News for 'US Defence Secretary'

Iran threatens to strike US energy infra, IT systems over fuel site attack

Iran threatens to strike US energy infra, IT systems over fuel site attack

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

According to Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the threat was articulated by Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.

Pak PM offers to host US-Iran talks, Trump shares post

Pak PM offers to host US-Iran talks, Trump shares post

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered to host talks between the US and Iran to help resolve the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, following reports of Pakistan's involvement in backchannel diplomacy.

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Rediff.com7 days ago

Economist Jeffrey Sachs saw Gulf nations' decision to partner with the US through the Abraham Accords as an "invitation for disaster" as it made them more dependent on American protection.

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Indian government addressed opposition concerns regarding the West Asia crisis in an all-party meeting, outlining its strategy for ensuring the security of the Indian diaspora, fulfilling energy needs, and maintaining diplomatic relations with key partners. The government also dismissed Pakistan's reported mediation efforts.

Zubeen Garg Death Case: Fast-Track Court Commences Hearing

Zubeen Garg Death Case: Fast-Track Court Commences Hearing

Rediff.com6 days ago

The fast-track Sessions Court established for the Zubeen Garg death case has commenced its first hearing, with submissions made on behalf of one of the accused. The court is expediting proceedings to deliver justice in the case.

Can Pakistan's outreach to Egypt, Turkiye, Saudi calm West Asia?

Can Pakistan's outreach to Egypt, Turkiye, Saudi calm West Asia?

Rediff.com7 days ago

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with his counterparts from Egypt and Turkiye in Islamabad ahead of a quadrilateral summit, including Saudi Arabia, to discuss the ongoing conflict in West Asia and explore avenues for peace.

Situation under control, energy security stable: Centre on West Asia crisis

Situation under control, energy security stable: Centre on West Asia crisis

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

There is no cause for concern, as the overall situation arising out of the crisis is firmly under control, the Centre informed while briefing political parties at the all-party meet.

West Asia conflict: Modi urges states to guard supply chains, curb panic

West Asia conflict: Modi urges states to guard supply chains, curb panic

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with chief ministers to review preparedness and plans in light of the West Asia conflict, emphasising the importance of national unity and enhanced security measures.

UK Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Order After Reviewing Indian Assurances

UK Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Order After Reviewing Indian Assurances

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The UK High Court has rejected Nirav Modi's attempt to reopen his extradition case, citing the Indian government's comprehensive assurances against torture as sufficient to allow his transfer to India.

All queries answered, Oppn backs govt on West Asia: Kiren Rijiju

All queries answered, Oppn backs govt on West Asia: Kiren Rijiju

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

He added that opposition parties were assured that their concerns regarding the impact of the West Asia situation on India and the safety of Indian citizens were addressed in detail.

War Reveals Brutal Math Of Cheap Drones Vs Missiles

War Reveals Brutal Math Of Cheap Drones Vs Missiles

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The modern war is about quality over quantity, points out Mihir S Sharma.

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Chief on Reasons for Continued Women's Safety Concerns

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Chief on Reasons for Continued Women's Safety Concerns

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

Rashtra Sevika Samiti chief V Shantha Kumari highlights the erosion of traditional values and delays in legal action as key factors contributing to ongoing concerns about women's safety in India.

Modi reviews fuel, power, fertiliser supply amid West Asia tensions

Modi reviews fuel, power, fertiliser supply amid West Asia tensions

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with senior ministers to assess the impact of the evolving situation in West Asia on India's crude oil, gas, petroleum, power, and fertiliser sectors, focusing on ensuring uninterrupted supply and stable logistics.

'Pakistan Threatened India With Nuclear Weapons Three Times Before 1998'

'Pakistan Threatened India With Nuclear Weapons Three Times Before 1998'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'We were in a heavily nuclearised environment. China had tested for Pakistan in the 1980s and helped their missile programme stay just one step behind us.'

Vietnam Emerges As India's Key Defence Partner

Vietnam Emerges As India's Key Defence Partner

Rediff.com17 Nov 2025

The 15th India-Vietnam Defence Dialogue signalled a move from routine talks to deeper cooperation, with new deals on submarine rescue and defence industry to support stability in the Indo-Pacific, notes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Gulf War: Time India Distances Itself From Israel

Gulf War: Time India Distances Itself From Israel

Rediff.com6 days ago

It may now be time to question the price India is paying for Israel's disregard of the serious undermining of India's energy security, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The US embassy in Saudi Arabia and the US consulate in Dubai were reportedly targeted by suspected Iranian drone attacks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Ukraine protests over detention of nationals in India

Ukraine protests over detention of nationals in India

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Ukraine has lodged a formal protest with India regarding the detention of six Ukrainian nationals in Mizoram, alleging unauthorised entry and unlawful activities. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry is seeking consular access and immediate release of its citizens.

