DEFENCE

• RIMPAC – 2022.
• DRDO successfully test fires indigenously developed laser-guided ATGMs.
• Tejas Fighter Aircraft.
• Army Design Bureau has signed a MoU with the Drone Federation of India.
• 13th Edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “Ex Vajra Prahar 2022”.
• 12th Def Expo to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) flew three indigenous platforms, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40).
• Repair of a US Navy Ship in India.
• 4th India-Bangladesh Annual Defence Dialogue.
• Indian Air Force to participate in bilateral exercise hosted by Malaysia.
• Indo Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najaf IV concluded.
• Bengaluru-based start-up innovates communication through Quantum Key Distribution Systems.
• India gifts Dornier aircraft to strengthen maritime security of Sri Lanka.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Nigeria

• Around 1,755 Boko Haram terrorists surrendered during the Operation HADIN KAI at various locations.

Niger

• Several Boko Haram terrorists were killed in an airstrike in Shiroro LGA.

Afghanistan

• Islamic State carried out an attack in Kabul and killed a prominent Taliban cleric.
• “Al-Qa’ida has not reconstituted its presence in Afghanistan,” claimed new US intelligence assessment.
• Islamic State claimed responsibility for a bomb attack in Kabul.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• NIA officials searched various locations in Doda and Jammu districts in “JeI-J&K Terror Financing” case.
• Security forces killed a key LeT terrorist in Budgam.
• JKGF carried out a grenade attack in Ramban.

Left-Wing Extremism

• Maoist woman leader surrendered in Andhra Pradesh.

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

• NIA officials arrested 10th accused in “Amravati killing case”.
• Police demolished an illegal madrassa linked with al-Qa’ida in Assam.
• NIA arrested two JMB operatives from Madhya Pradesh in connection with “JMB Bhopal case”.
• NIA officials arrested 09th accused in “Udaipur killing case”.
• NIA officials searched and arrested an IS operative from Delhi.
• UP ATS arrested an IS operative from Azamgarh.
• NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet against an al-Qa’ida operative in “al-Qa’ida Lucknow case”.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• SFJ threatened to replace Tiranga with ‘Khalistan’ flag at Attari border in Amritsar, Punjab.
• Canada-based drug cartels are trying to revive Khalistan movement in India.
• SFJ announced to hold ‘Canadian phase’ of Khalistan Referendum in September 2022.

DEFENCE

RIMPAC – 2022.

INS Satpura entered Pearl Harbour in Hawaii, USA on 02 Aug 22 on completion of the sea phase of RIMPAC-22, a multilateral exercise conducted over 22 days off Hawaii, USA. RIMPAC-22 is one of the largest multilateral naval exercises in which the Indian Navy participates and the exercise this year has witnessed participation from 26 countries comprising 38 surface ships, 09 land forces, 31 unmanned systems, 170 aircraft and over 2,500 personnel.
For more information: Click here to read…

DRDO successfully test fires indigenously developed laser-guided ATGMs.

Indigenously developed Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) were successfully test-fired from Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Army.
Fore more information: Click here to read…

Tejas Fighter Aircraft.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a Defence PSU under the Ministry of Defence responded to a Request for Information (RFI) received from Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), Malaysia in February, 2019 for LCA class aircraft. Subsequently, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited responded in October, 2021 to Request for Proposal (RFP) issued against tender released by Royal Malaysian Air Force, Malaysia for 18 nos of Fighter Lead In Trainer – Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT – LCA) and HAL offered LCA Tejas twin seater variant. Other countries which have evinced interest in LCA aircraft are: Argentina, Australia, Egypt, USA, Indonesia, and Philippines.
For more information: Click here to read…

Army Design Bureau has signed a MoU with the Drone Federation of India.

The Army Design Bureau on behalf of the Indian Army has signed a MoU with the Drone Federation of India to collaboratively work towards promoting research, development, testing and manufacturing of drones, counter-drone and associated technologies that can assist the Indian Army in its operations.
For more information: Click here to read…

13th Edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “Ex Vajra Prahar 2022”.

The 13th Edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “Ex Vajra Prahar 2022” commenced at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Bakloh (HP) today. The US contingent is represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) and Special Tactics Squadron (STS) of US Special Forces and the Indian Army contingent is formed by drawing Special Forces personnel under the aegis of SFTS. This annual exercise is hosted alternatively between India and the United States. The 12th edition was conducted at Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, Washington (USA) in October 2021.

During the course of next 21 days, teams of both armies would jointly train, plan and execute a series of Special Operations, Counter Terrorist Operations, Air Borne operations in simulated conventional and unconventional scenarios in mountainous terrain.
For more information: Click here to read…

12th Def Expo to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujrat.

The 12th edition of DefExpo – India’s flagship exhibition on Land, Naval and Homeland Security systems – will be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat from October 18-22, 2022. The five-day event will witness three business days followed by two public days. It was postponed in March 2022 due to logistical problems being faced by the participants.
For more information: Click here to read…

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) flew three indigenous platforms, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40).

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) was on a two day visit to Bangalore. He flew three indigenous platforms, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40), which are being inducted into IAF as part of its drive towards Atmanirbharta.
For more information: Click here to read…

Repair of a US Navy Ship in India.

US Navy Ship (USNS) Charles Drew arrived at L&T’s Shipyard at Kattupalli, Chennai on August 07, 2022 for undertaking repairs and allied services. This is the first ever repair of a US Navy ship in India. The US Navy had awarded a contract to L&T’s Shipyard at Kattupalli for undertaking maintenance of the ship. The USNS Charles Drew will be at Kattupalli shipyard for a period of 11 days and undergo repairs in various areas.
For more information: Click here to read…

4th India-Bangladesh Annual Defence Dialogue.

The 4th India-Bangladesh Annual Defence Dialogue, co-chaired by Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar and Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh Lt Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, was held in New Delhi on August 11, 2022. During their interaction, they reviewed ongoing defence cooperation between the two countries and expressed satisfaction that collaboration is growing despite difficulties imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both sides emphasised the need to work closely to implement the USD 500 million line of credit extended from India for defence items.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Air Force to participate in bilateral exercise hosted by Malaysia

A contingent of the Indian Air Force left for Malaysia today to participate in a bilateral exercise named ‘Udarashakti’. Indian Air Force is participating in the air exercise with Su-30 MKI and C-17 aircraft while the RMAF will be flying Su 30 MKM aircraft. The Indian contingent departed from one of its air bases directly for their destination, the RMAF base of Kuantan. The exercise will give an opportunity to IAF contingent members to share and learn best practices with some of the best professionals from RMAF, while also discussing mutual combat capabilities. The four days of exercise will witness conduct of various aerial combat drills between the two Air Forces. The aim of the exercise was to achieve inter-operability and to acquaint each other with operational procedures and combat drills in a Counter Terrorism environment under United Nations mandate.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indo Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najaf IV concluded.
The Indo Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najaf IV concluded at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges today. A solemn Closing Ceremony marked the culmination of the exercise. This platoon level 13 days exercise had commenced on 01 August 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

Bengaluru-based start-up innovates communication through Quantum Key Distribution Systems.

QNu Labs, a Bengaluru-based Deep Tech Start-up, has broken distance barriers by innovating advanced secured communication through Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems. The project was curated by iDEX-DIO with Indian Army. After the successful trials, now the Indian Army has initiated the process of procurement of QKD systems developed by QNu Labs by issuing commercial Request For Proposal (RFP) and its deployment.

Quantum technology has a huge potential for military application and a disruptive impact on modern-day warfare. A QKD system allows creation of a quantum secure secret pair of symmetric keys between two end points, separated by certain distance (in this case, over 150 Kms) in terrestrial optical fiber infrastructure.
For more information: Click here to read…

India gifts Dornier aircraft to strengthen maritime security of Sri Lanka.

India gifted a Dornier Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft on 15 August 2022 towards strengthening the maritime security of Sri Lanka at a special event held in Sri Lanka Air Force Base, Katunayake. Navy and Air Force personnel of Sri Lanka who received training in India for close to four months shall operate the aircraft. They will also receive operational support from their Indian counterparts.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Nigeria

Around 1,755 Boko Haram terrorists surrendered during the Operation HADIN KAI at various locations.

During a week of the Operation HADIN KAI at various locations in Nigeria, around 1,755 Boko Haram terrorists and their families, comprising of 280 male, 523 females, and 925 Children, surrendered before the Nigerian troops, and handed over to relevant authorities. According to the out-going Defence Media Operations spokesman— Maj Gen Bernard Onyenko, “troops ambushed the hideouts of Boko Haram/Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists along Road Uzoro-Gadamayo in Adamawa State.”

Likewise, airstrikes were carried out on 03 August 2022 as a part of Operation HADIN KAI at Degbawa near Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. During the airstrike, a key ISWAP commander— Alhaji Modu aka Bem Bem and his associates were eliminated. “Within a week of the same operation, Nigerian troops eliminated 29 terrorists, arrested 55 terrorists, and rescued 52 civilians. Also, troops recovered 128 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunitions, 05 bicycles, 12 AK-47 rifles, 04 motorbikes, and 05 mobile phones,” confirmed Maj Gen Onyenko.
For more information: Click here to read…

Niger

Several Boko Haram terrorists were killed in an airstrike in Shiroro LGA.

On 14 August 2022, the Niger’s Federal Government posted on official Twitter handle that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) carried out an airstrike and have eliminated several Boko Haram terrorists, while attending a meeting called by a key commander— Aminu Duniya, in Kurebe in Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA), Niger. The operation was conducted by ground and air force of the Nigerian armed forces.

“While @HQNigerianArmy troops laid siege around the location, @NigAirForce aircraft were directed to the suspected location of the terrorists. Several terrorists were confirmed killed after the strike, though it remains unclear if Aminu Duniya was also neutralized.”— Government of Nigeria (@NigeriaGov).
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Islamic State carried out an attack in Kabul and killed a prominent Taliban cleric.

On 11 August 2022, the Islamic State (IS) carried out an attack and killed a prominent Taliban cleric— Rahimullah Haqqani, at his religious centre in Kabul, Afghanistan. According to the Taliban officials, the attack was carried out with explosives hidden in a plastic artificial leg. There have been several attacks on Taliban leaders and often target religious & ethnic minorities, since the Taliban came into power forcefully in Afghanistan.
For more information: Click here to read…

“Al-Qa’ida has not reconstituted its presence in Afghanistan,” claimed new US intelligence assessment.

According to the recent US intelligence assessment, the consensus view of the intelligence community is that “while fewer than a dozen al-Qa’ida core members remain in Afghanistan, Zawahiri was the only key figure who had tried to re-establish himself in the country after US forces departed.” According to the assessment, any surviving al-Qa’ida militants are not conspiring on an external attack, and the organisation as a whole “does not have capabilities to launch strikes against the United States (US) or its interests abroad from Afghanistan.”

“US will continue to remain vigilant, along with our partners, to defend our nation and ensure that Afghanistan never again becomes a safe haven for terrorism,” said US National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic State claimed responsibility for a bomb attack in Kabul.

On 05 August 2022, Islamic State (IS) terror organisation carried out a bomb blast in which at least eight people were killed and 18 wounded, in a Shi’ite residential area in Kabul in Afghanistan. According to a senior Taliban security official, “explosives were placed in a vegetable cart. There is a possibility of rise in death toll because many of the wounded people had critical wounds.”
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA officials searched various locations in Doda and Jammu districts in “JeI-J&K Terror Financing” case.

On 08 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched premises of six suspects in Doda district and one suspect’s house in Jammu district of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), in the case related to Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI)-J&K terror funding case.

The case— RC-03/2021/NIA/DLI related to the financing activities of the JeI-J&K, which even after its declaration as the Unlawful Association in 2019, continues to raise funds in various forms under the shadow of charitable purposes. However, these funds were diverted to terrorist organisations, such as Hizb ul-Mujahideen (HM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and others for carrying out terrorist activities in Kashmir valley and rest of India. During the search, the NIA personnel recovered incriminating material, receipt of funds raised by the JeI-J&K, bank and property related documents, and electronic devices.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces killed a key LeT terrorist in Budgam.
Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)’s terrorist— Lateef Ahmad Rather was involved in killings of several civilians, including Rahul Bhat— a clerk and TV actor— Amreen Bhat in May 2022. On 10 August 2022, security forces killed Lateef Ahmad Rather in exchange of fire in Waterhail area of Budgam district in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).

In 2000, Rather joined terrorism and was involved in random terrorist incidents in the Valley. Since March 2022, Rather was directly involved in six terrorist attacks in the various areas of Kashmir.
For more information: Click here to read…

JKGF carried out a grenade attack in Ramban.
On 02 August 2022, terrorists of Jammu-Kashmir Ghaznavi Force (JKGF), an off-shoot of terror group— Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) carried out a grenade attack on the police post in Gool area of Ramban district in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). However, the attack was thwarted by the Sentry deployed at the post as he noticed suspicious movement around the post and fired some rounds of ammunition at terrorists. Police found a letter in which JKGF claimed the responsibility of the attack.

