INDIA IN THE UN

India participates in UNSC open debate

India participated in the UNSC open debate on ‘the promotion and strengthening of the rule of law in the maintenance of international peace and security: the Rule of Law among Nations’ that was held on 12 January 2023. Speaking in the debate, India’s Permanent Representative (PR) to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj said that three factors are essential to ensure and strengthen the rule of law in the conduct of international relations. First is the peaceful settlement of disputes. It is important that countries do not unilaterally undermine bilateral or multilateral agreements. Second, is the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity especially in the context of their violation by acts of cross border terrorism. Third, is the reform of institutions of global governance.Click here to read…

Participating in yet another open debate on ‘Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace: Investing in people to enhance resilience against complex challenges’ on 26 January 2023, India’s PR said that there is a need to recognize the primacy of national governments in identifying and driving priorities, strategies, and activities for sustaining peace. She highlighted that it is important to forge social cohesion and trust in conflict-ravaged societies. She emphasized the need for representative, inclusive and resilient structures of governance. It was highlighted that gender sensitivity and the inclusion of women in the security sector are important, as is the effort to get the youth out of the conflict.Click here to read…

India participates in Intergovernmental Negotiations on UNSC reform

Speaking at the first plenary of Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on UNSC reform, India’s representative gave a call for transforming the IGN from an informal process to a regular negotiation process within the General Assembly. There must be text-based negotiations. There must also be a factual record of what has gone on as part of the IGN. In all parts of the document, there must be attribution of positions of different countries to make it more convenient to highlight points of convergence. The Security Council, it was opined, would only be effective once it includes the voice of the voiceless.Click here to read…

INDIA’S G20 PRESIDENCY

India hosts the Voice of Global South Summit

As a first of its kind event in the history of the G20, India hosted a virtual Voice of Global South on 11-12 January 2023. Nearly 120 countries participated in the Summit with the aim of providing their inputs in the G20 process. Speaking at the Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that the developing world desires ‘human centric globalisation’. He announced the intention to create a Global South Centre of Excellence for research on development solutions and launch a Science and Technology initiative. He also launched the Aarogya Maitri project aimed at providing medical supplies to any developing country affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crisis.Click here to read…

Working Group on Infrastructure meets

The first G20 Infrastructure Working Group meeting was held in Pune on 16-17 January 2013. It discussed the flagship theme of “Financing Cities of Tomorrow- Inclusive, Resilient and Sustainable”. Among the issues discussed were making cities economic centres of growth, financing urban infrastructure, building future-ready urban infrastructure, the role of cities in meeting sustainability targets, directing fiscal investments for unlocking private financing for energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable infrastructure and mitigating social imbalances. The meeting was also complemented by a High-Level Workshop on “Financing of Cities of Tomorrow”.Click here to read…

International Financial Architecture Working Group inaugurated

The meeting of the International Financial Architecture working group was held in Chandigarh on 30-31 January 2023. Inaugurating the meeting, Union Minister for Agriculture Narendra Singh Tomar said that the group will consider how it can redesign global and financial governance. The Minister for Food Processing Industries Pashupati Kumar Paras said that India’s Presidency will try to “ensure that the international financial architecture today is well equipped to meet the acute challenges and provide maximum support to vulnerable groups.” It was pointed out that the financial institutions must be made responsive to the needs of the developing and low income countries. Also, that multilateral Banks must be equipped to meet the challenges of development. Click here to read…

First Health Working Group Meeting held

The first meeting of the Health Working Group was held in Thiruvananthapuram from 18-20 January 2023. During the meeting, delegates discussed health priorities like health emergencies prevention and preparedness, strengthening cooperation in pharmaceutical sector and digital health innovation and solutions. Speaking at a side-event on Medical Value Travel (MVT), Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, said that MVT helps eliminate health disparities across the globe and therefore there is a need for developing standards and accreditation for healthcare facilities and Medical Travel Facilitators and enabling digitization in the Medical Value Travel segment.Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar emphasised on the need for strengthening and empowering communities to become resilient to future health emergencies.Click here to read… and Click here to read…

