SOURCE: AFI

In a recent column for “The Print,” General Manoj Mukund Naravane, the retired Indian Army General and former 28th Chief of the Army Staff, expressed strong support for the Agnipath recruitment scheme. He believes that with the right adjustments, Agnipath can serve as a global model not only for military recruitment but also for various government jobs.

General Naravane highlighted the potential of the Agnipath scheme to revolutionize recruitment across the Indian Armed Forces. He suggested that if successfully implemented, this model could be extended to all central government jobs, including allied services and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). “This will go a long way in demonstrating and vindicating the government’s stand that the Agnipath scheme is indeed a transformative and beneficial scheme,” he stated.

SOURCE: AFI

On June 28th, 2024, a significant agreement was signed between Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the supply of crucial equipment for the Indian Army’s BMP-2 infantry combat vehicle upgrade program. This collaboration aims to enhance the firepower and operational capabilities of the BMP-2 fleet.

The contract stipulates that BEL will provide 693 fire control systems and sighting systems to AVNL. These systems will be integrated into the existing BMP-2 vehicles, transforming them into the upgraded BMP-2M variant. The upgraded BMP-2M will boast improved night-fighting capabilities, enhanced gunner’s main sight and commander’s panoramic sight, and a modernized fire control system equipped with an automatic target tracker.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant milestone for civil aviation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an Indian Air Force (IAF) owned Narrow-body Airbus A321 successfully completed a nighttime landing at INS Utkrosh airfield today. This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Indian Navy, the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in upgrading the airfield infrastructure.

The nighttime landing capability at INS Utkrosh opens new doors for increased air traffic and improved connectivity to the island chain. Civilian airlines will now be able to operate flights during evening and night hours, providing greater flexibility for passengers and businesses. This development is expected to boost tourism, trade, and overall economic activity in the region.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant strides in data dissemination with its Geoportal, Bhuvan. According to ISRO Chief S. Somanath, Bhuvan offers users ten times more detailed information compared to global giants like Google. This advancement positions Bhuvan as a powerful tool with the potential to revolutionize data-driven decision-making across various sectors.

Somanath highlighted the launch of two crucial tools, Bhuvan-Panchayat and NDEM, that significantly expand Bhuvan’s capabilities. Bhuvan’s existing reputation lies in its comprehensive geospatial data offerings, providing valuable insights and resources for diverse fields like agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management.

SOURCE: AFI

Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), has secured a significant international order for the construction of eight 6300 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) dry cargo vessels. The prestigious contract, valued at approximately Rs 1,100 crore, was awarded by Wilson ASA, a leading short-sea fleet operator in Norway.

The agreement signing ceremony, held on June 28th, 2024, formalized the construction of four 6300 TDW dry cargo vessels. An additional agreement for another four vessels of the same type is in place, with the formal contract expected to be signed by September 19, 2024.

SOURCE: AFI

Maharashtra is set to etch its name in history as the first Indian state to purchase land in Jammu and Kashmir for a dedicated tourist facility. This move marks a significant development in inter-state collaboration and signifies growing openness in the region.

The state government plans to construct a ‘Maharashtra Bhavan’ in Budgam, central Kashmir. This first-of-its-kind facility will serve as a haven for tourists visiting the valley from Maharashtra. Located strategically near Srinagar Airport, the Bhavan will likely offer accommodation, cultural experiences, and potentially act as an information center for visiting tourists.

SOURCE: AFI

Former Israeli Ambassador to India, Daniel Carmon, has sparked fresh discussions about the nature of the India-Israel arms relationship. In an interview with Ynetnews, Carmon suggested that recent Indian arms supplies to Israel, including drones and artillery shells, might be a gesture of gratitude for Israeli assistance during the 1999 Kargil War.

Carmon highlights India’s long memory regarding past support. He suggests that Israel’s willingness to supply weapons during the Kargil War may be motivating India’s current actions. This perspective portrays the recent arms transfer as a form of returning a favor.

SOURCE: AFI

NATO member Estonia, a nation renowned for its prowess in information technology and cybersecurity, is extending a hand of cooperation to India. This collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both nations in developing cutting-edge defense technologies.

Estonia, a leader in the cybersecurity domain, recognizes India’s growing defense sector ambitions. This partnership offers a unique opportunity to combine Estonian technological expertise with Indian manufacturing muscle.

SOURCE: AFI

The Philippines is flexing its military muscle in the disputed South China Sea by constructing its first land-based BrahMos anti-ship missile base. This move comes amid ongoing tensions with China over territorial claims in the resource-rich region.

Recent satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs has shed light on the new base’s development. The images reveal key facilities, including a high bay for missile maintenance and testing, and a separate, secure structure for storing the BrahMos missiles themselves.

SOURCE: AFI

In recent geopolitical discussions, experts from India have suggested leveraging Canada’s lenient stance towards the Khalistani issue. During a podcast, a notable expert proposed that India should encourage fake asylum seekers, particularly from Punjab, to exploit the already overwhelmed Canadian asylum system. This suggestion aims to address two key concerns: straining Canada’s asylum infrastructure and reducing the presence of extremists in India.

Canada has experienced a significant increase in asylum claims, putting immense pressure on its immigration system. According to recent statistics, Mexico is the leading source of asylum seekers in Canada, followed by a diverse array of countries. India ranks fourth, with approximately 9,100 asylum seekers, many originating from the Punjab region. This surge in asylum seekers has strained Canadian cities, pushing temporary shelters to their limits and stretching local budgets.