To evade international scrutiny and carry-on terrorist activities, post-Pulwama attack in 2019, JeM formed the JKGF terror group. The JKGF comprises of operatives from other terrorist groups, including Hizb ul-Mujahideen (HM), al-Badr, Ansar Ghazwat ul-Hind (AGuH), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). “A grenade blast has occurred near the premises of police post which falls in the jurisdiction of police station gool. A letter has also been found claiming it to be done by JKGF. The Special Operations Group (SOG) and Army teams have been mobilised for cordon and search. The case has been registered and investigation in progress,” said Mukesh Singh, ADG Jammu.
For more information: https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/grenade-attack-on-police-post-in-ramban-ghaznavi-force-claims-responsibility-articleshow.html” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

Maoist woman leader surrendered in Andhra Pradesh.

On 06 August 2022, a Maoist woman leader— Podiam Jogamma aka Ritika surrendered before the police in Andhra Pradesh. According to police records, Jogamma was involved in the gun-battle with Chhattisgarh police in 2021 in which 22 police personnel attained Veergati and three Maoists were killed.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA officials arrested 10th accused in “Amravati killing case”.

On 11 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested Shaikh Shakeel, a 28 years-old, for his alleged involvement in the conspiracy of the murder of Umesh Pralhadrao Kolhe in Amravati, Maharashtra. Earlier, nine accused had already been arrested in the same case on 23 June, 24 June, 25 June, 02 July, and 02 August.
Umesh Pralhadrao Kolhe, a chemist by profession, was killed on 21 June 2022 in Amravati (Maharashtra), a week before the murder of Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
For more information: Click here to read…

Police demolished an illegal madrassa linked with al-Qa’ida-affiliate group in Assam.

On 04 August 2022, Assam police demolished an illegal madrassa managed by alleged ‘funding-handler’ of al-Qa’ida affiliate group— Ansar ul-Islam (AuI) at Moriabari in Morigaon district in Assam. On 27 July 2022, Mufti Mustafa, an operative of al-Qa’ida in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and the man behind madrassa, was arrested.

So far, total 28 AQIS operatives have been arrested in Assam, including a Bangladeshi national. Assam has already shutdown about 600 State-run madrassas and turned them into regular schools. However, about 1,000 madrassas are still active and operational. The demolition of Moriabari madrassa was in accordance with the Disaster Management Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA arrested two JMB operatives from Madhya Pradesh in connection with “JMB Bhopal case”.

On 07 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested two Jamaat ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) operatives— i) Hamidullah aka Raju Gaji, and ii) Mohammad Sahadat Hussain aka Abidullah, from the Police Station— Eint Khedi in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

The case— RC-11/2022/NIA/DLI is related to the arrest of six JMB operatives, including three illegal Bangladeshi immigrants from Aishbagh in Bhopal. The arrested operatives were involved in propagating JMB ideology and luring the youth to carryout jihad against India. The arrested duo— Hamidullah and Sahadat were close associates of earlier arrested JMB operatives and were communicating with their associates in India and Bangladesh via encrypted application.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA officials arrested 09th accused in “Udaipur killing case”.

On 10 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested Muslim Khan aka Muslim Raza, for his alleged involvement in killing of Kanhaiya Lal Teli, a tailor by profession, in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Muslim Khan is a 09th accused in the same case.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA officials searched and arrested an IS “fund raiser” from Delhi.

On 06 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out a search operation and arrested an Islamic State (IS) operative— Mohsin Ahmad, from Batla House, New Delhi, for his alleged involvement in collection of funds for IS from sympathisers in India as well as abroad.
The case— RC-26/2022/NIA/DLI was registered suo-moto by NIA on 25 June 2022. Allegedly, Mohsin was transferring the funds to Syria and other places in form of cryptocurrency in order to further the activities of IS.
For more information: Click here to read… `

UP ATS arrested an IS operative from Azamgarh.

The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), on 09 August 2022, foiled a conspiracy to target Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members and arrested an Islamic State (IS) operative— Sabahudeen Azmi from Azamgarh, UP. The ATS team recovered an illegal firearm and raw materials which are useful in preparing a “pipe bomb”. The preliminary investigation revealed that Sabahudeen was in contact with two other IS recruiters— i) Abu Umar, and ii) Abu Bakar al-Shami.
According to the ATS officials, on the basis of anonymity, Sabahudeen was radicalising more people to join IS through social media platforms and also created a Telegram channel ‘Al-Saqr Media’ to brainwash Indian Muslim youth.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet against an al-Qa’ida operative in “al-Qa’ida Lucknow case”.

On 03 August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary chargesheet before the NIA Special Court, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, against an al-Qa’ida operative— Umar Halmandi, based on Afghanistan-Pakistan border was radicalising and recruiting youth for the al-Qa’ida in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). Umar was accused of raising an al-Qa’ida module and a chapter of Ansar Ghazwat ul-Hind (AGuH) in Lucknow to carryout terrorist activities.
For more information: Click here to read…

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

SFJ threatened to replace Tiranga with ‘Khalistan’ flag at Attari border in Amritsar, Punjab.

Against Indian government’s campaign of Har Ghar Tiranga (Tiranga in every house), the proscribed unlawful organisation— Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) issued a statement in which its chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannu said that his organisation will start the Ghar Ghar Khalistan (Khalistan in every house) campaign and had threatened to replace India’s tallest national flag at the International Border of India-Pakistan at Attari, Amritsar, with the so-called Khalistan flag on 15 August 2022.

In one of the videos circulated on social media, a veiled woman, who identified herself as a ‘Kashmiri Mujahid’, vows support for the Khalistan and called for the removal of Tiranga at the Attari border.
For more information: https://newindian.in/sfj-threatens-to-replace-indias-tallest-tiranga-with-khalistan-flag/” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Canada-based drug cartels are trying to revive Khalistan movement in India.

Indian security agencies are suspecting the revival of Khalistan movement in India, which is being handled from Canada and Pakistan by involving the narco-terror network run by India-Canadian gangsters who operate out of Canada. The agencies had been tracking links between the late Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala with the India-Canadian criminal network, which has penetrated and entrenched deeply within the Canadian law enforcement, including its intelligence agencies.

According to Indian intelligence officials, pro-Khalistan sentiments are now wielding influence inside Canadian government offices due to the electoral power that some members of their group have in that country.
For more information: Click here to read…

SFJ announced to hold ‘Canadian phase’ of Khalistan Referendum in September 2022.

The banned unlawful organisation— Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) announced to hold ‘Canadian phase’ of Khalistan Referendum on 18 September 2022 in Toronto, Canada. In Referendum, the Canadian-Sikhs will vote on the question— “Should India governed Punjab be an independent country?”. The SFJ named the voting centre in Toronto after “Shaheed Harjinder Singh Pahra”, a young pro-Khalistan Sikh who went back to India from Canada to participate in violent movement against Indian Army’s counter-insurgency operation at the Golden Temple in Amritsar in 1984.

“The referendum will be held in various phases during which the voting will take place across Canada, including cities of Ottawa, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Surrey,” said the SFJ in a statement.
For more information: Click here to read…

China’s State Council appoints, removes officials: Xinhuanet

August 10, 2022

The State Council, China’s cabinet, announced the appointment and removal of officials on Wednesday. Zhang Xingwang was appointed vice minister of agriculture and rural affairs.
Huang Guo was named deputy commissioner of the National Medical Products Administration, replacing Chen Shifei.Click here to read…

Xi let missiles fall in Japan EEZ during Taiwan drills: Kyodo

August 11, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping decided himself to let ballistic missiles launched by the military during recent large-scale drills near Taiwan fall in Japan’s exclusive economic zone to deter Tokyo’s interference in any cross-strait contingency, according to sources close to the matter.Click here to read…

Panchen Rinpoche performs duties at Tibet branch of Buddhist Association of China: Xinhuanet

August 11, 2022

Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po had performed his daily duties as president of the Tibet branch of the Buddhist Association of China in Lhasa since mid-May. Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po is a member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and vice president of the Buddhist Association of China.Click here to read…

Chinese FM holds talks with Nepalese counterpart: Xinhuanet

August 11, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks on Wednesday with visiting Nepali Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province.Click here to read…

Xi calls on int’l community to build development partnership: Xinhuanet

August 12, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the international community to gather consensus on promoting development, create an enabling environment and foster new driving forces for global development to jointly work for a global development partnership.Click here to read…

South Korea and China clash over US missile shield: Taipei Times

August 12, 2022

China and South Korea yesterday clashed over a US missile defense shield, threatening to undermine efforts by the new government in Seoul to overcome long-standing security differences.Click here to read…

China outranks US in key science publishing: China Daily

August 13, 2022

For the first time, China has overtaken the United States as the world’s leader in both the quantity and quality of scientific papers published from 2018 to 2020, according to an annual report published by an institution affiliated with Japan’s science and technology ministry.Click here to read…

5 officials in SW China’s Xizang removed for not fully implementing epidemic prevention measures: Global Times

August 13, 2022

Five officials in the city of Xigaze in Southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region have been removed from office for not fully implementing epidemic prevention measures, the city authorities announced on Friday. The city has extended city-wide management measures amid this flare-up, with 39 confirmed cases detected so far.Click here to read…

Daily COVID-19 cases across 17 provincial-level regions surpass 2,000: Global Times

August 14, 2022

China grappled with fresh COVID-19 flare-ups with daily cases across 17 provincial-level regions surpassing an unprecedented 2,000 on Sunday, with a high level of virus transmission notably coming from three major tourist destinations – Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region and South China’s Hainan Province.Click here to read…

Silk Road int’l expo pushes for deeper Belt and Road cooperation: Xinhuanet

August 14, 2022

The Sixth Silk Road International Exposition opened Sunday in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, with deeper Belt and Road cooperation high on the agenda. With a theme of strengthening interconnectivity and integration for common progress, shared benefits and win-win results, the expo has attracted participants from over 70 countries and regions, including the Republic of Korea, Thailand, and Singapore. Uzbekistan serves as the guest country of honor.Click here to read…

India called on to honor one-China principle, as Chinese ambassador sees ‘positive impetus’ in ties: Global Times

August 14, 2022

The Chinese Ambassador to India reportedly said Saturday that India-China ties are “seeing a positive impetus” and called on India to stick to the one-China principle after Indian External Affairs Ministry made its first public comment over US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s provocative visit to the island of Taiwan. Click here to read…

Chinese police vow to prioritise crackdown on sex crimes against underage victims: South China Morning Post

August 14, 2022

Chinese police have vowed to prioritise cases involving underage victims as part of an ongoing crackdown on sexual assaults. On Sunday the Ministry of Public Security announced that it had started the second phase of a 100-day campaign that began in June as the authorities tightened their control over society ahead of a major leadership reshuffle later this year.Click here to read…

Chinese police vow to prioritise crackdown on sex crimes against underage victims: South China Morning Post

August 14, 2022

Chinese police have vowed to prioritise cases involving underage victims as part of an ongoing crackdown on sexual assaults. On Sunday the Ministry of Public Security announced that it had started the second phase of a 100-day campaign that began in June as the authorities tightened their control over society ahead of a major leadership reshuffle later this year.Click here to read…

Rivers in multiple provinces dry up due to high temperatures, less rain: Global Times

August 15, 2022

Rivers in multiple provinces and regions across China have dried up due to persistent high temperatures and far below average amounts of rainfall, resulting in drought in many parts of the nation. Data from China’s Water Resources Ministry shows that the water supply of 830,000 people in six provinces and regions has been affected.Click here to read…

COVID-19-stricken Hainan in South China punishes 6 officials for dereliction of duty in fighting epidemic: Global Times

August 15, 2022

South China’s Hainan Province announced to punish six officials late Sunday for inaction and lack of responsibility when handling the recent local COVID-19 outbreak. As the entire province is devoted to the battle against COVID-19, the provincial disciplinary department said some officials were derelict in their duty and failed to take responsibility, a notice released by the disciplinary department reads.Click here to read…

Kissinger warns Biden administration against changing Taiwan status quo: Global Times

August 15, 2022

Henry Kissinger, the veteran US diplomat, sent out a fresh warning to the Biden administration amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Straits, saying he sees today’s world as verging on a dangerous disequilibrium and calling careful actions. Yet the White House continued shifting the blame to China over the consequences of the provocative trip of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan island, ignoring the growing voices of far-sighted politicians and observers in the US who opposed the trip. Chinese experts believe that today’s US government, which lacks political wisdom and strategic insight, is becoming a great uncertainty to the world. Click here to read…

Chinese foreign minister meets Geneva envoys from Asian, African developing countries: Xinhuanet

August 15, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday met via video link with visiting diplomatic envoys of developing countries from Asia and Africa to the UN Office at Geneva.Click here to read…

PLA conducts joint combat-readiness security patrol, combat drills around Taiwan Island: China Military

August 15, 2022

Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), said that the PLA Eastern Theater Command organized joint combat-readiness security patrol and combat training exercise involving troops of multiple services and arms in waters and airspace around Taiwan Island on Monday.Click here to read…

Sichuan cuts industrial power to support residents: China Daily

August 15, 2022

After days of unusually high temperatures, people in different parts of Sichuan province are complaining that they cannot make do without air-conditioners, which triggered a power supply restriction for industry.Click here to read…

More Chinese state-owned companies expected to delist from US stock exchanges as accounting spat continues: South China Morning Post

August 16, 2022

More state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are expected to delist from the US capital markets, deepening an exodus arising from a regulatory impasse between Beijing and Washington.
The voluntary delisting of five SOEs – the oil giants Sinopec, its entity Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical and PetroChina, China Life Insurance and Aluminum Corporation of China – from the New York Stock Exchange could pave the way for further exits, according to analysts.Click here to read…

China sanctions seven Taiwanese ‘independence diehard’ officials: Reuters

August 16, 2022

China imposed sanctions on Tuesday on seven Taiwanese officials and lawmakers it accused of being “independence diehards”, including banning them from entering, in its latest angry reproach of the democratically governed island.Click here to read…

China issues action plan to boost enterprise innovation: Xinhuanet

August 16, 2022

Chinese authorities on Monday released an action plan to stimulate the technology-innovation capacity of enterprises. Jointly issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Finance, the 2022-2023 action plan specifies supportive measures in 10 areas, including establishing a mechanism for enterprises to participate in the country’s sci-tech innovation decision-making on a regular basis.Click here to read…

NATIONAL

Government of India issued a consultation paper on the “Need for a new legal framework governing Telecommunication in India”.

