Three days after the tragic stampede at his political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu claimed 41 lives and led to the hospitalisation of more than 50 persons, actor-politician Vijay has spoken out in detail. Via a video message posted on social media, Vijay expressed deep regret and sorrow over the tragedy, while vowing to continue his political journey with more strength and courage.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I've never faced such a painful situation in life, and I'm feeling very hurt. People came to meet me out of love, I am grateful for that...Safety should not be compromised, that was always on my mind. What shouldn't have happened has happened," Vijay remarked about the incident.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/FipkqoLlmB">pic.twitter.com/FipkqoLlmB</a>&mdash; TVK Vijay (@TVKVijayHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/TVKVijayHQ/status/1972965812618297612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Vijay and his party cadre have been facing immense criticism from Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK for leaving the site after the tragedy unfolded and not offering to help the victims or visit them at the hospital later. In what seemed like a response to this, Vijay said that he, too, was human, and he could not leave that place when all this happened.&nbsp;"I wanted to go back there... but my going there would have cussed other issues, so I avoided it. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to those undergoing treatment. I will come meet you all soon," Vijay said. He also went on to thank the political leaders who stood by their party during these tough times.&nbsp;Reemphasising his party's stance that there was a conspiracy behind the tragedy in Karur, Vijay asked, "We campaigned in five districts so far, but why did this happen only in Karur...? How did it happen in Karur..? People know the truth.. people are watching.. When the people of Karur say it out, I feel like God himself has appeared and revealed the truth.. Soon, all the truth will come out," he said.&nbsp;On the Police cases being filed against his party cadre and fans, Vijay stated that he and his party merely spoke at the Government-approved location, and did not commit any further mistakes. Taking on DMK Chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Vijay said, "CM sir, if you wish to take revenge, take it against me and spare my cadre.. I'll either be at home or office, do anything to me." Further, he reaffirmed that his political journey would continue.&nbsp;<h2>Growing demands for a CBI probe</h2>&nbsp;Given the severity and unprecedented nature of the incident, all major opposition parties in Tamil Nadu have been demanding that the case be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This has been put forth by the BJP, AIADMK, PMK, and Vijay's TVK.&nbsp;In the immediate aftermath of the incident, the DMK Government appointed a retired judge or probe the incident. However, the opposition parties are not convinced by it and continue to demand a CBI probe.&nbsp;Meanwhile, an 8-member delegation from India's ruling NDA (BJP and allies) has visited the incident site in Karur, spoken to eye-witnesses, and met the victims in the hospital. The delegation has accused that there had been an intelligence failure on the part of the Tamil Nadu Police under the DMK Government, as they failed to estimate the crowd and allocate a suitable venue.&nbsp;KC Venugopal, Congress General Secretary (Organisation), has also visited Karur, along with a host of leaders from his party. They met the victims and assured them of support.

Vijay and his party cadre have been facing immense criticism from Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK for leaving the site after the tragedy unfolded and not offering to help the victims or visit them at the hospital later.

Three days after the tragic stampede at his political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu claimed 41 lives and led to the hospitalisation of more than 50 persons, actor-politician Vijay has spoken out in detail. Via a video message posted on social media, Vijay expressed deep regret and sorrow over the tragedy, while vowing to continue his political journey with more strength and courage. "I've never faced such a painful situation in life, and I'm feeling very hurt. People came to meet me out of love, I am grateful for that...Safety should not be compromised, that was always on my mind. What shouldn't have happened has happened," Vijay remarked about the incident.

Vijay and his party cadre have been facing immense criticism from Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK for leaving the site after the tragedy unfolded and not offering to help the victims or visit them at the hospital later.

Karur stampede: 41 dead at political rally; Vijay hints at conspiracy

The death of 40 persons and hospitalisation of 50 persons following the stampede at actor-politician Vijay's political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has sparked calls for probing the incident. While the retired judge appointed by Tamil Nadu's DMK Government has commenced her investigation into Saturday's stampede, the BJP and Vijay's TVK are not convinced with the DMK Government's probe.Vijay's TVK party has approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe by Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) or a Special Investigation Team(SIT). The party urged the court to take suo motu cognizance of the incident and ensure an impartial investigation. It was mentioned that only a probe led by an independent agency can uncover the lapses that led to the large scale loss of life during the party's public meeting. The matter is expected to be taken up for hearing Monday afternoon.BJP has raised demands for a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI), while Vijay's TVK party has said it is approaching the High Court to request a probe by an investigation agency or a Special Investigation Team. Vijay's party, which is set to make its election debut in summer 2026, alleges that the Karur tragedy was the result of a "conspiracy by the ruling DMK."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-flaws-in-crowd-management-causing-tragedies-shashi-tharoor-appeals-governments-to-take-steps-after-karur-tragedy-1759065227717">‘Flaws in crowd management causing tragedies’: Tharoor urges govts to take steps</a>K. Annamalai, the former President of the Tamil Nadu BJP has raised several questions against the DMK Government and its Police force. A former Police officer, Annamalai pointed out that Vijay and his party could seek permission for a political rally with ten thousand attendees, but it is the State Police and Intelligence department's duty to anticipate and deploy personnel accordingly. He also criticized the Government's decision to grant permission for a seven-hour window between 3pm and 10pm. "Police should have granted permission for about two hours, Vijay can come and deliver his speech in about 20 minutes" he said.Further, Annamalai questioned the rationale behind a single-member Government-appointed committee probing the case. He alleged that the retired judge who is handpicked by the Chief Minister would not criticize the lapses on the part of the State Government. He emphasized that various aspects must be probed by the CBI -"how did the crowd get agitates? Who threw the slipper at Vijay? Did a few miscreants infiltrate the crowd and create trouble?".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-stone-pelting-lathi-charge-vijay-moves-hc-alleges-stampede-plot-in-his-karur-rally-1759045992839">Vijay moves HC, alleges 'stampede plot' in his Karur rally that killed 39</a>While Annamalai did not lash out at Vijay for the tragedy, he criticized the planning and execution of Vijay's political rally.&nbsp; "Vijay has every right to go anywhere and campaign, and people have right to go and watch anybody. It is the Government's duty to facilitate and provide security. However, Vijay must be more responsible. He campaigns only during Saturdays when women and children turn up in large numbers and there are big crowds. He is doing this despite knowing the risks fully well."He also questioned why Vijay was campaigning at a single spot in every district, as opposed to multiple campaign stops in every district. He reasoned that campaigning at multiple spots in a single district would prevent overcrowding and congestion.<h2>What the Tamil Nadu Police said...</h2>Tamil Nadu Police have said that they permitted the event at the said venue, after considering that the earlier two venues suggested by the TVK party were deemed unfit for a dense crowd. It was stated that 500 personnel were deployed on site for security duty for Vijay's event. Police officials contrasted this to 137 personnel that were deployed at the same venue for the election campaign of AIADMK leader and Leader of Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami.Police emphasized that the participants' cooperation is necessary to conduct an event smoothly. Police also pointed out the possibility of the crowd getting restless owing to the delay in arrival of Vijay. Police said that their investigation in the preliminary stage, while also refusing to reveal more given that the retired judge is also probing the matter based on Government instructions.&nbsp;

Vijay's TVK party has approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe by Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) or a Special Investigation Team(SIT).

