The BJP, which is a part of the AIADMK-led Opposition in Tamil Nadu, shared what they termed a 'chargesheet' against the ruling DMK in the state. "We are releasing the chargesheet against the corrupt and absolutely irresponsible Government of Stalin and Udhayanidhi. Every word is backed by cold facts, DMK and Congress cannot deny or hide behind reality or escape from the anger of people of Tamil Nadu," said Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is the BJP's Tamil Nadu Election in-charge. Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on 23rd April. &nbsp;Releasing a 27-page 'chargesheet', Goyal alleged that the DMK Government had committed crimes against children, women, dalit community, Hindus, youth, and farmers. Crimes against women, law and order issues, drug menace, crimes against the Dalit community, Corruption, Unfulfilled poll promises, were among the allegations featured in what the BJP called a 'chargesheet'.Attacking the DMK on the law and order issues in the state, Goyal said that sexual crimes against children had gone up from 4,968 in 2022 to 6,969 in 2024. "DMK's own councillors and youth wing leaders are accused of sexual assault. DMK's Father-son duo have not taken any action against the culprits," Goyal said, adding that if the DMK leadership was protecting the culprits.Over the last five years of DMK rule, 8,900 murders have taken place in Tamil Nadu. So far, 32 custodial deaths have gone uninvestigated, and lawyers are being attacked in Court premises, Goyal said. Further, he stated that narcotics-related crimes have increased by 51percent: from 6,852 in 2021 to 10,385 in 2022, all in a single year.&nbsp; "Stalin is rewarding drug kingpins such as Jaffer Sadiq with party positions... they are seen frequently with top DMK leaders," Goyal alleged.The BJP leader and Union Minister accused the DMK family of having "ruined the financial administration of Tamil Nadu and driving the state towards bankruptcy". He said that Tamil Nadu's state debt has risen to Rs 10.71 lakh crore, making it one of the most indebted states in the country today, and placing a burden on 8 crore people of Tamil Nadu.The BJP also stated that DMK had not fulfilled 70percent of over 500 poll promises made in their manifesto. "LPG subsidy has not been given, fuel price has not been reduced, Education loan waiver has not been provided," it was mentioned.&nbsp;

Releasing a 27-page 'chargesheet', Goyal alleged that the DMK Government had committed crimes against: children, women, dalit community, Hindus, youth, and farmers.

The BJP, which is a part of the AIADMK-led Opposition in Tamil Nadu, shared what they termed a 'chargesheet' against the ruling DMK in the state. "We are releasing the chargesheet against the corrupt and absolutely irresponsible Government of Stalin and Udhayanidhi. Every word is backed by cold facts, DMK and Congress cannot deny or hide behind reality or escape from the anger of people of Tamil Nadu," said Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is the BJP's Tamil Nadu Election in-charge. Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on 23rd April. Releasing a 27-page 'chargesheet', Goyal alleged that the DMK Government had committed crimes against children, women, dalit community, Hindus, youth, and farmers. Crimes against women, law and order issues, drug menace, crimes against the Dalit community, Corruption, Unfulfilled poll promises, were among the allegations featured in what the BJP called a 'chargesheet'. Attacking the DMK on the law and order issues in the state, Goyal said that sexual crimes against children had gone up from 4,968 in 2022 to 6,969 in 2024. "DMK's own councillors and youth wing leaders are accused of sexual assault. DMK's Father-son duo have not taken any action against the culprits," Goyal said, adding that if the DMK leadership was protecting the culprits. Over the last five years of DMK rule, 8,900 murders have taken place in Tamil Nadu. So far, 32 custodial deaths have gone uninvestigated, and lawyers are being attacked in Court premises, Goyal said. Further, he stated that narcotics-related crimes have increased by 51percent: from 6,852 in 2021 to 10,385 in 2022, all in a single year. "Stalin is rewarding drug kingpins such as Jaffer Sadiq with party positions... they are seen frequently with top DMK leaders," Goyal alleged. The BJP leader and Union Minister accused the DMK family of having "ruined the financial administration of Tamil Nadu and driving the state towards bankruptcy". He said that Tamil Nadu's state debt has risen to Rs 10.71 lakh crore, making it one of the most indebted states in the country today, and placing a burden on 8 crore people of Tamil Nadu. The BJP also stated that DMK had not fulfilled 70percent of over 500 poll promises made in their manifesto. "LPG subsidy has not been given, fuel price has not been reduced, Education loan waiver has not been provided," it was mentioned.

Releasing a 27-page 'chargesheet', Goyal alleged that the DMK Government had committed crimes against: children, women, dalit community, Hindus, youth, and farmers.

BJP leaders led by Union Minister Piyush Goyal release a 'chargesheet' against Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK

"We are currently engaging with our customers in India who have expressed interest in the ARBEL weapon system, which significantly improves the firing accuracy of handheld weapons. We see strong potential for future integration of ARBEL into Israeli guns that are made in India. ARBEL can be produced in India as part of our broader strategy," Shuki Schwartz, CEO of Israel Weapon Industries(IWI) told WION's Sidharth.MP, regarding the potential for further Indo-Israeli collaboration in handheld weapons. IWI has been a major supplier of assault rifles, submachine guns, light machine guns, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment to forces under the Indian Defence Ministry and the Home Ministry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/france-s-hammer-missile-to-be-made-in-india-details-here-1763997078086">France's HAMMER missile to be made in India. Details here</a>&nbsp;IWI describes ARBEL as a computerized weapon system based on a complex algorithm that “knows” when the shooter is on target, and hits the target quickly and accurately. "ARBEL compensates and mitigates shooting errors typical of combative scenarios: heavy breathing, fatigue, stress, flinching," reads the product brochure. ARBEL increases lethality by 2-3 times, it adds.&nbsp;&nbsp;By intelligently moderating the rate of fire in real time, the ARBEL NEGEV(ARBEL system integrated with the NEGEV Light Machine Gun) narrows the cone of fire, boosts hit probability, and enhances overall effectiveness against both stationary and moving targets. This gives the operator the suppressive power of a Light Machine Gun(LMG) combined with rifle-level accuracy, creating a decisive tactical advantage in close and mid-range engagements, the firm says.IWI is in the process of delivering 41,000 NEGEV LMGs for the Indian Army. Recently, 2,000 NEGEV guns made at an Indo-Israeli joint venture's facility in Madhya Pradesh were supplied to the Indian Army. More than 50% of the NEGEV LMG is produced locally in India, including critical components such as the barrels, added Shuki Schwartz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-trainer-plane-crashes-in-chennai-pilot-safe-1763116358598">IAF trainer plane crashes in Chennai; pilot safe</a>&nbsp;Weighing about 7.95kgs, the Negev LMG can fire about 650-700 rounds per minute. This weapon can be fired in semi-automatic for accurate, fast-controlled fire in Close Quarter Battle(in confined spaces); and in automatic mode for maximum firepower. They are equipped with Tritium night sights which are self-illuminating aiming devices that help low-light or night time operations. A wide range of optical devices and accessories can be fitted onto the standardized mounting system known as Picatinny rail. This weapon can be mounted on helicopters, vehicles, naval vessels, for different use cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to IWI, upgrading the regular NEGEV to ARBEL NEGEV is a simple and easy replacement of the regular grip with less than 900gram for a ARBEL NEGEV grip. The firm says ARBEL NEGEV's built–in fire control system releases the rounds according to the operational scenario – increases hit probability while saving ammunition during combat. Indian army has been using the NEGEV guns for well over five years, and the latest order for 41,000 guns is expected to be completed within the planned timeframe, said the firm.&nbsp;

Israel Weapon Industries is exploring ARBEL system integration in India, boosting accuracy of handheld weapons. With local production of NEGEV Light Machine Gun underway, India-Israel defence ties strengthen through advanced, locally made combat systems.


