States fear quality and competition compromises with standardised healthcare rates

The Army Air Defence is enhancing its capabilities in response to evolving warfare dynamics, planning to replace old platforms, introduce new fragmentation ammunition, and deploy advanced radars. Additionally, the army aims to secure a contract for the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system within 4-5 months to bolster its defense. Director General Lt Gen Sumer Ivan D'Cunha emphasizes modernization and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', urging the Indian industry to deliver with reduced timelines for effective...

In Mahakumbh 2025, over 1.43 crore devotees participated in the holy dip at Triveni Sangam, surpassing the 60-crore mark in total attendance. The Uttar Pradesh government expects the number to exceed 65 crore by the final 'amrit snan' on February 26, with over half of India's 110 crore Sanatan followers having already taken part. Notable figures like BJP president J P Nadda and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have also participated in the Maha...

India and Japan are set to participate in a joint military exercise from February 24, focusing on enhancing interoperability through urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations under a UN mandate. The exercise highlights the shared commitment of both countries to regional security, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indian Army contingent has departed for the sixth edition of the 'Dharma Guardian' exercise in Japan, scheduled to take place from February 24 to March 9...

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