The death of 40 persons and hospitalisation of 50 persons following the stampede at actor-politician Vijay's political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has sparked calls for probing the incident. While the retired judge appointed by Tamil Nadu's DMK Government has commenced her investigation into Saturday's stampede, the BJP and Vijay's TVK are not convinced with the DMK Government's probe. Vijay's TVK party has approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe by Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) or a Special Investigation Team(SIT). The party urged the court to take suo motu cognizance of the incident and ensure an impartial investigation. It was mentioned that only a probe led by an independent agency can uncover the lapses that led to the large scale loss of life during the party's public meeting. The matter is expected to be taken up for hearing Monday afternoon. BJP has raised demands for a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI), while Vijay's TVK party has said it is approaching the High Court to request a probe by an investigation agency or a Special Investigation Team. Vijay's party, which is set to make its election debut in summer 2026, alleges that the Karur tragedy was the result of a "conspiracy by the ruling DMK." Also read | ‘Flaws in crowd management causing tragedies’: Tharoor urges govts to take steps K. Annamalai, the former President of the Tamil Nadu BJP has raised several questions against the DMK Government and its Police force. A former Police officer, Annamalai pointed out that Vijay and his party could seek permission for a political rally with ten thousand attendees, but it is the State Police and Intelligence department's duty to anticipate and deploy personnel accordingly. He also criticized the Government's decision to grant permission for a seven-hour window between 3pm and 10pm. "Police should have granted permission for about two hours, Vijay can come and deliver his speech in about 20 minutes" he said. Further, Annamalai questioned the rationale behind a single-member Government-appointed committee probing the case. He alleged that the retired judge who is handpicked by the Chief Minister would not criticize the lapses on the part of the State Government. He emphasized that various aspects must be probed by the CBI -"how did the crowd get agitates? Who threw the slipper at Vijay? Did a few miscreants infiltrate the crowd and create trouble?". Also read | Vijay moves HC, alleges 'stampede plot' in his Karur rally that killed 39 While Annamalai did not lash out at Vijay for the tragedy, he criticized the planning and execution of Vijay's political rally. "Vijay has every right to go anywhere and campaign, and people have right to go and watch anybody. It is the Government's duty to facilitate and provide security. However, Vijay must be more responsible. He campaigns only during Saturdays when women and children turn up in large numbers and there are big crowds. He is doing this despite knowing the risks fully well." He also questioned why Vijay was campaigning at a single spot in every district, as opposed to multiple campaign stops in every district. He reasoned that campaigning at multiple spots in a single district would prevent overcrowding and congestion. What the Tamil Nadu Police said... Tamil Nadu Police have said that they permitted the event at the said venue, after considering that the earlier two venues suggested by the TVK party were deemed unfit for a dense crowd. It was stated that 500 personnel were deployed on site for security duty for Vijay's event. Police officials contrasted this to 137 personnel that were deployed at the same venue for the election campaign of AIADMK leader and Leader of Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami. Police emphasized that the participants' cooperation is necessary to conduct an event smoothly. Police also pointed out the possibility of the crowd getting restless owing to the delay in arrival of Vijay. Police said that their investigation in the preliminary stage, while also refusing to reveal more given that the retired judge is also probing the matter based on Government instructions.

Vijay's TVK party has approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe by Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) or a Special Investigation Team(SIT).

40 deaths at Karur political rally: TVK, BJP seek CBI probe

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduatingRecently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects.CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others.Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said.Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers."Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers.Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&amp;D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduating Recently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects. CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others. Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said. Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers." Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers. Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

$3.4bn shipyard in Tamil Nadu to build naval, cargo ships: Govt

The Indian ministry of defence has inked a Rs62,370 crore ($7.03bn) deal with government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to the government, the delivery of these indigenously designed and developed jets would commence during 2027-28 and be completed over a period of six years. The 97-jet order comprises 68 fighter aircraft and 29 twin seaters that can serve as trainer aircraft.&nbsp;&nbsp;The latest deal is over and above a 2021 deal for 83 Tejas jets, which itself is being fulfilled gradually. While HAL has a massive orderbook for Tejas fighter jets, the Indiann establishment has repeatedly raised concerns over delays in deliveries and their impact on the Air Force's fighting capability. &nbsp;While the Tejas jets are designed and developed by India, they are powered by American General Electric F404 engines. The Indian government says that the Tejas Mk1A, the latest and most advanced variant of the homegrown fighter would have over 64% indigenous content.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was added that the higher level of indigenous content is owing to addition of UTTAM Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach (self-protection suite), control surface actuators, and more than 60 other components. The Tejas Mk1A programme is being supported by over 100 Indian firms that supply various components, systems and sub-systems. The government estimates suggest that this contract could generate 11,750 direct and indirect jobs annually for the duration of six years, boosting the domestic aerospace ecosystem.&nbsp;&nbsp;The deal for procuring more Tejas aircraft comes just a day prior to the retirement of India's Soviet-era Mig-21 fighter jets. First inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963, the variants of Mig-21 served the IAF for more than six decades, playing a role in almost every conflict involving India in that period.&nbsp; With the retirement of the Mig-21 fleet, the IAF will be down to a fleet of 29 squadrons, with each squadron comprising 16-18 jets. However, even these 29 squadrons include ageing jets like the Jaguar, Mirage-2000 and Mig-29UPG. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the Indian establishment to ramp up fleet strength to meet the growing challenges in the volatile neighbourhood.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the IAF has a sanctioned squadron strength of 42, it is down to 29. Meanwhile, Pakistan has about 25 squadrons of fighter jets and China has about 66 squadrons, with advanced variants being rapidly added and even sixth&nbsp;generation versions being tested. The backbone of the Indian fighter fleet is the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI, of which there are well over 250 jets, and India's latest and most advanced jet variant is the Rafale from France's Dassault Aviation.

