News for 'US Defence Secretary'

F-35, Rana extradition: Big takeaways from Modi-Trump meet

F-35, Rana extradition: Big takeaways from Modi-Trump meet

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

During the talks, India and the US decided to take a big leap in broad-basing their strategic ties in several critical areas.

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.

No data on undocumented Indians residing in US: Centre

No data on undocumented Indians residing in US: Centre

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

The Indian government does not track the number of undocumented Indian immigrants residing in the US. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in a written response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, said these immigrants have "legally exited India" but have either overstayed their visa validity, or have entered the US illegally or without valid documents. The response comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to the US, during which he will hold a bilateral meeting with President Trump. The two leaders are likely to discuss India-US cooperation in sectors like trade, investment, energy, defense, technology and immigration.

Modi flies home after 'substantive, productive' US visit

Modi flies home after 'substantive, productive' US visit

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his visit to the United States after holding high-level bilateral talks with President Donald Trump on a wide range of subjects, including trade and technology, defence and security, energy and people-to-people ties. The two leaders decided to take a significant step in deepening their strategic ties, particularly in the areas of defence, energy, and critical technology. Modi also met with key American officials, including National Security Advisor Michael Waltz and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and prominent business leaders like SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

What Our Leaders Were Up To

What Our Leaders Were Up To

Rediff.com3 Jan 2025

Glimpse what our politicians were doing at the beginning of 2025.

Lankan naval commander meets Indian military top brass to boost defence ties

Lankan naval commander meets Indian military top brass to boost defence ties

Rediff.com25 May 2023

During the visit, he will be presiding over the Passing Out Parade of the Spring Term 23 at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, he said.

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.

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.

Coast Guard chief Rakesh Pal dies of cardiac arrest in Chennai

Coast Guard chief Rakesh Pal dies of cardiac arrest in Chennai

Rediff.com18 Aug 2024

He had taken charge as the 25th director general of the Indian Coast Guard on July 19 last year.

Will PM have courage to...: Cong ahead of Modi-Trump meet

Will PM have courage to...: Cong ahead of Modi-Trump meet

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

Posing a series of questions to the prime minister, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh also asked if Modi would convey to the US president that India would send its own aircraft -- like Venezuela and Colombia did -- to bring back Indian deportees in the future.

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.

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."

What's Raksha Mantri Doing At Sea?

What's Raksha Mantri Doing At Sea?

Rediff.com6 Mar 2024

The first Naval Commanders Conference of 2024 commenced on March 5, 2024 in Goa. Held against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, regional challenges and the current volatile maritime security situation in the region, the conference plays a pivotal role in shaping the future course of the Indian Navy.

China hardening its position along LAC: US Defence Secy

China hardening its position along LAC: US Defence Secy

Rediff.com11 Jun 2022

The Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh since May 5, 2020, when a violent clash between the two sides erupted in the Pangong lake area.

As Israel debates response to Iran, US says...

As Israel debates response to Iran, US says...

Rediff.com16 Apr 2024

Additional United States military assets that were moved into the Middle East before Iran's attack on Israel will remain in place, CNN reported, citing Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder.

Gen Rawat a strong proponent of defence ties: US

Gen Rawat a strong proponent of defence ties: US

Rediff.com9 Dec 2021

General Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff who died in a tragic helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu, was an exceptional leader, a valued partner and a strong proponent of US-India defence ties and helped deepen the bilateral strategic partnership, top US officials have said.

Noel Tata To Debut At Tata Sons Board Meeting Today

Noel Tata To Debut At Tata Sons Board Meeting Today

Rediff.com21 Nov 2024

Indications are that the Tata Sons stand on listing of the company may come up for a discussion even if it's not part of the agenda

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.

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 stop weapons supply if...: Biden warns Israel

Will stop weapons supply if...: Biden warns Israel

Rediff.com9 May 2024

It is the first time that Biden has made such a statement, adding that the weapons sent could also be used in the operation to target the population centres.

Rajnath's military mantra: Synergised, swift, proportionate response

Rajnath's military mantra: Synergised, swift, proportionate response

Rediff.com5 Sep 2024

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday called upon the top military brass to analyse the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza as well as the current situation in Bangladesh to "predict" any future problems and stay prepared to deal with the "unexpected".

US sanctions 15 Indian entities for backing Russia

US sanctions 15 Indian entities for backing Russia

Rediff.com1 Nov 2024

The United States has imposed sanctions on 275 individuals and entities, including 15 from India, for allegedly supporting Russia's military-industrial base.

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.

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.

'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.

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.

India, US ink key defence pact; Pompeo remembers Galwan martyrs

India, US ink key defence pact; Pompeo remembers Galwan martyrs

Rediff.com27 Oct 2020

The agreement will allow sharing of high-end military technology, classified satellite data and critical information between the two countries.

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.

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.

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).

'Without US, Saudis, UAE in loop, there will be no retaliation'

'Without US, Saudis, UAE in loop, there will be no retaliation'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2025

'If Pakistan's army wants to escalate violence in Kashmir, they have an unlimited supply of jihadis they can train and send. That's not an issue for them.'

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.

When Austin Arrived... When Blinken Came...

When Austin Arrived... When Blinken Came...

Rediff.com10 Nov 2023

There was a clear difference in the welcomes for Lloyd Austin and Antony Blinken.

Israel targets weapons depots in Beirut; Iran cancels all flights

Israel targets weapons depots in Beirut; Iran cancels all flights

Rediff.com6 Oct 2024

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) intensified its campaign in Lebanon with targeted airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut, hitting key weapons depots and terror infrastructure overnight, according to a report by Times of Israel.

US to deploy additional forces as Iran vows revenge on Israel

US to deploy additional forces as Iran vows revenge on Israel

Rediff.com3 Aug 2024

The United States will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy ships to West Asia in order to defend Israel, the US Department of Defence said.

'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.."

U'khand: 33 workers rescued as avalanche hits BRO camp, 22 still trapped

U'khand: 33 workers rescued as avalanche hits BRO camp, 22 still trapped

Rediff.com1 Mar 2025

Forty-one Border Road Organisation labourers working to clear snow near the high altitude border village of Mana in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district were trapped under an avalanche on Friday.

India aims for defence hardware production, not assembly workshop: Rajnath

India aims for defence hardware production, not assembly workshop: Rajnath

Rediff.com13 Feb 2023

Singh made the remarks while addressing a "CEOs' Roundtable" at the 14th edition of Aero India at the Yelahanka Air Force station complex on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

Prannoy, Sen to lead India's defence in Thomas Cup

Prannoy, Sen to lead India's defence in Thomas Cup

Rediff.com4 Apr 2024

Sindhu pulls out of Uber Cup

Jaishankar meets US officials, discusses security ties

Jaishankar meets US officials, discusses security ties

Rediff.com30 Sep 2023

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has met United States Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and held a productive conversation with him on deepening bilateral defence cooperation, including in the co-production of defence articles, and exchanged perspectives on a variety of security issues.