News Analysis India

Tag: National security

  • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi writes to Prez Droupadi Murmu on Agnipath scheme, urges her to intervene

    Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday wrote to President Droupadi Murmu against the Agnipath scheme, alleging there is “discrimination” in the nature and extent of benefits given to the families of slain soldiers. Urging the president to intervene, Gandhi said an “exception is warranted in this case” as she is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of India and the issue affects national security. In his two-page letter to the President of India, Gandhi said he is writing to her with an appeal to provide ‘nyya’ (justice) to Agniveers, who lay down their lives in service to the nation. “There can be no clearer illustration of the fundamental flaw in the Agnipath scheme – the creation of a ‘lesser’ cadre of soldiers who are expected to work on similar tasks with lower pay, benefits and prospects,” he said while sharing his letter to President Murmu on the scheme. “The discrimination in the nature and extent of benefits accorded to the families of our slain Agniveers, compared to regular soldiers warrants your urgent attention,” Gandhi said in his letter. AllUttar PradeshMaharashtraTamil NaduWest BengalBiharKarnatakaAndhra PradeshTelanganaKeralaMadhya PradeshRajasthanDelhiOther States “This anyaay – injustice – is why the Congress Party and our INDIA allies have strongly opposed the Agnipath scheme, and have promised to repeal it if we form the government,” the former Congress chief said. In the letter, Gandhi said, “I request you to intervene. I recognise that a President does not generally interfere in matters of policy, which are the domain of the elected government. “However, I believe an exception is warranted in this case, given both the seriousness of this issue, and your unique position. You are the Supreme Commander of India’s Armed Forces. You have taken an oath to devote yourself to the well-being of the people of India.” “Is this discrimination against our Agniveer martyrs not a risk to our national security? Is it not a grave injustice to our youth who bravely risk their lives to serve?” Gandhi asked in his letter.

    “These pressing questions can only be answered in the affirmative.

    “Therefore, I appeal to you to use your distinguished office to do nyaay – justice to Agniveer soldiers who lay down their lives, by ensuring that they receive the same benefits as any soldier who makes the highest sacrifice for our motherland,” he said.

  • Modi ki Chinese guarantee”: Congress Chief Kharge alleges Centre of putting country’s territorial integrity “at risk

    Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday alleged that the Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has put the country’s territorial integrity and national security “at risk” in dealing with its neighbouring country, China.

    Kharge, in a post on X, also accused the Modi government of “attacking the constitutional rights of our own citizens of Ladakh”.

    “Modi Ki Chinese Guarantee! In Ladakh, there is a strong wave of public support, with unified calls for protection for tribal communities under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution,” he said, adding that the Congress remains committed to protecting Ladakh and securing national interests at the borders.Kharge comments come as climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike in support of statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule for the Union Territory of Ladakh continues.

    “But like all other guarantees – ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’ to assure constitutional rights to the people of Ladakh remains a colossal betrayal. It is nothing but fake and Chinese in nature,” the Congress chief said.

    Kharge also alleged that the Modi government wants to exploit the eco-sensitive Himalayan glaciers of Ladakh and benefit its “crony friends”.”PM Modi’s CLEAN CHIT to China after Galwan Valley, post the sacrifice of our 20 bravehearts, has emboldened the expansionist nature of China at our strategic borders (sic),” he added.”On one hand, Modi government has put our territorial integrity and national security at risk, and on the other hand, it is attacking the Constitutional Rights of our own citizens of Ladakh,” the Congress chief added.

    He also claimed that China continues to occupy Indian territory at Depsang Plains, Hot Springs and Gogra regions.

    He also said that the Modi government failed to ensure status quo ante before 2020 despite at least 19 rounds of one-on-one talks between PM Modi and his Chinese counterpart since 2014.

  • China's 'Two Sessions' Begin Amid Economic Challenges And Political Shifts, Here's What To Expect | world news

    BEIJING: China's prestigious “Two Sessions” commences in Beijing on Monday where thousands of delegates from across the country will signal how they plan to steer the world's second-largest economy in the year ahead and try to dispel deepening concern about the challenges it faces. Chinese leader Xi Jinping and his top Communist Party officials are expected to focus on projecting confidence during the “two sessions,” a highly choreographed event where China's rubber-stamp legislature and top advisory body convene.

    The largely ceremonial political gathering is taking on heightened importance this year as China's economy has been roiled by a property sector crisis, hefty local government debt, deflation, a stock market rout and tech friction with the US — all fueling questions about whether the country will lose steam before it reaches its goal of becoming a developed global power.

    Economic Focus And Premier's Projections

    Xi faces scrutiny amid economic difficulties and rising skepticism. The past year saw him embark on an unprecedented third term, marked by economic struggles, job uncertainties, market losses, and small business challenges. Premier Li Qiang's report will unveil a 5% economic growth target for 2024 and address pressing issues from declining birth rates to tech regulation.