Indian government inks $7 Billion deal for 97 Tejas Mk1A jets 

The Indian ministry of defence has inked a Rs62,370 crore ($7.03bn) deal with government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to the government, the delivery of these indigenously designed and developed jets would commence during 2027-28 and be completed over a period of six years. The 97-jet order comprises 68 fighter aircraft and 29 twin seaters that can serve as trainer aircraft. The latest deal is over and above a 2021 deal for 83 Tejas jets, which itself is being fulfilled gradually. While HAL has a massive orderbook for Tejas fighter jets, the Indiann establishment has repeatedly raised concerns over delays in deliveries and their impact on the Air Force's fighting capability. While the Tejas jets are designed and developed by India, they are powered by American General Electric F404 engines. The Indian government says that the Tejas Mk1A, the latest and most advanced variant of the homegrown fighter would have over 64% indigenous content. It was added that the higher level of indigenous content is owing to addition of UTTAM Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach (self-protection suite), control surface actuators, and more than 60 other components. The Tejas Mk1A programme is being supported by over 100 Indian firms that supply various components, systems and sub-systems. The government estimates suggest that this contract could generate 11,750 direct and indirect jobs annually for the duration of six years, boosting the domestic aerospace ecosystem. The deal for procuring more Tejas aircraft comes just a day prior to the retirement of India's Soviet-era Mig-21 fighter jets. First inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963, the variants of Mig-21 served the IAF for more than six decades, playing a role in almost every conflict involving India in that period. With the retirement of the Mig-21 fleet, the IAF will be down to a fleet of 29 squadrons, with each squadron comprising 16-18 jets. However, even these 29 squadrons include ageing jets like the Jaguar, Mirage-2000 and Mig-29UPG. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the Indian establishment to ramp up fleet strength to meet the growing challenges in the volatile neighbourhood. While the IAF has a sanctioned squadron strength of 42, it is down to 29. Meanwhile, Pakistan has about 25 squadrons of fighter jets and China has about 66 squadrons, with advanced variants being rapidly added and even sixth generation versions being tested. The backbone of the Indian fighter fleet is the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI, of which there are well over 250 jets, and India's latest and most advanced jet variant is the Rafale from France's Dassault Aviation.

The delivery of these indigenously designed and developed jets would commence during 2027-28 and be completed over a period of six years. The 97-jet order comprises of 68 fighter aircraft and 29 twin seaters that can serve as trainer aircraft

Indian government inks $7 Billion deal for 97 Tejas Mk1A jets

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a private manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Casablanca, Morocco, where India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) Wheeled Armoured Platform 8x8 (WhAP 8x8) vehicles would be assembled and integrated. This marks the first overseas defence manufacturing facility established by a private Indian company, underlining India’s private sector capability to design and deliver advanced combat vehicle platforms in partnership with DRDO.&nbsp;Establishing the TASL facility in Morocco is the result of a strategic partnership between The Kingdom of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and the Indian firm Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). Morocco is said to have placed orders for 150&nbsp;WhAP&nbsp;vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;In simple terms, WhAP&nbsp;is a light armoured all-terrain vehicle that can safely ferry troops in and out of combat zones, while also performing amphibious roles. The vehicle's armour can handle incoming fire from small arms, can return fire from its mounted gun or anti-tank guided missile launcher. Such vehicles can be deployed to perform various roles including medical evacuation, surveillance, troop transport etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mr. Abdeltif Loudyi, minister delegate to the head of government in charge of the Administration National Defence, Kingdom of Morocco, and other senior government dignitaries from both countries were present at the inaugural ceremony of what is the Kingdom of Morocco's largest defence manufacturing facility. The Indian firm's manufacturing facility that is spread across 20,000square meters, will commences the rollout of WhAP 8x8 vehicles from October, said, TASL. The firm added that the facility became operational three months ahead of schedule, and production has already commenced.&nbsp;Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said that India's vision of being self-reliant does not mean isolation; rather, we aim to develop strategic autonomy under self-reliance. "We want to develop capabilities that allow us to defend out nation independently, while maintaining engagement with global partners. Along with 'Make in India', we are also pursuing 'Make with Friends' and 'Make for the World', this facility in Morocco is a shining example of that approach," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Indian government, one-third of the WhAP's components and sub-systems will be sourced and assembled locally, with the share of local value addition eventually raising to 50 per cent. Beyond meeting Moroccan defence requirements, the facility is also expected to roll out units for export in future.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sukaran Singh, chief executive officer and managing director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “As the first overseas manufacturing facility by a private Indian defence original equipment manufacturer, it also marks our strategic initiative to begin offering designed-in-India Defence technology systems to friendly countries overseas. Today’s Defence factory inauguration near Casablanca in Morocco marks a new chapter in the India–Morocco industrial partnership, and Tata Advanced Systems is proud to be part of this milestone.”&nbsp;In India, there are concerns being raised in certain quarters that that the Indian government has so far placed very limited orders for the WhAP, despite it being an indigenous defence offering.&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh inaugurates Tata's first global defence manufacturing plant in Morocco

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a private manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Casablanca, Morocco, where India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) Wheeled Armoured Platform 8x8 (WhAP 8x8) vehicles would be assembled and integrated. This marks the first overseas defence manufacturing facility established by a private Indian company, underlining India’s private sector capability to design and deliver advanced combat vehicle platforms in partnership with DRDO. Establishing the TASL facility in Morocco is the result of a strategic partnership between The Kingdom of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and the Indian firm Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). Morocco is said to have placed orders for 150 WhAP vehicles. In simple terms, WhAP is a light armoured all-terrain vehicle that can safely ferry troops in and out of combat zones, while also performing amphibious roles. The vehicle's armour can handle incoming fire from small arms, can return fire from its mounted gun or anti-tank guided missile launcher. Such vehicles can be deployed to perform various roles including medical evacuation, surveillance, troop transport etc. Mr. Abdeltif Loudyi, minister delegate to the head of government in charge of the Administration National Defence, Kingdom of Morocco, and other senior government dignitaries from both countries were present at the inaugural ceremony of what is the Kingdom of Morocco's largest defence manufacturing facility. The Indian firm's manufacturing facility that is spread across 20,000square meters, will commences the rollout of WhAP 8x8 vehicles from October, said, TASL. The firm added that the facility became operational three months ahead of schedule, and production has already commenced. Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said that India's vision of being self-reliant does not mean isolation; rather, we aim to develop strategic autonomy under self-reliance. "We want to develop capabilities that allow us to defend out nation independently, while maintaining engagement with global partners. Along with 'Make in India', we are also pursuing 'Make with Friends' and 'Make for the World', this facility in Morocco is a shining example of that approach," he said. According to the Indian government, one-third of the WhAP's components and sub-systems will be sourced and assembled locally, with the share of local value addition eventually raising to 50 per cent. Beyond meeting Moroccan defence requirements, the facility is also expected to roll out units for export in future. Sukaran Singh, chief executive officer and managing director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “As the first overseas manufacturing facility by a private Indian defence original equipment manufacturer, it also marks our strategic initiative to begin offering designed-in-India Defence technology systems to friendly countries overseas. Today’s Defence factory inauguration near Casablanca in Morocco marks a new chapter in the India–Morocco industrial partnership, and Tata Advanced Systems is proud to be part of this milestone.” In India, there are concerns being raised in certain quarters that that the Indian government has so far placed very limited orders for the WhAP, despite it being an indigenous defence offering.