Pradeep Kumar appointed new Defence Secretary

Pradeep Kumar appointed new Defence Secretary

Rediff.com14 Jul 2009

The government on Tuesday appointed Pradeep Kumar, currently the secretary in the department of Defence Production, as the Defence Secretary.

Iran launches fresh strikes on US bases

Iran launches fresh strikes on US bases

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

The IRGC said the barrage targeted several US military facilities in the region, including bases at Sheikh Isa in Bahrain, Juffair in Bahrain, Ali al-Salem in Kuwait and Al Azraq in Jordan.

'US Won't Repeat China Trade Mistake With India'

'US Won't Repeat China Trade Mistake With India'

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

'India should understand that we are not going to make the same mistakes with India that we made with China 20 years ago.'

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Eminent historian and academic K.N. Panikkar, known for his Marxist interpretation of history and advocacy for secularism, has passed away at the age of 90. His contributions to historical research and defence of secular values are widely recognised.

Ajay Prasad becomes defence secretary

Ajay Prasad becomes defence secretary

Rediff.com30 Jun 2003

He succeeds Subir Dutta, who has been appointed Member of the Union Public Service Commission.

Iran Rewrites Rules of War

Iran Rewrites Rules of War

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Iran is fighting a different war: Older, slower, and in some ways more dangerous. Iran doesn't need to shoot down an F/A-18. It only needs to make the Strait of Hormuz feel dangerous long enough for insurance markets, shipping companies, and oil futures traders to do the rest. Prem Panicker continues his must-read daily blog on the war in the Middle East.

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has reviewed the evolving situation in West Asia, directing departments to assist Indian nationals affected by recent developments and emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy.

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged its citizens to immediately depart from several Middle Eastern countries, citing "serious safety risks."

Nirav Modi's Extradition Appeal Hearing Concludes in London

Nirav Modi's Extradition Appeal Hearing Concludes in London

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The UK High Court has concluded the hearing for Nirav Modi's application to reopen his extradition appeal, focusing on claims of potential torture during interrogations in India. The court has reserved its judgement.

Iran War Exposes Washington's Strategic Chaos

Iran War Exposes Washington's Strategic Chaos

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

What we are watching is something different: A fog manufactured and maintained by the people who started the war, so that the question of why it was started never has to be answered, observes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the war in the Middle East.

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

India and Israel have elevated their relationship to a special strategic partnership, focusing on enhanced cooperation in trade, technology, and defense, while also addressing regional peace initiatives.

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The pause gives the US time to breathe, to regroup, to move its expeditionary force into position without risk of interception along the way. It gives Iran nothing -- on the ground, attacks against its infrastructure continue apace. Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

US defence secretary Chuck Hagel resigns

US defence secretary Chuck Hagel resigns

Rediff.com24 Nov 2014

United States Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel has resigned under pressure, the first cabinet-level casualty coming close on the heels of Democratic Party loosing majority in the Senate and the Obama administration's struggle in dealing with the Islamic State.

Netanyahu debunks death rumours with 'punch card' video

Netanyahu debunks death rumours with 'punch card' video

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to continue targeting Iranian leaders, claiming recent successes in eliminating key figures. He asserted that Israel, with US support, aims to undermine the Iranian regime and empower the Iranian people.

Mark my words...: Iran FM's warning after US sinks Iranian warship

Mark my words...: Iran FM's warning after US sinks Iranian warship

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Amid rising tensions, Iran threatens retaliation after the United States confirms sinking its warship, IRIS Dena, in international waters, escalating conflict in the region.

India Coach Gautam Gambhir Dedicates T20 World Cup Victory To These Two Greats

India Coach Gautam Gambhir Dedicates T20 World Cup Victory To These Two Greats

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Head coach Gautam Gambhir dedicated India's T20 World Cup victory to Rahul Dravid and V V S Laxman.

Rajnath calls Coast Guard a 'wall of trust' after Operation Sindoor

Rajnath calls Coast Guard a 'wall of trust' after Operation Sindoor

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Coast Guard's role during Operation Sindoor and highlighted its importance in national security on the occasion of its 50th Raising Day.

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Calls for Women's Day to Reflect Indian Values

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Calls for Women's Day to Reflect Indian Values

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Rashtra Sevika Samiti emphasizes the importance of guiding International Women's Day with Indian cultural values, focusing on social awareness, mindset change, and women's empowerment through unity and family values.

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.

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.'

Iran shares video of shooting down US F-15 fighter jet

Iran shares video of shooting down US F-15 fighter jet

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Referring to local sources, IRNA shared a video clip that it claims shows the downing of the American F-15 fighter jet in Kuwait.

Stopped a potential...: Trump repeats India-Pak truce claim

Stopped a potential...: Trump repeats India-Pak truce claim

Rediff.com23 Dec 2025

Since May 10, when Trump announced on social media that India and Pakistan had agreed to a "full and immediate" ceasefire after a "long night" of talks mediated by Washington, he has repeated his claim over 60 times that he "helped settle" the tensions between the two neighbours.