"We are currently engaging with our customers in India who have expressed interest in the ARBEL weapon system, which significantly improves the firing accuracy of handheld weapons. We see strong potential for future integration of ARBEL into Israeli guns that are made in India. ARBEL can be produced in India as part of our broader strategy," Shuki Schwartz, CEO of Israel Weapon Industries(IWI) told WION's Sidharth.MP, regarding the potential for further Indo-Israeli collaboration in handheld weapons. IWI has been a major supplier of assault rifles, submachine guns, light machine guns, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment to forces under the Indian Defence Ministry and the Home Ministry. Also Read: France's HAMMER missile to be made in India. Details here IWI describes ARBEL as a computerized weapon system based on a complex algorithm that “knows” when the shooter is on target, and hits the target quickly and accurately. "ARBEL compensates and mitigates shooting errors typical of combative scenarios: heavy breathing, fatigue, stress, flinching," reads the product brochure. ARBEL increases lethality by 2-3 times, it adds. By intelligently moderating the rate of fire in real time, the ARBEL NEGEV(ARBEL system integrated with the NEGEV Light Machine Gun) narrows the cone of fire, boosts hit probability, and enhances overall effectiveness against both stationary and moving targets. This gives the operator the suppressive power of a Light Machine Gun(LMG) combined with rifle-level accuracy, creating a decisive tactical advantage in close and mid-range engagements, the firm says. IWI is in the process of delivering 41,000 NEGEV LMGs for the Indian Army. Recently, 2,000 NEGEV guns made at an Indo-Israeli joint venture's facility in Madhya Pradesh were supplied to the Indian Army. More than 50% of the NEGEV LMG is produced locally in India, including critical components such as the barrels, added Shuki Schwartz. Also Read: IAF trainer plane crashes in Chennai; pilot safe Weighing about 7.95kgs, the Negev LMG can fire about 650-700 rounds per minute. This weapon can be fired in semi-automatic for accurate, fast-controlled fire in Close Quarter Battle(in confined spaces); and in automatic mode for maximum firepower. They are equipped with Tritium night sights which are self-illuminating aiming devices that help low-light or night time operations. A wide range of optical devices and accessories can be fitted onto the standardized mounting system known as Picatinny rail. This weapon can be mounted on helicopters, vehicles, naval vessels, for different use cases. According to IWI, upgrading the regular NEGEV to ARBEL NEGEV is a simple and easy replacement of the regular grip with less than 900gram for a ARBEL NEGEV grip. The firm says ARBEL NEGEV's built–in fire control system releases the rounds according to the operational scenario – increases hit probability while saving ammunition during combat. Indian army has been using the NEGEV guns for well over five years, and the latest order for 41,000 guns is expected to be completed within the planned timeframe, said the firm.

Israel Weapon Industries is exploring ARBEL system integration in India, boosting accuracy of handheld weapons. With local production of NEGEV Light Machine Gun underway, India-Israel defence ties strengthen through advanced, locally made combat systems.

Israel Weapon Industries offers to make ARBEL weapon tech in India

Shortly after kickstarting his campaign tour for the Tamil Nadu elections on Monday, (March 30), actor-politician Vijay complained of "complete absence of Police deployment and security" for his convoy in Chennai. This morning, Vijay conducted a campaign at Perambur in Chennai, which is among the two constituencies that he is contesting in. Tamil Nadu is to vote on 23rd April.&nbsp;The complaint from Vijay's party alleged that there was no traffic police deployment and security arrangement for his campaign, despite it being a scheduled and approved plan.Due to the overwhelming response and large gathering of the general public on the roads, the campaign vehicles have been rendered completely standstill. The convoy has not been able to move even from the first spot (Perambur) to the second spot (Kolathur). This has brought the entire campaign movement to a halt, it was mentioned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-rupee-slides-below-95-against-dollar-for-first-time-amid-escalating-west-asia-conflict-1774869289979">Indian rupee slides below 95 against dollar for first time amid escalating West Asia conflict</a>&nbsp;"Before performing a good deed, I wanted to start it in the presence of those who like us. I could do it from anywhere in Tamil Nadu. But we are starting at our very doorstep," Vijay told his fans and followers at Perambur. Following this, he filed his nomination to contest from Perambur.&nbsp;"This lack of basic police protection and traffic regulation poses a serious risk of public safety, creates unnecessary chaos, and severely disrupts the legitimate election campaigning process of a registered political party and its leader. It also raises concerns about unequal treatment and possible administrative bias during the ongoing election process," Vijay's party alleged.&nbsp;Further, the party requested the Election Commission of India to look into the matter and direct the Chennai Police to provide adequate police personnel and proper traffic management for Vijay's campaign convoy and public meetings. It was also requested that necessary action be taken against the concerned officials for failing to provide basic security and traffic arrangements during the election campaign.&nbsp;A popular actor for more than three decades, Vijay and his party are making their electoral debut in the upcoming Tamil Nadu polls. A major tragedy had unfolded in September 2025, at Vijay's campaign at Karur in Tamil Nadu. The stampede there had left 41 attendees dead and many more injured. &nbsp;

The complaint from Vijay's party alleged that there was no traffic police deployment and security arrangement for his campaign, despite it being a scheduled and approved plan.

Shortly after kickstarting his campaign tour for the Tamil Nadu elections on Monday, (March 30), actor-politician Vijay complained of "complete absence of Police deployment and security" for his convoy in Chennai. This morning, Vijay conducted a campaign at Perambur in Chennai, which is among the two constituencies that he is contesting in. Tamil Nadu is to vote on 23rd April. The complaint from Vijay's party alleged that there was no traffic police deployment and security arrangement for his campaign, despite it being a scheduled and approved plan. Due to the overwhelming response and large gathering of the general public on the roads, the campaign vehicles have been rendered completely standstill. The convoy has not been able to move even from the first spot (Perambur) to the second spot (Kolathur). This has brought the entire campaign movement to a halt, it was mentioned. Also Read: Indian rupee slides below 95 against dollar for first time amid escalating West Asia conflict "Before performing a good deed, I wanted to start it in the presence of those who like us. I could do it from anywhere in Tamil Nadu. But we are starting at our very doorstep," Vijay told his fans and followers at Perambur. Following this, he filed his nomination to contest from Perambur. "This lack of basic police protection and traffic regulation poses a serious risk of public safety, creates unnecessary chaos, and severely disrupts the legitimate election campaigning process of a registered political party and its leader. It also raises concerns about unequal treatment and possible administrative bias during the ongoing election process," Vijay's party alleged. Further, the party requested the Election Commission of India to look into the matter and direct the Chennai Police to provide adequate police personnel and proper traffic management for Vijay's campaign convoy and public meetings. It was also requested that necessary action be taken against the concerned officials for failing to provide basic security and traffic arrangements during the election campaign. A popular actor for more than three decades, Vijay and his party are making their electoral debut in the upcoming Tamil Nadu polls. A major tragedy had unfolded in September 2025, at Vijay's campaign at Karur in Tamil Nadu. The stampede there had left 41 attendees dead and many more injured.

The complaint from Vijay's party alleged that there was no traffic police deployment and security arrangement for his campaign, despite it being a scheduled and approved plan.