Establishing the TASL facility in Morocco is the result of a strategic partnership between The Kingdom of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and the Indian firm Tata Advanced Systems Limited

The Indian Government shipbuilding firm Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) had inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for a long-term strategic collaboration in shipbuilding. According to CSL, this partnership seeks to combine their legacy, infrastructure, and domestic expertise with HD KSOE’s advanced technology and global experience, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s shipbuilding capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Under this MoU, CSL’s&nbsp; 310-meter new dry dock, which was inaugurated in January 2024, will be utilised to construct large vessels such as Suezmax tankers, container ships, and Capesize bulk carriers, with a capacity of up to six vessels annually. Suezmax tankers are those designed to be the largest vessel size that can transit the Suez Canal when fully loaded. Capesize bulk carriers are one of the largest types of dry bulk ships, primarily used to transport massive quantities of raw materials like iron ore and coal.&nbsp; To support this effort, a dedicated Block Fabrication Facility (BFF) spread across 80acres is planned at Kochi, Kerala, with an annual capacity of 120,000 metric tonnes, involving an investment of about ₹3,700 crore ($417mn). Block Fabrication Facilities are specialised sites where large individual sections or blocks of a ship are constructed before being assembled into the full vessel. This approach is commonly used in modern shipbuilding to increase efficiency, quality control, and safety. This approach enables the parallel construction of different parts of the ship. Government estimates say, this initiative would generate around 2,000 direct jobs and substantial indirect employment in sectors such as logistics, MSMEs, supply chains, and ancillary industries.&nbsp;The Indo-Korea collaboration will also focus on joint execution of shipbuilding projects at CSL’s existing facilities during the transition phase, while simultaneously exploring opportunities in new business areas, greenfield shipyards, and skill development.&nbsp;Recently, CSL had signed an MoU to setup a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi district in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. CSL elaborated that its investment of about ₹15,000 crore($1.69bn) to establish a state-of-the-art shipyard in Tamil Nadu would be in collaboration with a Korean partner. In its first phase, the project is projected to create nearly 10,000 jobs, comprising 4,000 direct and 6,000 indirect opportunities. Further, they may also include a modern ship repair facility. &nbsp;

The Indo-Korea collaboration will also focus on joint execution of shipbuilding projects at CSL’s existing facilities during the transition phase, while simultaneously exploring opportunities in new business areas.

The Indian Government shipbuilding firm Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) had inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for a long-term strategic collaboration in shipbuilding. According to CSL, this partnership seeks to combine their legacy, infrastructure, and domestic expertise with HD KSOE’s advanced technology and global experience, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s shipbuilding capabilities. Under this MoU, CSL’s 310-meter new dry dock, which was inaugurated in January 2024, will be utilised to construct large vessels such as Suezmax tankers, container ships, and Capesize bulk carriers, with a capacity of up to six vessels annually. Suezmax tankers are those designed to be the largest vessel size that can transit the Suez Canal when fully loaded. Capesize bulk carriers are one of the largest types of dry bulk ships, primarily used to transport massive quantities of raw materials like iron ore and coal. To support this effort, a dedicated Block Fabrication Facility (BFF) spread across 80acres is planned at Kochi, Kerala, with an annual capacity of 120,000 metric tonnes, involving an investment of about ₹3,700 crore ($417mn). Block Fabrication Facilities are specialised sites where large individual sections or blocks of a ship are constructed before being assembled into the full vessel. This approach is commonly used in modern shipbuilding to increase efficiency, quality control, and safety. This approach enables the parallel construction of different parts of the ship. Government estimates say, this initiative would generate around 2,000 direct jobs and substantial indirect employment in sectors such as logistics, MSMEs, supply chains, and ancillary industries. The Indo-Korea collaboration will also focus on joint execution of shipbuilding projects at CSL’s existing facilities during the transition phase, while simultaneously exploring opportunities in new business areas, greenfield shipyards, and skill development. Recently, CSL had signed an MoU to setup a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi district in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. CSL elaborated that its investment of about ₹15,000 crore($1.69bn) to establish a state-of-the-art shipyard in Tamil Nadu would be in collaboration with a Korean partner. In its first phase, the project is projected to create nearly 10,000 jobs, comprising 4,000 direct and 6,000 indirect opportunities. Further, they may also include a modern ship repair facility.

The Indo-Korea collaboration will also focus on joint execution of shipbuilding projects at CSL’s existing facilities during the transition phase, while simultaneously exploring opportunities in new business areas.

India-Korea shipbuilding projects to come up in Kerala, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated American firm Equinix’s Data Centre near the Southern Indian city of Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, top government officials, and company representatives. Situated in the SIPCOT IT park in Siruseri, the data centre has been established at a cost of Rs. 574 crore ($65 million). This comes at a time when several multinational firms are setting up their Global Capability Centre (GCCs) and data centres across major cities in India.&nbsp;Headquartered in the US, Equinix is a digital infrastructure company that provides connectivity solutions to global businesses. With the aim of providing an optimal infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence and new generation technologies, the firm has established and operates data centre in multiple nations.&nbsp;According to the Tamil Nadu government, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this project was signed during the Investors’ Meet held in July 2022, and the foundation stone for this project was laid back then by Chief Minister MK Stalin.&nbsp;As per the Indian Government’s revised 2024-25 GDP estimate, Tamil Nadu has recorded 11.19%, the highest growth rate in the country. Notably, this double-digit growth has returned to the southern Indian state after a period of 14 years. The Tamil Nadu Government has set a target of making the state a $1 trillion economy by the end of this decade.&nbsp;WATCH: Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists building concrete underground bunkers deep within the dense forests<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-terrorists-building-concrete-underground-bunkers-deep-within-the-dense-forests-1758290766760/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-terrorists-building-concrete-underground-bunkers-deep-within-the-dense-forests-1758290766760/embed</a>&nbsp;

The MoU for this project was signed during the Investors’ Meet held in July 2022, and the foundation stone for this project was laid back then by Chief Minister MK Stalin. The Tamil Nadu Government has set a target of making the state a $1 trillion economy by the end of this decade.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated American firm Equinix’s Data Centre near the Southern Indian city of Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, top government officials, and company representatives. Situated in the SIPCOT IT park in Siruseri, the data centre has been established at a cost of Rs. 574 crore ($65 million). This comes at a time when several multinational firms are setting up their Global Capability Centre (GCCs) and data centres across major cities in India. Headquartered in the US, Equinix is a digital infrastructure company that provides connectivity solutions to global businesses. With the aim of providing an optimal infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence and new generation technologies, the firm has established and operates data centre in multiple nations. According to the Tamil Nadu government, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this project was signed during the Investors’ Meet held in July 2022, and the foundation stone for this project was laid back then by Chief Minister MK Stalin. As per the Indian Government’s revised 2024-25 GDP estimate, Tamil Nadu has recorded 11.19%, the highest growth rate in the country. Notably, this double-digit growth has returned to the southern Indian state after a period of 14 years. The Tamil Nadu Government has set a target of making the state a $1 trillion economy by the end of this decade. WATCH: Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists building concrete underground bunkers deep within the dense forests https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-terrorists-building-concrete-underground-bunkers-deep-within-the-dense-forests-1758290766760/embed

The MoU for this project was signed during the Investors’ Meet held in July 2022, and the foundation stone for this project was laid back then by Chief Minister MK Stalin. The Tamil Nadu Government has set a target of making the state a $1 trillion economy by the end of this decade.

