The India-Russia Joint venture, from its manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh has handed over 40,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to India's defence ministry under a 2021 contract. The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India. The factory started producing AK-203 rifles in early 2023, and produces AK203 rifles that are intended to replace the aging INSAS rifles in the Indian armed forces.
The project aligns with India's "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, aiming for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. A statement from Russia's main defence export agency Rosoboronexport, confirming the delivery of 40,000 AK rifles said, "the project is a shining example of a successful Make in India partnership.
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Both state and private Indian manufacturing enterprises, laboratories, etc. are involved in the work, pointing that the joint venture's order portfolio is expected to "expand" with applications being received from other security agencies, in addition to India's Defense ministry.&nbsp;
The current rifles that have been handed over to the Indian Defence Ministry have substantial made in India components, with plans to increase it to 100 localisations. The Aero India 2025 which is underway in the Southern Indian city of Bengaluru has guards with the IRRPL manufactured rifles.&nbsp;
The joint venture has been tasked with producing over 600,000 (6 lakh) AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian armed forces. The Rs 5,000 cr agreement was signed in 2021. The rifles are to be produced with a complete technology transfer from Russia, aiming for 100% localization in India. The project has been symbolic of close India, Russia defence partnership. Rosoboronexport has actively proposed the Su-57E for direct purchase or joint production in India.

The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India.

The India-Russia Joint venture, from its manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh has handed over 40,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to India's defence ministry under a 2021 contract. The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India. The factory started producing AK-203 rifles in early 2023, and produces AK203 rifles that are intended to replace the aging INSAS rifles in the Indian armed forces. The project aligns with India's "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, aiming for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. A statement from Russia's main defence export agency Rosoboronexport, confirming the delivery of 40,000 AK rifles said, "the project is a shining example of a successful Make in India partnership. Also Read: In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln Both state and private Indian manufacturing enterprises, laboratories, etc. are involved in the work, pointing that the joint venture's order portfolio is expected to "expand" with applications being received from other security agencies, in addition to India's Defense ministry. The current rifles that have been handed over to the Indian Defence Ministry have substantial made in India components, with plans to increase it to 100 localisations. The Aero India 2025 which is underway in the Southern Indian city of Bengaluru has guards with the IRRPL manufactured rifles. The joint venture has been tasked with producing over 600,000 (6 lakh) AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian armed forces. The Rs 5,000 cr agreement was signed in 2021. The rifles are to be produced with a complete technology transfer from Russia, aiming for 100% localization in India. The project has been symbolic of close India, Russia defence partnership. Rosoboronexport has actively proposed the Su-57E for direct purchase or joint production in India.

India-Russia Joint venture hands 40,000 India-made AK203 to MoD

New Delhi: Oman will be hosting the 8th edition of the Indian Ocean Conference from February 16th to 17th. The conference is being organised by the India Foundation in association with Oman&rsquo;s foreign ministry, with the theme being &ldquo;Voyages to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership&rdquo;. The mega event is supported by foreign ministers of India and Singapore. Announcing the conference at a presser in Muscat, President of the India Foundation, Ram Madhav, said, &ldquo;The conference brings together the countries of the Indian Ocean region. It has become a calendar event, not only in the region but the entire world.&rdquo;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-led-indian-govt-to-table-new-immigration-and-foreigners-bill-in-parliament-here-are-key-details-8714137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Narendra Modi-led Indian govt to table new Immigration and Foreigners Bill in Parliament. Here are key details</a>
Oman Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi (host), India&rsquo;s EAM Dr S Jaishankar, along with foreign ministers of Australia Penny Wong, Bahrain Abdullatif Bin Rashid, Bhutan DN Dhungyel, Iran Abbas Araghchi, Maldives FM Abdulla Khaleel, Mauritius D Ramful, Nepal Arzu Rana Deuba, Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath, Seychelles Errol Fonseka, Eritrea FM Osman Saleh, will be present in Muscat.
Around 27 foreign ministers will be attending the gathering, with delegations from 45 countries in attendance. Multilateral organisations like IORA, the Indian Ocean Commission, and BRICS will also be present. Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain is expected to be present as well. The conference aligns with Oman&rsquo;s Vision 2040, which focuses on economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and promoting renewable energy.
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The Indian Ocean Conference was started by the India Foundation in 2016 in Singapore, and over the years, it has emerged as the flagship consultative forum for countries in the region over regional affairs. The last conference took place in Perth in February 2024.
Pointing to close ties between India and Oman, Madhav pointed out that both countries have been &ldquo;strategic partners for the last 15 years and civilisational cousins for 5000 years. Bond has been a very strong bond, people to people bond&rdquo;. The meeting comes at a time when the western Indian Ocean region has seen instability with Houthi attacks on vessels passing through the Gulf of Aden. Piracy has been another challenge, especially around Somalia. Around 80% of global seaborne trade by volume uses the Indian Ocean for transit. Approximately 40% of the world&rsquo;s oil supply and 64% of oil trade pass through the Indian Ocean, with critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca being particularly significant.
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World | India News: The Indian Ocean Conference was started by the India Foundation in 2016 in Singapore, and over the years, it has emerged as the flagship consultative forum for countries in the region over regional affairs.

New Delhi: Oman will be hosting the 8th edition of the Indian Ocean Conference from February 16th to 17th. The conference is being organised by the India Foundation in association with Oman’s foreign ministry, with the theme being “Voyages to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership”. The mega event is supported by foreign ministers of India and Singapore. Announcing the conference at a presser in Muscat, President of the India Foundation, Ram Madhav, said, “The conference brings together the countries of the Indian Ocean region. It has become a calendar event, not only in the region but the entire world.” Also read: Narendra Modi-led Indian govt to table new Immigration and Foreigners Bill in Parliament. Here are key details Oman Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi (host), India’s EAM Dr S Jaishankar, along with foreign ministers of Australia Penny Wong, Bahrain Abdullatif Bin Rashid, Bhutan DN Dhungyel, Iran Abbas Araghchi, Maldives FM Abdulla Khaleel, Mauritius D Ramful, Nepal Arzu Rana Deuba, Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath, Seychelles Errol Fonseka, Eritrea FM Osman Saleh, will be present in Muscat. Around 27 foreign ministers will be attending the gathering, with delegations from 45 countries in attendance. Multilateral organisations like IORA, the Indian Ocean Commission, and BRICS will also be present. Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain is expected to be present as well. The conference aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040, which focuses on economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and promoting renewable energy. Also read: US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report The Indian Ocean Conference was started by the India Foundation in 2016 in Singapore, and over the years, it has emerged as the flagship consultative forum for countries in the region over regional affairs. The last conference took place in Perth in February 2024. Pointing to close ties between India and Oman, Madhav pointed out that both countries have been “strategic partners for the last 15 years and civilisational cousins for 5000 years. Bond has been a very strong bond, people to people bond”. The meeting comes at a time when the western Indian Ocean region has seen instability with Houthi attacks on vessels passing through the Gulf of Aden. Piracy has been another challenge, especially around Somalia. Around 80% of global seaborne trade by volume uses the Indian Ocean for transit. Approximately 40% of the world’s oil supply and 64% of oil trade pass through the Indian Ocean, with critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca being particularly significant. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine 'open to land swap' with Russia

Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference from Feb 16-17th

The Indian army uses a range of rifles from INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle, to Russian-origin AK-203 assault rifles to German-origin SIG Sauer SIG716 rifle. While INSAS has been widely used across the Indian military and paramilitary forces, particularly for counter-insurgency operations, focus has also been on the use of German SIG Sauer SIG716 and Russian AK-203 assault rifles. Policy has been a mix of India made rifles to imports from foreign countries and local manufacturing of foreign rifles, a policy that has emerged due to several reasons like delays in domestic production and operational demands.
<h2>INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle</h2>
Developed by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), INSAS is widely used by Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and various paramilitary forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Border Security Force (BSF). It has faced its own set of issues, which include jamming, limited stopping power, and is being replaced rapidly. All in all, INSAS was a pioneering effort for India in terms of indigenous weapon design and manufacturing.
<h2>Russian Origin AK-203</h2>
The Indian Army has planned to acquire 670,000 AK-203 rifles. Of these, 70,000 were initially purchased directly from Russia with deliveries starting in January 2022. The remaining 600,000 are to be locally manufactured in India through a joint venture named Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) with Tech transfers from Russia. The joint venture involves Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (formerly Ordnance Factory Board) from India and Kalashnikov Concern and Rosoboronexport from Russia.
<h2>Russian origin but local manufacturing</h2>
The initial batches of rifles produced in India have an indigenization level of around 25%, which is set to increase in phases. The goal is to achieve 100% localization for the production of these rifles. The AK-203 is intended to replace the aging INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifles and various other AK-series rifles currently in service. Main aim of AK 203 is for widespread use among infantry soldiers.
<h2>German-origin SIG Sauer SIG716</h2>
The Indian Army initially ordered 72,400 SIG716 rifles in February 2019 under a fast-track procurement process due to local production delays in rifles. These rifles have been issued to frontline troops, particularly those involved in counter-insurgency operations in regions like Jammu and Kashmir and along the Line of Control with Pakistan. SIG Sauer, in partnership with India's Nibe Group, plans to manufacture small arms in India which will help in reducing import dependency and potentially customizing the rifles for local conditions. These rifles are basically battle rifles and high cost is a deterrent in widespread use by the Indian military.
<h2>SIG716 vs AK 203</h2>
SIG716 requires specialised ammunition and is yet to be fully integrated into India's existing logistics supply chain, while the AK-203 was more cost-effective and compatible with existing Kalashnikov-based systems in use by the Indian armed forces. Everything currently hinges on local manufacturing of AK203 under India Russia joint venture. While stopgap solutions like the SIG716, while effective in the short term, add financial strain and logistical complications. Delhi, of course, is focusing on local manufacturing as a long-term answer for India's infantry modernisation.
<h2>Other Rifles Used in Indian Army</h2>
The Indian Army uses Caracal CAR 816 procured from a UAE company in 2019 under a fast-track procurement process, Israeli Tavor TAR 21 which is a staple for Indian Special Forces including MARCOS. Focus also remains on local development of small arms.&nbsp;

India News | INSAS has been widely used across the Indian military and paramilitary forces, particularly for counter-insurgency operations, 

The Indian army uses a range of rifles from INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle, to Russian-origin AK-203 assault rifles to German-origin SIG Sauer SIG716 rifle. While INSAS has been widely used across the Indian military and paramilitary forces, particularly for counter-insurgency operations, focus has also been on the use of German SIG Sauer SIG716 and Russian AK-203 assault rifles. Policy has been a mix of India made rifles to imports from foreign countries and local manufacturing of foreign rifles, a policy that has emerged due to several reasons like delays in domestic production and operational demands. INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifle Developed by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), INSAS is widely used by Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and various paramilitary forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Border Security Force (BSF). It has faced its own set of issues, which include jamming, limited stopping power, and is being replaced rapidly. All in all, INSAS was a pioneering effort for India in terms of indigenous weapon design and manufacturing. Russian Origin AK-203 The Indian Army has planned to acquire 670,000 AK-203 rifles. Of these, 70,000 were initially purchased directly from Russia with deliveries starting in January 2022. The remaining 600,000 are to be locally manufactured in India through a joint venture named Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) with Tech transfers from Russia. The joint venture involves Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (formerly Ordnance Factory Board) from India and Kalashnikov Concern and Rosoboronexport from Russia. Russian origin but local manufacturing The initial batches of rifles produced in India have an indigenization level of around 25%, which is set to increase in phases. The goal is to achieve 100% localization for the production of these rifles. The AK-203 is intended to replace the aging INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifles and various other AK-series rifles currently in service. Main aim of AK 203 is for widespread use among infantry soldiers. German-origin SIG Sauer SIG716 The Indian Army initially ordered 72,400 SIG716 rifles in February 2019 under a fast-track procurement process due to local production delays in rifles. These rifles have been issued to frontline troops, particularly those involved in counter-insurgency operations in regions like Jammu and Kashmir and along the Line of Control with Pakistan. SIG Sauer, in partnership with India's Nibe Group, plans to manufacture small arms in India which will help in reducing import dependency and potentially customizing the rifles for local conditions. These rifles are basically battle rifles and high cost is a deterrent in widespread use by the Indian military. SIG716 vs AK 203 SIG716 requires specialised ammunition and is yet to be fully integrated into India's existing logistics supply chain, while the AK-203 was more cost-effective and compatible with existing Kalashnikov-based systems in use by the Indian armed forces. Everything currently hinges on local manufacturing of AK203 under India Russia joint venture. While stopgap solutions like the SIG716, while effective in the short term, add financial strain and logistical complications. Delhi, of course, is focusing on local manufacturing as a long-term answer for India's infantry modernisation. Other Rifles Used in Indian Army The Indian Army uses Caracal CAR 816 procured from a UAE company in 2019 under a fast-track procurement process, Israeli Tavor TAR 21 which is a staple for Indian Special Forces including MARCOS. Focus also remains on local development of small arms.