GLOBAL ECONOMY

World Bank Group discuss the Evolution Roadmap

The Board of the World Bank Group held discussions on the document “Evolving the World Bank Group’s Mission, Operations, and Resources: A Roadmap” which was released by the management in December 2022. According the roadmap, the World Bank is aiming to climate action the focus of its work in the coming years. The focus on ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity in a sustainable way will continue to be the mainstay of the World Bank group. The document envisages the review of the vision and mission of the Group; it’s operating model and enhance its financial capacity and model.Click here to read…

IMF warns of global economic fragmentation

A staff discussion note of the IMF released in January says that as a result of levelling-off of global flow of goods and capital and increasing trade restrictions since the end of the financial crisis of 2008-09 there is a Global Economic Fragmentation (GEF). This will adversely affect per capita incomes and poverty levels in developing countries as well low –income people in developed countries. It will mean enhanced restrictions on cross-border migration and reduced capital flows. “GEF could strain the international monetary system and the global financial safety net (GFSN). Financial globalization could give way to “financial regionalization” and a fragmented global payment system”.Click here to read…

AIIB turns 7

The Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank completed seven years in operation. It was established in 2016 with 57 members. With the addition of Mauritania to its membership this month, its membership stands at 106 making it the second largest multilateral development bank after the World Bank. Thus far, it has funded a total of 202 projects in 33 countries with a value of $38.8 billion. These projects are in the sectors of energy, transportation, water, communications, education and public health. While its focus has largely been on sustainable development projects in Asia, the AIIB extended financing to non-regional members such as Brazil and Cote d’Ivoire in 2022.Click here to read…

PLURILATERAL DEVELOPMENTS

South Africa assumes Chair of BRICS

South Africa assumed the chairmanship of BRICS in January 2023. The Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa grouping is gearing up for the 15th Summit of the BRICS in August. The Summit is complemented by meetings of Ministers of Foreign Affairs and National Security Advisers. Inter-BRICS cooperation has been extended to several areas such as economy, trade, finance, science and technology, industry, agriculture, culture, education, health, think tanks etc. The theme of the Presidency is “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism.”Click here to read…

SCO Film Festival held in Mumbai

As part of India’s presidency of the SCO, a film festival was organized in Mumbai from 27-31 January. This was done to encourage cultural interaction between the SCO countries. A total of 57 films were selected for screening. On the sidelines of the festival, a roundtable discussion was held on “Reaching Out- India and the SCO”. At the roundtable, SCO member nations were urged to promote talent exchange and explore Co-production Agreements with India and avail benefits of the existing Indian film incentives through joint projects. The main objective of the roundtable was to share experiences and provide insights and suggestions for improving the overall ecosystem and outreach in terms of incentives for foreign production and official co-productions announced by Government of IndiaClick here to read…

Iran set to join SCO

The Guardian Council of Iran has approved of Iran joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. While the bill for the same had been approved by the Iranian Parliament in November 2022, the Guardian Council was required to approve the annexes and agreements in the bill on cooperation with the SCO. Once the Parliament had addressed the ambiguities in the bill, the Guardian Council attested that the bill was not against the Sharia or the Iranian Constitution. Click here to read…

PEACE AND SECURITY

PEACEKEEPING

India deploys a women’s battalion for peacekeeping

India deployed a platoon of women peacekeepers as part of the Indian battalion in the United Nations Interim Security Force (UNISFA), Abyei, Sudan. The battalion will include two officers and 25 other ranks, and will be part of an Engagement platoon that will specialise in community outreach while also executing extensive security-related activities. The team was inducted to the mission area on January 14 and over the course of one year, the platoon will work along with their counterparts towards the goal of durable peace in Abyei.Click here to read…

32 peacekeeping fatalities in 2022

The UN staff union revealed that 32 peacekeepers- 28 military and 4 police- lost their lives during peacekeeping in the bygone year. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) was the deadliest for peacekeepers with 14 fatalities, followed by 13 fatalities in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), four fatalities in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and one fatality in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). India lost two peacekeepers.Click here to read…

Challenges to Peacekeeping in Mali

A report of the Secretary General submitted to the Security Council has highlighted that the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) may have be wound up if additional peacekeeping troops cannot be made available. In mid-December, the mission had 12,388 soldiers (against 13,289 authorized by the mandate) and 1,598 police officers (for 1,920 authorized). The main challenge is of finding troops, as several contributing countries (with a total of 2,250 peacekeepers) have announced their withdrawal from MINUSMA, which has paid a heavy price with 165 dead since 2013. Click here to read…