Tamil Nadu CM inaugurates American firm’s $65 million data centre in Chennai

Owing to internal tussles, Tamil Nadu’s principal opposition party, AIADMK, is in deep trouble, as there are barely six months left for the summer 2026 polls in the state. Amid such a situation, the party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) is expected to travel to New Delhi on Tuesday, 16th&nbsp;September, to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is also BJP’s chief election strategist. It was in the presence of Shah, that the AIADMK and BJP formally announced their association under the National Democratic Alliance in April this year.&nbsp;Palaniswami’s Delhi visit also coincides with the 10-day deadline issued by AIADMK veteran leader Sengottaiyan. On September 5th, AIADMK veteran Sengottaiyan publicly expressed the urgent need for their party to re-induct leaders who were expelled in recent years. He reasoned that this must be done to improve the party’s prospects in the 2026 polls. He had set a 10-day deadline for the re-induction of ousted leaders and also emphasised that the party is presently in a weak position and needs to reunite to take on the ruling DMK.&nbsp;Though Sengottaiyan has not specified who the ousted leaders are, it is widely regarded that he is referring to VK Sasikala, a close aide of J. Jayalalithaa, and O. Panneerselvam, a former chief minister and senior AIADMK leader, among others. The AIADMK, once a formidable political force in the southern Indian state, has been facing a leadership crisis since the demise of then chief minister and party supremo J. Jayalalithaa in 2016.&nbsp;“Palaniswami can decide whom to reunite... those who have been ousted from AIADMK were in important posts... I feel that they should be reunited...Only then can we accomplish a victory. Party will be strong only when everyone comes together. This should be done urgently...,” Sengottaiyan had said. He also made it clear that if this did not happen within a 10-day deadline, there are like-minded people who are willing to do so for the party. Citing precedent, he touched upon the need to “forgive and forget” in the interest of the party.&nbsp;Following Sengottaiyan’s remarks, both ousted AIADMK leaders O Panneerselvam and VK Sasikala came out in support of the veteran leader and his suggestions. Shortly after, Sengottaiyan went public with his remarks on the reunification of the party. He was expelled from his party post. However, Sengottaiyan continues as a member of the AIADMK. Last week, Sengottaiyan was in Delhi and had a meeting with Amit Shah and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, further fuelling speculation that the BJP was causing a rift within their ally AIADMK.&nbsp;With six months to go for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass are not an encouraging sign for the state’s main opposition party and the overall NDA alliance. Further, smaller parties such as TTV Dinakaran’s AMMK have announced their decision to quit the NDA. Earlier, O Panneerselvam too announced his decision to move out of the NDA. PMK, a former ally of the NDA, now faces an internal leadership struggle between the father-son duo that are the prominent faces of the party. DMDK, a former NDA ally and the party of late actor-politician Vijayakant, is now signalling its intentions to join the DMK-led front.&nbsp;It is amid such a crisis that Palaniswami is heading to Delhi to meet Amit Shah. Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK often accuses the AIADMK of “surrendering to the BJP”. Amid their election campaigning, the DMK has also been mounting attacks against what they referred to as the multiple factions within the opposition party AIADMK. Countering this, the AIADMK has hit back at the DMK for dynastic politics.&nbsp;Commenting on the impending meeting between Palaniswami and Amit Shah, Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran downplayed it by calling it a meeting between leaders of parties that are in an alliance and that they could meet anytime. However, he refused to divulge details about the meeting and said that such information would be available only after the meeting.

Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK accuses the AIADMK of “surrendering to the BJP” and also mounts attacks over increasing factionalism within the opposition party. The AIADMK counters the criticism by accusing the DMK of dynastic politics.

Owing to internal tussles, Tamil Nadu’s principal opposition party, AIADMK, is in deep trouble, as there are barely six months left for the summer 2026 polls in the state. Amid such a situation, the party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) is expected to travel to New Delhi on Tuesday, 16th September, to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is also BJP’s chief election strategist. It was in the presence of Shah, that the AIADMK and BJP formally announced their association under the National Democratic Alliance in April this year. Palaniswami’s Delhi visit also coincides with the 10-day deadline issued by AIADMK veteran leader Sengottaiyan. On September 5th, AIADMK veteran Sengottaiyan publicly expressed the urgent need for their party to re-induct leaders who were expelled in recent years. He reasoned that this must be done to improve the party’s prospects in the 2026 polls. He had set a 10-day deadline for the re-induction of ousted leaders and also emphasised that the party is presently in a weak position and needs to reunite to take on the ruling DMK. Though Sengottaiyan has not specified who the ousted leaders are, it is widely regarded that he is referring to VK Sasikala, a close aide of J. Jayalalithaa, and O. Panneerselvam, a former chief minister and senior AIADMK leader, among others. The AIADMK, once a formidable political force in the southern Indian state, has been facing a leadership crisis since the demise of then chief minister and party supremo J. Jayalalithaa in 2016. “Palaniswami can decide whom to reunite... those who have been ousted from AIADMK were in important posts... I feel that they should be reunited...Only then can we accomplish a victory. Party will be strong only when everyone comes together. This should be done urgently...,” Sengottaiyan had said. He also made it clear that if this did not happen within a 10-day deadline, there are like-minded people who are willing to do so for the party. Citing precedent, he touched upon the need to “forgive and forget” in the interest of the party. Following Sengottaiyan’s remarks, both ousted AIADMK leaders O Panneerselvam and VK Sasikala came out in support of the veteran leader and his suggestions. Shortly after, Sengottaiyan went public with his remarks on the reunification of the party. He was expelled from his party post. However, Sengottaiyan continues as a member of the AIADMK. Last week, Sengottaiyan was in Delhi and had a meeting with Amit Shah and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, further fuelling speculation that the BJP was causing a rift within their ally AIADMK. With six months to go for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass are not an encouraging sign for the state’s main opposition party and the overall NDA alliance. Further, smaller parties such as TTV Dinakaran’s AMMK have announced their decision to quit the NDA. Earlier, O Panneerselvam too announced his decision to move out of the NDA. PMK, a former ally of the NDA, now faces an internal leadership struggle between the father-son duo that are the prominent faces of the party. DMDK, a former NDA ally and the party of late actor-politician Vijayakant, is now signalling its intentions to join the DMK-led front. It is amid such a crisis that Palaniswami is heading to Delhi to meet Amit Shah. Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK often accuses the AIADMK of “surrendering to the BJP”. Amid their election campaigning, the DMK has also been mounting attacks against what they referred to as the multiple factions within the opposition party AIADMK. Countering this, the AIADMK has hit back at the DMK for dynastic politics. Commenting on the impending meeting between Palaniswami and Amit Shah, Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran downplayed it by calling it a meeting between leaders of parties that are in an alliance and that they could meet anytime. However, he refused to divulge details about the meeting and said that such information would be available only after the meeting.

Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK accuses the AIADMK of “surrendering to the BJP” and also mounts attacks over increasing factionalism within the opposition party. The AIADMK counters the criticism by accusing the DMK of dynastic politics.

As troubles grow for AIADMK, EPS to meet Amit Shah in Delhi

While exact numbers remain unclear, there are hundreds of Indian tourists from across states who are stranded in violence-hit Nepal. Ministers representing southern Indian states have started sharing data on how many tourists from their states remain stranded in Nepal, where violence erupted this week in what is being known as the "GenZ protest", which led to 19 deaths. At present, the Nepal Army has taken charge of security, with military personnel deployed across the capital, Kathmandu.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/-parliament-burned-oli-out-what-s-next-for-nepal-after-deadly-protests-force-pm-to-resign-who-s-calling-the-shots-now-1757484010229">'Parliament burned, Oli out': What’s next for Nepal after deadly protests force PM to resign? Who’s calling&nbsp;the&nbsp;shots&nbsp;now?</a>Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister, announced the launch of their state's helpline and points of contact for Telugu people stranded in Nepal. "Reports indicate that 187 Telugu citizens are stranded in Nepal amid unrest. In my capacity as Andhra Pradesh's Real-time Governance Minister, I will be coordinating rescue and support operations to ensure our people are brought to safety at the earliest," he said in a social media post.&nbsp;The Karnataka Chief Minister's Office announced that all Kannadigas stranded at Kathmandu airport in Nepal are safe. Following the instructions of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Chief Secretary of Karnataka and the Resident Commissioner of Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi are in contact with Kannadigas in various groups. State Government officials have held discussions with Foreign Ministry officials, and steps are being taken to safely bring back the Kannadigas.Earlier, the Karnataka Government had announced that 39 Kannadigas were stranded at the Kathmandu airport.&nbsp;Elected representatives from Kerala have also written to the Indian Government on the ongoing situation in Nepal and the need to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and facilitate their safe repatriation.&nbsp;Speaking to WION, a travel agent from Kerala who is staying at a hotel in Kathmandu with their group, elaborated that they reached Nepal on Monday, and came to know of the deteriorating situation and violent protests. "The situation for tourists is fine at present. We are at a hotel, and all amenities are available to us. The roads are almost empty, and there is very limited vehicular movement. Our return tickets are booked for Saturday, 13th&nbsp;September, and we are waiting for information on the resumption of flights and related travel options," said Rafeek, a travel agent who is leading the 40-member group from Kerala.Similarly, Nandish Kumar, who is in Nepal along with a 50-member group from Bengaluru, said that the situation appears to have improved following the military deployment. He said that their group was safe and staying in a hotel where all amenities, including internet connectivity, were being provided. However, they are watching the evolving situation carefully, as they have until the weekend for their scheduled return flight.&nbsp;The Indian Government advisory for Nepal asks Indian nationals to defer travel to the country until the situation has stabilised. Indians presently in Nepal have been advised to shelter in their present place of residence, avoid going out onto the streets and exercise due caution, follow safety advisories from Nepali authorities.Sharing a travel advisory, India's largest airline Indigo has said that flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal, would remain cancelled until 6 pm, Wednesday, September 10th, owing to the extension of airport closure. The airline added that it remains fully prepared to restore services as soon as permissions are granted.&nbsp;

Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister announced the launch of their state's helpline and points of contact for Telugu people stranded in Nepal.

While exact numbers remain unclear, there are hundreds of Indian tourists from across states who are stranded in violence-hit Nepal. Ministers representing southern Indian states have started sharing data on how many tourists from their states remain stranded in Nepal, where violence erupted this week in what is being known as the "GenZ protest", which led to 19 deaths. At present, the Nepal Army has taken charge of security, with military personnel deployed across the capital, Kathmandu. Also read: 'Parliament burned, Oli out': What’s next for Nepal after deadly protests force PM to resign? Who’s calling the shots now? Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister, announced the launch of their state's helpline and points of contact for Telugu people stranded in Nepal. "Reports indicate that 187 Telugu citizens are stranded in Nepal amid unrest. In my capacity as Andhra Pradesh's Real-time Governance Minister, I will be coordinating rescue and support operations to ensure our people are brought to safety at the earliest," he said in a social media post. The Karnataka Chief Minister's Office announced that all Kannadigas stranded at Kathmandu airport in Nepal are safe. Following the instructions of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Chief Secretary of Karnataka and the Resident Commissioner of Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi are in contact with Kannadigas in various groups. State Government officials have held discussions with Foreign Ministry officials, and steps are being taken to safely bring back the Kannadigas. Earlier, the Karnataka Government had announced that 39 Kannadigas were stranded at the Kathmandu airport. Elected representatives from Kerala have also written to the Indian Government on the ongoing situation in Nepal and the need to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and facilitate their safe repatriation. Speaking to WION, a travel agent from Kerala who is staying at a hotel in Kathmandu with their group, elaborated that they reached Nepal on Monday, and came to know of the deteriorating situation and violent protests. "The situation for tourists is fine at present. We are at a hotel, and all amenities are available to us. The roads are almost empty, and there is very limited vehicular movement. Our return tickets are booked for Saturday, 13th September, and we are waiting for information on the resumption of flights and related travel options," said Rafeek, a travel agent who is leading the 40-member group from Kerala. Similarly, Nandish Kumar, who is in Nepal along with a 50-member group from Bengaluru, said that the situation appears to have improved following the military deployment. He said that their group was safe and staying in a hotel where all amenities, including internet connectivity, were being provided. However, they are watching the evolving situation carefully, as they have until the weekend for their scheduled return flight. The Indian Government advisory for Nepal asks Indian nationals to defer travel to the country until the situation has stabilised. Indians presently in Nepal have been advised to shelter in their present place of residence, avoid going out onto the streets and exercise due caution, follow safety advisories from Nepali authorities. Sharing a travel advisory, India's largest airline Indigo has said that flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal, would remain cancelled until 6 pm, Wednesday, September 10th, owing to the extension of airport closure. The airline added that it remains fully prepared to restore services as soon as permissions are granted.

Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister, announced the launch of their state's helpline and points of contact for Telugu people stranded in Nepal.