Tamil Nadu polls: Vijay alleges security lapse during campaign, writes to ECI

Indian Space agency ISRO will be buying and inducting Semi-cryogenic rocket engines to enhance the rocketry muscle power and lifting capability of its largest rocket, the Launch Vehicle Mark 3(LVM3). India is going for purchase, as its national space agency does not possess proven and flight-ready semi-cryogenic rocket engines, which burn a combination of rocket-grade kerosene and super cooled liquid oxygen. A report by India's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology mentions that ISRO has been allocated funds in 2026-27 for the "Induction of procured Semi-cryogenic engine towards expediting the enhancement of LVM3 launch vehicle payload capability."&nbsp;For the year 2026-27, Indian Space agency ISRO has been allocated a budget estimate of ₹10,397 crores(approx $1.09bn) for various missions and developmental activities that are categorized 'Space Technology'. In the Parliamentary report that spans over 60pages, the procurement and induction of the Semi-cryogenic engine finds mention a few times.Since the year 2023, this author has been reporting about the possibility of India procuring the 'RD-191' Semi-cryogenic engines from Russia, a longstanding strategic partner in sectors ranging from defence, nuclear energy, space technology, among others. The latest Indian Parliamentary report does not specify which Semi-cryogenic engine variant would be purchased, and its country of its origin. However, this Parliamentary report is the first publicly available Indian government document that specifically mentions about budget allocation for ISRO's semi-cryogenic engine procurement, a move that is crucial to the future of India's space programme.About the'RD-191' rocket engineThe 'RD-191' is a high-performance rocket engine fuelled by Kerosene and Liquid oxygen. It falls under the category&nbsp;Semi-cryogenic, as its fuel rocket-grade Kerosene can be stored at room temperature; and the oxidizer liquid oxygen has to be stored at super-cooled&nbsp;cryogenic temperatures(below -150degrees Centigrade).India's existing rockets are powered by engines that burn: solid-fuel, liquid-fuel, and&nbsp;cryogenic fuel (where liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen are stored at super-cooled temperatures). Though efforts have been underway to develop a&nbsp;semi-cryogenic engine dubbed 'SE-2000', India does not possess a proven, flight-ready engine as of now. India may need years more to have its homegrown semi-cryogenic engine, 'SE-2000'.&nbsp;Developed by NPO Energomash, the 'RD-191' is a workhorse engine used in Russia's Angara series of rockets. 'RD-191' is also a throttleable engine, which means that it can significantly reduce or increase its thrust mid-flight, a crucial capability that enables precise flight control, recovery and re-use of rocket&nbsp; stages. While Russia itself does not possesses reusable/vertical landing rockets, 'RD-191' offers some of the basic capabilities required in that regard.The RD-191 is approximately two-and-a-half times more powerful than&nbsp;ISRO's workhorse Indo-French Vikas engine. While the Vikas engine delivers about 60-80tons of thrust, the 'RD-191' is known to deliver between 200-220 tons of thrust. First flown by India in 1993, the Vikas engine is the mainstay engine used in India's PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 rockets. The Vikas engine is based on the French Viking-3 engine of the 1980s.&nbsp;Why does India need the 'RD-191'?Indian space agency&nbsp;ISRO's largest and most powerful homegrown rocket LVM3 can lift only 4,000kg to the Geosynchronous transfer orbit, which is a higher orbit into which communication satellites are launched. Likewise, the LVM3 is said to be capable of lifting around 8,000-10,000kg to Low earth orbit, which is about 500kms above the earth's surface. India's most powerful rocket LVM3 has a very modest lift capability, when compared to its global peers operated by Government-run space agencies or private firms.&nbsp;India's rocketry muscle power deficiency has been evident on multiple occasions. In recent years, despite having its own rockets, India has had to pay foreign entities like Europe's Arianegroup and America's SpaceX to launch heavy satellites built in India. This was done because the satellites weighed much more than 4,000kg, which is the maximum lifting capability of India's LVM3 rocket.As India's growing space ambitions include the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme(astronaut mission), proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station(Indian crewed space station), envisioned crewed moon landing, the country is in dire need of more rocketry muscle power. Designing and developing all-new rockets and rocket engines could take decades or longer, which is why India is looking to purchase the powerful 'RD-191' engine from Russia.&nbsp;How would India utilize the 'RD-191' engines? &nbsp;While the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) wishes to design and develop powerful rockets for the future, India's immediate priority is to enhance the lifting capability of the LVM3. To accomplish this,&nbsp;ISRO&nbsp;can use the Russian 'RD-191' engine and associated systems to replace the existing L110 or second stage of the three-stage LVM3 rocket. This is one step towards significantly enhancing the lifting power of the LVM3 rocket.&nbsp;The LVM3's lifting power can be further bolstered by using a more capable C32&nbsp;Cryogenic upper stage developed in-house by&nbsp;ISRO. This would help&nbsp;ISRO&nbsp;to launch satellites weighing around 4,500-5,000kg from home soil on its own rocket, while reducing dependence on foreign rockets.&nbsp;In the foreseeable future, the LVM3 rocket powered by the Russian&nbsp;Semi&nbsp;Cryogenic engine and the Indian C32&nbsp;Cryogenic stage could be used for various missions that were earlier not possible for&nbsp;ISRO&nbsp;due to the rocketry muscle power deficiency.&nbsp;ISRO's future rockets can be designed and developed based on the capabilities offered by the 'RD-191' engine. In heavy-lift rocketry, multiple engines are used in a cluster to deliver high amounts of lifting power. Therefore, a single rocket would require a dozen or more engines. In such cases, production of the engine in India under licence would be a necessity. India and Russia have also been exploring the possibility of making the 'RD-191' in India, in partnership with industry.&nbsp; &nbsp;

For the year 2026-27, Indian Space agency ISRO has been allocated a budget estimate of ₹10,397 crores(approx $1.09bn) for various missions and developmental activities that are categorized Space Technology.

Indian Space agency ISRO will be buying and inducting Semi-cryogenic rocket engines to enhance the rocketry muscle power and lifting capability of its largest rocket, the Launch Vehicle Mark 3(LVM3). India is going for purchase, as its national space agency does not possess proven and flight-ready semi-cryogenic rocket engines, which burn a combination of rocket-grade kerosene and super cooled liquid oxygen. A report by India's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology mentions that ISRO has been allocated funds in 2026-27 for the "Induction of procured Semi-cryogenic engine towards expediting the enhancement of LVM3 launch vehicle payload capability." For the year 2026-27, Indian Space agency ISRO has been allocated a budget estimate of ₹10,397 crores(approx $1.09bn) for various missions and developmental activities that are categorized 'Space Technology'. In the Parliamentary report that spans over 60pages, the procurement and induction of the Semi-cryogenic engine finds mention a few times. Since the year 2023, this author has been reporting about the possibility of India procuring the 'RD-191' Semi-cryogenic engines from Russia, a longstanding strategic partner in sectors ranging from defence, nuclear energy, space technology, among others. The latest Indian Parliamentary report does not specify which Semi-cryogenic engine variant would be purchased, and its country of its origin. However, this Parliamentary report is the first publicly available Indian government document that specifically mentions about budget allocation for ISRO's semi-cryogenic engine procurement, a move that is crucial to the future of India's space programme. About the'RD-191' rocket engine The 'RD-191' is a high-performance rocket engine fuelled by Kerosene and Liquid oxygen. It falls under the category Semi-cryogenic, as its fuel rocket-grade Kerosene can be stored at room temperature; and the oxidizer liquid oxygen has to be stored at super-cooled cryogenic temperatures(below -150degrees Centigrade). India's existing rockets are powered by engines that burn: solid-fuel, liquid-fuel, and cryogenic fuel (where liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen are stored at super-cooled temperatures). Though efforts have been underway to develop a semi-cryogenic engine dubbed 'SE-2000', India does not possess a proven, flight-ready engine as of now. India may need years more to have its homegrown semi-cryogenic engine, 'SE-2000'. Developed by NPO Energomash, the 'RD-191' is a workhorse engine used in Russia's Angara series of rockets. 'RD-191' is also a throttleable engine, which means that it can significantly reduce or increase its thrust mid-flight, a crucial capability that enables precise flight control, recovery and re-use of rocket stages. While Russia itself does not possesses reusable/vertical landing rockets, 'RD-191' offers some of the basic capabilities required in that regard. The RD-191 is approximately two-and-a-half times more powerful than ISRO's workhorse Indo-French Vikas engine. While the Vikas engine delivers about 60-80tons of thrust, the 'RD-191' is known to deliver between 200-220 tons of thrust. First flown by India in 1993, the Vikas engine is the mainstay engine used in India's PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 rockets. The Vikas engine is based on the French Viking-3 engine of the 1980s. Why does India need the 'RD-191'? Indian space agency ISRO's largest and most powerful homegrown rocket LVM3 can lift only 4,000kg to the Geosynchronous transfer orbit, which is a higher orbit into which communication satellites are launched. Likewise, the LVM3 is said to be capable of lifting around 8,000-10,000kg to Low earth orbit, which is about 500kms above the earth's surface. India's most powerful rocket LVM3 has a very modest lift capability, when compared to its global peers operated by Government-run space agencies or private firms. India's rocketry muscle power deficiency has been evident on multiple occasions. In recent years, despite having its own rockets, India has had to pay foreign entities like Europe's Arianegroup and America's SpaceX to launch heavy satellites built in India. This was done because the satellites weighed much more than 4,000kg, which is the maximum lifting capability of India's LVM3 rocket. As India's growing space ambitions include the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme(astronaut mission), proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station(Indian crewed space station), envisioned crewed moon landing, the country is in dire need of more rocketry muscle power. Designing and developing all-new rockets and rocket engines could take decades or longer, which is why India is looking to purchase the powerful 'RD-191' engine from Russia. How would India utilize the 'RD-191' engines? While the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) wishes to design and develop powerful rockets for the future, India's immediate priority is to enhance the lifting capability of the LVM3. To accomplish this, ISRO can use the Russian 'RD-191' engine and associated systems to replace the existing L110 or second stage of the three-stage LVM3 rocket. This is one step towards significantly enhancing the lifting power of the LVM3 rocket. The LVM3's lifting power can be further bolstered by using a more capable C32 Cryogenic upper stage developed in-house by ISRO. This would help ISRO to launch satellites weighing around 4,500-5,000kg from home soil on its own rocket, while reducing dependence on foreign rockets. In the foreseeable future, the LVM3 rocket powered by the Russian Semi Cryogenic engine and the Indian C32 Cryogenic stage could be used for various missions that were earlier not possible for ISRO due to the rocketry muscle power deficiency. ISRO's future rockets can be designed and developed based on the capabilities offered by the 'RD-191' engine. In heavy-lift rocketry, multiple engines are used in a cluster to deliver high amounts of lifting power. Therefore, a single rocket would require a dozen or more engines. In such cases, production of the engine in India under licence would be a necessity. India and Russia have also been exploring the possibility of making the 'RD-191' in India, in partnership with industry.