TERRORISM

BIMSTEC holds counter-terrorism meet

The 10th meeting of the BIMSTEC Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (JWG-CTTC) was held on 12 January 2023. The meeting discussed traditional and emerging non-traditional security threats in the BIMSTEC region. The participants deliberated and made recommendations on wide ranging issues to enhance cooperation and collaboration in countering terrorism and transnational crimes in the region. The meeting further discussed on institutional mechanism for CTTC cooperation, Information Sharing System, and Capacity Building for BIMSTEC countries.Click here to read…

Abdul Rahman Makki designated global terrorist

The UN listed the deputy chief of the Lashkar-e- Tayyaba as a global terrorist pursuant to a case submitted by India and supported by the United States in June 2022 under the 1267 Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UNSC. China had put a technical hold on the decision, but it withdrew its hold, allowing for the designation. Makki was arrested on 15 May 2019 by the Pakistan government and placed under house arrest in Lahore. In 2020, a Pakistani court convicted Makki of terrorism financing and sentenced him to prison. Makki has been linked to five terrorist attacks perpetrated in India.Click here to read…

ISIL-SEA designated as global terrorist organisation

Islamic State of Iraq and Levant in Southeast Asia was designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations, subjecting it to assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. The outfit, also known as Islamic State East Asia Division and Dawlatul Islamiyah Waliyatul Mashriq, was, according to the UN website, formed in June 2016 “upon announcement by now-deceased Isnilon Hapilon” and is associated with Islamic State in Iraq and Levant, listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq.Click here to read…

DEFENCE

• Joint Military Exercise “Ex SAMPRITI-X” concludes.
• Extension of entry age: Agnipath Scheme.
• Agnipath – Raksha Mantri approves 10% reservation of jobs for Agniveers in Indian Coast Guard, Defence Civilian posts & 16 DPSUs.
• Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminates.
• India and Australia discuss ways to enhance defence cooperation during bilateral talks.
• Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile successfully flight-tested.
• IAF to participate in tactical leadership programme with Egyptian Air Force.
• Indian Air Force conducted the Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi, marking the culmination of the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP).
• India and Malaysia decide to enhance defence cooperation.
• INS Satpura to participate in RIMPAC-22.
• Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided ATGM successfully tested.
• High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested.
• India and & Saudi Arabia discuss ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.
• India delivers 6 tons of medical assistance to Afghanistan.
• Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Somalia

• Security forces killed at least 67 al-Shabaab terrorists in a foiled attack in Galgaduud region.

Nigeria

• Security forces killed 47 Boko Haram terrorists and rescued a Chibok girl in Borno.

Afghanistan

• IS-KP claimed responsibility for Karte Parwan Gurudwara attack in Kabul.

Pakistan

• Pakistan remained on FATF’s ‘grey list’.
• China blocked India-US’ joint move to designate deputy chief of LeT as terrorist under the UNSC sanctions.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K in ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.
• Security forces killed three terrorists in two separate CT operations in Pulwama and Baramulla.
• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested a terrorist in ‘TRF Conspiracy’ case.
• “Security forces have eliminated 118 terrorists, mostly of LeT, since January 2022”: claimed J&K Police.
• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested four OGWs from Pulwama.
• Security forces killed four HM terrorists in two CT operations in Anantnag and Kulgam.

Left-Wing Extremism

• NIA officials arrested a Maoist in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.
• Three CRPF personnel attained Veergati in Maoist attack in Odisha.
• NIA officials raided multiple locations in Telangana and arrested three Maoists in ‘Peddabayalu CPI (Maoist) recruitment’ case

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

• Two Islamic extremists beheaded a tailor in Rajasthan over his support to Nupur Sharma’s statement on Prophet Mohammad.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• Ahead of political roadshow, Khalistan slogan found at Sangrur temple gate.

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs)

• NIA officials searched two locations in West Bengal in case of ‘Seizure of FICN at Kolkata’.
• NIA filed chargesheet against four FICN traffickers in case of ‘Seizure of FICN and Gold at IGI Airport New Delhi’.