Hundreds of Indian tourists stranded in violence-hit Nepal, await instructions

Indian government-run space entities (ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACE) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the technology transfer of the ISRO-developed Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) rocket. The end goal of this agreement is that the Indian government's aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) would be completely building, marketing, and launching the SSLV rocket.&nbsp;The&nbsp;SSLV&nbsp;is the Indian government's latest and smallest space faring rocket. ISRO says the&nbsp;SSLV&nbsp;can carry satellites weighing up to 500kg to orbits 500 km above the Earth's surface.Eventually, the SSLV&nbsp;rocket is going to be HAL's property; they can launch it to ferry customers' satellites and demand a price for providing the launch services. Typically, all Indian space-faring rockets are developed by and belong to the Indian Space Research Organisation. ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors, assembles the rocket, and launches it. Henceforth, HAL would carry out the same process for the&nbsp;SSLV.Elaborating on this agreement, Dr V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, said, with India’s liberalisation of the space sector, opportunities are certainly growing, and at ISRO, we have a dynamic technology transfer mechanism to realise the shared goals. This agreement is part of that movement, where ISRO will guide the HAL team on the preparedness-to-flight tangent of SSLV. This would define the next phase of deep-tech collaboration in space in India.According to IN-SPACE, the entire process of technology transfer is targeted to be completed within 24 months from the date of agreement signing. This signing follows the June 20th announcement of HAL as the highest bidder. During this period, ISRO will provide necessary training and technical support to HAL for acquiring the know-how of the SSLV, from commercials to technology integration, eventually leading to the accomplishment of the two launch missions under the technology transfer agreement. This is expected to enhance India’s national capacity to cater to the rapidly growing domestic and global satellite launch markets.Highlighting the importance of the technology transfer, Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACE, remarked, “The SSLV Technology Transfer signals a vital leap towards strengthening the industrial ecosystem within India’s space sector. This reflects the Government of India’s vision to empower the space industry and establish India as a global hub for affordable and reliable launch services.” This also marks the 100th&nbsp;Technology Transfer Agreement signed by IN-SPACe with industry.HAL was selected from a list of nine bidders, considering that theirs was the highest techno-commercial bid to secure the technology transfer of the&nbsp;SSLV&nbsp;rocket. Officials had said HAL's bid was for Rs 511cr (approx. $59mn), and this sum would be paid in a phased manner. HAL is also the firm that builds the Indian homegrown fighter jet Tejas and various other fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft of its own and under licensed production.“HAL will apply its engineering and manufacturing strength to build SSLVs, train the required workforce and progress towards building a self-reliant ecosystem, so India can offer regular, cost-competitive small-satellite launches to domestic and global customers," said Dr D K Sunil, Chairman &amp; MD, HAL.

ISRO, NSIL, and IN-SPACE have signed an MoU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to transfer the technology for the SSLV. The agreement will allow HAL to completely build, market, and launch the rocket, a key step in India's plan to privatise its space sector.

Indian government-run space entities (ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACE) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the technology transfer of the ISRO-developed Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) rocket. The end goal of this agreement is that the Indian government's aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) would be completely building, marketing, and launching the SSLV rocket. The SSLV is the Indian government's latest and smallest space faring rocket. ISRO says the SSLV can carry satellites weighing up to 500kg to orbits 500 km above the Earth's surface. Eventually, the SSLV rocket is going to be HAL's property; they can launch it to ferry customers' satellites and demand a price for providing the launch services. Typically, all Indian space-faring rockets are developed by and belong to the Indian Space Research Organisation. ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors, assembles the rocket, and launches it. Henceforth, HAL would carry out the same process for the SSLV. Elaborating on this agreement, Dr V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, said, with India’s liberalisation of the space sector, opportunities are certainly growing, and at ISRO, we have a dynamic technology transfer mechanism to realise the shared goals. This agreement is part of that movement, where ISRO will guide the HAL team on the preparedness-to-flight tangent of SSLV. This would define the next phase of deep-tech collaboration in space in India. According to IN-SPACE, the entire process of technology transfer is targeted to be completed within 24 months from the date of agreement signing. This signing follows the June 20th announcement of HAL as the highest bidder. During this period, ISRO will provide necessary training and technical support to HAL for acquiring the know-how of the SSLV, from commercials to technology integration, eventually leading to the accomplishment of the two launch missions under the technology transfer agreement. This is expected to enhance India’s national capacity to cater to the rapidly growing domestic and global satellite launch markets. Highlighting the importance of the technology transfer, Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACE, remarked, “The SSLV Technology Transfer signals a vital leap towards strengthening the industrial ecosystem within India’s space sector. This reflects the Government of India’s vision to empower the space industry and establish India as a global hub for affordable and reliable launch services.” This also marks the 100th Technology Transfer Agreement signed by IN-SPACe with industry. HAL was selected from a list of nine bidders, considering that theirs was the highest techno-commercial bid to secure the technology transfer of the SSLV rocket. Officials had said HAL's bid was for Rs 511cr (approx. $59mn), and this sum would be paid in a phased manner. HAL is also the firm that builds the Indian homegrown fighter jet Tejas and various other fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft of its own and under licensed production. “HAL will apply its engineering and manufacturing strength to build SSLVs, train the required workforce and progress towards building a self-reliant ecosystem, so India can offer regular, cost-competitive small-satellite launches to domestic and global customers," said Dr D K Sunil, Chairman & MD, HAL.

ISRO, NSIL, and IN-SPACE have signed an MoU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to transfer the technology for the SSLV. The agreement will allow HAL to completely build, market, and launch the rocket, a key step in India's plan to privatise its space sector.

Tech transfer MoU inked for HAL to build ISRO's SSLV rocket

India and Pakistan will be facing off at the FIH Hockey Men's Junior (Under-21) World Cup that is to be hosted in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu between November and December. The high-profile match between arch-rival nations is scheduled to be held in Chennai on 29th&nbsp;November. According to the match schedule, the event featuring 24 teams would be hosted in Tamil Nadu's capital city, Chennai, and the state's cultural capital city Madurai, about 450 km south of Chennai.This will be the third FIH Junior Men’s World Cup to be held in India and the 14th overall. India hosted the 2016 edition in Lucknow and the 2021 edition in Bhubaneswar. Scheduled be held between November 28th and December 10th, for the first time, the tournament will see 24 teams competing for the coveted title.The FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup was initially a 12-team tournament, which increased to 16 in the 2001 edition. The 2023 edition of the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup in Malaysia also featured 16 teams.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-chris-gayle-accuses-punjab-kings-of-disrespecting-him-makes-shocking-revelation-1757331244469">Gayle accuses THIS IPL franchise of disrespecting him; makes shocking revelation</a>Speaking about the upcoming World Cup, Dilip Tirkey, veteran Indian hockey player and President of Hockey India, said, perhaps, it is the first time that the Junior World Cup is being hosted in two venues. He also hailed the Indian Men’s hockey which was crowned Asia Cup 2025 champions after they beat the Republic of Korea 4-1.&nbsp;With the win, India ended their eight-year wait to regain their title and qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in the Netherlands and Belgium. This was India’s fourth Asia Cup hockey win. Their last triumph came in 2017 in Dhaka.However, there are concerns about the timing of the event, as it would be taking place during the peak of the northeast monsoon season when Tamil Nadu receives a significant amount of rainfall, and witnesses extreme weather due to cyclonic storms. Officials clarified that amid a packed International hockey calendar and back-to-back matches, this chosen period is the most suitable for all International teams.&nbsp;Releasing the event schedule, Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said that the State Government has allocated Rs. 65crores ($7.4mn) for organising the event and scaling up infrastructure. This will include the establishment of a synthetic turf in Madurai. He added that the State has had a legacy of hosting International sporting events such as the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad, Squash World Cup, Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, Khelo India Youth games, Chennai Open WTA 250, among others.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pak-asia-cup-2025-match-time-date-venue-history-and-past-record-1757317743108">India vs Pak, Asia Cup 2025: Match time, date, venue, history and past record</a>In the FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup tournament, Germany are the most successful team with seven titles. They are also the defending champions, having beaten France in the 2023 final played at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Meanwhile, India had settled for a fourth-place finish after losing 3-1 to Spain in 2023. It was the second time in two editions that the junior Indian hockey team lost the third-place match. India had finished in the same position in 2021 after losing to France 3-1.India are the two-time FIH Hockey Junior World Cup champions, having won the titles in 2001 and 2016. &nbsp;