On 28 July 2022, the Ministry of Communications, Department of Telecommunications, Govt. of India, prepared a consultation paper on the requirement for a new legal framework governing the telecom sector in India. Various stakeholders have requested an evolution of the legal framework concerning the changing technology. The consultation paper can be accessed from: Click here to read…

The legal framework for telecommunications in India is governed by the laws enacted before the independence from colonial rule. In recent decades, technology has changed significantly. To keep pace with the dynamics of technology, many nations, including the United States (in 1996), Australia (1979), the United Kingdom (2003), Singapore (1999), South Africa (2000), and Brazil (1997) have advanced the telecommunication legislation.^[1]

Indian Telecom Service Providers are likely to launch 5G mobile services during 2022-2023

In a notification dated 15 June 2022, the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), Ministry of Communication has initiated the process of auction of spectrum in 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3300 MHz, and 26 GHz Bands which includes the spectrum required for the launch of 5G Services in India. It is expected that the Indian Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) will launch 5G mobile services in India during 2022-2023.

To enable design-led production of 5G-related products in India, the DoT has modified the rules for the Production Linked Initiative (PLI) plan for manufacturing telecom and networking products. One of the amendments included a 01 per cent higher incentive for products qualifying the design-led criteria. ^[2]

Indian Air Force launched an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence

Under the aegis of UDAAN (Unit for Digitisation, Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Application Networking), the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for AI. The CoE was inaugurated by Air Marshal Sandeep Singh, Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS), on 10 July 2022 at Air Force Station Rajokri, New Delhi. A Big Data Analytics and AI platform for managing all aspects of Analytics, Machine Learning (ML), Natural Language Processing (NLP), Neural Networks, and Deep Learning algorithms has been commissioned in the IAF’s AI Centre. The newest servers powered by Graphical Processing Unit (GPU) would handle the high-end compute requirements.

“The IAF has taken proactive steps to embed Industry 4.0 and AI-based technologies in its war-fighting processes. The AI CoE with high-end compute and Big Data storage capabilities, coupled with full-spectrum AI Software suites, would substantially enhance operational capabilities of IAF,” said the VCAS while addressing the gathering.^[3]

MeitY released the Draft “National Data Governance Framework” Policy for public consultation

On 27 July 2022, the Minister of State (MoS) for Electronics & Information Technology (E&IT)— Rajeev Chandrasekhar, informed the Lok Sabha (the Lower House of the Indian Parliament) that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released the Draft “National Data Governance Framework” policy on 26 May 2022, for public consultation, and the draft policy is under finalisation. The policy aims to ensure that non-personal data and anonymised data from both government and private sector are safely accessible by Research and Innovation eco-system. It will also provide a framework for data/datasets/metadata rules, standards, guidelines, and protocols for sharing non-personal data sets while ensuring privacy, security, and integrity/trust.^[4]

Government of India may introduce new law regarding IT and Data Protection

On 22 July 2022, the Minister of State (MoS) for Electronics and Information Technology (E&IT)— Rajeev Chandrasekhar, informed the Lok Sabha (the Lower House of the Indian Parliament) that government aims to ensure Open, Safe & Trusted, and Accountable Internet for all users. The Ministry continues to engage in discussions with various stakeholders, including industry, legal experts, and academicians, to achieve the objective of new legislation, amendments to the Rules, etcetera. The existing Information Technology (IT) Act was enacted in 2000, around 22 years ago. Since then, technology and the Internet have evolved at a fast pace.^[5]

CERT-In issued an advisory about multiple vulnerabilities in Apple macOS

On 29 July 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued an advisory highlighting the multiple vulnerabilities that have been reported in Apple macOS, which a remote attacker could further exploit to execute arbitrary code, bypass security restrictions, and cause a denial of service conditions on the targeted system.
The vulnerabilities exist in Apple macOS due to out-of-bounds read in Apple Script, SMB and Kernal; out-of-bounds write in audio, ICU, PS Normaliser, GPU drivers, SMB and WebKit; authorisation issue in AppleMobileFileIntegrity; information disclosure in Calendar and iCloud photo library; logic issue in File System Events, PluginKit, Windows Server and Automation. A remote attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by persuading a victim to visit maliciously crafted web content. The advisory also suggested applying appropriate patches as mentioned in the Apple Security Updates. ^[6]

INTERNATIONAL

Chinese government’s PR entity approached TikTok to open a “Stealth” propaganda account

According to news reported by Bloomberg, the Chinese government’s entity responsible for Public Relations attempted to open a “stealth” TikTok account targeting western audiences with propaganda. In response, TikTok executives pushed-back the attempt for the stealth account. The push-back highlighted the internal tensions ongoing within TikTok, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance Inc., as it has constantly attempted to distance itself from Chinese state propaganda and influence.

“Chinese government entity that’s interested in joining TikTok but would not want to be openly seen as a government account as the main purpose is for promoting content that showcases the best side of China (some sort of propaganda),” said a TikTok employee and colleague of Elizabeth Kanter, TikTok’s Head of government relations in the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, and Israel, via a message in April7 2020.^[7]

Russia fined WhatsApp, Snapchat and others for storing user data outside the nation

On 28 July 2022, Moscow’s Tagansky District Court imposed a fine on Meta Platforms Inc’s— Meta, WhatsApp messenger, Snapchat owner— Snap Inc., and other firms, including Match Group, Hotels.com, and Spotify, for their alleged refusal to store the data of Russian users within the country. Amid the Russia-Ukraine armed conflict, Russia has clashed with big tech firms over content, censorship, data and local representation in escalated disputes.

Following a 04 million rouble fine in August 2021, WhatsApp was penalised 18 million roubles (roughly USD 301,255) by the Tagansky District Court for a repeat offence. The fine imposed on WhatsApp was higher than the 15 million roubles fine imposed in July 2022 for a repeat infraction on Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. The Court also fined “Tinder” owner— Match Group around 02 million roubles, Snap and Hotels.com, owned by Expedia Group Inc., 01 million roubles, and Spotify— a music streaming service, 500,000 roubles. “The five companies had not provided documents ensuring the storage and processing of Russian users’ data was taking place in Russia in time,” said the Communications Regulator— Roskomnadzor.^[8]

China may transform the “Global Internet Conference” into an “International Internet Organisation”, claimed the Chinese State news agency

Since 2014, China’s Cyberspace Administration has been organising a World Internet Conference, where technology companies and government representatives of other nations convene to discuss the Internet and where China propagates its vision of State Internet control. Recently, according to a Chinese State news agency— Xinhua, “Beijing plans to transform the global internet conference into International Internet Organisation.” The organisation’s founding members include institutions, organisations, businesses, and individuals from nearly 20 countries. Some other State news agencies indicated that Afghanistan, Cambodia, North Korea, and Syria are among the member countries. On its successful transformation, Chinese-led International Internet Organisation could threaten global technology standards and the global Internet itself. ^[9]

A network of 11,000 phoney investments sites targeted Europe

Researchers at a cyber security firm— Group-IB, discovered a network of more than 11,000 domains engaged in promoting numerous fake investment schemes to users in Europe. As a modus operandi, the platforms show fabricated evidence of enrichment and falsified celebrity endorsements to create an image of legitimacy and lure many victims. In the phoney process, the user gets tricked into an opportunity for high-return investments and is convinced to deposit a minimum amount of EUR 250 (₹ 20,410) to sign up for the fake services. At the time of reporting, the countries targeted included the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Norway, Sweden, and the Czech Republic.^[10]

Endnotes :

^[1] “Need for a new legal framework governing Telecommunications in India”, Ministry of Communications- Press Information Bureau, 28 July 2022, accessed on 06 August 2022, available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1845920
^[2] “5G Networks”, Ministry of Communications, 27 July 2022, accessed on 06 August 2022, available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1845325
^[3] “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) launched by IAF”, Ministry of Defence, 10 July 2022, accessed on 05 August 2022, available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1840695
^[4] “National Data Governance Framework Policy”, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, 27 July 2022, accessed on 05 August 2022, available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1845318
^[5] “New law relating to information technology and data protection”, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, 22 July 2022, accessed on 05 August 2022, available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1843845
^[6] “CERT-In Vulnerability Note CIVN-2022-0313: Multiple Vulnerabilities in Apple macOS”, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team, 29 July 2022, accessed on 07 August 2022, available from: https://www.cert-in.org.in/
^[7]Olivia Solon, “Chinese government asked TikTok for Stealth propaganda account”, Bloomberg, 29 July 2022, accessed on 06 August 2022, available from: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-29/chinese-government-asked-tiktok-for-stealth-propaganda-account
^[8] “Russia fines WhatsApp, Snap and others for storing user data abroad”, Reuters, 28 July 2022, accessed on 06 August 2022, available from: https://www.reuters.com/technology/russia-fines-snapchat-owner-data-law-violation-ifax-2022-07-28
^[9]Justin Sherman, “China’s New Organisation Could Threaten the Global Internet”, Slate, 29 July 2022, accessed on 06 August 2022, available from: https://slate.com/technology/2022/07/china-world-internet-conference-organization-standards.html
^[10]Bill Toulas, “Huge network of 11,000 fake investment sites targets Europe”, Bleeping Computer, 31 July 2022, accessed on 08 August 2022, available from: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/huge-network-of-11-000-fake-investment-sites-targets-europe/

DEFENCE

• Chief of Army Staff Proceeds on a Three Day Visit to Bangladesh.
• Prime Minister unveils ‘SPRINT’.
• Joint Press Release of the 16th Round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting.
• Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy.
• Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing.
• Development Work by Defence Industries.
• MoD accords high priority to indigenisation of Software Defined Radios for the Armed Forces.
• iDEX-DIO signs 100th contract for defence innovation.
• Defence Acquisition Council, approves arms procurement proposals worth Rs 28,732 crore.
• Second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) inaugurated by RM.
• Delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant’.
• Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
• Royal Army of Oman contingent for joint exercise Al NAJAH-IV arrive in India.
• Vietnam India bilateral army exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022”.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

• “Hizbu’llah has all of Israel in its missile range,” Hizbu’llah leader Nasrallah.

Africa

Ethiopia

• Al-Shabaab terrorists carried out cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region.

Somalia

• US airstrike killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Juba region.

Nigeria

• Five Boko Haram terrorists surrendered in Borno State.

Mali

• Islamist terrorists attacked Mali’s main military base outside Bamako.

Afghanistan

• “Al-Qa’ida and Islamic State are gaining strength in Afghanistan”, claimed the UNSC report.
• US killed al-Qa’ida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in a counter-terrorism operation in Kabul.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• NIA searched multiple locations in Srinagar in “Chanapora Arms Recovery in Srinagar” case.
• SIA unearthed the nexus between JeM and Punjab-based gangsters.

Left-Wing Extremism

• NIA arrested a Maoist associate in connection with “Terror Financing by CPI (Maoist) in Bihar” case.
• Police killed a Maoist in an anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh.
• NIA searched multiple locations in Jharkhand in connection with “killing of police personnel and looting of arms and ammunition by CPI (Maoists)” case.
• “Maoist-affected Districts reduced to 46 in 2021”, informed MoS for Home Affairs.
• NIA arrested a Maoist associate in revival of Magadh zone of CPI (Maoist) case.

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA searched multiple locations in six States in connection with “ISIS module” case.

NIA arrested 08th accused in “Udaipur killing” case.

NIA searched multiple locations in connection with “PFI Phulwari Sharif” case in Bihar.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• India raised concerns at the growth of pro-Khalistan movement in Canada.

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases

• NIA Special Court (Bihar) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker in “FICN case of East Champaran, Bihar”.

Narcotics-Trafficking

• NIA searched multiple locations in Tamil Nadu in the case of “Narcotics and Arms trafficking to India and Sri Lanka”.

DEFENCE

DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.

Maiden flight of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator was carried out successfully by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Operating in a fully autonomous mode, the aircraft exhibited a perfect flight, including take-off, way point navigation and a smooth touchdown. It is powered by a small turbofan engine, the airframe, undercarriage and entire flight control and avionics systems used for the aircraft were developed indigenously. This flight marks a major milestone in terms of proving critical technologies towards the development of future unmanned aircraft.
For more information: Click here to read…

Chief of Army Staff Proceeds on a Three Day Visit to Bangladesh.

