India, Saudi Arabia discuss steps to boost defence industry partnership

City-based drone maker ideaForge is planning a higher R&D spend this fiscal year to develop technology and product platforms in the UAV space, in line with the government's focus on fostering domestic drone research. The company's CEO, Ankit Mehta, mentioned that R&D spending was 22% of revenues last year and is expected to increase further this year. IdeaForge aims to drive sustained growth in the UAV sector through continuous innovation and leveraging run-rate business for...

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accuses Russian President Putin of manipulating ceasefire proposal, claiming Moscow is adding preconditions to delay progress. Zelenskyy states Ukraine accepted US-backed unconditional ceasefire, while Russia complicates negotiations to continue war. Putin thanks world leaders for ceasefire efforts, emphasizes need for long-term peace and addressing root causes of crisis. Full Article

A Reddit user recently raised concerns about workplace gender dynamics, feeling that women receive preferential treatment at his office, leading to frustration and a shift in his feminist views. He highlighted instances of lighter consequences for mistakes and shorter working hours for women, contrasting with longer hours and less support for men. Despite acknowledging the issue, he clarified that his frustration is directed towards the workplace system rather than towards women themselves. The post sparked...

NATO leaders approved military plans to defend Europe from invasion in the aftermath of Russia's war on Ukraine, marking the alliance's largest defense readiness overhaul since the Cold War. The plans involve deploying up to 300,000 troops to the eastern flank within 30 days, potentially rising to 800,000 in six months, with a focus on the Baltic region and Central Europe. European nations face challenges in meeting defense goals, including mobilizing troops, increasing military budgets,...

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu presented the state's 2025-26 Budget with a focus on long-term growth, including initiatives like constructing new houses, Adyar river restoration, drinking water projects, Thozhi hostels for working women, and student hostels. Additionally, plans for 'Anbucholai' centers for senior citizens, World Tamil Olympiad, and a language tussle with the Centre over the budget logo were highlighted in the Budget presentation. Full Article

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for a U.S. ceasefire proposal in Ukraine, but requested clarifications and conditions that may prolong the conflict. Putin's cautious backing aimed to improve relations with the U.S. and pave the way for further discussions, although he emphasized the need to address the root causes of the conflict. Russia's invasion, labeled a "special military operation," has resulted in significant casualties, displacements, and destruction in Ukraine, escalating tensions with the West....