Human-Trafficking

• NIA officials searched a location in Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker.

DEFENCE

Joint Military Exercise “Ex SAMPRITI-X” concludes.

The aim of the exercise was to strengthen the military relations between the two countries. The exercise also provided an opportunity to the contingents from both the Armies to understand each other’s tactical drills and operational techniques as well as to share their experience on Counter Insurgency/ Counter Terrorism, Peace Keeping and Disaster Relief Operation under the United Nations mandate. Senior officers of both the Armies conveyed their appreciation to the participating contingents for achieving the objectives of the Exercise.
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Agnipath Scheme.

Consequent to the commencement of the AGNIPATH scheme, the entry age for all new recruits in the Armed Forces has been fixed as 17 ½ – 21 years of age.Cognizant of the fact that it has not been possible to undertake the recruitment during the last two years, the Government has decided that a one-time waiver shall be granted for the proposed recruitment cycle for 2022. Accordingly, the upper age limit for the recruitment process for Agnipath scheme for 2022 is increased to 23 years.
Reference: Click here to read…

Raksha Mantri approves 10% reservation of jobs for Agniveers in Indian Coast Guard, Defence Civilian posts & 16 DPSUs.

Raksha Mantri has approved a proposal to reserve 10% of the job vacancies in Ministry of Defence for Agniveers meeting requisite eligibility criteria. The 10% reservation will be implemented in the Indian Coast Guard, defence civilian posts and all the 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Limited, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL), Mishra Dhatu Nigam (Midhani) Limited, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Ltd. (AW&EIL), Munitions India Limited (MIL), Yantra India Limited (YIL), Gliders India Limited (GIL), India Optel Limited (IOL) and Troop Comforts Limited (TCL). This reservation would be in addition to existing reservations for ex-servicemen.Necessary amendments to relevant recruitment rules will be undertaken to implement these provisions. The DPSUs will be advised to make similar amendments to their respective recruitment rules. Necessary age relaxation provision will also be made to enable recruitment of Agniveers to the above posts.
Reference: Click here to read…

Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminates.

The Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminated at the Peace Support Operations Training Centre in Ulaanbaatar at Mongolia.The exercise conducted from 06 June to 20 June 2022 provided a platform for mutual learning and sharing best practices amongst the armies from 16 Nations. The Indian contingent consisting of personnel from the LADAKH SCOUTS participated in the field training as well as the Command Post exercise. A number of training activities were organised during the course of the exercise, which included mock tactical operations as per United Nations (UN) mandate, combat discussions, training of staff & command appointments; as part of a combined UN brigade, in order to enhance multinational interoperability.
Reference: Click here to read…

India and Australia discuss ways to enhance defence cooperation during bilateral talks.

Raksha Mantri and Australian Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Defence Mr Richard Marles held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on June 22, 2022. The two Ministers reviewed the existing defence cooperation activities which have been increasing despite challenges of COVID-19 pandemic and discussed ways to enhance further cooperation. The Ministers reviewed the defence and security pillars of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
They welcomed the growing diversity and frequency of defence exercises and exchanges between the two countries and undertook to build upon operational engagements through the India-Australia Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement.
Both Ministers committed to give fillip to the India-Australia Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Research and Materiel Cooperation, which will meet in Australia later this year. This JWG is a crucial mechanism for boosting ties between defence industries.
Both Ministers welcomed the plan to commence the landmark General Rawat Young Officer Exchange Programme in the latter half of 2022, which was announced during the virtual summit meeting between the Prime Ministers of the two countries on March 21, 2022.
The Ministers reviewed strategic challenges and the regional security situation and reaffirmed their shared objective of an open, free, inclusive, prosperous and rules-based Indo Pacific region. They looked forward to India’s participation in Australia’s Indo Pacific Endeavour exercise in October 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile successfully flight-tested.

Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) was successfully flight-tested by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy off the coast of Odisha on June 24, 2022. The VL-SRSAM, a ship borne weapon system, is meant for neutralising various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets.The launch of the system was conducted against a high speed aerial target mimicking aircraft, which was successfully engaged.
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IAF to participate in tactical leadership programme with Egyptian Air Force.

