News for 'State for Arms Control and International'

Forces Intensify Search After Suspected Drone Activity

Forces Intensify Search After Suspected Drone Activity

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir initiated extensive search operations along the International Border and Line of Control in Samba and Rajouri districts following multiple overnight sightings of suspected Pakistani drones. The increased drone activity has prompted concerns over potential air-dropping of narcotics, weapons, or facilitation of infiltration, leading to heightened surveillance and anti-drone measures.

Strait of Hormuz is our territory, Iran warns US allies

Strait of Hormuz is our territory, Iran warns US allies

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asserted full control over the Strait of Hormuz, claiming two oil tankers turned back after a fire, and warned countries supporting the US against interference in the strategic waterway.

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a significant policy shift, declaring that Israel's robust economy no longer requires American financial assistance. He also reiterated strong opposition to Palestinian statehood, affirmed an aggressive national defence strategy, warned of pre-emptive strikes against Iran, and confirmed the continued military presence in southern Lebanon.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com6 days ago

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

Iran asserts control on Hormuz transit as US intensifies blockade

Iran asserts control on Hormuz transit as US intensifies blockade

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Tensions escalate between Iran and the US over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane for global oil supplies, as both sides discuss extending a fragile ceasefire.

US targets Iranian infrastructure in fresh wave of strikes

US targets Iranian infrastructure in fresh wave of strikes

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The US Central Command announced a new wave of strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, aiming to degrade Tehran's ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels. This comes as US President Donald Trump described the situation as a 'skirmish' and suggested Iran wants to 'make a deal,' while Iran's Foreign Minister warned of a 'decisive response' to any aggression.

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.

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) has strongly denied reports of violating land lease conditions for the R K Khanna Tennis Complex, asserting that all facilities comply with government norms. The association suggested that the allegations are "mala fide" and strategically timed to influence the upcoming All India Tennis Association (AITA) elections. DLTA also defended its commercial subletting practices, stating they are approved by the L&DO and are essential for generating revenue as it receives no government funding for maintenance.

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'It's not about individuals operating the mule accounts being more or less skilled. Instead, 'lower-level' refers to the role the individual account plays in the broader mule network.'

AI-171 crash: 'Saw captain's body in sitting position, gripping controls'

AI-171 crash: 'Saw captain's body in sitting position, gripping controls'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A man who lost family members in the 2023 Air India AI-171 crash has made claims about the pilot's position in the mortuary, prompting calls for an independent investigation.

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

'Instead of choosing dialogue, the government chose repression... Force ought to be the last resort, not the first.'

Ellen Tauscher is undersecretary of arms control

Ellen Tauscher is undersecretary of arms control

Rediff.com10 Jun 2009

A nonproliferation hawk, who vehemently opposed the US-India civilian nuclear deal, former Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher will take over as Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security.

Tashi Network, DroneVerse Conduct Groundbreaking Drone Swarm Trial In Delhi

Tashi Network, DroneVerse Conduct Groundbreaking Drone Swarm Trial In Delhi

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Tashi Network and DroneVerse successfully conducted a live drone swarm field trial in Delhi, demonstrating advanced autonomous capabilities for defence and internal security. The trial showcased decentralised mesh technology, allowing drone swarms to maintain mission coherence even with communication disruptions, marking a significant step towards India's technological sovereignty in autonomous warfare.

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The autonomous, edge-native drone swarms are capable of continuing operations even when some lose connectivity, run low on battery, or return to base.

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

To get its act going in Myanmar, India would need very dynamic diplomacy and not the lazy all-eggs-in-one-basket approach, points out Subir Bhaumik.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

Hizbul Mujahideen Linked Offender's Property Attached In Baramulla

Hizbul Mujahideen Linked Offender's Property Attached In Baramulla

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Authorities in Baramulla district have attached the property of Rasid-ud-Din Qureshi, a proclaimed offender linked to Hizbul Mujahideen who is currently operating from Pakistan. The attached property is a piece of land measuring two kanals in Lashdaej Nadihal.

Property Of Hizbul Mujahideen Operative Attached In Baramulla

Property Of Hizbul Mujahideen Operative Attached In Baramulla

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Authorities in Baramulla district have attached the property of Rasid-ud-Din Qureshi, a proclaimed offender linked to Hizbul Mujahideen who is currently operating from Pakistan. The attached property is a piece of land measuring two kanals in Lashdaej Nadihal.

Vance reaches Zurich for talks with Iran's 'Minab 168' delegation

Vance reaches Zurich for talks with Iran's 'Minab 168' delegation

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

US Vice President J D Vance is currently in Switzerland, leading critical technical talks with Iran to advance diplomatic efforts on Iran's nuclear programme and secure a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon, following a recently signed memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalating West Asian hostilities.

Israel urges India to designate Iran's IRGC a terror outfit

Israel urges India to designate Iran's IRGC a terror outfit

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The IRGC is the most powerful branch of Iran's armed forces and operates independently of the country's regular military, answering directly to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Right To Live With Dignity Includes Freedom From Stray Dog Threat: SC

Right To Live With Dignity Includes Freedom From Stray Dog Threat: SC

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Supreme Court of India has affirmed that the right to live with dignity includes the right to live without the threat of harm from stray dogs, dismissing petitions seeking to overturn earlier directives on relocation and sterilisation.