Explainer: The usage of assault rifles by Indian Army

Keen to step up defence ties, Russia's state-run Rosoboronexport is keen to cooperate with India on Su-57E, with proposals including joint production of the fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with India. The proposals for joint production include using the same factories where the Su-30MKI fighter is currently manufactured.&nbsp;
 A Rosoboronexport representative told WION, "Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of aircraft from Russia and organization of its joint production in India."
The Su-57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II. The presence of both Su 57 and F35 shows India's growing position as key to global defence markets. Russia's Su 57 E at the Aero India is flown by Sergei Bogdan. The fighter jet was created by United Aircraft Cooperation (UAC), which boasts of advanced stealth technology, super-maneuverability, and integrated modular avionics and is designed for air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions.
Rosoboronexport representative pointed out that Su 57E "outperforms its competitors by its flight performance characteristics and combat capabilities". India and Russia, who are close defence partners, have also close cooperation on fighter jet development and procurement. India has acquired a significant number of Russian fighter jets, including the MiG-21, MiG-29, and the Su-30MKI, which has been indigenously produced in India under license.&nbsp;
Russia has shown a willingness to align with India's strategic initiatives like "Make in India," offering not just aircraft but also support in manufacturing, maintenance, and technology transfer.
While there is no response from the Indian side on the current Russian proposal, it is important to remember that India has its own fighter jet programs like Tejas and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft which have faced delays. In 2007, India and Russia embarked on a project to jointly develop a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, however, the Indian side withdrew from the project in 2018 due to various issues including cost, technology transfer, and performance concerns.

The Su 57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II.

Keen to step up defence ties, Russia's state-run Rosoboronexport is keen to cooperate with India on Su-57E, with proposals including joint production of the fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with India. The proposals for joint production include using the same factories where the Su-30MKI fighter is currently manufactured. A Rosoboronexport representative told WION, "Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of aircraft from Russia and organization of its joint production in India." The Su-57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II. The presence of both Su 57 and F35 shows India's growing position as key to global defence markets. Russia's Su 57 E at the Aero India is flown by Sergei Bogdan. The fighter jet was created by United Aircraft Cooperation (UAC), which boasts of advanced stealth technology, super-maneuverability, and integrated modular avionics and is designed for air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Rosoboronexport representative pointed out that Su 57E "outperforms its competitors by its flight performance characteristics and combat capabilities". India and Russia, who are close defence partners, have also close cooperation on fighter jet development and procurement. India has acquired a significant number of Russian fighter jets, including the MiG-21, MiG-29, and the Su-30MKI, which has been indigenously produced in India under license. Russia has shown a willingness to align with India's strategic initiatives like "Make in India," offering not just aircraft but also support in manufacturing, maintenance, and technology transfer. While there is no response from the Indian side on the current Russian proposal, it is important to remember that India has its own fighter jet programs like Tejas and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft which have faced delays. In 2007, India and Russia embarked on a project to jointly develop a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, however, the Indian side withdrew from the project in 2018 due to various issues including cost, technology transfer, and performance concerns.

Russia offers joint production of SU 57E fighter jet to India

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will head to France on Monday, his first foreign visit of 2025, to attend the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit and will also inaugurate a consulate in Marseille in the south of France. The AI Summit will be co-chaired by PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron as focus grows on governance and rules for Artificial Intelligence. While India and France are looking to come up with a joint road map for AI, the summit&rsquo;s expected outcomes include the announcement of an AI foundation, how AI impacts the world, including the job market, and issues relating to safety.
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&ldquo;Artificial Intelligence is bound to have and is already having profound impact across all sectors of the economy, polity, society, and governance. And therefore, summits such as the AI Action Summit are both significant and timely. For those of you who follow AI closely, you would be aware that this is the third such high-level summit that is being held in the very recent past. The first of these was in the UK in 2023, the second one in the Republic of Korea in 2024, and now this one in France,&rdquo; India&rsquo;s foreign secretary Vikram Misri said last week while sharing details of PM Modi&rsquo;s visit to the country.
Other world leaders present at the summit include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Canada&rsquo;s outgoing PM Justin Trudeau, President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen, Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg, Rwanda President Paul Kagame, Netherlands PM Sick Schoof, Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Estonia President Alar Karis, Latvia President Edgars Rinkevics, Sweden PM Ulf Kristersson, Finland PM Petteri Orpo, Luxembourg PM Luc Frieden, Ireland Taoiseach, Croatia PM Andrej Plenkovic, Slovenia PM Robert Golob, Togo President Faure Gnassingbe, Slovakia President Peter Pellegrini, Czech Republic President Petr Pavel, Djibouti PM Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, Malta PM Robert Abela, Albania PM Edi Rama and Armenia PM Nikol Pashinyan.&nbsp;
lso Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltic-states-estonia-latvia-lithuania-cut-power-ties-with-russia-plug-into-european-power-grid-8705257" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Freedom from threats, blackmail': Baltic states cut power ties with Russia, plug into European power grid</a>
China will be represented by Vice Premier Guoqing Zhang, US by Vice President VD Vance, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres will also be present. Other than world leaders, the summit will see the participation of leaders from tech, finance and AI sectors. This includes Sundar Pichai of Google, Sam Altman of OpenAI, financial titans like Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan, Yasir Al Rumayyan from the Saudi Public Investment Fund, tech innovators such as Lisa Su of AMD and Cl&eacute;ment Delangue of Hugging Face, and policy and ethics advocates like Meredith Whittaker from Signal and Alexandra Reeve Givens from the Center for Democracy and Technology.
Also, this is the 2nd time that India and France are coming together for an issue that has global impact, after climate. In 2015, on the sidelines of the Paris climate summit, India and France announced the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which seeks to harness the energy of the sun and today has over 100 signatures.
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The upcoming visit of PM Modi to France is his second one to the country since 2023, when he was invited to be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade in Paris.&nbsp;
During the visit, both PM Modi and French President Macron will inaugurate the Indian Consulate in Marseille, which is expected to help in consular support to Indians in the south of France. Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast, is expected to be the key point, along with Mumbai, of the India-Middle East Europe corridor that was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | India News: While India and France are looking to come up with a joint road map for AI, the summit’s expected outcomes include the announcement of an AI foundation, how AI impacts the world, including the job market, and issues relating to safety.