Indian Air Force would be participating in Tactical Leadership Programme at Egyptian Air Force Weapon School from 24 Jun – 24 Jul 22 in Egypt (Cairo west Airbase) with three Su-30MKI aircraft, two C-17 aircraft and 57 IAF personnel (including C-17 contingent). It is a unique exercise with Air assets in a Large Force Engagement environment, simulating various conflict scenarios.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Air Force conducted the Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi, marking the culmination of the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP).

The Indian Air Force conducted the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP) culminating with a Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi on 24 Jun 2022. This Capstone Seminar showcased the learning objectives of WASP and helps the IAF leadership to validate the desired outcomes from the program. The participants presented papers on contemporary topics concerning application of air power in recent conflicts and the changing doctrinal precepts that establish the dominant role of air power in national security.

The WASP was conceptualised by the IAF with the purpose of creating a pool of mid-career air power practitioners with strategic acumen and a deep understanding of warfare history and theory. It aims to enhance the doctrinal vision of the participants and cultivate their aptitude for effective arguments on strategy.
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India and Malaysia decide to enhance defence cooperation.

Raksha Mantri (RM) held a Video Conference with Senior Defence Minister of Malaysia, YB Dato ‘Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein on June 27, 2022. A wide range of issues concerning bilateral, regional and defence industrial cooperation were discussed during the meeting.

Both Ministers expressed the intent to further boost the already strong India-Malaysia Defence cooperation. The two Ministers discussed the existing defence cooperation activities and framework, and ways to further enhance them under the existing Malaysia India Defence Cooperation Meeting (MIDCOM) framework. The next MIDCOM is scheduled to be held in July 2022, and it was decided to use this platform for a deeper engagement in defence.

Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the areas in which Indian Defence industries could assist Malaysia. He suggested a visit of senior officers from Malaysia to India to get a first-hand experience of the facilities and products of Indian Defence industry.

The Malaysian Senior Defence Minister expressed the need for inducting women personnel in peace keeping missions. Both sides agreed to engage each other on this issue. It was also agreed to upgrade capability for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. Raksha Mantri also invited Senior Defence Minister of Malaysia to visit India at an early convenient date to discuss closer and strategic defence ties.
For more information: Click here to read…

INS Satpura to participate in RIMPAC-22.

INS Satpura entered Pearl Harbour in Hawaii Islands on 27 Jun 22 to participate in RIMPAC-22. INS Satpura and one P8I maritime patrol aircraft from the Indian Navy are participating in one of the largest multilateral Naval Exercises, the US Navy led biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2022. The exercise spanning over six weeks of intense operations and training is aimed at enhancing interoperability and to build trust among Navies of friendly foreign countries. 27 countries are participating in the current edition of the multi-dimensional exercise.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided ATGM successfully tested.

Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) was successfully test-fired from Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Army on June 28, 2022.

The all-indigenous ATGM employs a tandem High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warhead to defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) protected armoured vehicles. The ATGM has been developed with multi-platform launch capability and is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from 120 mm rifled gun of MBT Arjun.
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High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested.

ABHYAS – High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested from on June 29, 2022. The performance of the aircraft at low altitude including sustained level and high manoeuvrability was demonstrated during the test flight. The air vehicle was launched using twin under-slung boosters which provide the initial acceleration to the vehicle. It is powered by a small gas turbine engine to sustain a long endurance flight at high subsonic speed. The target aircraft is equipped with Micro-Electromechanical Systems-based Inertial Navigation System for navigation along with the Flight Control Computer for guidance and control along with Indigenous Radio Altimeter for very low altitude flight and Data Link for encrypted communication between the Ground Control Station and Target Aircraft. The vehicle is programmed for fully autonomous flight.
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India and & Saudi Arabia discuss ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.

Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Defence for Strategic Affairs Mr. Ahmed A Aseeri called on Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar in New Delhi on June 30, 2022. They discussed ways to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries. The Deputy Minister briefed the Defence Secretary about the 5th meeting of India – Saudi Arabia Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC) that was held on June 29, 2022.