Continuing with the excellent bilateral defence ties between India and Bangladesh, General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) proceeded on a visit to the Bangladesh from 18 to 20 July 2022. This is the first foreign visit by General Manoj Pande since assumption as Army Chief.
For more information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister unveils ‘SPRINT.

Prime Minister (PM) Shri Narendra Modi unveiled ‘SPRINT Challenges’, aimed at giving a boost to the usage of indigenous technology in Indian Navy, during Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) seminar ‘Swavlamban’ in New Delhi on July 18, 2022. NIIO, in conjunction with the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), aims to induct at least 75 new indigenous technologies/products into the Indian Navy. This collaborative project is named SPRINT {Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC)}. In the last 4-5 years, PM said the defence imports have come down by about 21 per cent. Today we are moving fast from the biggest defence importer to a big exporter. Last year, Rs 13,000 crore worth of defence export was done with more than 70 percent of which being from the private sector, he pointed out.

In the conference Shri Rajnath Singh informed the Prime Minister that in line with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign, the Indian Navy spent over 64% of its capital budget in domestic procurement in the last financial year and it is expected to increase to 70% in the current financial year.
For more information: Click here to read…

Joint Press Release of the 16th Round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting.

The 16th round India- China Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Indian side on 17th July 2022.

Building on the progress made at the last meeting on 11th March 2022, the two sides continued discussions for the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector in a constructive and forward looking manner. They had a frank and in-depth exchange of views in this regard, in keeping with the guidance provided by the State Leaders to work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. The two sides reaffirmed that the resolution of remaining issues would help in restoration of peace and tranquility along the LAC in the Western Sector and enable progress in bilateral relations. In the interim, the two sides agreed to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest.
Reference: Click here to read…

Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy.

A Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) was conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy on 23 Jul 22 in Andaman Sea. This exercise is part of the ongoing efforts between the two navies towards ensuring safe and secure international shipping and trade in Indian Ocean Region.
For more information: Click here to read…

Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing.

The Government has taken several policy initiatives in the past few years and brought in reforms to encourage indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment in the country, thereby expanding the production of indigenous defence equipment. With these actions of the Government, the expenditure on defence procurement from foreign sources which used to be 46% of the overall expenditure has reduced to 36% in the last four years i.e. 2018-19 to 2021-22.
For more information: Click here to read…

Development Work by Defence Industries.

In continuous pursuit of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ and in sync with the announcement made in the Union Budget 2022-23 that allocated 25% of Defence R&D Budget for industry led R&D, 18 (eighteen) major platforms have been identified and announced by the Ministry of Defence for industry led Design & Development under various routes prescribed in Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020, namely, Make-I, Make-II, Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).
For more information: Click here to read…

MoD accords high priority to indigenisation of Software Defined Radios for the Armed Forces.

Ministry of Defence (MoD) has fast-tracked the indigenisation of Software Defined Radios (SDRs) with country’s premier R&D institutions viz. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to fulfill the increasing demand by the Armed Forces across a broad spectrum of operations. Two key elements of indigenous SDR technology are the standardised operating software environment (OE) and applications (also known as waveforms) with associated waveforms repository and test/certification facility. Standard OE enables waveform portability and interoperability among SDRs of multiple vendors. Towards this, the Ministry of Defence has taken a decision to define and develop reference implementation of India specific operating environment called India Software Communication Architecture (SCA) profile or Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA).
For more information: Click here to read…

iDEX-DIO signs 100th contract for defence innovation.

iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence), signed its 100th contract on 26 July 2022. Till date, iDEX has launched iDEX Prime, seven rounds of DISC (including DISC SPRINT) and five rounds of OC, receiving more than 4,000 applications from individual innovators, MSMEs and start-ups. More than Rs 250 crore worth of projects have been allocated and procurement of 14 items worth over Rs 400 crore have been cleared. In the last four years, 17 start-ups in 14 projects have already been accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for trial and procurement in March 2022. Projects from balance of DISC 1 & 2 and some from DISC 3 are nearing completion and may be accorded AoN by DAC by end of current Financial Year.
For more information: Click here to read…

Defence Acquisition Council, approves arms procurement proposals worth Rs 28,732 crore.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, was held on July 26, 2022. Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for Capital Acquisition Proposals of the Armed Forces amounting to Rs 28,732 crore were accorded by the DAC in this meeting under Buy (Indian IDDM) and Buy (Indian) categories giving a further boost to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in Defence.

Among the proposals approved by DAC in the meeting are three proposals of the Indian Army, viz. Guided Extended Range Rocket Ammunition, Area Denial Munition Type I and Infantry Combat Vehicle – Command have been designed and developed by DRDO. The total value of these three proposals is Rs 8,599 crore. DAC aslo accorded AoN for Bullet Proof Jackets with Indian Standard BIS VI level of protection. To combat the current complex paradigm of conventional and hybrid warfare and counter terrorism at the borders, AoN for induction of approx. four lakh of Close Quarter Battle Carbines for the Services has also been accorded by the DAC.

AoN were also accorded for procurement of Autonomous Surveillance and Armed Drone Swarms has been accorded by the DAC under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The DAC also approved Navy’s proposal to procure upgraded 1250KW capacity Marine Gas Turbine Generator for power generation application onboard Kolkata class of ships through Indian Industry. This will give a major boost to indigenous manufacturing of gas turbine generators. In order to enhance the security in the coastal region of the country, the DAC also approved the proposal of procurement of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for Indian Coast Guard under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) with 60% IC.
For more information: Click here to read…

Second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) inaugurated by RM.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has called for innovations in the field of ammunition for the creation of a strong and self-reliant base that keeps the Armed Forces fully prepared to deal with future challenges. He was addressing the inaugural session of the second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) on the theme ‘Make in India Opportunities and Challenges’ in New Delhi on July 27, 2022. The Raksha Mantri described advanced ammunition as the reality of the new age warfare, which is a must for India, given its regional & global imperatives and security challenges.
For more information: Click here to read…

Delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant.

Indian Navy took delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant on 28 July 2022, from her builder Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi. Designed by Indian Navy’s inhouse Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built by CSL, a Public Sector Shipyard under Ministry of Shipping (MoS), the carrier is christened after her illustrious predecessor, India’s first Aircraft Carrier. The 262 mtr long carrier has a full displacement of close to 45,000 tonnes which is much larger and advanced than her predecessor. The ship is powered by four Gas Turbines totaling 88 MW power and has a maximum speed of 28 Knots. Built at an overall cost of close to Rs. 20,000 Crs. The ship’s keel was laid in Feb 2009, followed by launching in Aug 2013, with an overall indigenous content of 76%.

The ship would be capable of operating air wing consisting of 30 aircraft comprising of MIG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, in addition to indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) (Navy). Using a novel aircraft-operation mode known as STOBAR (Short Take- Off but Arrested Landing).
For more information: Click here to read…

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has proceeded on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan from 29 July. This visit will further enhance the unique and time-tested bilateral relationship, characterised by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding.
For more information: Click here to read…

Royal Army of Oman contingent for joint exercise Al NAJAH-IV arrive in India.

The 4th Edition of India Oman Joint Military Exercise ‘AL NAJAH-IV’ between contingents of Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman is scheduled to take place at the Foreign Training Node of Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (Rajasthan) from 01 to 13 August 2022. The Royal Army of Oman contingent comprising 60 personnel from the Sultan of Oman Parachute Regiment have arrived at the exercise location. The Indian Army is represented by troops from the 18 MECHANISED INFANTRY Battalion. The previous edition of Ex AL NAJAH IV was organised at Muscat from 12 to 25 March 2019.
For more information: Click here to read…

Vietnam India bilateral army exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022”.

The 3rd Edition of Vietnam India Bilateral Army Exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022” is scheduled to be conducted at Chandimandir from 01 to 20 Aug 2022. The exercise is a sequel to previously conducted bilateral exercise in Vietnam in 2019 and a major milestone in strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Vietnam. India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. The theme of Ex VINBAX – 2022 is employment and deployment of an Engineer Company and a Medical Team as part of United Nations Contingent for Peace Keeping Operations.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

“Hizbu’llah has all of Israel in its missile range,” Hizbu’llah leader Nasrallah.

In an interview on 25 July 2022, Lebanese Hizbu’llah leader Hassan Nasrallah said that “all of Israel is within the range of Hizbu’llah’s missiles. Boasting about drones, Nasrallah said that the recent drone operation, targeting Israel’s Karish gas field, was carried out by the group. Though Israel shot down the drone, but Nasrallah informed Al-Mayadeen media that over the period in the past, Hizbu’llah used drones over Israel many times.

Nasrallah suggested that Hizbu’llah could gain from the trip of the US President Biden to the region by bringing Iranian oil and gas to Lebanon, and that Hizbu’llah can exploit Lebanon’s crisis and the US’ desire for stability in the region.
For more information: Click here to read…

Africa

Ethiopia

Al-Shabaab terrorists carried out cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region.

On 21 July 2022, al-Shabaab terrorists from Somalia launched a cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region. This is the first time that al-Shabaab carried out a terrorist attack in Ethiopia. According to Somali military and Ethiopia’s paramilitary Liyu police, several al-Shabaab terrorists crossed into the Afdher zone and took control of several of their positions. However, with heavy police casualties, all positions were recaptured. According to Somali military officials posted in Bakool— the region that borders Ethiopia, around 87 al-Shabaab terrorists were killed in the gun-battle.
For more information: Click here to read…

Somalia

US airstrike killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Juba region.

On 17 July 2022, the United States (US) Africa Command, in coordination with the government of Somalia, carried out airstrike and killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in a remote location near Libikus in Lower Juba region, Somalia. The strike was carried out after al-Shabaab attacked partner forces in the region. According to the statement released, “violent extremist organisations like al-Shabaab present long-term threats to Somali, regional and US interests.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Nigeria

Five Boko Haram terrorists surrendered in Borno State.

On 22 July 2022, five Boko Haram terrorists, including Mallam Isa, a commander, surrendered before the 73 Battalion of the Nigerian Army during “Operation Hadin Kai” in Borno State. “Preliminary investigation discovered that terrorists were said to have come out from Gazuwa, a new HQ of Boko Haram, located about 08 kilometres to Bama Local Government area,” said Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert. According to the Theatre Commander of North-East Joint Task Force of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’— Christopher Musa, “more than 67,000 terrorists have surrendered to troops so far.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Mali

Islamist terrorists attacked Mali’s main military base outside Bamako.

On 22 July 2022, Islamist terrorists of al-Qa’ida and Islamic State affiliated groups attacked Mali’s main military base in Kati, outside the Capital Bamako, however, the armed forces had repelled the attack and brought situation under control. In a statement released by military, “the attack involved two car bombs and was carried out by a local al-Qa’ida affiliated group— Katiba Macina.” Katiba Macina is more active terror group in Central Mali.

In attack, a soldier was martyred and six people were wounded, while seven terrorists were killed and eight got arrested, read the statement. The military blamed Katiba Macina for several attacks on 21 July 2022 against military bases in Central Mali in which a soldier was martyred and 15 others were wounded.
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan

“Al-Qa’ida and Islamic State are gaining strength in Afghanistan”, claimed the UNSC report.

The 30th report of the United Nations Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team revealed the activities of al-Qa’ida (AQ), Islamic State (IS), and other terrorist groups in Afghanistan, and concluded that al-Qa’ida and IS related threats are high in the conflict zones and the neighbouring countries though both terror groups are likely to attempt an attack in non-conflicted areas.

An Afghan national— Sanaullah Ghafari aka Shahab al-Muhajir, has been leading the Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP/IS-K) since June 2000. However, the IS core has established a separate structure called Al-Siddiq office under Sheikh Tamim al-Kurdi aka Abu Ahmed al-Madani for group’s regional agenda. The report also pointed about the IS-KP’s increased presence in northern and eastern Afghanistan. The group has terrorists from the Central Asia, who have increased activities in the north, bordering Central Asian states of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
For more information: Click here to read…

US killed al-Qa’ida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in a counter-terrorism operation in Kabul.

On 01 August 2022, United States (US) President— Joe Biden, announced that in a counter-terrorism operation carried out on 30 July 2022 in Kabul, Afghanistan, the US government killed the al-Qa’ida leader— Ayman al-Zawahiri. “Al-Zawahiri coordinated al-Qa’ida’s branches all around the world since Bin Laden’s death in 2011, including setting priorities for providing operational guidance that call for and inspire attacks against US targets,” explained the US President during the announcement.

“The United States continues to demonstrate our resolve and our capacity to defend the American people against those who seek to do us harm,” Biden continued. “We make it clear again tonight that, no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out,” added the US President.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA searched multiple locations in Srinagar in “Chanapora Arms Recovery in Srinagar” case.

On 20 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched nine locations in Kashmir, including four in Srinagar district and five in Pulwama district, in the case— RC-04/2022/NIA/JMU related to the conspiracy of conducting terror attacks in and around Srinagar, in which four operatives were arrested and 15 pistols, 30 magazines, 300 rounds, and one Mahindra-built Scorpio vehicle were seized.

The case was re-registered by the NIA on 18 June 2022. The NIA officials seized digital devices and other incriminating materials.
For more information: Click here to read…

SIA unearthed the nexus between JeM and Punjab-based gangsters.