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

Rediff.com22 May 2026

As many as 35 vessels, including cargo carriers and oil tankers, successfully navigated through the strategic maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz over the last 24 hours, according to Iran's state media reports citing a formal declaration by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.

'Maybe 21-22%': Iran's missile arsenal reduced to a fraction, claims Trump

'Maybe 21-22%': Iran's missile arsenal reduced to a fraction, claims Trump

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran's missile capabilities have been severely degraded, saying Tehran now possesses only a fraction of the arsenal it had before recent hostilities.

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Rediff.com25 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that significant progress has been made in negotiations with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. However, President Donald Trump remains cautious, vowing not to accept a 'bad deal' regarding Iran's nuclear programme and regional stability.

Gulf port is either for everyone or...: Iran on US's blockade plan

Gulf port is either for everyone or...: Iran on US's blockade plan

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Iran has strongly criticised US plans to impose a blockade on its ports, warning that maritime security across the Persian Gulf region would be jeopardised if its own security is threatened.

Delhi Police Nab Six Gang Members Linked To Rashid Cablewala

Delhi Police Nab Six Gang Members Linked To Rashid Cablewala

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Delhi Police have arrested six men allegedly linked to the Rashid Cablewala-Hashim Baba gang and seized a cache of illegal firearms and ammunition from their possession.

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

If one has to compare the tenures of the two prime ministers one must credit Nehru with laying the foundations on which Modi is building a grand edifice, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

MHA gets Rs 2.55 lakh cr as Budget sharpens focus on internal security

MHA gets Rs 2.55 lakh cr as Budget sharpens focus on internal security

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The Union Budget 2025-26 had allocated Rs 2,33,210.68 crore (BE) to the ministry helmed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Tensions escalate between Iran and the US following an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman, with both sides trading accusations over maritime security and ceasefire violations.

India Launches Robotic Surgery Systems for Battlefield Emergencies

India Launches Robotic Surgery Systems for Battlefield Emergencies

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched indigenous robotic technologies, Project Vimana and Project Operion, designed to perform life-saving surgeries on the battlefield, potentially revolutionising emergency care for injured security personnel.

Iran denies US claim on mine-clearing ops in Strait of Hormuz

Iran denies US claim on mine-clearing ops in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the start of operations to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a claim swiftly denied by Iran, leading to increased tensions in the region amidst stalled negotiations between the two countries.

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) report on religious freedom in India, stating that it does not recognise the commission's authority to comment on the rights of Indian citizens.

'Pakistan Under Complete Army Control, Not Good News For India'

'Pakistan Under Complete Army Control, Not Good News For India'

Rediff.com19 Nov 2025

'Can a nuclear-armed nation sustain itself indefinitely under overt military rule without catastrophic consequences for itself and the region? History suggests otherwise.'

Trump orders US Navy to shoot and kill mine-laying boats in Hormuz

Trump orders US Navy to shoot and kill mine-laying boats in Hormuz

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that he has directed the country's Navy to take decisive action against any vessels attempting to lay mines in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tension over the virtual control of the waterway between Tehran and Washington.

Nationwide terror module busted; toy car IED plot foiled

Nationwide terror module busted; toy car IED plot foiled

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Delhi Police have arrested four men from Maharashtra, Odisha, and Bihar for allegedly planning terror activities and attempting to recruit others online. An IED and related materials were seized during the operation.

Why India's Israel-UAE Bet Looks Risky

Why India's Israel-UAE Bet Looks Risky

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Frankly, was it really necessary in the middle of a fratricidal war for External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to travel to Abu Dhabi for a one-on-one with the sheikh on April 12?Or, for National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to follow up on April 26? Or, for PM Narendra Modi to follow through today? There are no easy answers, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Why Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Efforts Are Failing

Why Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Efforts Are Failing

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Afghanistan's anti-doping programme has collapsed since the Taliban's return to power, with no tests conducted for three years and the country's exiled anti-doping chief admitting there is currently 'no hope'. The programme faces numerous challenges, including a lack of Doping Control Officers, logistical issues, and political instability.

Mojtaba, Ayatollah Khamenei's son, elected Iran's new Supreme Leader: Report

Mojtaba, Ayatollah Khamenei's son, elected Iran's new Supreme Leader: Report

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has been chosen to assume control of the country.

Man wanted in 2023 attempted murder and extortion case arrested at Mumbai airport

Man wanted in 2023 attempted murder and extortion case arrested at Mumbai airport

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

A history-sheeter, wanted in connection with a 2023 attempted murder and extortion case involving an organised crime syndicate, was arrested at Mumbai's international airport after arriving from Dubai.

Shivshankar Menon: 'Pakistan's Insider Threat Is Serious'

Shivshankar Menon: 'Pakistan's Insider Threat Is Serious'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'Pakistan's is the only military-controlled nuclear weapons programme in the world.' 'As people get radicalised, the risk of a brigadier or pilot taking matters into their own hands is a real concern.'