    Global Impact And Political Implications

    China's economic troubles reverberate globally, especially in a year where the US presidential election may strain Sino-American relations further. Leaders aim to showcase the government's ability to handle economic issues and provide confidence in China's economic trajectory.

    The “Two Sessions” serve as a platform for the government to announce strategies and key indicators, including economic growth targets and military spending. However, the space for open exchanges has diminished as Xi tightened control, raising questions about the direction of China's economic and social policies.

    Economic Debate Restrictions And Leadership Challenges

    Recent controls on economic debates, including social media restrictions on analysts, highlight the government's efforts to control narratives. Xi's political shakeup and challenges faced by the new administration raise questions about the future direction of China and its impact on the global economy.

    Crucial Topics And Global Relations

    The sessions will shed light on China's stance on Taiwan, relations with the US, and efforts to bolster innovation amid tech export controls. Observers anticipate a possible shift in tone towards a more conciliatory stance, temporarily easing the confrontational 'wolf warrior diplomacy.'

    Leadership Appointments And Foreign Minister's Role

    The unexpected removal of officials, including the foreign minister and defense minister, adds an element of uncertainty. A new foreign minister's appointment and potential high-ranking cabinet posts fillings will be closely monitored, as they signal shifts in China's leadership and foreign policy.

    NPC Dynamics: Ousting And Appointments

    The NPC's Standing Committee witnessed the removal of 11 members, including key figures linked to China's military apparatus. The departures, particularly of Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Defense Minister Li Shangfu, prompt questions about military dynamics and leadership judgment.

    Deciphering NPC And CPPCC Roles

    Although technically independent from the CCP, both the NPC and CPPCC are significantly influenced by it. While the NPC is China's primary legislative body, the CPPCC operates as a political advisory entity, fostering collaboration and extending CCP influence.

    NPC's Significance Beyond Formality

    Despite being colloquially labeled a “rubber stamp,” the NPC holds importance beyond formality. Limited public input and occasional displays of dissent showcase its role in representing citizen interests on less sensitive issues.

    Influence of Non-Party Actors And Global Market Skepticism

    China's political landscape accommodates diverse interest groups, including advocates for women's rights and environmentalists. Their influence, however, remains constrained by the CCP's dominance. Market skepticism prevails as observers await the impact of confidence projections and measures announced during the “Two Sessions.”

  • India wants friendly relations with neighbours but not at cost of national security: Rajnath Singh

    By Express News Service

    THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: India wants to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbours but not at the cost of the country’s national security, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said.

    He was inaugurating the 90th Sivagiri pilgrimage at Varkala near here on Friday. The Defence Minister’s remarks assume significance in the wake of India’s recent border skirmishes with China in the country’s northeast.

    “We can change our friends, but not our neighbours,” Rajnath reminded, quoting former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee to stress the importance of maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries.

    “However, there will be no compromise on our national security,” he asserted. Rajnath said India’s soldiers were fiercely guarding the country’s borders by following the ideals of spiritual leaders like Sree Narayana Guru. 

    Rajnath said that while he was defending the country’s ‘body’ as a Defence Minister, spiritual leaders including those in Sivagiri, were defending the country’s ‘soul’. “A country can survive only if its body and soul are safe,” he said. Rajanth also assured that works relating to the Union government’s Rs 17 crore worth projects for the development of Sivagiri will be expedited.

    Union Minister for State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings based on Vedas and Upanishads disprove the propaganda of people with narrow interests that his ideals were not connected with ‘sanatana dharma’ (Hinduism).  He also blamed the state government for violence, evil practices and increasing consumption of alcohol and narcotic substances in the state known as the land of Sree Narayana Guru.

    Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust president Sree Narayana Dharmasangham Trust president Swami Satchidananda presided over the function. The pilgrimage to Sivagiri, the final resting place of renowned spiritual leader and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, is held every year for three days from December 30 to January 1.

    THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: India wants to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbours but not at the cost of the country’s national security, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said.

    He was inaugurating the 90th Sivagiri pilgrimage at Varkala near here on Friday. The Defence Minister’s remarks assume significance in the wake of India’s recent border skirmishes with China in the country’s northeast.

    “We can change our friends, but not our neighbours,” Rajnath reminded, quoting former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee to stress the importance of maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries.

    “However, there will be no compromise on our national security,” he asserted. Rajnath said India’s soldiers were fiercely guarding the country’s borders by following the ideals of spiritual leaders like Sree Narayana Guru. 

    Rajnath said that while he was defending the country’s ‘body’ as a Defence Minister, spiritual leaders including those in Sivagiri, were defending the country’s ‘soul’. “A country can survive only if its body and soul are safe,” he said. Rajanth also assured that works relating to the Union government’s Rs 17 crore worth projects for the development of Sivagiri will be expedited.