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) unearthed the nexus between Pakistan-based terrorist group— Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Punjab-based gangsters, as the SIA filed a chargesheet against five operatives in a terror-funding related case registered in 2021.

The case was related to the recovery of ₹ 43 lakh by Jammu police at the Sidhra bridge, from Kashmir-bound vehicle, on 16 November 2021. The SIA filed a chargesheet before the Special NIA court in Jammu on 26 July 2022, against five operatives, including JeM commander— Ashiq Nengroo (presently operating from Pakistan), Muzammil Ahmad Malik (JeM operative) from Pulwama, and other three Punjab-based gangsters— i) Ravi Kumar, ii) Jaideep Dhawan, and iii) Amarbir Singh (all residents of Punjab), under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], the Arms Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
For more information: Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

NIA arrested a Maoist associate in connection with “Terror Financing by CPI (Maoist) in Bihar” case.

On 28 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested— Rajesh Gupta, a Maoist associate, in connection to a conspiracy by CPI (Maoist) cadres and others for attempting to revive the banned organisation’s module in the Son-Ganga Bindh region of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh (UP).

The case— RC-19/2022/NIA/DLI was re-registered on 26 April 2022 and NIA taken over the investigation. Earlier, NIA had arrested 03 associates in this case on 12 April 2022 and 25 May 2022. Rajesh Gupta is a close associate of earlier arrested Vijay Kumar Arya— a Central Committee Member (CCM) and was actively involved in reviving the module in Son-Ganga Bindh region.
For more information: Click here to read…

Police killed a Maoist in an anti-naxal operation in Chhattisgarh.

On 26 July 2022, Chhattisgarh police eliminated a Maoist— Budh Ram Madkam aka Mahangu Deva, a member of Katekalyan Area Committee of CPI (Maoist), in forest near Jabrameta village of Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA searched multiple locations in Jharkhand in connection with “killing of police personnel and looting of arms and ammunition by CPI (Maoists)” case.

On 27 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 03 locations of suspects in connection with suspects’ involvement in an attack on police party on 14 June 2019 at Kukru Haat in Saraikela-Kherswan district in Jharkhand. In the attack, five police personnel attained Veergati, and their arms and ammunitions were looted by perpetrators.

The case— RC-39/2020/NIA/DLI was re-registered by the NIA on 09 December 2020. The NIA officials recovered digital devices, illicit weapons and ammunitions, and various incriminating materials.
For more information: Click here to read…

“Maoist-affected Districts reduced to 46 in 2021”, informed MoS for Home Affairs.

The Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs— Nityanand Rai, on 26 July 2022, informed the Lok Sabha (the Lower House of the Indian Parliament) that number of Maoist-affected districts has reduced from 70 in the year 2014 to 46 in 2021. Along with, the incidents inspired from Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) have recorded significant reduction from 1,091 in 2014 to 509 incidents in 2021.

The Minister also informed the Lok Sabha about Central government-led schemes for Maoist-affected areas, including Security Related Expenditure Scheme (SRES), Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS), Road Requirement Plan-1, mobile connectivity projects in Maoist affected districts.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA arrested a Maoist associate in revival of Magadh zone of CPI (Maoist) case.

On 25 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested— Tarun Kumar, in connection with a case— RC-05/2021/NIA/RNC, where CPI (Maoist) cadre prominent— Pradyuman Sharma and others, were conspiring to revive a module of banned organisation in Magadh zone. Tarun Kumar, along with other accused conspired to raise funds for procurement of arms and ammunition and training the fellow cadres in fabrication of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).

The group was also planning to create nexus with incarcerated naxals and Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) in various jails for commission of violent crimes.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA searched multiple locations in six States in connection with “ISIS module” case.

On 31 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) searched 13 premises of Islamic State (IS) suspects in six Indian States— i) Gujarat, ii) Bihar, iii) Karnataka, iv) Maharashtra, v) Uttar Pradesh, and vi) Madhya Pradesh, in a case related to Islamic State (ISIS) module and its activities.

On 25 June 2022, the case— RC-26/2022/NIA/DLI was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA arrested 08th accused in “Udaipur killing” case.

On 21 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested the 08th accused— Mohammed Javed (age 19 years), in the case— RC-27/2022/NIA/DLI pertaining to the killing of Shri Kanhaiya Lal Teli in Udaipur, Rajasthan, by two Islamic extremists armed with sharp weapons at his tailor shop on 28 June 2022.

The NIA re-registered the case on 29 June 2022 and taken over the investigation. Earlier, 07 accused were arrested in the case on 29 June, 01 July, 04 July, and 09 July 2022. Mohammed Javed had played an important role in the killing by conducting recce and conveying the information about the victim to one of the main perpetrators— Riyaz, prior to the brutal murder.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA searched multiple locations in connection with “PFI Phulwari Sharif” case in Bihar.

On 28 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out searches at 10 locations of the PFI operatives in Bihar, for their alleged involvement with the Popular Front of India (PFI) in anti-national activities.

The case— RC-31/2022/NIA/DLI was re-registered by the NIA on 22 July 2022 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The NIA officials seized digital devices and several incriminating materials from the sites.
For more information: Click here to read…

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases

NIA Special Court (Bihar) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker in “FICN case of East Champaran, Bihar”.

On 22 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Bihar, convicted and sentenced— Mohammad Ali Akhtar Ansari for his involvement in the Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) proliferation in India. The case— RC-08/2016/NIA/DLI pertains to the seizure of a parcel containing high quality FICNs worth around ₹ 25 lakhs. Mohammad Akhtar came to Raxaul, to take delivery of the FICNs consignment on 30 September 2015, and was subsequently arrested.

According to the investigation, the seized FICNs had been smuggled from a foreign country into India and supposed to be delivered to another accused— Abi Mohammad of Nepal. Investigation also revealed that a Pakistani national— Syed Muhammad Shaffi, now residing in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), had couriered the parcel from the UAE via ICS (International Courier Service). Mohammad Akhtar Ansari rewarded 20 years of Rigorous Imprisonment (RI) with ₹ 50,000 as fine under Section 16 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], 10 years of RI with ₹ 25,000 as fine under Section 489B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and 07 years of RI under Section 489C of the IPC by the NIA Special Court (Patna), Bihar.
For more information: Click here to read…

Narcotics-Trafficking

NIA searched multiple locations in Tamil Nadu in the case of “Narcotics and Arms trafficking to India and Sri Lanka”.

On 20 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency officials searched 22 premises of suspects at various locations in Tamil Nadu in connection with the case— RC-29/2022/NIA/DLI, pertaining to illicit activities of Sri Lankan drug mafia being operated by C Gunashekharan in association with Haji Salim— drug and arms supplier based in Pakistan.

The drugs and arms traffickers have been operating in India and Sri Lanka, and have been conspiring for the revival of the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) terror group and to further its violent activities. The case was registered suo moto by the NIA on 08 July 2022 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], read with sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
For more information: Click here to read…

China intensifies crackdown on cryptocurrency hype, speculation: Xinhuanet

August 9, 2022

China’s internet watchdog on Tuesday said it had intensified a crackdown on illegal online information that may lead to speculation and fraud involving cryptocurrency. The move since earlier this year was aimed at protecting people’s property, according to the Cyberspace Administration of China. Click here to read…

Chongqing grants first unmanned driving permits: China Daily

August 9, 2022

Chongqing’s Yongchuan district granted China’s first unmanned autonomous driving permits to five Baidu taxis on Wednesday, allowing for no human driver or safety operator to be in the vehicle on public roads for the first time. The five autonomous driving taxis, also known as robotaxis, are operated by Baidu’s autonomous driving arm Apollo Run. Click here to read…

Media role to boost BRI cooperation highlighted at Xi’an forum against hegemonic voices: Global Times

August 9, 2022

As the world is facing mounting uncertainty and instability, 120 media representatives from more than 40 countries and international organizations attended the semi-virtual 2022 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road on Tuesday in Xi’an, Northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, to discuss media’s role in enhancing cooperation and development through the vehicle of China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to battle hegemony and confrontational mind-setClick here to read…

India’s reported plan to ban certain Chinese smartphones ‘politically charged’: Global Times

August 9, 2022

China’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday urged the Indian government to provide a fair and nondiscriminatory environment for Chinese firms, after reports of India mulling a ban on Chinese smartphone makers’ sale of cheaper devices in India, a move Chinese experts say is politically charged and against market rulesClick here to read…

Websites close 12,000 accounts encouraging illicit virtual currency trading amid crackdown: Global Times

August 09, 2022

Social media platforms such as Weibo and Baidu have closed some 12,000 accounts encouraging users to invest in illegal virtual currency trading this year under the guidance of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), the regulator said on its WeChat account on Tuesday. Click here to read…

China watchdog investigates three more execs linked to chip-focused Big Fund: Reuters

August 9, 2022

China’s corruption watchdog said on Tuesday regulators were investigating three former and current executives linked to a firm that manages the country’s largest state-backed chip investment fund, widening a probe that has rattled the sector. Click here to read…

China orders audit of $3 trillion trust industry: Reuters

August 9, 2022

China’s top auditor is conducting a review of the $3 trillion trust industry, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. China’s trust industry has been a key part of the country’s shadow banking business, which helps channel deposits into risky investments via products often designed to dodge capital or investment regulations. Click here to read…

Biden signs $52.7 bil. bill for chip production to counter China: Kyodo

August 10, 2022

U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed into law a bill that invests $52.7 billion in semiconductor production and development in a bid to secure a technological edge amid intensifying competition with China. The enactment of the law, which includes $39 billion in manufacturing incentives, also comes as the United States is accelerating cooperation with Japan, a key security ally, to build resilient semiconductor supply chains that rely less on potential adversaries. Click here to read…

China releases white paper on Taiwan question, reunification in new era: People’s Daily

August 10, 2022

The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China published a white paper titled “The Taiwan Question and China’s Reunification in the New Era” on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Chinese and Taiwan navy ships stay close to Strait median line: Reuters

August 10, 2022

About 20 Chinese navy and Taiwan navy ships continued to stay close to the median line of the Taiwan Strait as of Wednesday morning, a source briefed on the matter told Reuters. Several Chinese navy ships continued to conduct missions off Taiwan’s eastern coast as of Wednesday morning, the source said. Click here to read…

Full Text: The Taiwan Question and China’s Reunification in the New Era: Global Times

August 10, 2022

The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China published a white paper titled “The Taiwan Question and China’s Reunification in the New Era” on Wednesday. The following is the full text of the white paper: Click here to read…

China, ROK agree to jointly maintain stability of production, supply chain: Xinhuanet

August 10, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday met with Park Jin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK), in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, and the two sides agreed to jointly maintain the stability of production and supply chain. Click here to read…

Tibet’s Lhasa launches city-wide COVID-19 testing: Xinhuanet

August 10, 2022

Lhasa, the capital of southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, launched city-wide nucleic acid testing on Monday night after the city reported 18 positive COVID-19 tests. According to the analysis on the positive tests and the virus gene sequencing results, the current outbreak was caused by the Omicron subvariant BA.2.76. Click here to read…

China strengthens monitoring production, storage of drugs in shortage: Xinhuanet

August 10, 2022

Relevant authorities in China have demanded efforts to enhance the monitoring of production and storage of medicines that are in short supply and medicines that have been selected for centralized procurement. Click here to read…

China has world’s second largest number of nuclear power units: China Daily

August 10, 2022

China has the second largest number of nuclear power units in operation or under construction in the world, Tang Bo, an official with the National Nuclear Safety Administration, said on Tuesday. Click here to read…

China announces eight countermeasures in response to Pelosi’s Taiwan island visit: Global Times

August 05, 2022

China announces eight countermeasures in response to Pelosi’s Taiwan visit:

1. Canceling China-US Theater Commanders Talk.
2. Canceling China-US Defense Policy Coordination Talks (DPCT).
3. Canceling China-US Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA) meetings.
4. Suspending China-US cooperation on the repatriation of illegal immigrants.
5. Suspending China-US cooperation on legal assistance in criminal matters.
6. Suspending China-US cooperation against transnational crimes.
7. Suspending China-US counternarcotics cooperation.
8. Suspending China-US talks on climate change. Click here to read…

China unveils bullet trains built for Indonesia: China Daily

August 5, 2022

Bullet trains tailored for the high-speed railway network linking the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, and the city of Bandung were unveiled on Friday in eastern China, marking an important milestone of the project and preparing for the line’s scheduled opening, China Railway International said. Click here to read…

Chinese FM expounds on China’s position on Taiwan question: Xinhuanet

August 6, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a press conference for Chinese and foreign media here on Friday afternoon after attending the meetings of foreign ministers on East Asia cooperation. Click here to read…

Chinese, Russian FMs meet in Cambodia: Xinhuanet

August 6, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met here on Friday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the latter’s request on the sidelines of meetings of foreign ministers on East Asia cooperation, with both sides agreeing to maintain strategic coordination and deepen practical cooperation. Click here to read…

Chinese FM makes 3-point proposal to strengthen East Asia cooperation: Xinhuanet

August 6, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday made a three-point proposal to enhance East Asia cooperation when attending the 12th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Click here to read…