For the year 2026-27, Indian Space agency ISRO has been allocated a budget estimate of ₹10,397 crores(approx $1.09bn) for various missions and developmental activities that are categorized 'Space Technology'.

ISRO to buy Semi-cryogenic engines to enhance LVM3 rocket; Funds allocated

While revealing the candidates of his party, actor-politician Vijay announced that he will be contesting the Tamil Nadu polls from two constituencies: Perambur in Chennai and Trichy East. Vijay and his party TVK are making their political debut in the April 23rd Tamil Nadu polls, where their party is facing off against two major allainces: one led by the ruling DMK and another led by the Opposition AIADMK. Interestingly, Vijay's TVK has not tied up with any allies.At an event in Chennai, Vijay introduced his party's candidates and described them as "protectors of the people". Frontlining his vision for corruption-free governance, Vijay said that MLAs must not be using their experience to loot public funds; MLAs must not indulge in illegal quarrying and mining; MLAs must not attack or confront journalists for asking questions.An MLA is the protector of the people. I selected these candidates who will stand with the people and work at the ground level. I cant be everywhere everytime I personally selected the candidates - our brothers and sisters. I request the people to make them our MLAs, Vijay said."I am contesting in the polls only for the people and for public service... After winning, I will not misuse public funds, will not allow corruption, I will ensure women's safety, ensure Drug-free Tamil Nadu, work towards upkeep of Law and Order, will never indulge in anti-people activities," Vijay took oath along with his party's candidates. This is not an oath, this is our responsibility, he added.Continuing his strategy of portaying the Tamil Nadu polls as one between his TVK party and the MK Stalin-led DMK, Vijay said, "This is a battle between those who wish to wipe out corruption and those who are deeply engrossed in corruption; this is a battle between good and evil.""I left behind my luxuriious life and came into politics just for you... To pay me debt of gratitude... I am bearing all this pain, just for you...Will never lie and cheat you," Vijay said, making an emotional pitch to his supporters.&nbsp;

Frontlining his vision for corruption-free governance, Vijay said that MLAs must not use their experience to loot public funds; MLAs must not indulge in illegal quarrying and mining; MLAs must not attack or confront journalists for asking questions.

While revealing the candidates of his party, actor-politician Vijay announced that he will be contesting the Tamil Nadu polls from two constituencies: Perambur in Chennai and Trichy East. Vijay and his party TVK are making their political debut in the April 23rd Tamil Nadu polls, where their party is facing off against two major allainces: one led by the ruling DMK and another led by the Opposition AIADMK. Interestingly, Vijay's TVK has not tied up with any allies. At an event in Chennai, Vijay introduced his party's candidates and described them as "protectors of the people". Frontlining his vision for corruption-free governance, Vijay said that MLAs must not be using their experience to loot public funds; MLAs must not indulge in illegal quarrying and mining; MLAs must not attack or confront journalists for asking questions. An MLA is the protector of the people. I selected these candidates who will stand with the people and work at the ground level. I cant be everywhere everytime I personally selected the candidates - our brothers and sisters. I request the people to make them our MLAs, Vijay said. "I am contesting in the polls only for the people and for public service... After winning, I will not misuse public funds, will not allow corruption, I will ensure women's safety, ensure Drug-free Tamil Nadu, work towards upkeep of Law and Order, will never indulge in anti-people activities," Vijay took oath along with his party's candidates. This is not an oath, this is our responsibility, he added. Continuing his strategy of portaying the Tamil Nadu polls as one between his TVK party and the MK Stalin-led DMK, Vijay said, "This is a battle between those who wish to wipe out corruption and those who are deeply engrossed in corruption; this is a battle between good and evil." "I left behind my luxuriious life and came into politics just for you... To pay me debt of gratitude... I am bearing all this pain, just for you...Will never lie and cheat you," Vijay said, making an emotional pitch to his supporters.

Frontlining his vision for corruption-free governance, Vijay said that MLAs must not use their experience to loot public funds; MLAs must not indulge in illegal quarrying and mining; MLAs must not attack or confront journalists for asking questions.

Tamil Nadu polls: Actor-politician Vijay to contest from 2 seats

The Indian Army received 2,000 Israeli Negev Light Machine Guns on Saturday (28th March) from PLR Systems, an Indo-Israeli joint venture firm. These 2,000 guns are the initial batch of 41,000 guns that are being manufactured at the facility in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. In August 2024, India had placed an order for 41,000 Negev LMGs of the 7.62x51mm variant. Originally designed and developed by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), the Negev LMGs are being manufactured at the Indian facility based on technology transfer under the Indian government's ‘Make-in-India’ initiative.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are excited about the first 2,000 Negevs being delivered, and we plan to deliver 4,000 more units this year. More than 50% of the Negev LMG is produced locally in India, including critical components such as the barrels. Together with our partners at Adani, we are steadily expanding production capacity to keep pace with growing demand,” Shuki Schwartz, CEO of Israel Weapon Industries, told WION’s Sidharth MP. He added that the Indo-Israeli joint venture PLR Systems is well-positioned to meet the full scope of the 41,000-unit order within the planned programme schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;Weighing about 7.95 kg, the Negev LMG can fire about 650-700 rounds per minute.&nbsp;This weapon can be fired in semi-automatic mode for accurate, fast-controlled fire in close-quarter battle (in confined spaces) and in automatic mode for maximum firepower. They are equipped with Tritium night sights, which are self-illuminating aiming devices that help low-light or nighttime operations. A wide range of optical devices and accessories can be fitted onto the standardised mounting system known as the Picatinny rail. This weapon can be mounted on helicopters, vehicles, and naval vessels for different use cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;Queried about the other IWI products being made in India, Shuki said, IWI’s Uzi submachine guns, Masada pistols, and sniper rifles all are being made here with more than 50% indigenous components.&nbsp;Israel Weapon Industries has been working with India’s security forces for over two decades, during which approximately 20,000 light machine guns, along with a broad range of assault rifles, SMGs, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment, have been supplied. At present, IWI’s products and systems are in service across forces operating under the Indian Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;On the benefits of manufacturing in India, Shuki said it enables us to be closer to the end users, respond quickly to their needs, and leverage local expertise and supply chains. “While our current focus is on meeting India’s requirements, we see strong potential to expand into export opportunities from India as our capabilities continue to grow.”

Israel Weapon Industries has been working with India’s security forces for over two decades, during which approximately 20,000 light machine guns, along with a broad range of assault rifles, SMGs, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment, have been supplied.

The Indian Army received 2,000 Israeli Negev Light Machine Guns on Saturday (28th March) from PLR Systems, an Indo-Israeli joint venture firm. These 2,000 guns are the initial batch of 41,000 guns that are being manufactured at the facility in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. In August 2024, India had placed an order for 41,000 Negev LMGs of the 7.62x51mm variant. Originally designed and developed by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), the Negev LMGs are being manufactured at the Indian facility based on technology transfer under the Indian government's ‘Make-in-India’ initiative. “We are excited about the first 2,000 Negevs being delivered, and we plan to deliver 4,000 more units this year. More than 50% of the Negev LMG is produced locally in India, including critical components such as the barrels. Together with our partners at Adani, we are steadily expanding production capacity to keep pace with growing demand,” Shuki Schwartz, CEO of Israel Weapon Industries, told WION’s Sidharth MP. He added that the Indo-Israeli joint venture PLR Systems is well-positioned to meet the full scope of the 41,000-unit order within the planned programme schedule. Weighing about 7.95 kg, the Negev LMG can fire about 650-700 rounds per minute. This weapon can be fired in semi-automatic mode for accurate, fast-controlled fire in close-quarter battle (in confined spaces) and in automatic mode for maximum firepower. They are equipped with Tritium night sights, which are self-illuminating aiming devices that help low-light or nighttime operations. A wide range of optical devices and accessories can be fitted onto the standardised mounting system known as the Picatinny rail. This weapon can be mounted on helicopters, vehicles, and naval vessels for different use cases. Queried about the other IWI products being made in India, Shuki said, IWI’s Uzi submachine guns, Masada pistols, and sniper rifles all are being made here with more than 50% indigenous components. Israel Weapon Industries has been working with India’s security forces for over two decades, during which approximately 20,000 light machine guns, along with a broad range of assault rifles, SMGs, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment, have been supplied. At present, IWI’s products and systems are in service across forces operating under the Indian Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Home Affairs. On the benefits of manufacturing in India, Shuki said it enables us to be closer to the end users, respond quickly to their needs, and leverage local expertise and supply chains. “While our current focus is on meeting India’s requirements, we see strong potential to expand into export opportunities from India as our capabilities continue to grow.”