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will head to France on Monday, his first foreign visit of 2025, to attend the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit and will also inaugurate a consulate in Marseille in the south of France. The AI Summit will be co-chaired by PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron as focus grows on governance and rules for Artificial Intelligence. While India and France are looking to come up with a joint road map for AI, the summit’s expected outcomes include the announcement of an AI foundation, how AI impacts the world, including the job market, and issues relating to safety. Also Read | Americans deem misuse of campaign funds, ignoring subpoenas among top presidential misdeeds: Poll “Artificial Intelligence is bound to have and is already having profound impact across all sectors of the economy, polity, society, and governance. And therefore, summits such as the AI Action Summit are both significant and timely. For those of you who follow AI closely, you would be aware that this is the third such high-level summit that is being held in the very recent past. The first of these was in the UK in 2023, the second one in the Republic of Korea in 2024, and now this one in France,” India’s foreign secretary Vikram Misri said last week while sharing details of PM Modi’s visit to the country. Other world leaders present at the summit include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Canada’s outgoing PM Justin Trudeau, President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen, Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg, Rwanda President Paul Kagame, Netherlands PM Sick Schoof, Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Estonia President Alar Karis, Latvia President Edgars Rinkevics, Sweden PM Ulf Kristersson, Finland PM Petteri Orpo, Luxembourg PM Luc Frieden, Ireland Taoiseach, Croatia PM Andrej Plenkovic, Slovenia PM Robert Golob, Togo President Faure Gnassingbe, Slovakia President Peter Pellegrini, Czech Republic President Petr Pavel, Djibouti PM Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, Malta PM Robert Abela, Albania PM Edi Rama and Armenia PM Nikol Pashinyan. lso Read | 'Freedom from threats, blackmail': Baltic states cut power ties with Russia, plug into European power grid China will be represented by Vice Premier Guoqing Zhang, US by Vice President VD Vance, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres will also be present. Other than world leaders, the summit will see the participation of leaders from tech, finance and AI sectors. This includes Sundar Pichai of Google, Sam Altman of OpenAI, financial titans like Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan, Yasir Al Rumayyan from the Saudi Public Investment Fund, tech innovators such as Lisa Su of AMD and Clément Delangue of Hugging Face, and policy and ethics advocates like Meredith Whittaker from Signal and Alexandra Reeve Givens from the Center for Democracy and Technology. Also, this is the 2nd time that India and France are coming together for an issue that has global impact, after climate. In 2015, on the sidelines of the Paris climate summit, India and France announced the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which seeks to harness the energy of the sun and today has over 100 signatures. Also read: ‘There are no words’: Before and after pics of pale, gaunt Israeli hostages raise concerns The upcoming visit of PM Modi to France is his second one to the country since 2023, when he was invited to be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade in Paris. During the visit, both PM Modi and French President Macron will inaugurate the Indian Consulate in Marseille, which is expected to help in consular support to Indians in the south of France. Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast, is expected to be the key point, along with Mumbai, of the India-Middle East Europe corridor that was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit.

India’s PM Modi heads to France on Monday for AI Summit

The Indian Army employs a variety of drones for multiple operational purposes, including surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and combat. Drones remain key to battlegrounds today, something that was clear after the usage seen in Russia Ukraine and Azerbaijan-Armenia conflicts.
Wion explains the current usage, and the future of drones:
Are Drones or UAVs a necessity for India?
Given India's vast and often difficult terrain, particularly in border regions, use of drones are a must for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and targeted precision strikes. UAVs play a key role in counter-insurgency operations, border security, and internal security missions.&nbsp;
In Jammu &amp; Kashmir, for instance, drones have been instrumental in tracking insurgent movements and monitoring cross-border infiltration.&nbsp; Drones are used in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) to provide real-time assessments in disaster zones, helping in search-and-rescue operations during floods, earthquakes, and other calamities.&nbsp;
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Current usage
The Indian Army relies on Israeli-made Heron and Searcher drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. While these platforms have proven utility in border surveillance and counter-terrorism operations, the evolving nature of warfare means an upgrade is needed in the range, endurance, and strike capabilities.
Indigenous Developments
As in other domains, today the focus has been developing drones indigenously, and reducing dependence on foreign manufacturers. All in all, to build domestic defense capabilities, under the 'Make in India' initiative. The Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO)'s Rustom-II (TAPAS-BH-201) is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV and efforts are underway to enhance its capabilities to meet military specifications. &nbsp;Others include DRDO Ghatak, DRDO Lakshya, DRDO Netra. The Indian Army is focusing on building drones with enhanced resistance to electronic jamming and cyberthreats posed by adversaries. &nbsp;Private sector has also been working on its projects.
India's UAV Modernisation Drive&nbsp;
Modernisation seeks to prioritise four pillars. These include: Range Expansion: Future UAVs will be capable of operating beyond 1,000 km, significantly enhancing deep surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Increased Endurance: New-generation drones will feature endurance exceeding 24 hours, allowing for persistent monitoring and intelligence gathering.&nbsp;
High-Altitude Operations: The next-generation will be designed to operate above 30,000 feet, making them harder to detect and intercept.&nbsp;
Weaponisation: The Indian Army is planning to introduce armed drones, such as the MQ-9B Predator, to enable precision strikes against enemy targets.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-halts-trumps-citizenship-order-indefinitely-indian-nationals-in-us-get-reprieve-8699456" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order</a>
Foreign sourcing: Heron UAV which is manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Heron-1 drones have been used by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for surveillance missions. They played a role in search and rescue operations post the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.&nbsp;
MQ-9B Sea Guardian, is a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) drone from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) which has been leased by the Indian Navy and is under consideration for broader use across the services.
The China-Pak angle: China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) is emerging as a global leader in unmanned warfare, operating more than 2,000UAVs, including combat drones like the CH-5, Wing Loong series, and the stealth-capable GJ-11 Sharp Sword. Pakistan, though significantly behind China, has also strengthened its UAV capabilities, operating an estimated 150-200drones, including the CH-3-based Burraq, CH-4B, Wing Loong-1 &amp; 2, and Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones. India is naturally taking note of these developments.

India News | Given India's vast and often difficult terrain, particularly in border regions, use of drones are a must for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and targeted precision strikes. 

The Indian Army employs a variety of drones for multiple operational purposes, including surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and combat. Drones remain key to battlegrounds today, something that was clear after the usage seen in Russia Ukraine and Azerbaijan-Armenia conflicts. Wion explains the current usage, and the future of drones: Are Drones or UAVs a necessity for India? Given India's vast and often difficult terrain, particularly in border regions, use of drones are a must for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and targeted precision strikes. UAVs play a key role in counter-insurgency operations, border security, and internal security missions. In Jammu & Kashmir, for instance, drones have been instrumental in tracking insurgent movements and monitoring cross-border infiltration. Drones are used in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) to provide real-time assessments in disaster zones, helping in search-and-rescue operations during floods, earthquakes, and other calamities. Also Read: 'India has no role to play': MEA rules out involvement in Hasina's speech, summons Bangladesh envoy Current usage The Indian Army relies on Israeli-made Heron and Searcher drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. While these platforms have proven utility in border surveillance and counter-terrorism operations, the evolving nature of warfare means an upgrade is needed in the range, endurance, and strike capabilities. Indigenous Developments As in other domains, today the focus has been developing drones indigenously, and reducing dependence on foreign manufacturers. All in all, to build domestic defense capabilities, under the 'Make in India' initiative. The Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO)'s Rustom-II (TAPAS-BH-201) is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV and efforts are underway to enhance its capabilities to meet military specifications. Others include DRDO Ghatak, DRDO Lakshya, DRDO Netra. The Indian Army is focusing on building drones with enhanced resistance to electronic jamming and cyberthreats posed by adversaries. Private sector has also been working on its projects. India's UAV Modernisation Drive Modernisation seeks to prioritise four pillars. These include: Range Expansion: Future UAVs will be capable of operating beyond 1,000 km, significantly enhancing deep surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Increased Endurance: New-generation drones will feature endurance exceeding 24 hours, allowing for persistent monitoring and intelligence gathering. High-Altitude Operations: The next-generation will be designed to operate above 30,000 feet, making them harder to detect and intercept. Weaponisation: The Indian Army is planning to introduce armed drones, such as the MQ-9B Predator, to enable precision strikes against enemy targets. Also Read: Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order Foreign sourcing: Heron UAV which is manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Heron-1 drones have been used by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for surveillance missions. They played a role in search and rescue operations post the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. MQ-9B Sea Guardian, is a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) drone from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) which has been leased by the Indian Navy and is under consideration for broader use across the services. The China-Pak angle: China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) is emerging as a global leader in unmanned warfare, operating more than 2,000UAVs, including combat drones like the CH-5, Wing Loong series, and the stealth-capable GJ-11 Sharp Sword. Pakistan, though significantly behind China, has also strengthened its UAV capabilities, operating an estimated 150-200drones, including the CH-3-based Burraq, CH-4B, Wing Loong-1 & 2, and Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones. India is naturally taking note of these developments.