Chinese banks provide more loans to private businesses: Xinhuanet

August 6, 2022

China has increased lending support for the private sector, according to its top banking and insurance regulator. Outstanding loans to private enterprises by banking financial institutions stood at 58.2 trillion yuan (8.64 trillion U.S. dollars) at the end of June, up 11.4 percent from a year ago, according to the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission. Click here to read…

National education mandatory in HK: China Daily

August 6, 2022

Hong Kong college students are expected to have a better understanding of national development as completing national education courses has become a requirement for graduation. Click here to read…

Halt of China-US military talks shows nation’s resolve to safeguard core interest: China Daily

August 7, 2022

China’s unprecedentedly strong countermeasure of canceling Sino-US military talks has demonstrated the nation’s resolve to safeguard its core interest, which was seriously violated by United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, observers said. Click here to read…

China’s first domestic oral anti-COVID-19 drug is priced at less than 300 yuan per bottle/35 tablets: Global Times

August 7, 2022

China’s first domestically developed oral drug for COVID-19 treatment has set its initial price at less than 300 yuan ($44.4) per bottle, as observers said the drug will help ensure more Chinese families access to COVID-19 treatment. Click here to read…

PLA bomber formations cross Taiwan Straits from two directions in latest drills: Global Times

August 7, 2022

The last day of scheduled military exercises around Taiwan island by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Sunday featured island saturation attack drills and bomber deterrence flights in the Straits, a move experts said formed a powerful deterrence to “Taiwan independence” secessionists and external interference forces, greatly promoted the reunification process, and rehearsed a potential real operation. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka asks China to defer arrival of ship after India objects: Reuters

August 7, 2022

Sri Lanka has asked China to defer the planned visit of a Chinese survey ship to the island country after an objection from India, a government source told Reuters on Sunday. The Chinese research and survey vessel, Yuan Wang 5, was still on its way to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port. It is scheduled to arrive there on Aug. 11, according to shipping data from Refinitiv. Click here to read…

China names new senior security chief for Hong Kong: Reuters

August 8, 2022

The Chinese government named Sonny Au as the secretary-general of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Committee for safeguarding the national security of the city, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Monday. Au replaces Eric Chan, Xinhua reported. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 324 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

August 8, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Sunday reported 324 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, of which 259 were in Hainan Province, the National Health Commission said Monday. Altogether 483 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified on the day, said the commission in its report. Click here to read…

China probes into accusations of coal price gouging: Xinhuanet

August 8, 2022

China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has conducted investigations on activities of bidding up coal prices, the administration said Friday.Three investigation teams have been sent to provincial-level regions of Shanxi, Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi, the country’s major coal-producing regions, to advance regulations on coal price gouging. Click here to read…

PLA Eastern Theater Command continues joint exercises to test precision strike capabilities: China Military

August 8, 2022

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) continued its joint combat training exercises as scheduled on Sunday in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island. Click here to read…

Spokesperson says protests in Taiwan against Pelosi’s visit righteous acts: Xinhuanet

August 3, 2022

A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday expressed sincere appreciation of the protests staged by multiple political parties, groups and individuals in China’s Taiwan region against U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the island. Click here to read…

China’s State Council appoints, removes officials: Xinhuanet

August 3, 2022

The State Council, China’s cabinet, announced the appointment and removal of several officials on Wednesday. Zhang Chunsheng was appointed vice minister of civil affairs, while Li Wentang was appointed provost of the National Academy of Governance (vice-minister level). Gao Zhidan replaced Gou Zhongwen as director of China’s General Administration of Sport. Zhang Zuqiang replaced Yu Yong as deputy director of the China Meteorological Administration. Click here to read…

Chinese FM makes remarks on U.S. violation of China’s sovereignty: Xinhuanet

August 3, 2022

In disregard of China’s solemn representations, U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi brazenly went ahead with her visit to China’s Taiwan region, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. This move seriously violates the one-China principle, maliciously infringes on China’s sovereignty and blatantly engages in political provocations, which has aroused strong indignation among the Chinese people and widespread opposition from the international community. Click here to read…

China strives to maintain momentum of economic growth, aiming for best possible results: Qiushi

August 3, 2022

After China managed to secure positive economic growth in the second quarter amid challenges from home and abroad, the country is striving to consolidate the growth momentum and aims for the best possible results in the second half of the year. Click here to read…

PLA continues exercises around Taiwan: China Daily

August 3, 2022

The People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command has continued to carry out combat exercises around Taiwan on Wednesday, mobilizing some of the PLA’s top hardware like the J-20 stealth fighter jet and the DF-17 medium-range hypersonic ballistic missile. Click here to read…

China punishes diehard ‘Taiwan secessionists,’ foundations and companies in accordance with law: Global Times

August 03, 2022

Chinese authorities announced Wednesday that a number of diehard “Taiwan secessionist” individuals, two funds, and multiple companies related to secessionist activities will be punished in accordance with the law, after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi landed in Taiwan island Tuesday night in disregard of stern warnings from China, a visit that has sent a wrong message to “Taiwan independence” forces and has escalated the tension across the Taiwan Straits. Click here to read…

Feasibility study of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project kicks off: Global Times

August 03, 2022

At Kyrgyzstan’s invitation, Chinese experts arrived in the Central Asian country on Tuesday and started survey work for the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, marking the start of the project’s feasibility study, China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said on its official WeChat account. Click here to read…

Philippines finds debris from controversial Chinese rocket: Kyodo

August 3, 2022

The Philippine Coast Guard said Wednesday it has retrieved debris from a Chinese rocket launched last month, over which the United States has criticized Beijing for not sharing its trajectory information. Click here to read…

Chinese netizens erupt in anger over Pelosi’s Taiwan visit, shows 1.4b people’s willpower, confidence in reunification: Global Times

August 03, 2022

Chinese social media has been engulfed with heated discussion and anger after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island of Taiwan on late Tuesday despite repeated strong warnings from China. Experts said the huge attention and synchronous sentiment demonstrates the willpower and confidence of the nation’s 1.4 billion people in national reunification. Click here to read…

Spokesperson of Chinese Embassy in India Counsellor Wang Xiaojian issued a solemn statement on Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi’s visit to China’s Taiwan region: Global Times

August 4, 2022

On 2 August, in disregard of China’s strong opposition and serious representations, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited China’s Taiwan region. This is a serious violation of the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-U.S. joint communiqués. It has a severe impact on the political foundation of China-U.S. relations, and seriously infringes upon China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It gravely undermines peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and sends a seriously wrong signal to the separatist forces for “Taiwan independence”. China firmly condemns this. Click here to read…

Chinese Ambassador to India H.E. Sun Weidong Gave an Exclusive Interview to the Times of India on US House Speaker Pelosi’s Visit to China’s Taiwan Region: Global Times

August 4, 2022

On August 3, 2022, Chinese Ambassador to India H.E. Sun Weidong gave an exclusive interview to Sachin Parashar from The Times of India on US House Speaker Pelosi’s visit to China’s Taiwan region. The main content of the interview is as follows: Click here to read…

Highlights of Xi’s speech at the Central Conference on United Front Work: People’s Daily

August 4, 2022

The Central Conference on United Front Work was held from July 29 to 30 in Beijing. President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended and delivered an important speech. Here are some highlights. Click here to read…

Southern Chinese tourism city Sanya imposes lockdown measures, restricts businesses: Reuters

August 4, 2022

The southern Chinese city of Sanya, a tourism hotspot, imposed lockdown measures from Thursday in most parts of the city, ordering residents to reduce their trips outside to shop for daily necessities to once every two days and confining some strictly to their homes. Click here to read…

Military touts readiness as Beijing issues threats: Taipei Times

August 4, 2022

The military is ready to counter “any actions that threaten national sovereignty,” Ministry of National Defense spokesman Major General Sun Li-fang said yesterday in response to China’s announcement of military drills near Taiwan. Click here to read…

PLA Eastern Theater Command conducts joint exercises around Taiwan Island: Xinhuanet

August 4, 2022

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Wednesday organized joint combat training exercises in the northern, southwestern and southeastern waters and airspace off the Taiwan Island. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 53 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

August 4, 2022

The Chinese mainland Wednesday reported 53 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 24 in Hainan and 10 in Inner Mongolia, according to the National Health Commission’s report Thursday. A total of 241 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified. Click here to read…

China’s minister of industry, information technology under probe: Xinhuanet

July 28, 2022

Xiao Yaqing, China’s minister of industry and information technology, has been put under investigation for suspected violations of Party discipline and laws, an official statement said Thursday. Xiao is being investigated by the Communist Party of China Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission, according to the statementClick here to read…

Z-10 attack helicopter enters service with PLA Hong Kong Garrison: Global Times

July 28, 2022

Official reports show that Z-10 attack helicopters for the first time participated in a recent patrol exercise organized by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison, indicating that the garrison has commissioned this type of helicopter to provide escort and air support to other helicopters, vessels and ground troops in joint operations, experts said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Online food delivery giants Meituan, Ele.me summoned for price dumping vicious competition: Global Times

July 28, 2022

Hangzhou market regulator summoned online food delivery platforms Meituan and Ele.me for talks on issues including price dumping competition and food safety on July 21, the regulator said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Xi speaks with Biden over phone: Xinhuanet

July 29, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with U.S. President Joe Biden on the phone at the request of the latter on Thursday evening. The two presidents had a candid communication and exchange on China-U.S. relations and issues of mutual interest. Click here to read…

China-India corps commander level meeting reaches four-point consensus: Xinhuanet

July 29, 2022

A four-point consensus on the resolution of border issues between China and India was reached at the 16th round of the China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting, a military spokesperson said Thursday. The two sides continued discussions for the resolution of relevant issues along the Line of Actual Control of the China-India border, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, at a press conference. Click here to read…

Xi warns against misperceiving China-U.S. ties, misreading China’s development: Xinhuanet

July 29, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that to approach and define China-U.S. relations in terms of strategic competition and view China as the primary rival and the most serious long-term challenge would be misperceiving China-U.S. relations and misreading China’s development, and would mislead the people of the two countries and the international community. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 60 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

July 29, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Thursday reported 60 locally transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 21 in Gansu Province, the National Health Commission said Friday. Altogether 390 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified in 12 provincial-level regions. Click here to read…

Chinese leadership analyzes economic situation, reviews disciplinary inspection report: Qiushi

July 29, 2022

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Thursday presided over a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee to analyze the current economic situation and arrange economic work for the second half of the year. Click here to read…

China’s ex-minister of justice pleads guilty in 1st trial for suspected bribery, law violations for personal gains: Global Times

July 29, 2022

Fu Zhenghua, a member of the 19th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and former deputy director of the social and legal affairs committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), pleaded guilty in the first trial on Thursday at the Intermediate People’s Court of Changchun in Northeast China’s Jilin Province, over suspected bribery and law violations for personal gains, the High People’s Court of Jilin Province announced that day. Click here to read…

Nuclear power ship wins China Patent Award: Global Times

July 29, 2022

A nuclear power ship invented by five Chinese R&D engineering companies won the China Patent Award, media reported on Thursday. According to China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), the “nuclear power ship,” patent from five Chinese ocean engineering companies, was selected to be awarded the China Patent Excellence Award, China Ship News reported. Click here to read…

Industry leaders urge more R&D to boost agricultural seed security: Global Times

July 29, 2022

Chinese agricultural scientists and industry leaders at a major forum on seeds in South China’s Hainan Province on Thursday called for more efforts to boost research and development (R&D) in crop seeds to ensure food security. Click here to read…

Xi says Marxism shows new vitality in 21st century: Qiushi

July 29, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that Marxism has been showing new vitality in the 21st century, calling on all Marxist political parties to make the theory more relevant to the national conditions and the times. Click here to read…

Xi stresses persistent efforts to reach PLA centenary goals: Qiushi

July 29, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed persistent efforts to strive ahead with diligence to realize the goals set for the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Click here to read…

China’s ‘common prosperity’ drive slashes pay and perks for investment bankers: Reuters

July 29, 2022

China’s well-heeled financial dealmakers are getting a crash course in austerity with pay cuts and perks reined in, as their state-owned employers respond to Beijing’s “common prosperity” drive, eight people with knowledge of the matter said. Click here to read…

U.S. Congress passes long-awaited bill to boost chipmakers, compete with China: Reuters

July 29, 2022

The U.S. House of Representatives passed sweeping legislation on Thursday to subsidize the domestic semiconductor industry as it competes with Chinese and other foreign manufacturers, a victory for President Joe Biden and his fellow Democrats hoping to keep their slim majority in Congress in November midterm elections. Click here to read…

China to maintain “zero-COVID” policy in 2nd half of 2022: Kyodo

July 29, 2022

China decided Thursday to maintain its strict “zero-COVID” policy for the second half of 2022 as leaders pledged efforts to achieve the best possible results for the world’s second-largest economy, state-run media reported. The decision on the radical policy to stem the novel coronavirus outbreak was made at a meeting of the Political Bureau of the ruling Communist Party’s Central Committee chaired by President Xi Jinping, who is the party’s general secretary. Click here to read…

US lawmaker confirms Pelosi’s trip: Taipei Times

July 29, 2022

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi invited other top lawmakers to join her on a visit to Taiwan, a US representative told NBC News on Wednesday, in the first on-the-record confirmation of the speaker’s planned visit. US Representative Michael McCaul said in an interview with the US news outlet that he and fellow Representative Gregory Meeks had been invited to join Pelosi on a visit to Taiwan next month. Click here to read…