During JCDC the meeting, the two sides reviewed the progress made in military-to-military engagements, including joint exercises, expert exchanges and industry cooperation. It was decided to identify new avenues and examine areas of mutual interest for Joint Venture in order to enhance defence industry cooperation. Enhancing the scope and complexities of the existing joint naval exercises and expanding bilateral exercises in other domains were also discussed.

It was agreed to hold the next meeting of JCDC in Saudi Arabia on mutually convenient dates in 2023. The JCDC is the apex body between the Defence Ministries of India and Saudi Arabia to comprehensively review & guide all aspects of bilateral defence cooperation.
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India delivers 6 tons of medical assistance to Afghanistan.

India supplied the seventh batch of medical assistance on 30June 2022, consisting of 6 tons of essential medicines to Afghanistan, as part of India’s ongoing humanitarian assistance. The same was handed over to the Indira Gandhi Hospital, Kabul. In the wake of recent tragic earthquake, India, as the first responder, supplied almost 28 tons of earthquake relief assistance in two relief flights. These relief consignments were handed over to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), UN World Food Program (WFP) and the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS). Furthermore, India is in the process to ship more medical and wheat assistance to Afghanistan in coordination with the UN agencies on ground.
For more information:
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Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue.

The Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue was hosted by India virtually on 30 June 2022. The Indian Delegation was led by Smt. Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary, Cyber Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Japanese delegation was led by Mr Yutaka Arima, Ambassador in-charge of Cyber Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Both sides discussed important areas of bilateral cyber cooperation and reviewed the progress achieved in the areas of cybersecurity and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) including 5G Technology. Both sides exchanged views on latest developments in cyber domain and mutual cooperation during cyber consultations at the United Nations and other multilateral and regional fora.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Somalia

Security forces killed at least 67 al-Shabaab terrorists in a foiled attack in Galgaduud region.

On 17 June 2022, Somalia’s Galmudug State forces killed 67 al-Shabaab terrorists and wounded several others in a foiled attack in Bahdo area in Galgaduud region. According to the Information Minister of Galmudug— Ahmed Shire, “local residents and regional forces repulsed the attack by al-Shabaab terrorists in the region. The security forces personnel arrested a suicide bomber who was about to detonate a Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) on security forces and villagers.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Nigeria

Security forces killed 47 Boko Haram terrorists and rescued a Chibok girl in Borno.

On 12 June 2022, security forces had gun-battle with terrorists while clearing their enclave in Gazuwa in Bama Local Government Area of Borno and eliminated at least 47 Boko Haram terrorists. The security forces also rescued Mary Dauda, one of the Chibok girls abducted in 2014. “The rescued mother and child are currently in military custody, receiving medical and rehabilitation attention. Also, on 06 June 2022, troops rescued five abducted victims who were kidnapped by terrorists,” said Defence Headquarters’ spokesman— Maj Gen Bernard Onyeuko.

However, Boko Haram terrorists and their families continued to surrender before Nigerian troops in the North-East part. “Cumulatively, a total of 57,004 of Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered comprising of 12,547 males, 17,027 females, and 27,430 children,” added Maj Gen Onyeuko.
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan

IS-KP claimed responsibility for Karte Parwan Gurudwara attack in Kabul.

On 18 June 2022, the Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP) terrorists carried out an attack on Gurudwara in Kabul in which two people, including a Sikh community member, were killed. In a statement released on its Amaq website, the IS-KP claimed the responsibility of the attack and called it a targeted attack on Hindus and Sikhs and the ‘apostates’ who protected them in ‘an act of support for the Messenger of Allah’.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan remained on FATF’s ‘grey list’.

On 17 June 2022, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)’s President— Marcus Pleyer had announced that Pakistan would remain on ‘grey list’ of nations that do not take full measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. The announcement gave a blow to Pakistan’s newly elected government, which said it has mostly complied with the FATF’s tasks set for Pakistan. “An onsite inspection by FATF team in Pakistan would be done before October 2022. However, FATF is praising Pakistan for implementing the organisation’s action plans— a clear indication that Pakistan is moving closer to getting off the ‘grey list’”, said FATF President Pleyer.
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China blocked India-US’ joint move to designate deputy chief of LeT as terrorist under the UNSC sanctions.