Explainer: Usage of Drones by Indian Army

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, &amp; an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France.
This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance &amp; China by one of its vice premiers.
<h2>Indian consulate in Marseille</h2>
PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-french-president-macron-to-jointly-inaugurate-indian-consulate-in-marseille-8691162" rel="dofollow">PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille</a>
The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit.&nbsp;
Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed G&eacute;rard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. &nbsp;
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The overall focus will be on defence &amp; security, economic ties &amp; people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students.
<h2>Defence deals</h2>
Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M &amp; Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing."
The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).&nbsp;
Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship."
PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

World News | This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. 

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, & an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France. This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance & China by one of its vice premiers. Indian consulate in Marseille PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France. Also Read: PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit. Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed Gérard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. The overall focus will be on defence & security, economic ties & people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students. Defence deals Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M & Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing." The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship." PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

AI roadmap, small modular reactor, IMEE key focus during PM Modi's France visit

New Delhi: Iranian Dutch writer Kader Abdolah has said that Indian writers and India have been inspiration for his writing. Kader, a celebrated author in Netherlands, is known for his contributions to Dutch literature.
Speaking to WION, he said, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s wonderful. The Persian classic is full of stories of our relationship with India. Many Indian parrots in golden cages want to go back home. It&rsquo;s a kind of immigration.&rdquo;
His book, &lsquo;The House of the Mosque&rsquo;, based on his family&rsquo;s experiences, was particularly successful, being voted the second-best Dutch novel in an online poll in the Netherlands. He is known for introducing to Dutch readers the nuances of Iranian culture and the complexities of living between two worlds.
Asked about India and Iran&rsquo;s cultural connect, he said, &ldquo;Your culture and language has produced wonderful literature. Rabindranath Tagore was my inspiration. I have read all his poems. Gandhi was my guide as a young man. Both left an unforgettable mark in my life.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/post/8695987" rel="dofollow">India signs key pact with Panama for Quick Impact Projects</a>
His works often explore themes of migration, cultural identity, and the clash between Eastern and Western cultures. He pointed out, &ldquo;When I published my first Dutch book, everyone said it&rsquo;s wonderful. It wasn&rsquo;t a masterpiece. It was a new language, my own language. I had put the soul of old Persian in Dutch words and sentences. Suddenly, I became a new voice in Dutch literature.&rdquo;
Abdolah has received numerous awards and honours, including the Dutch Order of the Netherlands Lion in 2000 and the French Order of Arts and Letters in 2008. He was also appointed writer in residence at Leiden University in 2006.
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Asked about navigating between two languages, his own Persian and one of his adopted country, the Netherlands, he said, &ldquo;Changing language made me a new man...when you leave your language, culture, you get the possibility to meet whole of yourself...you are a maker of your identity in different language. It is the biggest and most beautiful experience of my life.&rdquo;&nbsp; He was in India for the Jaipur Literature Festival.
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World: Abdolah has received numerous awards and honours, including the Dutch Order of the Netherlands Lion in 2000 and the French Order of Arts and Letters in 2008. He was also appointed writer in residence at Leiden University in 2006.

New Delhi: Iranian Dutch writer Kader Abdolah has said that Indian writers and India have been inspiration for his writing. Kader, a celebrated author in Netherlands, is known for his contributions to Dutch literature. Speaking to WION, he said, “It’s wonderful. The Persian classic is full of stories of our relationship with India. Many Indian parrots in golden cages want to go back home. It’s a kind of immigration.” His book, ‘The House of the Mosque’, based on his family’s experiences, was particularly successful, being voted the second-best Dutch novel in an online poll in the Netherlands. He is known for introducing to Dutch readers the nuances of Iranian culture and the complexities of living between two worlds. Asked about India and Iran’s cultural connect, he said, “Your culture and language has produced wonderful literature. Rabindranath Tagore was my inspiration. I have read all his poems. Gandhi was my guide as a young man. Both left an unforgettable mark in my life.” Also Read | India signs key pact with Panama for Quick Impact Projects His works often explore themes of migration, cultural identity, and the clash between Eastern and Western cultures. He pointed out, “When I published my first Dutch book, everyone said it’s wonderful. It wasn’t a masterpiece. It was a new language, my own language. I had put the soul of old Persian in Dutch words and sentences. Suddenly, I became a new voice in Dutch literature.” Abdolah has received numerous awards and honours, including the Dutch Order of the Netherlands Lion in 2000 and the French Order of Arts and Letters in 2008. He was also appointed writer in residence at Leiden University in 2006. Also read: Thailand legalises same sex-marriage; gets royal endorsement Asked about navigating between two languages, his own Persian and one of his adopted country, the Netherlands, he said, “Changing language made me a new man...when you leave your language, culture, you get the possibility to meet whole of yourself...you are a maker of your identity in different language. It is the biggest and most beautiful experience of my life.” He was in India for the Jaipur Literature Festival. Also read: Big win for LGBTQ+: Dominica court strikes down ban on same sex relations