Israel Weapon Industries has been working with India’s security forces for over two decades, during which approximately 20,000 light machine guns, along with a broad range of assault rifles, SMGs, pistols, sniper rifles, and optical equipment, have been supplied.

Indian Army gets Israeli Negev machine guns with 50% Indian components

An Indian Parliamentary panel has exposed that high-end technology developed by government organisations such as national space agency ISRO and related entities, are being transferred to private firms at undervalued rates. In the words of the panel, the technologies were transferred at disproportionately low prices, and it included those related to satellites, rockets, chemicals, advanced materials, sub-components that go into high-end systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It has been observed that technologies are often transferred to private players at undervalued rates, allowing these partners to earn significant profits while the originating institutes receive only a marginal share of the value created," said a report from the Parliamentary Standing on Science and Technology. The committee was reviewing the high-profile Department of Space (DoS), which operates under the direct watch of the Indian Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;&nbsp;In response to the queries from the Parliamentary committee, the DoS said that ISRO's commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) has been transferring various technologies developed at ISRO or the larger DoS. NSIL has signed 100 Technology Transfer Agreements for transferring 61 technologies developed by Government entities to Indian Industry. &nbsp;According to the data shared in the Parliamentary report, almost 70 of the 100 technologies were transferred at less than Rs.10 lakh each. Of these 70, many were transferred at a cost lesser than Rs.5 lakh each and some were transferred for as less at Rs.6,000, while a handful were transferred at no cost.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The&nbsp;Committee expresses concern over the transfer of technologies in the space sector at disproportionately low prices relative to their commercial potential. Furthermore, there is no credible mechanism to verify whether the benefits of low-cost technology transfers are being passed on to the intended target users for whom the technologies were developed. In view of this, the Committee recommends that the Department of Space should consider adopting a more competitive and market-aligned pricing framework for technology transfer," the Parliamentary panel said.&nbsp;The panel said that technology licensing fees should appropriately reflect the true commercial value, uniqueness, and societal impact of technologies developed through public funding. To ensure transparency and accountability, the Committee further recommends that all technology transfer agreements be subject to periodic third-party audits, said the 40-member committee comprising Parliamentarians from India's ruling coalition, various opposition parties.&nbsp;The Department of Space said that it is moving towards a more competitive and market-aligned pricing framework for technology transfer. To this end, IN-SPACE(India's space regulator) has constituted a Standing Committee comprising members from the Department of Space, ISRO Headquarters, IN-SPACE, NSIL, and the respective ISRO centre that developed the technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;This Committee evaluates technology transfer fees holistically, taking into account factors such as technology development costs, market potential, the number of industries capable of assimilating the technology, and possible spin-off applications, to arrive at a fair and appropriate pricing for each transfer, it was mentioned.&nbsp;

ISRO technology being sold cheaply to private firms, Parliamentary panel finds

An Indian Parliamentary panel has exposed that high-end technology developed by government organisations such as national space agency ISRO and related entities, are being transferred to private firms at undervalued rates. In the words of the panel, the technologies were transferred at disproportionately low prices, and it included those related to satellites, rockets, chemicals, advanced materials, sub-components that go into high-end systems. "It has been observed that technologies are often transferred to private players at undervalued rates, allowing these partners to earn significant profits while the originating institutes receive only a marginal share of the value created," said a report from the Parliamentary Standing on Science and Technology. The committee was reviewing the high-profile Department of Space (DoS), which operates under the direct watch of the Indian Prime Minister's Office. In response to the queries from the Parliamentary committee, the DoS said that ISRO's commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) has been transferring various technologies developed at ISRO or the larger DoS. NSIL has signed 100 Technology Transfer Agreements for transferring 61 technologies developed by Government entities to Indian Industry. According to the data shared in the Parliamentary report, almost 70 of the 100 technologies were transferred at less than Rs.10 lakh each. Of these 70, many were transferred at a cost lesser than Rs.5 lakh each and some were transferred for as less at Rs.6,000, while a handful were transferred at no cost. "The Committee expresses concern over the transfer of technologies in the space sector at disproportionately low prices relative to their commercial potential. Furthermore, there is no credible mechanism to verify whether the benefits of low-cost technology transfers are being passed on to the intended target users for whom the technologies were developed. In view of this, the Committee recommends that the Department of Space should consider adopting a more competitive and market-aligned pricing framework for technology transfer," the Parliamentary panel said. The panel said that technology licensing fees should appropriately reflect the true commercial value, uniqueness, and societal impact of technologies developed through public funding. To ensure transparency and accountability, the Committee further recommends that all technology transfer agreements be subject to periodic third-party audits, said the 40-member committee comprising Parliamentarians from India's ruling coalition, various opposition parties. The Department of Space said that it is moving towards a more competitive and market-aligned pricing framework for technology transfer. To this end, IN-SPACE(India's space regulator) has constituted a Standing Committee comprising members from the Department of Space, ISRO Headquarters, IN-SPACE, NSIL, and the respective ISRO centre that developed the technology. This Committee evaluates technology transfer fees holistically, taking into account factors such as technology development costs, market potential, the number of industries capable of assimilating the technology, and possible spin-off applications, to arrive at a fair and appropriate pricing for each transfer, it was mentioned.

The technologies were transferred at disproportionately low prices, and it included those related to satellites, rockets, chemicals, advanced materials, sub-components that go into high-end systems

The overall system engineering of the first module of India's space station (Bharatiya Antariksh Station) and related technology development activities for various subsystems are progressing at the space agency ISRO's Centres, the Government has revealed in Parliament. India has planned to place an uncrewed space station about 400-600 km above the Earth. Gradually, ISRO hopes to build on the uncrewed station and make a five-module station capable of housing astronauts.&nbsp;Elaborating on the status of the first module of the Space Station, Space Minister Jitendra Singh said that ISRO's lead facility, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, has issued an Expression of Interest to Indian Industries for building the structure for the first module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station. The current approval is limited to the first module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station, and the cost of developing and launching the first module is estimated at ₹ 1763 crore (approx. $ 176 mn) over four years (2025 to 2028), it was revealed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Major technology goals targeted for BAS include rendezvous &amp; docking, robotics, in-orbit refuelling, crew quarters, intra-vehicular suit, and racks for microgravity experiments. Key microgravity research areas targeted include life sciences, pharmaceuticals, material sciences and manufacturing technologies, said Minister Singh. He added that "it is targeted to have the first module of BAS by 2028 and fully operational BAS with all five modules by 2035". ISRO is also working on the second and third iterations of Space Docking Experiment(SPADEX), which are enabling technologies that play a crucial role in space station development.&nbsp;Since 2018, India has been working on the Gaganyaan programme to send its astronauts 400 km above Earth, aboard a capsule launched by its own rocket. Gaganyaan is seen as the first step of India's human spaceflight programme, as it involves only a couple of days of stay in space. The Indian Space Station project is a step towards enabling long-term and sustained presence of Indian astronauts in the space environment.&nbsp;With ISRO having to work simultaneously on the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, lunar missions Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, space station development, and a host of regular launch vehicle and satellite missions, executing these projects within the planned timeframe is widely regarded as a tall order.&nbsp; Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-working-for-operationalization-indian-govt-says-on-defunct-navic-satellite-fleet-1774442630956">'Working for operationalisation,' Indian Govt says on defunct NAVIC satellite fleet</a>

India has planned to place an uncrewed space station about 400-600 km above the Earth. Gradually, ISRO hopes to build on the uncrewed station and make a five-module station capable of housing astronauts.