At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), China blocked a joint move by India and the United States (US) to enlist Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)’s deputy chief— Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist, by placing a ‘technical hold’ on the proposal.

China’s move was in the similar fashion which it had adopted to repeatedly block the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief— Masood Azhar, under the UNSC’s al-Qa’ida and ISIL Sanctions Committee, before finally relenting in May 2019 in the face of international pressure.
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DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K in ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 14 locations in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in districts of Srinagar, Baramulla, Pulwama, Anantnag, Budgam, and Kathua, in connection with the ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.
The case— RC-05/2022/NIA/JMU relates to terror conspiracy hatched by Pakistan-based commanders of terrorist organisations for furthering terror activities, including targeted killings of minorities, security forces personnel, and attacking religious pilgrimages, including Holy Sri Amarnathji Yatra, Shri Maa Vaishno Devi Yatra.
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Security forces killed three terrorists in two separate CT operations in Pulwama and Baramulla.

On 21 June 2022, security forces eliminated three terrorists in two separate counter-terrorism (CT) operations in Pulwama and Baramulla districts of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). In first operation, security forces carried out a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Tulibal village in Sopore area of Baramulla district and killed an unidentified terrorist.

In other CT operation on the same day, security forces killed two terrorists in Tujjan area in Pulwama district. According to police reports, one of the slain terrorists was identified as Majid Nasir of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).
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NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested a terrorist in ‘TRF Conspiracy’ case.

On 22 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 11 locations in the Union of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)’s Srinagar, Kulgam, Pulwama and Ganderbal districts and arrested a terrorist— Mudasir Ahmed Dar, from Kulgam.

The case— RC-32/2021/NIA/DLI relates to the activities of The Resistance Front (TRF), which is an off-shoot terror group of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), for radicalising, motivating, and recruiting youth from
J&K to undertake terror activities in the Valley and other parts of India. Mudasir was involved in providing logistic support and transportation of arms and ammunition.
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“Security forces have eliminated 118 terrorists, mostly of LeT, since January 2022”: claimed J&K Police.

Compared to the previous year, security forces have eliminated 63 more terrorists in 2022. “Since January 2022, security forces killed 118 terrorists, including 32 foreign terrorists. Out of 118, 77 terrorists were belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and 26 were of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM),” said Inspector-General of Police (IGP) (Kashmir)— Vijay Kumar. Since 15 June 2022, 17 terrorists have been killed in the Valley.
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NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested four OGWs from Pulwama.

On 20 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched seven locations in Pulwama district of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and arrested four Over-Ground Workers (OGWs)—i) Sahil Ahmed Khan, ii) Jahangir Ahmed Dar, iii) Shahid Ahmed Shergojri, and iv) Inayat Gulzar Bhat, for harbouring Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists in the Valley and arranged transportation and logistic support for them.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/JMU relates to the activities of JeM, in which two terrorists were eliminated by security forces at Chewa Kalan in Pulwama on 11 March 2022.
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Security forces killed four HM terrorists in two CT operations in Anantnag and Kulgam.

On 14 June 2022, acting on an intelligence input, a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) police, Indian Army’s 1 Rashtriya Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Mishipora-Kujjar village of Yaripora area in Kulgam district and killed two Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM) terrorists.

In another counter-terrorism (CT) operation on the same day, security forces killed two HM terrorists in Hangalgund, Kokernag area of Anantnag district. “One of the slain terrorists was involved in the killing of Rajni Bala— a teacher from Samba who was assassinated at Gopal Pora Kulgam on 31 May 2022,” said Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Range— Vijay Kumar.
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Left-Wing Extremism

NIA officials arrested a Maoist in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested Iyyappan G aka Hari, from Tamil Nadu, in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.

The case— RC-02/2021/NIA/KOC pertains to membership and conduct of training camp for cadres of CPI (Maoist), including arms training, flag hoisting, and celebrations of CPI (Maoist)’s formation day during the last week of September 2016 in Nilambur forest of Malappuram district in Kerala.
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Three CRPF personnel attained Veergati in Maoist attack in Odisha.