Iran-Dutch author Kader Abdolah says Rabindranath Tagore’s work inspires him

New Delhi: With tensions brewing over US staking claims on the Panama Canal, citing Chinese influence, India has signed an important umbrella agreement with the central American country to implement, for the first time, Quick Impact Projects (QIP). The agreement was signed on Wednesday by India&rsquo;s Ambassador to Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, Dr. Sumit Seth, and Panama&rsquo;s Foreign Minister, Javier Mart&iacute;nez-Acha V&aacute;squez, in Panama City.
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The statement released by India said, &ldquo;The Government of India will provide grant assistance for each QIP under this framework, ensuring immediate and visible benefits for the people of Panama.&rdquo; The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to deliver &lsquo;tangible&rsquo; benefits to local communities in Panama by focusing on key areas such as physical infrastructure&mdash;roads and community centres&mdash;as well as social infrastructure, including education, healthcare, and sanitation.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6t6jufs-8sjws1dr-39oghbjo">
🇮🇳 India Panama 🇵🇦 || Touching Lives: Quick Impact Projects || To add another dimension to the relationship, Ambassador <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsumitseth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@doctorsumitseth</a> and the Foreign Minister of Panama H.E. Javier Martinez Acha <a href="https://twitter.com/javierachapma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@javierachapma</a> signed an umbrella agreement to implement Quick Impact Projects <a href="https://t.co/crS3vmezTi">pic.twitter.com/crS3vmezTi</a>
&mdash; India in Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica (@IndiainPanama) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainPanama/status/1887232146084921572?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
The initiative shows India&rsquo;s active role in supporting global development through partnerships tailored to the needs of local communities. India has reached out to Panama in the past as well, including in 2020, when the Indian government donated a medical aid package for COVID-related medical assistance to Panama. India also upgraded an IT centre in the country.&nbsp;
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The India statement further pointed out, &ldquo;By prioritising impactful and time-sensitive projects, the agreement reflects India&rsquo;s commitment to fostering stronger ties with Panama and enhancing its socio-economic infrastructure.&rdquo;
The Panamanian economy continues to be mainly services sector-oriented and heavily relies on the Panama Canal, tourism inflows, and banking transactions. India and Panama have had historic relations, including Indians going to Panama in the 20th century to help build the Panama Canal.
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World | India News: The initiative shows India’s active role in supporting global development through partnerships tailored to the needs of local communities. India also reached out to Panama in 2020 with COVID-related medical assistance.

New Delhi: With tensions brewing over US staking claims on the Panama Canal, citing Chinese influence, India has signed an important umbrella agreement with the central American country to implement, for the first time, Quick Impact Projects (QIP). The agreement was signed on Wednesday by India’s Ambassador to Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, Dr. Sumit Seth, and Panama’s Foreign Minister, Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, in Panama City. Also read: Thailand legalises same sex-marriage; gets royal endorsement The statement released by India said, “The Government of India will provide grant assistance for each QIP under this framework, ensuring immediate and visible benefits for the people of Panama.” The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to deliver ‘tangible’ benefits to local communities in Panama by focusing on key areas such as physical infrastructure—roads and community centres—as well as social infrastructure, including education, healthcare, and sanitation. 🇮🇳 India Panama 🇵🇦 || Touching Lives: Quick Impact Projects || To add another dimension to the relationship, Ambassador @doctorsumitseth and the Foreign Minister of Panama H.E. Javier Martinez Acha @javierachapma signed an umbrella agreement to implement Quick Impact Projects pic.twitter.com/crS3vmezTi — India in Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica (@IndiainPanama) February 5, 2025 The initiative shows India’s active role in supporting global development through partnerships tailored to the needs of local communities. India has reached out to Panama in the past as well, including in 2020, when the Indian government donated a medical aid package for COVID-related medical assistance to Panama. India also upgraded an IT centre in the country. Also read: Big win for LGBTQ+: Dominica court strikes down ban on same sex relations The India statement further pointed out, “By prioritising impactful and time-sensitive projects, the agreement reflects India’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with Panama and enhancing its socio-economic infrastructure.” The Panamanian economy continues to be mainly services sector-oriented and heavily relies on the Panama Canal, tourism inflows, and banking transactions. India and Panama have had historic relations, including Indians going to Panama in the 20th century to help build the Panama Canal. Also Read | Hamas 'tortured, executed' 94 members for same-sex relation, raped Israeli hostages: Report

India signs key pact with Panama for Quick Impact Projects

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will jointly inaugurate the Indian consulate in Marseille on 12th February during the former&rsquo;s France visit next week. The announcement that India will open the consulate in Marseille, a city in the south of France, on the Mediterranean coast was made during PM Modi&rsquo;s visit to France in 2023.
PM Modi, during his address to the Indian community in La Seine Musicale in 2023, made the announcement of India opening the consulate in Marseille, saying it will strengthen Indo-French ties. Overall, the consulate will cater to the growing Indian diaspora in southern France, in places like Marseille city itself, Toulouse, and the Rh&ocirc;ne-Alpes region. Opening of the consulate, India&rsquo;s second diplomatic mission after the embassy in France, will help in accessible consular services, including reducing the need for long journeys to Paris for them.
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During their visit to Marseille, both the leaders are expected to meet stakeholders from the Port of Marseille and other sectors. Marseille&rsquo;s port, the Port of Marseille-Fos, is the largest port in France and one of the largest in the Mediterranean. It handles a significant portion of France&rsquo;s import and export activities, serving as a gateway for goods moving between Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The port manages various types of cargo, including oil, containers, bulk goods, and cruise ships. The oil terminal at Fos-sur-Mer is particularly vital for the importation of petroleum products for France and neighboring countries.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-wants-ukraine-to-repay-us-aid-with-rare-earths-what-are-rare-earth-elements-8689845" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?</a>
Modi and Macron will also visit the Mazargues Cemetery to pay homage to the Indian soldiers who fought in World War I and have been commemorated at the location.&nbsp; Approximately 900 plus Indians from WWI are commemorated here, making it one of the largest concentrations of Indian war graves in France. Notably, Marseilles was the base of the Indian troops in France during World War 1, and an Indian Memorial to honour the fallen Indian soldiers was unveiled by Field Marshal Sir William Birdwood in July 1925.&nbsp; PM Modi had also visited Neuve-Chapelle Memorial in Lille in 2015 and paid homage to the 10,000 Indian soldiers who had died in World War I.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
Both the leaders are expected to travel to ITER (the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) in Saint-Paul-l&egrave;s-Durance. ITER aims to demonstrate nuclear fusion as a clean green source of unlimited energy. India is a partner in this major global collaboration to master fusion energy technology and has officially joined the project in 2005, becoming the seventh partner. India has contributed to its critical parts like cryostats, cooling water systems, and cryolines.
The Indian Prime Minister will be in France next week to attend the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris that will take place on February 10th and 11th. The summit aims to facilitate discussions on AI with significant global powers and focus on global AI governance.&nbsp; During the visit, there is a likelihood of the announcement or confirmation of two significant defence deals between India and France worth billions of dollars, which include the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy&rsquo;s aircraft carriers and three additional Scorpene-class submarines.

