India, Bangladesh agree to launch new 'hotline' between border forces

The Indian Army contingent departed for the 6th edition of the India-Japan Joint Military Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN, scheduled from February 24 to March 9, 2025, in Japan's East Fuji Manoeuvre Training area. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the two forces through joint urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations. The Indian contingent, led by troops from the MADRAS Regiment, will work alongside the Japan Ground Self Defence Force to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Full Article

India strongly protested against Turkish President Erdogan's remarks on Kashmir during his visit to Pakistan, calling them unacceptable and asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. The Ministry of External Affairs rejected Erdogan's call for addressing the Kashmir issue as per UN resolutions and lodged a protest with the Turkish envoy. India criticized Erdogan for commenting on internal matters and urged him to focus on Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism against...

The First Training Squadron of the Indian Navy, consisting of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera, arrived at Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam on February 20, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence. The visit aims to strengthen the friendship and partnership between the two nations through various professional interactions, community visits, and bilateral exercises with the Vietnam People's Navy and Coast Guard, enhancing interoperability and Best Practices exchange. This visit underscores the longstanding maritime cooperation...

In the opening match of the Champions Trophy at Gaddafi Stadium, Australia and England will face off on a batting-friendly pitch, setting the stage for a potentially high-scoring game. With both teams looking to bounce back from recent losses, the absence of key Australian bowlers could give England an advantage. The weather forecast for Lahore on Saturday predicts clear skies and mild temperatures, enhancing the conditions for a competitive match. Full Article

The Defence Department is cutting 5,400 probationary workers and implementing a hiring freeze, excluding uniformed military personnel, in an effort to reduce the civilian workforce by 5-8% and prioritize the President's goals. The move follows the firing of federal employees with fewer civil service protections, including 2,000 from the US Forest Service and an expected 7,000 from the Internal Revenue Service. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth supports the cuts to focus on readiness and efficiency. Full...

Russia is considering using $300 billion of frozen sovereign assets in Europe for reconstruction in Ukraine, with the condition that part of the funds be spent on the territories controlled by Moscow. Talks between Russia and the United States on ending the Ukraine war have begun, with hopes of a meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin. Russia's main demands include the withdrawal of Kyiv's troops and an end to Ukraine's NATO aspirations, while Ukraine seeks...