On 21 June 2022, three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel attained Veergati (fell in the battle) in a Maoist attack in Patadhara Reserve Forest in Bheden block in Nuapada district in Odisha. “It was suspected that Maoists had prior information regarding the movement of the forces; all of a sudden, they (Maoists) opened fire on the forces,” said a police officer on anonymity basis.
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NIA officials raided multiple locations in Telangana and arrested three Maoists in ‘Peddabayalu CPI (Maoist) recruitment’ case.

On 23 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out search operations in three locations in Telangana’s Ranga Reddy, Medak and Secunderabad districts, and arrested three Maoists— i) Dongari Devendra, ii) Dubasi Swapna, and iii) Chukka Shilpa.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/HYD relates to the conspiracy and recruitment of one college student by the operatives of Chaitanya MahilaSangham (CMS)— a frontal organisation of CPI (Maoist).
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Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

Two Islamic extremists beheaded a tailor in Rajasthan over his support to Nupur Sharma’s statement on Prophet Mohammad.

On 29 June 2022, two Islamic extremists— Mohammad RiyazAkhtari and Gaus/Ghouse Mohammad posed as a customer while entering a tailor shop and beheaded the tailor— Kanhaiya Lal over his social media post supporting former BJP spokesperson— Nupur Sharma’s remarks on Prophet Mohammad.

The duo extremists shot a video of killing of Kanhaiya Lal, and also threatened Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in another video, which went viral on social media platforms. Soon, police traced and arrested both extremists from Rajsamand district, 61 km from Udaipur in Rajasthan. Prohibited orders were imposed under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) across Rajasthan for a month and mobile internet services had been suspended for 24 hours followed by the incident.
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Khalistan-inspired Extremism

Ahead of political roadshow, Khalistan slogan found at Sangrur temple gate.

On 19 June 2022, ahead of the political road show of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to be taken out by Delhi Chief Minister (CM) Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, the ‘Khalistan slogan’ and ‘26 January 2023 referendum’ was found painted at the gate of a Kali Devi temple in Sangrur.

The proscribed organisation— Sikh for Justice (SFJ)’s legal advisor— Gurpatwant Singh Pannun uploaded a video on social media and informed that “the AAP formed government in Punjab with the support, including financial, of pro-Khalistan Sikhs. The Khalistan Referendum votes will be polled on 26 January 2023 and if AAP government tried to take any step against it, they will be reminded about the assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh. The only solution of Punjab is Khalistan.”
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Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs)

NIA officials searched two locations in West Bengal in case of ‘Seizure of FICN at Kolkata’.

On 26 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out search operation at two locations in Golabgunj and Sultangunj in Kaliachak Police Station area in Malda district of West Bengal.

The search operation was related to the case— RC-08/2020/NIA/DLI, in which high quality Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) of worth ₹ 3,46,000 were recovered from possession of two FICN traffickers— i) Senaul SK, and ii) Akramul, near Calcutta Sports Journalists’ Club, Maidan Tent, Kolkata. During the search operations, NIA officials seized digital devices, including mobile phone, SIMs, and other incriminating materials.
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NIA filed chargesheet against four FICN traffickers in case of ‘Seizure of FICN and Gold at IGI Airport New Delhi’.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet before the NIA Special Court (New Delhi) against four Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) traffickers— i) Mohammad Shahjan (Uttar Pradesh), ii) Amir ul-Haq (Delhi), iii) Abdul Wahid (Delhi), and iv) Amandeep Singh (Punjab), in a case related to the seizure of the FICN and Gold at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi.

In case— RC-05/2022/NIA/DLI, the custom officials seized FICNs worth ₹ 10 lakhs and 175 gms of Gold from Mohammad Shahjan who had arrived from Ras al-Khaimah airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to the investigation, Shahjan conspired with other FICN traffickers, including Amir ul-Haq and Amandeep Singh. Abdul Wahid used to provide logistic support and arrange funds for visa and air tickets of the ‘human couriers’ involved in smuggling of FICN and gold to India.
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Human-Trafficking

NIA officials searched a location in Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker.

On 22 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched a location in Deoband in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker— Mazid Ullah (resident of Myanmar) in the conspiracy of illegal trafficking of Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims into India.
The search operation was related to the case— RC-05/2021/NIA/GUW, in which NIA officials seized digital devices, including mobile phones, SIM cards and memory sticks, and other incriminating materials.
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