The high-profile match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is scheduled to be held in Chennai on 29th November. 

India and Pakistan will be facing off at the FIH Hockey Men's Junior (Under-21) World Cup that is to be hosted in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu between November and December. The high-profile match between arch-rival nations is scheduled to be held in Chennai on 29th November. According to the match schedule, the event featuring 24 teams would be hosted in Tamil Nadu's capital city, Chennai, and the state's cultural capital city Madurai, about 450 km south of Chennai. This will be the third FIH Junior Men’s World Cup to be held in India and the 14th overall. India hosted the 2016 edition in Lucknow and the 2021 edition in Bhubaneswar. Scheduled be held between November 28th and December 10th, for the first time, the tournament will see 24 teams competing for the coveted title. The FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup was initially a 12-team tournament, which increased to 16 in the 2001 edition. The 2023 edition of the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup in Malaysia also featured 16 teams. Also read | Gayle accuses THIS IPL franchise of disrespecting him; makes shocking revelation Speaking about the upcoming World Cup, Dilip Tirkey, veteran Indian hockey player and President of Hockey India, said, perhaps, it is the first time that the Junior World Cup is being hosted in two venues. He also hailed the Indian Men’s hockey which was crowned Asia Cup 2025 champions after they beat the Republic of Korea 4-1. With the win, India ended their eight-year wait to regain their title and qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in the Netherlands and Belgium. This was India’s fourth Asia Cup hockey win. Their last triumph came in 2017 in Dhaka. However, there are concerns about the timing of the event, as it would be taking place during the peak of the northeast monsoon season when Tamil Nadu receives a significant amount of rainfall, and witnesses extreme weather due to cyclonic storms. Officials clarified that amid a packed International hockey calendar and back-to-back matches, this chosen period is the most suitable for all International teams. Releasing the event schedule, Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said that the State Government has allocated Rs. 65crores ($7.4mn) for organising the event and scaling up infrastructure. This will include the establishment of a synthetic turf in Madurai. He added that the State has had a legacy of hosting International sporting events such as the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad, Squash World Cup, Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, Khelo India Youth games, Chennai Open WTA 250, among others. Also read | India vs Pak, Asia Cup 2025: Match time, date, venue, history and past record In the FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup tournament, Germany are the most successful team with seven titles. They are also the defending champions, having beaten France in the 2023 final played at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Meanwhile, India had settled for a fourth-place finish after losing 3-1 to Spain in 2023. It was the second time in two editions that the junior Indian hockey team lost the third-place match. India had finished in the same position in 2021 after losing to France 3-1. India are the two-time FIH Hockey Junior World Cup champions, having won the titles in 2001 and 2016.

The high-profile match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is scheduled to be held in Chennai on 29th&nbsp;November.&nbsp;

India, Pak to faceoff at FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu

A host of European firms from across sectors inked 33 MoUs expressing their interest to invest in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, said chief minister MK Stalin. The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs, chief minister Stalin said in Chennai immediately after returning from his week-long Europe visit that covered Germany and UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;Expressing faith in Tamil Nadu, 10 new firms have come forward to establish in the state, six firms have agreed to collaborate with us in the field of higher education and small industries. Seventeen firms have chosen to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu, Stalin added. The Chief Minister's foreign tour has also come under fire from the opposition, which said that the same MoUs could have been inked with the India-based entities of the respective foreign firms without having to undertake overseas travel. The opposition AIADMK also made attacks that these visits of the Chief Minister were personal in nature.&nbsp;&nbsp;Responding to this criticism, Stalin said that the Investors meet in Germany had seen the participation of several German firms, many of whom were made aware about the Southern Indian state's potential. Referring to his meetings with foreign government officials, Stalin said that the visit was also meant to establish a direct contact and rapport with counterparts in Germany and UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further, he said that several firms that are already established in Tamil Nadu could potentially choose to invest and expand presence in other states, but such visits and meetings with businesses help get assurances that they would continue to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu. The single largest investment MoU inked during this visit is with the UK-based Hinduja group for a potential investment of Rs.7500 crore ($850mn) in businesses related to cell and battery manufacturing for EVs, Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) and EV charging stations, that would support India's growing EV ecosystem.&nbsp;

Investment MoUs worth $1.76bn inked during Europe visit: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin

A host of European firms from across sectors inked 33 MoUs expressing their interest to invest in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, said chief minister MK Stalin. The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs, chief minister Stalin said in Chennai immediately after returning from his week-long Europe visit that covered Germany and UK. Expressing faith in Tamil Nadu, 10 new firms have come forward to establish in the state, six firms have agreed to collaborate with us in the field of higher education and small industries. Seventeen firms have chosen to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu, Stalin added. The Chief Minister's foreign tour has also come under fire from the opposition, which said that the same MoUs could have been inked with the India-based entities of the respective foreign firms without having to undertake overseas travel. The opposition AIADMK also made attacks that these visits of the Chief Minister were personal in nature. Responding to this criticism, Stalin said that the Investors meet in Germany had seen the participation of several German firms, many of whom were made aware about the Southern Indian state's potential. Referring to his meetings with foreign government officials, Stalin said that the visit was also meant to establish a direct contact and rapport with counterparts in Germany and UK. Further, he said that several firms that are already established in Tamil Nadu could potentially choose to invest and expand presence in other states, but such visits and meetings with businesses help get assurances that they would continue to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu. The single largest investment MoU inked during this visit is with the UK-based Hinduja group for a potential investment of Rs.7500 crore ($850mn) in businesses related to cell and battery manufacturing for EVs, Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) and EV charging stations, that would support India's growing EV ecosystem.

The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs

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