The overall system engineering of the first module of India's space station (Bharatiya Antariksh Station) and related technology development activities for various subsystems are progressing at the space agency ISRO's Centres, the Government has revealed in Parliament. India has planned to place an uncrewed space station about 400-600 km above the Earth. Gradually, ISRO hopes to build on the uncrewed station and make a five-module station capable of housing astronauts. Elaborating on the status of the first module of the Space Station, Space Minister Jitendra Singh said that ISRO's lead facility, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, has issued an Expression of Interest to Indian Industries for building the structure for the first module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station. The current approval is limited to the first module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station, and the cost of developing and launching the first module is estimated at ₹ 1763 crore (approx. $ 176 mn) over four years (2025 to 2028), it was revealed. Major technology goals targeted for BAS include rendezvous & docking, robotics, in-orbit refuelling, crew quarters, intra-vehicular suit, and racks for microgravity experiments. Key microgravity research areas targeted include life sciences, pharmaceuticals, material sciences and manufacturing technologies, said Minister Singh. He added that "it is targeted to have the first module of BAS by 2028 and fully operational BAS with all five modules by 2035". ISRO is also working on the second and third iterations of Space Docking Experiment(SPADEX), which are enabling technologies that play a crucial role in space station development. Since 2018, India has been working on the Gaganyaan programme to send its astronauts 400 km above Earth, aboard a capsule launched by its own rocket. Gaganyaan is seen as the first step of India's human spaceflight programme, as it involves only a couple of days of stay in space. The Indian Space Station project is a step towards enabling long-term and sustained presence of Indian astronauts in the space environment. With ISRO having to work simultaneously on the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, lunar missions Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, space station development, and a host of regular launch vehicle and satellite missions, executing these projects within the planned timeframe is widely regarded as a tall order. Also read: 'Working for operationalisation,' Indian Govt says on defunct NAVIC satellite fleet

India has planned to place an uncrewed space station about 400-600 km above the Earth. Gradually, ISRO hopes to build on the uncrewed station and make a five-module station capable of housing astronauts.

Indian Space Station: Development & launch of first module to cost $187mn

AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s Principal Opposition party and the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state, has allocated 65 assembly constituencies to its allies. AIADMK will contest the remaining 169 constituencies of Tamil Nadu’s 234. The Southern Indian State goes to the polls on 23rd April. The completion of these seat-sharing arrangements marks the formal consolidation of the NDA in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;With 27 seats allocated to it, India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has emerged as the AIADMK ally with the most number of seats. This is a marked increase from the 20 seats that the AIADMK had allocated to the BJP in 2021 Assembly poll, when the BJP won four of the 20 seats.&nbsp;Among the major allies, PMK led by Anbumani Ramadoss has been allocated 18 seats, while the AMMK led by TTV Dinakaran has been allocated 11 seats. Further, AIADMK has distributed nine seats among four small parties that are part of their alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK is also nearing finalization of its seat-sharing process. So far, the DMK has allocated 66 seats to its allies. The DMK has allocated 28 seats to the Congress, which is India’s principal opposition party. DMDK, the party of late actor-politician Vijayakanth has been allocated 10 seats in the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. Left parties have been allocated 10 seats. Further, 16 seats have been distributed among four parties.&nbsp;While actor-politician Kamal Haasan’s MNM Party continues to be an ally of the DMK, the actor said that his party would not be contesting the assembly polls this time around. However, he expressed support for the DMK-led front and assured his full support. Haasan termed his decision to extend support without his party contesting in the elections was not a “sacrifice” but a “duty”.&nbsp;Elaborating on why he took such a decision, Haasan said that he and his party members were not satisfied about the number of seats allocated to them and the recommendation of having to contest on the DMK symbol instead of their own.&nbsp;&nbsp;The actor, who has become a Parliamentarian in India’s Upper House with the support of the DMK, stated that the DMK alliance’s overall victory is paramount at a time when “religious forces are trying to capture Tamil Nadu”.

Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK is also nearing finalization of its seat-sharing process. So far, the DMK has allocated 66 seats to its allies. The DMK has allocated 28 seats to the Congress, which is India’s principal opposition party.

AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s Principal Opposition party and the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state, has allocated 65 assembly constituencies to its allies. AIADMK will contest the remaining 169 constituencies of Tamil Nadu’s 234. The Southern Indian State goes to the polls on 23rd April. The completion of these seat-sharing arrangements marks the formal consolidation of the NDA in Tamil Nadu. With 27 seats allocated to it, India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has emerged as the AIADMK ally with the most number of seats. This is a marked increase from the 20 seats that the AIADMK had allocated to the BJP in 2021 Assembly poll, when the BJP won four of the 20 seats. Among the major allies, PMK led by Anbumani Ramadoss has been allocated 18 seats, while the AMMK led by TTV Dinakaran has been allocated 11 seats. Further, AIADMK has distributed nine seats among four small parties that are part of their alliance. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK is also nearing finalization of its seat-sharing process. So far, the DMK has allocated 66 seats to its allies. The DMK has allocated 28 seats to the Congress, which is India’s principal opposition party. DMDK, the party of late actor-politician Vijayakanth has been allocated 10 seats in the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. Left parties have been allocated 10 seats. Further, 16 seats have been distributed among four parties. While actor-politician Kamal Haasan’s MNM Party continues to be an ally of the DMK, the actor said that his party would not be contesting the assembly polls this time around. However, he expressed support for the DMK-led front and assured his full support. Haasan termed his decision to extend support without his party contesting in the elections was not a “sacrifice” but a “duty”. Elaborating on why he took such a decision, Haasan said that he and his party members were not satisfied about the number of seats allocated to them and the recommendation of having to contest on the DMK symbol instead of their own. The actor, who has become a Parliamentarian in India’s Upper House with the support of the DMK, stated that the DMK alliance’s overall victory is paramount at a time when “religious forces are trying to capture Tamil Nadu”.

Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK is also nearing finalization of its seat-sharing process. So far, the DMK has allocated 66 seats to its allies. The DMK has allocated 28 seats to the Congress, which is India’s principal opposition party.

Tamil Nadu polls: AIADMK to contest 169 seats; allocates 65 to allies

The Indian Government's Department of Space(DoS) is "actively working for operationalisation of NAVIC and associated satellite systems for providing secure navigation service," the country's Space Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said in Parliament on Wednesday (25th March). His comments come at a time when the NAVIC satellite fleet, India's own system to provide Position, Navigation &amp; Timing services, has gone defunct. Executed by the Space agency ISRO(which operates under the Department of Space), NAVIC is a strategic Indian Government project meant to serve civilian and defence applications within India and 1,500 km beyond Indian borders. Confirming what has already been known about NAVIC, Minister Singh stated in Parliament that only eight of the eleven NAVIC satellites are functional. Of these eight, only three satellites are broadcasting navigation signals, while five satellites are capable of broadcasting signals for one-way messaging, it was added. Back in July 2025, this author had reported that NAVIC faced the risk of going defunct, as multiple failure-hit satellites were not being replaced in a timely manner. On 13th March 2026, space agency ISRO officially revealed that another NAVIC satellite had stopped functioning, which left only three NAVIC satellites operational for providing Position, Navigation &amp; Timing services. NAVIC requires a bare minimum of four satellites for providing Position, Navigation &amp; Timing.<h3>Why NAVIC failed and what remains now...</h3>According to data shared by ISRO, six NAVIC satellites suffered failure in all three on-board atomic clocks. Atomic clocks are highly precise and sophisticated timekeeping instruments, which are fundamental to the operation of Navigation satellites. When all atomic clocks in a satellite fail, it implies a total loss of that satellite's capability to offer Position, Navigation &amp; Timing. According to the Indian Government, these imported atomic clocks were made by the Swiss firm SpectraTime. SpectraTime's atomic clocks that were used in Europe's Galileo satellite fleet had also suffered failures, it was added. &nbsp;Even among the three satellites that are presently functional, two satellites are at the end of life: IRNSS-1B has exceeded its expected life of 10 years, while IRNSS-1I has about two years of life remaining and faces the risk of premature failure. Considering long-term utility, only the NVS-01 is truly functional. Launched in May 2023, NVS-01 has at least ten years of life ahead of it, provided it functions glitch-free. Therefore, NAVIC is effectively reduced to one satellite, NVS-01, when it needs at least four. "The roadmap for further strengthening satellite navigation architecture includes completion of the NAVIC base layer constellation and suitable enhancement in services to meet the user requirements, and induction of indigenous technologies, including a space-grade atomic clock for technological self-reliance," Minister Singh said in Parliament. However, the Minister did not specify by when this would be accomplished.<h3>How many satellites are needed to revive NAVIC?</h3>If the Indian Government wishes to revive and sustain NAVIC in its basic form, it must have a total of four satellites. For this, the country's Space agency ISRO must urgently launch three satellites: NVS-03, NVS-04 and NVS-05, which can work together with the existing NVS-01. Launched in the year 2025, the NVS-02 satellite has been stuck in its initial orbit and is unable to fulfil its core purpose. Having a fleet of four operational satellites (NVS-01, 03, 04, 05) is just the basic requirement. For higher reliability and coverage, India would have to rapidly build and launch backup satellites in the NVS-series. Eventually, a fleet of six or seven NVS-series satellites would have to be maintained to reliably operate a regional Navigation system such as NAVIC.<h3>About American and Chinese Navigation systems</h3>For context, the American Global Positioning System(GPS), which supports trillion-dollar civilian and military applications worldwide, requires a fleet of 24 satellites in orbit for optimum performance and round-the-clock global coverage. Considering how crucial GPS is to the global economy, the US Government maintains at least 30 GPS satellites in orbit at any given point in time. The six additional satellites are meant to ensure that the service remains reliable and robust, even when a few satellites fail or encounter unexpected glitches. To meet its own national requirements, China operates a fleet of Beidou satellites, which serve as an alternative to America's GPS. While Beidou's global network requires a fleet of 30 satellites in orbit, around 35 satellites are believed to be in orbit. Likewise, India too must have a proportional number of satellites.<h3>Sluggish launch pace threatens NAVIC's revival</h3>In July 2025, the Indian Government had said in Parliament that the remaining NVS-series satellites would be launched by the end of 2026. However, this seems like an unrealistic timeline, given ISRO's pace so far. ISRO launched NVS-01 in May 2023; NVS-02 was launched in January 2025, which shows a gap of 19 months between the two launches. It has been more than a year since the NVS-02 failure, and its successor, NVS-03, has not been launched. ISRO has also faced three failures in six missions executed between January 2025 and January 2026, further slowing down the overall pace of activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/60x-further-5x-faster-china-just-shook-starlink-with-a-tiny-laser-that-shattered-speed-records-1774274595342">China just shook Starlink with a 5 times faster laser from a distance of 36,000km</a>