World | India News: Both the leaders are expected to travel to ITER (the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) in Saint-Paul-lès-Durance. ITER aims to demonstrate nuclear fusion as a clean green source of unlimited energy.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will jointly inaugurate the Indian consulate in Marseille on 12th February during the former’s France visit next week. The announcement that India will open the consulate in Marseille, a city in the south of France, on the Mediterranean coast was made during PM Modi’s visit to France in 2023. PM Modi, during his address to the Indian community in La Seine Musicale in 2023, made the announcement of India opening the consulate in Marseille, saying it will strengthen Indo-French ties. Overall, the consulate will cater to the growing Indian diaspora in southern France, in places like Marseille city itself, Toulouse, and the Rhône-Alpes region. Opening of the consulate, India’s second diplomatic mission after the embassy in France, will help in accessible consular services, including reducing the need for long journeys to Paris for them. Also Read | ‘Can’t and won’t do anything without approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up government purge During their visit to Marseille, both the leaders are expected to meet stakeholders from the Port of Marseille and other sectors. Marseille’s port, the Port of Marseille-Fos, is the largest port in France and one of the largest in the Mediterranean. It handles a significant portion of France’s import and export activities, serving as a gateway for goods moving between Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The port manages various types of cargo, including oil, containers, bulk goods, and cruise ships. The oil terminal at Fos-sur-Mer is particularly vital for the importation of petroleum products for France and neighboring countries. Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them? Modi and Macron will also visit the Mazargues Cemetery to pay homage to the Indian soldiers who fought in World War I and have been commemorated at the location. Approximately 900 plus Indians from WWI are commemorated here, making it one of the largest concentrations of Indian war graves in France. Notably, Marseilles was the base of the Indian troops in France during World War 1, and an Indian Memorial to honour the fallen Indian soldiers was unveiled by Field Marshal Sir William Birdwood in July 1925. PM Modi had also visited Neuve-Chapelle Memorial in Lille in 2015 and paid homage to the 10,000 Indian soldiers who had died in World War I. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director Both the leaders are expected to travel to ITER (the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) in Saint-Paul-lès-Durance. ITER aims to demonstrate nuclear fusion as a clean green source of unlimited energy. India is a partner in this major global collaboration to master fusion energy technology and has officially joined the project in 2005, becoming the seventh partner. India has contributed to its critical parts like cryostats, cooling water systems, and cryolines. The Indian Prime Minister will be in France next week to attend the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris that will take place on February 10th and 11th. The summit aims to facilitate discussions on AI with significant global powers and focus on global AI governance. During the visit, there is a likelihood of the announcement or confirmation of two significant defence deals between India and France worth billions of dollars, which include the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers and three additional Scorpene-class submarines.

PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel to the United States next week to meet US President Donald Trump. The expected dates of the PM&rsquo;s US travel are from 12th to 14th February. The visit of the Indian PM comes very early on in the term of the new US administration. In fact, PM Modi is among the first world leaders to meet US President Trump in the White House, following Israel PM Netanyahu, who is the first leader to meet Trump, and Jordan&rsquo;s King Abdullah II, who meets the US President on February 11th.
PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
During the January conversation, the two leaders discussed commitment to a stronger partnership between their countries and regional security issues in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on &lsquo;fair trade&rsquo; and increased procurement of US security equipment.
The White House said, &ldquo;Both leaders emphasised their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year.&rdquo;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-20-hostages-in-gaza-yet-to-be-released-from-hamas-captives-8684589" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas?</a>
The call had then also set the stage for Modi&rsquo;s anticipated visit to the US in February 2025. &ldquo;The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations,&rdquo; the White House readout stated.
India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had represented India at Donald Trump&rsquo;s swearing-in ceremony as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 at the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. During his visit, Jaishankar held meetings with key representatives of the incoming Trump administration, including new US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, setting the tone for future diplomatic relations. In fact, the first bilateral meeting Rubio had after taking charge as the Secretary of State was with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. Immigration was an issue raised during the meeting by the US side, while the Indian side highlighted the delay in visa issuance.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tariffs-trade-war-how-canada-mexico-china-reaction-european-union-8686914" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Inside how Canada, Mexico, and China are firing back at Trump&rsquo;s tariffs as he sets his sights on the EU</a>
PM Modi will travel to the US from France following his participation in the Artificial Intelligence Summit in Paris. The summit, scheduled for February 10-11, will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-leaders-ready-to-respond-if-trump-imposes-tariffs-8686934" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;EU should do all to avert &lsquo;totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars&rsquo;, says Polish PM Donald Tusk</a>

World | India News: PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January, when they discussed commitment to a stronger partnership and regional security issues.

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel to the United States next week to meet US President Donald Trump. The expected dates of the PM’s US travel are from 12th to 14th February. The visit of the Indian PM comes very early on in the term of the new US administration. In fact, PM Modi is among the first world leaders to meet US President Trump in the White House, following Israel PM Netanyahu, who is the first leader to meet Trump, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II, who meets the US President on February 11th. PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January. Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink During the January conversation, the two leaders discussed commitment to a stronger partnership between their countries and regional security issues in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on ‘fair trade’ and increased procurement of US security equipment. The White House said, “Both leaders emphasised their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year.” Also read: Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas? The call had then also set the stage for Modi’s anticipated visit to the US in February 2025. “The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations,” the White House readout stated. India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had represented India at Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 at the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. During his visit, Jaishankar held meetings with key representatives of the incoming Trump administration, including new US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, setting the tone for future diplomatic relations. In fact, the first bilateral meeting Rubio had after taking charge as the Secretary of State was with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. Immigration was an issue raised during the meeting by the US side, while the Indian side highlighted the delay in visa issuance. Also read: Inside how Canada, Mexico, and China are firing back at Trump’s tariffs as he sets his sights on the EU PM Modi will travel to the US from France following his participation in the Artificial Intelligence Summit in Paris. The summit, scheduled for February 10-11, will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies. Also read: EU should do all to avert ‘totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars’, says Polish PM Donald Tusk

