'Operation True Promise II'.

India test fires 2 surface to air missiles in 2 days

India test fires 2 surface to air missiles in 2 days

Rediff.com13 Sep 2024

The missile showcased its precision and capability to neutralise targets, the statement said.

Modi, Macron fly together to Marseille, open new Indian consulate

Modi, Macron fly together to Marseille, open new Indian consulate

Rediff.com12 Feb 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron have called for enhancing trade and investment ties between their countries and committed to further deepening their engagement in the Indo-Pacific. They discussed a full spectrum of bilateral relations, including key global and regional issues, and stressed the urgent need for reform in the United Nations Security Council. The leaders also underscored their commitment to ensuring the global AI sector can drive positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

CIA chief to be next US defence secretary: Report

CIA chief to be next US defence secretary: Report

Rediff.com27 Apr 2011

Central Intelligence Agency Director Leon Panetta will become the new United States defence secretary, replacing Robert Gates, in a major shake-up of President Barack Obama's security team, according to a media report.The top US military commander in Afghanistan General David Petraeus is set to take over as the new CIA Director. The television network said Petraeus will be replaced as the US commander in Afghanistan by Lieutenant General John Allen.

Defence exports grew by 334% in last 5 years: Govt

Defence exports grew by 334% in last 5 years: Govt

Rediff.com25 Sep 2022

Defence exports have grown by 334 per cent in the last five years and India is now exporting to over 75 countries due to collaborative efforts, the government said on Sunday. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) said in a tweet: "The Indian Defence sector, the second largest armed force is at the cusp of revolution." "Defence exports grew by 334 per cent in the last five years; India now exporting to over 75 countries due to collaborative efforts," it said.

Hope PM told Trump it's not right to...: Opposition parties

Hope PM told Trump it's not right to...: Opposition parties

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Opposition leaders in India have expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue of the deportation of Indian illegal immigrants from the United States during his recent visit. They criticized the manner in which the Indians were sent back, shackled and handcuffed on a military aircraft. The leaders also discussed the need for India to address the root causes of migration and the importance of national interest in diplomatic relations with the United States.

Forces to get bulletproof jackets with 360-degree cover soon

Forces to get bulletproof jackets with 360-degree cover soon

Rediff.com25 Sep 2024

The jackets have been developed at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence at IIT-Delhi, the ministry said in a statement.

SC warns defence ministry of contempt notice over OROP payment arrears

SC warns defence ministry of contempt notice over OROP payment arrears

Rediff.com27 Feb 2023

The Supreme Court on Monday came down heavily on the ministry of defence over its January 20 communication regarding payment of arrears of One Rank-One Pension (OROP) in installments to eligible pensioners of the armed forces.

Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli airstrike amid ceasefire calls

Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli airstrike amid ceasefire calls

Rediff.com27 Sep 2024

The United States has called for a 21 day ceasefire on the Israel-Lebanon border to prevent an escalation of war and give diplomacy a chance there and in Gaza.

When the next US defence secretary spoke to Rediff.com

When the next US defence secretary spoke to Rediff.com

Rediff.com8 Dec 2014

'We have a common way of looking at the world, a common way of thinking, and a common set of values that predispose us to be partners. And our interests overlap greatly,' Dr Ashton B Carter, America's next defence secretary, told Aziz Haniffa/Rediff.com in an exclusive interview.

Five soldiers killed as Army vehicle falls into gorge in Poonch

Five soldiers killed as Army vehicle falls into gorge in Poonch

Rediff.com24 Dec 2024

Five soldiers were killed and five others were injured when an Army vehicle carrying them skidded off the road and rolled down into a gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. The accident occurred in the Gharoa area when the vehicle was on its way to Banoi in the district. Rescue teams have recovered five bodies. The vehicle plunged into a gorge, approximately 300-350 feet deep.

Won't allow Lankan soil to be used against India: Prez Disanayaka

Won't allow Lankan soil to be used against India: Prez Disanayaka

Rediff.com17 Dec 2024

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka assured Prime Minister Narendra Modi that his country's soil will not be used against India's interests, addressing concerns over China's growing influence in Colombo. The two leaders discussed a range of issues, including a defense cooperation agreement, energy ties, and debt restructuring. They also agreed to initiate a ferry service between Rameshwaram and Talaimannar, and to adopt a "humanitarian approach" to the fishermen issue.