Executed by the Space agency ISRO(which operates under the Department of Space), NAVIC is a strategic Indian Government project meant to serve civilian and defence applications within India and 1,500 km beyond Indian borders.

The Indian Government's Department of Space(DoS) is "actively working for operationalisation of NAVIC and associated satellite systems for providing secure navigation service," the country's Space Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said in Parliament on Wednesday (25th March). His comments come at a time when the NAVIC satellite fleet, India's own system to provide Position, Navigation & Timing services, has gone defunct. Executed by the Space agency ISRO(which operates under the Department of Space), NAVIC is a strategic Indian Government project meant to serve civilian and defence applications within India and 1,500 km beyond Indian borders. Confirming what has already been known about NAVIC, Minister Singh stated in Parliament that only eight of the eleven NAVIC satellites are functional. Of these eight, only three satellites are broadcasting navigation signals, while five satellites are capable of broadcasting signals for one-way messaging, it was added. Back in July 2025, this author had reported that NAVIC faced the risk of going defunct, as multiple failure-hit satellites were not being replaced in a timely manner. On 13th March 2026, space agency ISRO officially revealed that another NAVIC satellite had stopped functioning, which left only three NAVIC satellites operational for providing Position, Navigation & Timing services. NAVIC requires a bare minimum of four satellites for providing Position, Navigation & Timing. Why NAVIC failed and what remains now... According to data shared by ISRO, six NAVIC satellites suffered failure in all three on-board atomic clocks. Atomic clocks are highly precise and sophisticated timekeeping instruments, which are fundamental to the operation of Navigation satellites. When all atomic clocks in a satellite fail, it implies a total loss of that satellite's capability to offer Position, Navigation & Timing. According to the Indian Government, these imported atomic clocks were made by the Swiss firm SpectraTime. SpectraTime's atomic clocks that were used in Europe's Galileo satellite fleet had also suffered failures, it was added. Even among the three satellites that are presently functional, two satellites are at the end of life: IRNSS-1B has exceeded its expected life of 10 years, while IRNSS-1I has about two years of life remaining and faces the risk of premature failure. Considering long-term utility, only the NVS-01 is truly functional. Launched in May 2023, NVS-01 has at least ten years of life ahead of it, provided it functions glitch-free. Therefore, NAVIC is effectively reduced to one satellite, NVS-01, when it needs at least four. "The roadmap for further strengthening satellite navigation architecture includes completion of the NAVIC base layer constellation and suitable enhancement in services to meet the user requirements, and induction of indigenous technologies, including a space-grade atomic clock for technological self-reliance," Minister Singh said in Parliament. However, the Minister did not specify by when this would be accomplished. How many satellites are needed to revive NAVIC? If the Indian Government wishes to revive and sustain NAVIC in its basic form, it must have a total of four satellites. For this, the country's Space agency ISRO must urgently launch three satellites: NVS-03, NVS-04 and NVS-05, which can work together with the existing NVS-01. Launched in the year 2025, the NVS-02 satellite has been stuck in its initial orbit and is unable to fulfil its core purpose. Having a fleet of four operational satellites (NVS-01, 03, 04, 05) is just the basic requirement. For higher reliability and coverage, India would have to rapidly build and launch backup satellites in the NVS-series. Eventually, a fleet of six or seven NVS-series satellites would have to be maintained to reliably operate a regional Navigation system such as NAVIC. About American and Chinese Navigation systems For context, the American Global Positioning System(GPS), which supports trillion-dollar civilian and military applications worldwide, requires a fleet of 24 satellites in orbit for optimum performance and round-the-clock global coverage. Considering how crucial GPS is to the global economy, the US Government maintains at least 30 GPS satellites in orbit at any given point in time. The six additional satellites are meant to ensure that the service remains reliable and robust, even when a few satellites fail or encounter unexpected glitches. To meet its own national requirements, China operates a fleet of Beidou satellites, which serve as an alternative to America's GPS. While Beidou's global network requires a fleet of 30 satellites in orbit, around 35 satellites are believed to be in orbit. Likewise, India too must have a proportional number of satellites. Sluggish launch pace threatens NAVIC's revival In July 2025, the Indian Government had said in Parliament that the remaining NVS-series satellites would be launched by the end of 2026. However, this seems like an unrealistic timeline, given ISRO's pace so far. ISRO launched NVS-01 in May 2023; NVS-02 was launched in January 2025, which shows a gap of 19 months between the two launches. It has been more than a year since the NVS-02 failure, and its successor, NVS-03, has not been launched. ISRO has also faced three failures in six missions executed between January 2025 and January 2026, further slowing down the overall pace of activity. Also read: China just shook Starlink with a 5 times faster laser from a distance of 36,000km

Executed by the Space agency ISRO(which operates under the Department of Space), NAVIC is a strategic Indian Government project meant to serve civilian and defence applications within India and 1,500 km beyond Indian borders.

'Working for operationalization,' Indian Govt says on defunct NAVIC satellite fleet

Veering into geopolitical issues between India and Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu's principal opposition party AIADMK said in its manifesto that firm steps will be taken to retrieve Katchatheevu, an islet near Tamil Nadu that the Indian government ceded to the neighbouring island nation Sri Lanka, back in 1974. Retrieving Katchatheevu has been a regular political demand of the fishing community in Tamil Nadu. AIADMK also added that they will urge the Central government to grant ‘dual citizenship’ to Sri Lankan Tamil refugees living in India. About 89,000 Sri Lankan Tamils have been living in the Southern Indian state, after having fled their home country.&nbsp;&nbsp;AIADMK leads the National Democratic Alliance in Tamil Nadu, which comprises the BJP, India's ruling party. Tamil Nadu is to vote on April 23. A law mandating that a minimum of 75 per cent of jobs in all private companies, factories, and commercial establishments operating in Tamil Nadu must be provided to Tamils belonging to the state, was also mentioned in the manifesto. &nbsp;&nbsp;The major welfare measures announced in the manifesto include: one-time compassionate assistance of Rs.10,000 for every household in the state, waiver of education loans obtained from banks for those who are unable to repay EMIs owing to unemployment, monthly assistance of Rs. 2,000 for unemployed graduate youth and young women registered in employment exchanges; Rs. 1,000 per month for those who have studied up to class 12 and registered in employment exchanges.&nbsp;&nbsp;On issues pertaining to centre-state relations it was said: it is our policy that the Central government must provide&nbsp;proper financial and administrative devolution to the state fovernments and this will be pressed always, we will continuously insist that Tamil Nadu's current proportional &nbsp;representation is not reduced during the delimitation of constituencies, we continuously assert that clauses detrimental to the &nbsp;two-language policy envisioned by Arignar Anna are unacceptable. There is no change in this stance. We will continue to adhere to our position that no clauses detrimental to the rights and policies of Tamil Nadu can be accepted, said the manifesto."&nbsp;&nbsp;"We will increase the financial resources accordingly. Just like we managed to overcome the revenue deficit during the COVID-19 period, we will increase the financial support and properly implement the projects we announced," AIADMK chief Edappadi Palaniswami said when queried about how the welfare measures mentioned in the manifesto could be implemented amid the heavy debt burden on the state.&nbsp;