Indian PM Narendra Modi to meet US President Donald Trump next week

TROPEX-25, or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise 2025 is significant Indian military exercises, with Indian Navy at the core. The focus of the exercise is to show jointness, and also how to deal with challenges and show power projects in the Indian Ocean Region.
<h2>What is TROPEX-25?</h2>
TROPEX is the Indian Navy&rsquo;s largest biennial maritime exercise, involving the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard which is onducted in the Indian Ocean. In January 2025, senior military leaders embarked on INS Vikrant off the West Coast to witness the joint phase of TROPEX-25. The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness.
<h2>TROPEX-25 as Part of India&rsquo;s Defence Strategy</h2>
TROPEX-25 shows India&rsquo;s evolving military doctrine in which joint warfare, fleet integration, and rapid response at the heart of national defence. It has 3 key takeaways:
Integrated Fleet Operations A Reality: The coming together of Eastern &amp; Western Fleets shows hat India&rsquo;s Navy can and will work as a single, consolidated maritime force rather than in isolated silos. This shift is critical in an era where conflicts are no longer restricted to single theatres.
Carrier-Based Air Power is Central to Future Warfare: INS Vikrant&rsquo;s participation in TROPEX-25 was a defining moment. No longer just a symbolic platform, the carrier is now integrated into networked fleet combat, conducting real-world naval strike missions. The Navy asset will serve as a force multiplier in the Indo-Pacific, significantly expanding India&rsquo;s maritime reach.
Shaping the Indo-Pacific Battlespace: Beyond India&rsquo;s military transformation, TROPEX-25 is a signal to the wider Indo-Pacific region especially with China&rsquo;s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean&mdash;through spy ships, dual-use ports, and increased submarine activity. India is demonstrating that it can counterbalance Chinese move in the region with a formidable, networked military response.
<h2>The Vice Chiefs Come Together</h2>
On Friday, the Vice Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force&mdash;Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan, and Air Marshal SP Dharkar&mdash; came together onboard INS Vikrant during TROPEX-25. From INS Vikrant, the Vice Chiefs witnessed MiG-29K fighter operations, coordinated with Indian Air Force (IAF) assets, executing simulated maritime strike missions. Terming it as "momentous occasion", the Indian Navy statement said, "In the true spirit of Joint Manship, the VCAS embarked INS Vikrant in a Mig 29K trainer. The overnight sea sortie of the senior officers is part of TROPEX and AMPHEX where joint operations between Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force would be conducted."
The presence of vice chiefs aboard India&rsquo;s first indigenous aircraft carrier during the theatre-level maritime exercise reflected a broader strategic shift&mdash;one that is redefining joint warfare, naval force projection, and India&rsquo;s maritime combat doctrine. For decades, India&rsquo;s military services have traditionally operated in distinct silos, with the need for operational synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.&nbsp;
TROPEX-25 signals that jointness is no longer an aspiration&mdash;it is now being executed in the field. A clear message on the evolving nature of India&rsquo;s warfighting doctrine, where land, sea, and air forces are not just coordinating&mdash;they are fighting as a single, unified force.
<h2>TROPEX-25: A Convergence of the Eastern and Western Fleets</h2>
Beyond jointness, this year&rsquo;s exercise featured a convergence of India&rsquo;s two naval powerhouses&mdash;the Eastern and Western Fleets&mdash;operating together in a theatre-wide combat scenario. While both fleets have always played a role in TROPEX, this year&rsquo;s edition emphasised integrated fleet operations. India&rsquo;s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai, focuses on operations in the Arabian Sea, while the Eastern Fleet, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, has been responsible for Bay of Bengal security and overall Indo-Pacific engagements. The combined presence in TROPEX-25 signifies a major shift that prioritises force concentration across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).&nbsp;
For India&rsquo;s adversaries, this is a powerful deterrence signal. It proves that the Indian Navy is not keeping itself limited to regional fleet divisions&mdash;it can bring together its full naval strength when required. With both fleets engaged in high-intensity combat drills involving carriers, destroyers, submarines, and aircraft, TROPEX-25 tests the Indian Navy&rsquo;s sustained ability to function as a single, networked force across its vast maritime domain.&nbsp;
<h2>Strategic Importance</h2>
For India's allies in the Quad&mdash;comprising the United States, Japan, and Australia&mdash;these military exercises solidify New Delhi's dedication to regional security. The growing integration of Indian forces enhances India's capacity to engage in coalition-led maritime defense efforts, fostering stronger strategic coordination with its partners and sending a resolute signal to potential adversaries.

India News | The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness.

TROPEX-25, or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise 2025 is significant Indian military exercises, with Indian Navy at the core. The focus of the exercise is to show jointness, and also how to deal with challenges and show power projects in the Indian Ocean Region. What is TROPEX-25? TROPEX is the Indian Navy’s largest biennial maritime exercise, involving the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard which is onducted in the Indian Ocean. In January 2025, senior military leaders embarked on INS Vikrant off the West Coast to witness the joint phase of TROPEX-25. The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness. TROPEX-25 as Part of India’s Defence Strategy TROPEX-25 shows India’s evolving military doctrine in which joint warfare, fleet integration, and rapid response at the heart of national defence. It has 3 key takeaways: Integrated Fleet Operations A Reality: The coming together of Eastern & Western Fleets shows hat India’s Navy can and will work as a single, consolidated maritime force rather than in isolated silos. This shift is critical in an era where conflicts are no longer restricted to single theatres. Carrier-Based Air Power is Central to Future Warfare: INS Vikrant’s participation in TROPEX-25 was a defining moment. No longer just a symbolic platform, the carrier is now integrated into networked fleet combat, conducting real-world naval strike missions. The Navy asset will serve as a force multiplier in the Indo-Pacific, significantly expanding India’s maritime reach. Shaping the Indo-Pacific Battlespace: Beyond India’s military transformation, TROPEX-25 is a signal to the wider Indo-Pacific region especially with China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean—through spy ships, dual-use ports, and increased submarine activity. India is demonstrating that it can counterbalance Chinese move in the region with a formidable, networked military response. The Vice Chiefs Come Together On Friday, the Vice Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force—Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan, and Air Marshal SP Dharkar— came together onboard INS Vikrant during TROPEX-25. From INS Vikrant, the Vice Chiefs witnessed MiG-29K fighter operations, coordinated with Indian Air Force (IAF) assets, executing simulated maritime strike missions. Terming it as "momentous occasion", the Indian Navy statement said, "In the true spirit of Joint Manship, the VCAS embarked INS Vikrant in a Mig 29K trainer. The overnight sea sortie of the senior officers is part of TROPEX and AMPHEX where joint operations between Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force would be conducted." The presence of vice chiefs aboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier during the theatre-level maritime exercise reflected a broader strategic shift—one that is redefining joint warfare, naval force projection, and India’s maritime combat doctrine. For decades, India’s military services have traditionally operated in distinct silos, with the need for operational synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. TROPEX-25 signals that jointness is no longer an aspiration—it is now being executed in the field. A clear message on the evolving nature of India’s warfighting doctrine, where land, sea, and air forces are not just coordinating—they are fighting as a single, unified force. TROPEX-25: A Convergence of the Eastern and Western Fleets Beyond jointness, this year’s exercise featured a convergence of India’s two naval powerhouses—the Eastern and Western Fleets—operating together in a theatre-wide combat scenario. While both fleets have always played a role in TROPEX, this year’s edition emphasised integrated fleet operations. India’s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai, focuses on operations in the Arabian Sea, while the Eastern Fleet, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, has been responsible for Bay of Bengal security and overall Indo-Pacific engagements. The combined presence in TROPEX-25 signifies a major shift that prioritises force concentration across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). For India’s adversaries, this is a powerful deterrence signal. It proves that the Indian Navy is not keeping itself limited to regional fleet divisions—it can bring together its full naval strength when required. With both fleets engaged in high-intensity combat drills involving carriers, destroyers, submarines, and aircraft, TROPEX-25 tests the Indian Navy’s sustained ability to function as a single, networked force across its vast maritime domain. Strategic Importance For India's allies in the Quad—comprising the United States, Japan, and Australia—these military exercises solidify New Delhi's dedication to regional security. The growing integration of Indian forces enhances India's capacity to engage in coalition-led maritime defense efforts, fostering stronger strategic coordination with its partners and sending a resolute signal to potential adversaries.

Explainer: What is the Indian Navy's Tropex-25 exercises

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Siddhant Sibal

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