    Union Minister for State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings based on Vedas and Upanishads disprove the propaganda of people with narrow interests that his ideals were not connected with ‘sanatana dharma’ (Hinduism).  He also blamed the state government for violence, evil practices and increasing consumption of alcohol and narcotic substances in the state known as the land of Sree Narayana Guru.

    Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust president Sree Narayana Dharmasangham Trust president Swami Satchidananda presided over the function. The pilgrimage to Sivagiri, the final resting place of renowned spiritual leader and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, is held every year for three days from December 30 to January 1.

  • I&B ministry blocks Pak-based OTT for anti-India TV series

    By Express News Service

    NEW DELHI:  The ministry of information and broadcasting (I&B) on Monday issued directions for blocking a Pakistan-based OTT platform’s website, two mobile applications, four social media accounts and a smart TV app, saying a series being shown by it was detrimental to India’s national security and integrity.

    The platform Vidly TV released a web series titled “Sevak: The Confessions” on the anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and was found to be detrimental to the national security, sovereignty and integrity of India.

    Three episodes of the web series have been released till date, it said. This is for the first time; the ministry has blocked the OTT platform service based in Pakistan. It has been issuing directions to block social media handles and youtube channels, which would run an anti-India agenda and spread fake news.   

    “Action against Pakistan-based Vidly TV follows the assessment that the provocative and wholly untrue web series “Sevak” was sponsored by Pakistan’s info ops apparatus. First (of 3) episode was released on 26.11.2022, the anniversary of Pakistani terror attacks on Mumbai in 2008,” senior adviser at the ministry Kanchan Gupta said on Twitter.

    The web series portrayed an anti-India narrative on sensitive historical events and subjects of national importance such as Operation Blue Star and its aftermath, the demolition of the Babri Masjid at Ayodhya, the killing of a Christian missionary named Graham Staines, Malegaon blasts, Samjhauta Express blasts and inter-state river water dispute related to Sutlej Yamuna Link canal.

    “The web series portrayed an anti-India narrative on sensitive historical events and subjects of national importance…Promoting hatred in the people against the Government of India: The series contains several dialogues such as passing of wounds by the Sikh people to their next generations in the context of Operation Blue Star,” said the ministry.

    NEW DELHI:  The ministry of information and broadcasting (I&B) on Monday issued directions for blocking a Pakistan-based OTT platform’s website, two mobile applications, four social media accounts and a smart TV app, saying a series being shown by it was detrimental to India’s national security and integrity.

    The platform Vidly TV released a web series titled “Sevak: The Confessions” on the anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and was found to be detrimental to the national security, sovereignty and integrity of India.

    Three episodes of the web series have been released till date, it said. This is for the first time; the ministry has blocked the OTT platform service based in Pakistan. It has been issuing directions to block social media handles and youtube channels, which would run an anti-India agenda and spread fake news.   

    “Action against Pakistan-based Vidly TV follows the assessment that the provocative and wholly untrue web series “Sevak” was sponsored by Pakistan’s info ops apparatus. First (of 3) episode was released on 26.11.2022, the anniversary of Pakistani terror attacks on Mumbai in 2008,” senior adviser at the ministry Kanchan Gupta said on Twitter.

    The web series portrayed an anti-India narrative on sensitive historical events and subjects of national importance such as Operation Blue Star and its aftermath, the demolition of the Babri Masjid at Ayodhya, the killing of a Christian missionary named Graham Staines, Malegaon blasts, Samjhauta Express blasts and inter-state river water dispute related to Sutlej Yamuna Link canal.

    “The web series portrayed an anti-India narrative on sensitive historical events and subjects of national importance…Promoting hatred in the people against the Government of India: The series contains several dialogues such as passing of wounds by the Sikh people to their next generations in the context of Operation Blue Star,” said the ministry.

  • Cyber security limited not only to digital world but national matters also: PM Narendra Modi

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: Cyber security is no longer limited to just the digital world as it has now become a matter of national security, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

    He also noted that the process of importing defence items is so long that by the time they reach our security forces, many of them have become outdated and therefore, the solution is to go for indigenous manufacturing.

    “Even during the period of slavery and immediately after Independence, the strength of our defence manufacturing was very high. Weapons made in India played a big role in World War II,” he said in his address at the Defence Ministry’s post-budget webinar.

    Although this strength of ours kept on weakening in later years, it shows that there was no shortage of capacity in India then and neither it is there now, he added. About 70 percent of this year’s defence budget has been kept for domestic industry only, he said.

    “The strength of India’s IT is our great strength. The more we use this power in our defence sector, the more confident we will be in our security. For example, cyber security is no longer limited to the digital world only. It has become a matter of national security,” he noted.

    It is a source of happiness that in the last five-six years, India has increased defence exports by six times, he said. Today, India is providing Made in India defence equipments and services to more than 75 countries, he noted.