Will bring law mandating 75% jobs for resident Tamils: AIADMK manifesto

Veering into geopolitical issues between India and Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu's principal opposition party AIADMK said in its manifesto that firm steps will be taken to retrieve Katchatheevu, an islet near Tamil Nadu that the Indian government ceded to the neighbouring island nation Sri Lanka, back in 1974. Retrieving Katchatheevu has been a regular political demand of the fishing community in Tamil Nadu. AIADMK also added that they will urge the Central government to grant ‘dual citizenship’ to Sri Lankan Tamil refugees living in India. About 89,000 Sri Lankan Tamils have been living in the Southern Indian state, after having fled their home country. AIADMK leads the National Democratic Alliance in Tamil Nadu, which comprises the BJP, India's ruling party. Tamil Nadu is to vote on April 23. A law mandating that a minimum of 75 per cent of jobs in all private companies, factories, and commercial establishments operating in Tamil Nadu must be provided to Tamils belonging to the state, was also mentioned in the manifesto. The major welfare measures announced in the manifesto include: one-time compassionate assistance of Rs.10,000 for every household in the state, waiver of education loans obtained from banks for those who are unable to repay EMIs owing to unemployment, monthly assistance of Rs. 2,000 for unemployed graduate youth and young women registered in employment exchanges; Rs. 1,000 per month for those who have studied up to class 12 and registered in employment exchanges. On issues pertaining to centre-state relations it was said: it is our policy that the Central government must provide proper financial and administrative devolution to the state fovernments and this will be pressed always, we will continuously insist that Tamil Nadu's current proportional representation is not reduced during the delimitation of constituencies, we continuously assert that clauses detrimental to the two-language policy envisioned by Arignar Anna are unacceptable. There is no change in this stance. We will continue to adhere to our position that no clauses detrimental to the rights and policies of Tamil Nadu can be accepted, said the manifesto." "We will increase the financial resources accordingly. Just like we managed to overcome the revenue deficit during the COVID-19 period, we will increase the financial support and properly implement the projects we announced," AIADMK chief Edappadi Palaniswami said when queried about how the welfare measures mentioned in the manifesto could be implemented amid the heavy debt burden on the state.

AIADMK also added that they will urge the Central government to grant ‘dual citizenship’ to Sri Lankan Tamil refugees living in India. About 89,000 Sri Lankan Tamils have been living in the Southern Indian state, after having fled their home country.

After successfully demonstrating India's first space docking experiment, SPADEX, in 2025, the country's Space agency, ISRO, is now carrying out studies for its successor missions, SPADEX-2 and SPADEX-3. Space docking is the intricate process of bringing two satellites close to one another and mechanically attaching them into one unit, all while they are travelling at velocities over 28,000 kilometres per hour. Docking is a crucial enabling technology that facilitates the transfer of astronauts, cargo, or fuel from one spacecraft to another. India's ambitions of returning samples from the moon (Chandrayaan-4) and building the country's own space station require mastery over docking technology.As per details revealed by the Indian Government in Parliament, ISRO is studying two orbital docking experiments: SPADEX-2 for replicating the Chandrayaan-4 (Lunar Sample Return), and SPADEX-3 as a precursor mission for docking in Bharatiya Space Station.<h2>Why is docking tech mandatory for Chandrayaan-4 ?</h2>India has envisioned its fourth lunar mission, Chandrayaan-4, as a sample return mission. Chandrayaan-4 will not stop with a soft landing on the moon. After landing, it will collect lunar samples, vertically liftoff from the moon, and carry the samples to our home planet.For this ambitious venture, ISRO is working towards building two crafts, each weighing around 4,750kg. Instead of launching one massive craft, ISRO would launch two of these crafts into space using two LVM3 rockets. Thereafter, these crafts would have to perform docking and undocking in space as part of the mission. During the SPADEX-1 mission, ISRO carried out docking while the satellites were orbiting the Earth in a circular orbit.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-no-dry-out-of-lpg-government-to-allocate-5-kg-ftl-cylinders-to-migrant-workers-1774265412266">'No dry out of LPG': Govt to allocate 5 kg FTL cylinders to migrant workers</a>For Chandrayaan-4, docking would have to be carried out while the satellites are in a highly elliptical (egg-shaped) orbit. The Indian Government has revealed that SPADEX-2 would involve the docking and undocking of two spacecraft in a highly elliptical orbit, and a sample would be transferred between the two crafts. Therefore, SPADEX-2 is intended to simulate the conditions that Chandrayaan-4 would have to operate under.<h2>Why is docking tech mandatory for operating a space station?</h2>To build a space station, which is a massive orbiting lab, multiple modules(parts) need to be launched from Earth in a phased manner. Gradually, these modules have to be assembled in space to create a fully functional space station. India has ambitions to build its own space station that would eventually house astronauts. As part of SPADEX-3, ISRO envisions docking and undocking between two pressurised modules using Bharatiya Docking System (BDS), which is a homegrown docking mechanism.Pressurised docking is a specialised form of space docking designed to create an airtight, structurally robust tunnel to move astronauts and cargo between two spacecraft. When astronauts live aboard a space station, they would need to move from one module of the station to another, just like how one would need to go from one room to another at home. Therefore, the connections between all modules need to be maintained at equal pressure, to provide breathable air, temperature control, and ideal habitable conditions.<h2>What makes space docking so complicated?</h2>When a one spacecraft is approaching the other spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays.When the spacecraft docks, their relative velocity must be near zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously.&nbsp;

For Chandrayaan-4, docking would have to be carried out while the satellites are in a highly elliptical (egg-shaped) orbit. The Indian Government has revealed that SPADEX-2 would involve the docking and undocking of two spacecraft in a highly elliptical orbit. 

After successfully demonstrating India's first space docking experiment, SPADEX, in 2025, the country's Space agency, ISRO, is now carrying out studies for its successor missions, SPADEX-2 and SPADEX-3. Space docking is the intricate process of bringing two satellites close to one another and mechanically attaching them into one unit, all while they are travelling at velocities over 28,000 kilometres per hour. Docking is a crucial enabling technology that facilitates the transfer of astronauts, cargo, or fuel from one spacecraft to another. India's ambitions of returning samples from the moon (Chandrayaan-4) and building the country's own space station require mastery over docking technology. As per details revealed by the Indian Government in Parliament, ISRO is studying two orbital docking experiments: SPADEX-2 for replicating the Chandrayaan-4 (Lunar Sample Return), and SPADEX-3 as a precursor mission for docking in Bharatiya Space Station. Why is docking tech mandatory for Chandrayaan-4 ? India has envisioned its fourth lunar mission, Chandrayaan-4, as a sample return mission. Chandrayaan-4 will not stop with a soft landing on the moon. After landing, it will collect lunar samples, vertically liftoff from the moon, and carry the samples to our home planet. For this ambitious venture, ISRO is working towards building two crafts, each weighing around 4,750kg. Instead of launching one massive craft, ISRO would launch two of these crafts into space using two LVM3 rockets. Thereafter, these crafts would have to perform docking and undocking in space as part of the mission. During the SPADEX-1 mission, ISRO carried out docking while the satellites were orbiting the Earth in a circular orbit. Also read: 'No dry out of LPG': Govt to allocate 5 kg FTL cylinders to migrant workers For Chandrayaan-4, docking would have to be carried out while the satellites are in a highly elliptical (egg-shaped) orbit. The Indian Government has revealed that SPADEX-2 would involve the docking and undocking of two spacecraft in a highly elliptical orbit, and a sample would be transferred between the two crafts. Therefore, SPADEX-2 is intended to simulate the conditions that Chandrayaan-4 would have to operate under. Why is docking tech mandatory for operating a space station? To build a space station, which is a massive orbiting lab, multiple modules(parts) need to be launched from Earth in a phased manner. Gradually, these modules have to be assembled in space to create a fully functional space station. India has ambitions to build its own space station that would eventually house astronauts. As part of SPADEX-3, ISRO envisions docking and undocking between two pressurised modules using Bharatiya Docking System (BDS), which is a homegrown docking mechanism. Pressurised docking is a specialised form of space docking designed to create an airtight, structurally robust tunnel to move astronauts and cargo between two spacecraft. When astronauts live aboard a space station, they would need to move from one module of the station to another, just like how one would need to go from one room to another at home. Therefore, the connections between all modules need to be maintained at equal pressure, to provide breathable air, temperature control, and ideal habitable conditions. What makes space docking so complicated? When a one spacecraft is approaching the other spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays. When the spacecraft docks, their relative velocity must be near zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously.

For Chandrayaan-4, docking would have to be carried out while the satellites are in a highly elliptical (egg-shaped) orbit. The Indian Government has revealed that SPADEX-2 would involve the docking and undocking of two spacecraft in a highly elliptical orbit.&nbsp;

Explainer: ISRO plans SPADEX-2 and 3 space docking experiments

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