A year after China’s private tutoring crackdown, classes have moved underground as companies struggle to pivot: South China Morning Post

July 29, 2022

China’s severe crackdown on private tutoring one year ago this month, which came on suddenly with an unexpected policy change, has forced many businesses to shut down and driven private classes underground, according to industry insiders and parents.Last summer, Alice Wang booked four classes for her 10-year-old daughter in mathematics, Chinese literature, cello and ballet. This year, she has only kept the last two because of the policy shift that largely outlawed off-campus tutoring of school curricula.
Despite the cutback in classes, demand for additional training remains strong from parents who worry about their kids falling behind. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka asks China for help with trade, investment and tourism: Reuters

July 25, 2022

Sri Lanka has asked China to help with trade, investment and tourism to help it grow sustainably, Colombo’s envoy to Beijing said on Monday as it negotiates for an emergency $4 billion package to help it emerge from an economic meltdown. Click here to read…

Chinese FM stresses peace, stability in South China Sea for regional development: Xinhuanet

July 25, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Monday that peace and stability in the South China Sea are important prerequisites for regional development. Wang made the remarks when addressing the opening ceremony of a seminar commemorating the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) by video. Click here to read…

China’s expressway network links 95 pct of population: Xinhuanet

July 25, 2022

China has made solid progress in building a national road network to improve inter-area transport layout and increase traffic capacity, with its expressways linking about 95 percent of the population, official data showed. Click here to read…

Shaoyang University Party chief removed following overseas doctorate candidates hire controversy: Global Times

July 25, 2022

The Party secretary of Shaoyang University in Central China’s Hunan Province was removed from office and the university was required to make corrections, Hunan provincial education authorities announced on Sunday. The move is in response to the controversy after it was revealed the school spent 18 million yuan ($2.67 million) hiring 23 employees with doctorate degrees from a university in the Philippines, triggering netizens’ query over the legality of the practice and the value of the doctorate degrees. Click here to read…

Sense of security among Chinese people reaches 98.62% in 2021: Ministry of Public Security: Global Times

July 25, 2022

The sense of security among Chinese people increased to 98.62 percent in 2021, the highest level over the past decade and China is widely regarded by the international community as one of the safest countries in the world, the Ministry of Public Security stated on Monday. Click here to read…

Chinese authorities ramp up financial support for culture, tourism industries: Global Times

July 25, 2022

China’s central bank and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Monday jointly released a notice about enhancing financial support for culture and tourism industries, including expanding financing measures and lowering the financing costs for companies, so as to boost the recovery of this COVID-battered sector. Click here to read…

Chinese vice premier attends inaugural meeting of China Mineral Resources Group: Xinhuanet

July 26, 2022

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng attended the inaugural meeting of China Mineral Resources Group Ltd. in Beijing on Monday. Han, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, unveiled the nameplate of the company at the meeting. Click here to read…

Chinese defense minister urges enhanced China-Africa peace, security cooperation: Xinhuanet

July 26, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe has called for enhancing China-Africa peace and security cooperation at the ministerial meeting of the second China-Africa Peace and Security Forum held via video link Monday. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 98 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

July 26, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Monday reported 98 locally transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 37 in Gansu, 32 in Guangxi and 16 in Sichuan, the National Health Commission said Tuesday. Altogether 770 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified in 13 provincial-level regions on Monday. Click here to read…

China planning more digital advances: Qiushi

July 26, 2022

China will leverage digital technologies to further upgrade industrial production, people’s lifestyles and governance as part of its broader push to seize new opportunities and respond to new challenges in the next wave of digitalization, officials and experts said. Click here to read…

Digital service, production flourish across China: Qiushi

July 26, 2022

A man visits a digital experience center in a warehouse in Beijing, and a digital figure appears on the screen. The figure mimics his every movement, and it can even dance with him. Click here to read…

Xi extends congratulations to new Indian president: China Military

July 26, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a congratulatory message to Droupadi Murmu on her assuming office as the president of the Republic of India. In his message, Xi pointed out that China and India are important neighbors of each other, and that a healthy and stable China-India relationship is in line with the fundamental interests of the two countries and their people, as well as conducive to peace, stability and development in the region and across the world. Click here to read…

Temples urged to check tablets: China Daily

July 26, 2022

Many Buddhist associations across China have demanded temples check their memorial tablets after a temple in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, was found to have had tablets commemorating Japanese war criminals for about four years. Click here to read…

UN chief appoints Li Junhua of China as next under-secretary-general for economic, social affairs: Global Times

July 26, 2022

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday appointed Li Junhua of China as the next under-secretary-general for economic and social affairs. Li, who is currently ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of China to Italy and San Marino, will succeed Liu Zhenmin of China, to whom the secretary-general is grateful for his commitment and dedicated service to the world body, according to a statement issued by the secretary-general’s office. Click here to read…

China’s Xizang doubles efforts to protect glaciers, snow mountains in recent years: People’s Daily

July 26, 2022

In recent years, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region has stepped up efforts to protect glaciers and snow mountains and improve the management of these resources. It has also carried out scientific studies on the unique geographical environment of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to make the conservation of the plateau more scientific. Click here to read…

Ant Group executives left Alibaba Partnership after China crackdown: Reuters

July 26, 2022

Ant Group executives are no longer part of Alibaba Partnership, a body that can nominate the majority of the e-commerce giant’s board, Alibaba’s annual report released on Tuesday showed, as the pair decouple after Beijing’s sweeping regulatory crackdown. Click here to read…

DEFENCE

• DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.
• Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”.
• New manufacturing facilities at Bharat Dynamics Limited.
• Indian Navy ships visit Singapore, Republic of Seychellesand a long range overseas deployment.
• CEO of French aircraft engine maker SAFRAN Group calls on Raksha Mantri (RM).
• 6th Deputy National Security Adviser Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave.
• Indian Navy’s INS Satpura and P8i participate in the RIMPAC Harbour Phase.
• Indian Air Force contingent participating in a exercise with the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) in Egypt.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (Coe) launched by IAF.
• First-ever ‘AI in Defence’ symposium & exhibition in New Delhi.
• Brazilian Navy delegation on visit to India.
• Ministry of Defence sets up an Apex Committee for Performance and Efficiency Audit.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

• “Hizbu’llah used Iranian drones against the Karish gas field”, claimed Israel’s Defence Minister.

Africa

Nigeria

• Islamist attack freed hundreds of prisoners in Nigeria.

Pakistan

• Ahead of FATF’s visit, Pakistan doubled the efforts to ‘locate’ JeM chief Masood Azhar.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• NIA searched multiple locations in Kashmir in “Sunjwan terrorist attack” case.
• Security forces eliminated two terrorists, including a JeM commander, in Pulwama.
• “In last four years, 700 local youths were recruited by terror groups in UT of J&K”: MHA.

Left-Wing Extremism

• Police arrested a Maoist wanted in SP’s killing case.
• Over 600 explosives and 495 detonators recovered in anti-Maoist operation in Bihar.
• 50 IEDs seized from Aurangabad in Bihar.

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

• NIA Special Court (Ernakulam) convicted three Islamic State members in “ISIS Valapattanam case”.
• NIA searched multiple locations in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing” case.
• NIA conducted search at multiple locations in Maharashtra in “Umesh Kolhe’s killing” case.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• NIA filed chargesheet against four KTF associates accused of conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar.
• MEA raised concerns over the participation of Australian Sikh soldiers at pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia.
• Pro-Khalistan elements vandalized Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Canada.
• Police arrested a pro-Khalistan supporter from Jalandhar.

DEFENCE

DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.

Maiden flight of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator was carried out successfully by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Operating in a fully autonomous mode, the aircraft exhibited a perfect flight, including take-off, way point navigation and a smooth touchdown. It is powered by a small turbofan engine, the airframe, undercarriage and entire flight control and avionics systems used for the aircraft were developed indigenously.This flight marks a major milestone in terms of proving critical technologies towards the development of future unmanned aircraft.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”.

The Desert Corps of the Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”, on aspects of Border & Coastal Security at Jodhpur (Rajasthan). During the course of the discussions, aspects of interoperability, operational cohesion and logistics were ironed out in order to enhance overall security along the International Boundary (IB) and coastal sectors. A joint training calendar was also formulated to achieve a higher degree of interoperability and jointness amongst the security forces. Current security threats and challenges, along with joint mitigation response, were deliberated upon and such scenarios would now form part of the forthcoming exercises. It was further decided to create an enabling security environment and develop a tangible capability development road map to achieve the same.
Reference: Click here to read…

New manufacturing facilities at Bharat Dynamics Limited

Raksha Mantri dedicated to the Nation a number of new manufacturing facilities set up by the Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU). These include a Warhead facility at the Bhanur Unit and a Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker facility at Kanchanbagh Unit. The RF Seeker Facility, which was virtually inaugurated by the Raksha Mantri, is an integrated Centre for production & testing of RF seekers. This facility has been established by BDL with an investment of Rs 50 crore.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Navy ships visit Singapore, Republic of Seychelles and long range overseas deployment

As part of their deployment to South East Asia, Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kadmatt under the Command of Rear Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, NM, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, visited Singapore from 01 – 03 July 2022. INS Sahyadri is an indigenously built multi-role stealth Frigate and INS Kadmatt is an indigenously built ASW Corvette.
For more information: Click here to read…

INS Kolkata, an indigenously built Stealth Guided Missile Destroyer of the Indian Navy, was deployed to Port Victoria, Seychelles to coincide with the Independence Day of Seychelles on 29 June 22. During the port call, INS Kolkata delivered two engines of Dornier Aircraft of the SDF, which were overhauled at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Hyderabad. A set of engineering spares were also delivered to Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) for sustenance of SCG ships.
For more information: Click here to read…

As a part of the Long range overseas deployment, Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tarkash, visited Djibouti as part of her long range overseas deployment followed by Maritime Partnership Exercise with Sudan Navy. The ship is on a deployment to Rio de Janerio, Brazil, which is intended to coincide with the Independence Day enabling her to hoist the tricolour in South America on the occasion as part of AzadikaAmritMahotsav.
For more information: Click here to read…

CEO of French aircraft engine maker SAFRAN Group calls on Raksha Mantri (RM)

A high-level delegation of French company Safran Group led by its CEO Mr Olivier Andries called on Raksha Mantri in New Delhi on July 05, 2022. During the meeting, the CEO of Safran briefed the Raksha Mantri of their company’s plans to set up a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India for overhaul of LEAP-1A & LEAP-1B engines in use by Indian and foreign commercial airlines. The MRO facility through direct foreign investment of $US 150 million in Hyderabad is expected to create 500-600 highly skilled jobs. The facility will be able to overhaul over 250 engines per year in the beginning.

The CEO also briefed Shri Rajnath Singh of their plan to inaugurate this week Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Electrical & Power India Pvt Ltd. – both to come up in Hyderabad and Safran-HAL Aircraft Engines as a joint venture in Bengaluru. Safran aircraft engine, Hyderabad, with an investment of Euro 36 million and located on 10 acres land in the Hyderabad SEZ, will produce parts and components for advanced aircraft engines including rotating seals. Safran Electrical & Power India Pt Ltd will produce harness for civil and fighter jets. The joint venture between Safran and HAL is for production of rigid piping for aircraft engines including helicopter engines. The joint venture is expected to hire 160 new highly skilled personnel.

The CEO of Safran outlined his company’s long-term plan in co-development and co-production of advanced jet engines and transfer of technology as per existing policy of Government of India. He briefed Shri Rajnath Singh on capabilities of Safran in areas of technology beyond aircraft engine.
For more information: Click here to read…

6th Deputy National Security Adviser Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave

The Member States of the Colombo Security Conclave comprising India, Maldives, Mauritius and Sri Lanka, successfully concluded the 6th Deputy National Security Adviser level meeting held on 7 July 2022 hosted by the National Security Council Secretariat of India in Kochi. Delegations from Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as Observers.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Navy’s INS Satpura and P8i participate in the RIMPAC Harbour Phase

Indian Navy’s indigenous Frigate INS Satpura and P8I LRMRASW aircraft are at Pearl Harbour in Hawaii taking part in one of the largest multilateral Naval Exercises, the Rim of the Pacific exercise, also known as RIMPAC. INS Satpura and one P8I maritime patrol aircraft are participating in the exercise which spans over six weeks of intense operations and training aimed at enhancing interoperability and building trust among Navies of friendly foreign countries. 28 countries, 38 warships, 09 land forces, 31 unmanned systems, 170 aircraft and over 25,000 personnel are participating in the multi-dimensional exercise. The sea phase commences on 12 Jul 22 and will culminate with the closing ceremony on 04 Aug 22.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Air Force contingent participating in an exercise with the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) in Egypt

Indian Air Force contingent is reaching the midway point of the Tactical Leadership Programme (TLP) at Egyptian Air Force (EAF) Weapon School in Egypt (Cairo West Airbase). The programme commenced on 24 Jun and will culminate on 23 Jul 22. IAF is participating with three Su-30 MKI aircraft. Two C-17 aircraft were used for induction of the contingent. IAF Su-30 MKI aircraft undertook a non-stop ferry of six hours from Jamnagar airbase (India) to Cairo West airbase (Egypt), overflying four countries enroute. Tactical Leadership Program is a unique exercise, wherein IAF is participating with its aircrew as instructors. This exercise provides a good opportunity to showcase the reach and capability of the IAF. It will also assist in enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries and exchange of best practices.

