India witnessed 84% rise in communal riots in 2024: Report

Uttar Pradesh Police in Lucknow has ramped up security measures ahead of Holi celebrations, with increased monitoring of sensitive areas, drone surveillance, and social media checks for fake news. Extensive patrolling and barricades are in place to maintain communal harmony during the coinciding Holi and 'jumma' namaz festivities. Police are enforcing strict prohibitions on public drinking and disorderly conduct, with a focus on preventing any new Holi traditions that could lead to tensions, as per...

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported 20 sorties of People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, and one official ship operating around Taiwan until 6 am local time on Thursday. Out of these sorties, 11 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). The MND closely monitored the situation and responded accordingly to the activities detected. Full Article

Russia has presented the U.S. with a list of demands to end its war against Ukraine and improve relations, including no NATO membership for Kyiv, no foreign troops in Ukraine, and recognition of Crimea and four provinces as part of Russia. The terms, discussed in recent conversations, also address NATO's eastward expansion and require addressing the "root causes" of the conflict. It remains unclear if peace talks with Kyiv will precede acceptance of these demands....

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh visited the Southern Air Command (SAC) for a commanders' conference, emphasizing the need for innovative measures to address security challenges and harness human resources. He highlighted the impact of emerging technologies and the hybrid nature of future warfare during interactions with SAC commanders, urging them to stay updated on global developments in space, cyber, and electronic warfare. The CAS was briefed on key issues including air defence, operational preparedness,...

The Indian Air Force's elite Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team performed a spectacular air show over Marina Park in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi and Group Captain Sidhesh Kartik. The team flew in close formation, showcasing loops, barrel rolls, and their signature DNA manoeuvre, inspiring local youths and tourists. The air show, held to promote patriotism and aviation excellence, attracted a large crowd and will continue on Thursday. Full Article

Union Minister for Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw welcomed Starlink to India, marking the official entry of Elon Musk-owned SpaceX subsidiary in the country, specifically mentioning its utility for remote area railway projects. Jio Platforms and Bharti Airtel have both signed agreements with SpaceX to bring Starlink's broadband internet services to India, following demands for a spectrum auction to ensure fair pricing. These partnerships come after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meeting with Elon Musk in...