India's push for Indigenous defence manufacturing under 'Make in India' mirrors similar initiatives in US and Europe

The Israeli military received three hostages freed by Hamas in Gaza and is bringing them back to Israel for a medical assessment. The hostages, Omer Wenkert, Omer Shem Tov, and Eliya Cohen, were handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross in Nuseirat. Earlier in the day, two other hostages were released as part of a fragile ceasefire deal between the adversaries. Full Article

The Mumbai Coastal Road Project, a Rs 14,000-crore initiative, is under scrutiny due to visible patchwork on a key stretch, leading to concerns about quality and execution. Shiv Sena (UBT) has criticized the previous government for favoritism toward contractors, while Aaditya Thackeray expressed disappointment in the project's mismanagement. The 10-km six-lane road, open since March 2024, has been heavily used, featuring two underground twin tunnels designed to ease traffic between South and North Mumbai. Full...

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