During the first two weeks of the exercise IAF aircraft participated in missions by day and night, involving air to ground & air to air combat scenarios and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) activity alongside Egyptian F-16, Rafale and Mig 29 aircraft.
Reference: Click here to read…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (Coe) launched by IAF

The IAF Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence under the aegis of UDAAN (Unit for Digitisation, Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Application Networking) was inaugurated by Air Marshal Sandeep Singh, Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS).

A Big Data Analytics and Al Platform has been commissioned in the IAF’s Al Centre, for handling all aspects of Analytics, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Neural Networks and Deep Learning algorithms. The high-end compute requirements would be undertaken by the latest Graphical Processing Unit powered servers.Addressing the gathering, VCAS said that IAF has taken proactive steps to embed Industry 4.0 and Al based technologies in its war fighting processes. He reiterated that the AI COE with high end compute and big data storage capabilities, coupled with full spectrum Al software suites, would substantially enhance operational capability of IAF.
For more information: Click here to read…

First-ever ‘AI in Defence’ symposium & exhibition in New Delhi

RakshaMantri launched 75 newly-developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) products/technologies during the first-ever ‘AI in Defence’ (AIDef) symposium and exhibition, organised by Ministry of Defence in New Delhi. The products, launched as part of ‘AzadiKaAmritMahotsav’ celebrations, fall under various domains. These includeAI Platform Automation; Autonomous/Unmanned/Robotics systems; Block Chain-based Automation; Command, Control, Communication, Computer & Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance; Cyber Security; Human Behavioural Analysis; Intelligent Monitoring Systems; Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems; Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Operational Data Analytics; Manufacturing and Maintenance; Simulators/Test Equipment and speech/voice analysis using Natural Language Processing.

The RakshaMantri added that several MoUs have been signed with the industry for faster promotion of AI applications in the Services. Many AI-related challenges under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiatives have also been given. The challenges are under various domains, including Radio Frequency Spectrum Management, Underwater Domain Awareness, Satellite Image Analysis and Friend or Foe Identification System. He urged the industry and start-ups to explore newer avenues and work hand-in-hand with the Government to ensure complete self-reliance in the field of AI technology.

Delivering the welcome address, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar lauded the proactive efforts of the three Services, DRDO, DPSUs & the Industry in developing these 75 products and contributing to strengthen national security. He added that over 100 more projects are in various levels of development.
For more information: Click here to read…

Brazilian Navy delegation on visit to India

A Brazilian Navy delegation led by Vice Admiral Liberal Enio Zanelatto, Director of Industrial Production & Engineering, visited New Delhi on 15 Jul 22 and held discussion with senior officers of the Indian Navy. The head of the Brazilian delegation also called on Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, Indian Navy. Earlier, Brazilian delegation also visited Headquarters Western Naval Command and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd at Mumbai on 11 and 12 Jul 22 respectively.

Extensive discussions between Brazilian and Indian Navy leadership, on areas of mutual cooperation, with special focus on submarine maintenance, in addition as general maintenance philosophy, upgradation of weapons and sensors, and Indian Navy’s indigenisation efforts for achieving self-reliance.
Reference: Click here to read…

Ministry of Defence sets up an Apex Committee for Performance and Efficiency Audit

The Ministry of Defence has set up an institutional mechanism comprising of an Apex committee with Defence Secretary as Chairman to conduct a Performance and Efficiency Audit into various aspects of its activities. This kind of audit is expected to provide valuable inputs to the top management of the Ministry of specific shortcomings, if any, in planning and execution of projects, and suggest systemic improvements in internal controls, soundness of financial procedures, identification of risk factors, etc. It is a major shift from the existing transaction-based compliance audit to carry out an outcome-based Performance/ Efficiency Audit aimed at enhancing overall efficiency.The members of the committee include Vice Chiefs of the three Services, Secretary Defence (Finance), Chief of Integrated Staff Committee (CISC), Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), Director General (Acquisition) and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The broad areas that have been identified for the conduct of Performance and Efficiency Audit include Defence Capital Procurements, provisioning, logistics, inventory levels, Maintenance of platforms/ assets, role and performance of Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) etc. the Apex committee can also recommend any other specific area for Performance and Efficiency Audit.

The committee chaired by Defence Secretary will identify specific areas for the conduct of performance and audit by CGDA and monitor performance audit reports and action taken thereon. It also shall advise Raksha Mantri on remedial measures to be adopted as well as measures for overall improvement in strengthening of internal oversight and Risk Management Framework.
Reference: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

“Hizbu’llah used Iranian drones against the Karish gas field”, claimed Israel’s Defence Minister.

In a briefing to military reporters, on 07 July 2022, Israel’s Defence Minister Benny Gantz confirmed the use of Iranian drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) against the Karish gas field. “It should be said that the attack was carried out by Hizbu’llah on behest of Iran, and its weapons are made in Iran, whether it is manufactured there or knowledge acquired by them.
On 02 July 2022, the Israel Defence Force (IDF) shot three UAVs by Hezbollah toward Karish rig, which is located within Israel’s economic waters but disputed by Lebanon.
For more information: Click here to read…

Africa

Nigeria

Islamist attack freed hundreds of prisoners in Nigeria

Suspected Islamists gunmen, armed with explosives, attacked on Kuje medium security prison, on the outskirts of Abuja and freed nearly 900 of prison’s 994 inmates, including number of terrorists. “They [gunmen] came in numbers, gained entrance into the prison, and released ‘some’ of the inmates,” said Nigeria’s Defence Minister— Bashir Magashi during a press briefing on 06 July 2022.

Prison breaks have become more common in Nigeria, where in 2021, more than 1,800 prisoners escaped from Owerri prison in South-Eastern Imo state, after heavily armed men attacked with explosives.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pakistan

Ahead of FATF’s visit, Pakistan doubled the efforts to ‘locate’ JeM chief Masood Azhar

Ahead of the visit of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) officials to assess Pakistan’s commitment to carried out task list actions, Pakistan has doubled its efforts against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief and founder— Masood Azhar, and his brother Rauf Asghar. While Rauf Asghar was taken into custody along with 44 JeM terrorists in 2019, the establishment is assessing Masood Azhar’s whereabouts, including his doubtful presence in Pakistan.

From 28 August-02 September, a team of senior FATF officials expected to visit Islamabad and other cities for an ‘on-site visit’, to verify if Pakistan has carried out all the actions mentioned on its 34-point task list. Pakistan is expected to be taken-off of ‘grey list’, during the FATF’s next plenary session in October 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA searched multiple locations in Kashmir in “Sunjwan terrorist attack” case

On 13 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out a search operation at three locations in Kashmir— 01 location in Pulwama district, and 02 locations in Anantnag district, in the case (RC-03/2022/NIA/JMU) related to indiscriminate firing upon security personnel on 22 April 2022, during a joint search operation in the area of Sunjwan, Jammu, in which an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) attained Veergati(fell in the battle), and several others were injured.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces eliminated two terrorists, including a JeM commander, in Pulwama

On 11 July 2022, security forces killed two terrorists, including a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander, in an operation in Wandakhpora village in Awantipora in Pulwama district. The JeM commander was identified as Kaiser Koka and was active in South Kashmir for the last four years.
For more information: Click here to read…

“In last four years, 700 local youths were recruited by terror groups in UT of J&K”: MHA

According to the data available with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), as on 05 July 2022, a total of 82 foreign terrorists were operating in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), while there were 59 local terrorists. In last four years, terrorist groups managed to recruit 700 local youths into their fold, while 141 terrorists, are currently active in the Valley. Such large number highlighted the unabated infiltration from terror launch pads across the border. Mostly, terrorists belong to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its offshoot— The Resistance Front (TRF), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM).
For more information: Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

Police arrested a Maoist wanted in SP’s killing case, from Jharkhand

In a joint operation, Jharkhand Police and CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) arrested a Maoist— Nandlal Soren aka Hitesh, a member of the Special Area Committee of the CPI (Maoist), from Giridih district in Jharkhand. Nandlal Soren was carrying a bounty reward of ₹ 25 lakh.

Soren was wanted in the killing of then-Superintendent of Police (SP) Amarjeet Balihar, and other police personnel in an ambush in 2013.
For more information: Click here to read…

Over 600 explosives and 495 detonators recovered in anti-Maoist operation in Bihar

In an anti-Maoist operation carried out during 04-11 July 2022 in Bihar, more than 600 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and around 500 detonators have been recovered by CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), a special jungle-warfare commando unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The recoveries were made from the jungles of Gaya district in Bihar.
For more information: Click here to read…

50 IEDs seized from Aurangabad in Bihar

On 11 July 2022, the CRPF’s CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), the Special Task Force (STF), and the district police carried out a joint operation on Ajnawa mountain range in Aurangabad district and recovered 50 IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and other equipment. Other equipment included over two dozen gelatin rods, electric wires, batteries, pipes used in manufacturing of bombs were recovered.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA Special Court (Ernakulam) convicted three Islamic State members in “ISIS Valapattanam case”

On 12 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Ernakulam convicted three Islamic State (IS) members— i) Midlaj, ii) Abdul Razak, and iii) Hamsa, for providing support and conspiring a plan to travel out of India to join the terrorist organisation in Syria.

After thorough investigation, the case— RC-02/2017/NIA/KOC was taken over by the NIA for further investigation by the NIA on 16 December 2017. A chargesheet was filed by the NIA on 21 April 2018 against the IS members.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA searched multiple locations in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing” case

On 12 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched nine locations in Udaipur district in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing case”. The case— RC-27/2022/NIA/DLI pertains to the killing of Shri Kanahiya Lal Teli in Udaipur, Rajasthan, by two Islamic extremists armed with sharp weapons at his shop located in Maaldas street, Udaipur, Rajasthan. On 29 June 2022, the NIA re-registered the case and taken over the investigation. During the search at the premises of both Islamic extremists, digital devices, including mobile phones, laptop and SIM cards, and other indiscriminating material was seized.
Earlier, on 09 July 2022, the NIA arrested Farhad Mohammad Sheikh aka Babla, in relation to Shri Kanahiya Lal Teli’s murder conspiracy. Farhad Mohammad was a close associate of one of the main perpetrator— RiyazAttari.
For more information: Click here to read… ; Click here to read…

NIA conducted search at multiple locations in Maharashtra in “Umesh Kolhe’s killing” case

On 06 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 13 locations in Amravati district in Maharashtra in the case of killing of Shri Umesh Kolhe in Amravati on 21 June 2022.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/MUM relates to the killing of a pharmacist— Shri Umesh Kolhe allegedly on account of certain social media posts. The NIA re-registered the case on 02 July 2022 and taken over the investigation. During the search, the officials recovered digital devices, including mobile phones, SIM cards, memory cards, and DVRs), pamphlets spreading hate messages, knives, and other incriminating documents and materials.
For more information: Click here to read…

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

NIA filed chargesheet against four KTF associates accused of conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar

On 04 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet at the NIA Special Court (Mohali) against four Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) associates— i) Kamaljeet Sharma, ii) Arshdeep Singh, iii) Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and iv) Ram Singh, for conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar, Punjab.
The case— RC-27/2021/NIA/DLI pertains to an attack on a Hindu priest— Kamaldeep Sharma, native of Bhar Singh Pura village in Phillaur, Jalandhar district. According to the investigation, the conspiracy was hatched by Arshdeep Singh and Harshdeep Singh Nijjar, both based in Canada, to disturb peace and communal harmony in Punjab by killing a Hindu priest. The arrested duo, Kamaljeet Sharma and Ram Singh, had shot the victim (Kamaldeep Sharma), on behest of Arshdeep Singh.
For more information: Click here to read…

MEA raised concerns over the participation of Australian Sikh soldiers at pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia

As the reports about Australian Army Sikh delegation’s participation in pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on 07 July 2022, has taken up the concern over the matter with the Australian government.

“We came to know that there had been an instance in Australia. We have taken up the matter with the Australian government,” said MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.
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Pro-Khalistan elements vandalized Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Canada

On 13 July 2022, allegedly pro-Khalistan supporters vandalised the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Vishnu temple in Toronto, Canada. The statue had existed at the Vishnu temple in the area of Yonge Street and Garden Avenue for over three decades.
“We are deeply anguished by this hate crime that seeks to terrorise the Indian community. It has led to increased concern and insecurity in the Indian community here. We have approached the Canadian government to investigate and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly,” observations made by the High Commission of India in Ottawa.
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Police arrested a pro-Khalistan supporter from Jalandhar

On the intervening night of 14-15 June 2022, police arrested Manjeet Singh, resident of Patiala, for reportedly writing pro-Khalistan slogans on the walls in Jalandhar. According to police, similar cases had been registered against Manjeet in Karnal, and other districts in Punjab. During the probe, Manjeet revealed that an unknown person approached him through social media and offered money for writing pro-Khalistan comments on Facebook (now Meta), YouTube and other channels.
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