In a first, India has exported defence products worth over Rupees 21,000 crore. India has successfully delivered BrahMos missile to the Philippines, India has also delivered two Dornier 228 jets to Guyana. Is this the start of India's defence boom?

India to deliver BrahMos missile to Philippines, India's first major defence export deal

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - India's massive election kicks off - Phase 1: 166 mn voters, 1625 candidates & 102 seats - US vetoes Palestinian request at UN - Israel to open 3rd crossing into Northern Gaza - Tel Aviv: Protesters call for general strike

India's massive election kicks off | US vetoes Palestinian request at UN

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat.

The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election.

Follow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699"> this live blog</a> for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024

<h2>Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu:</h2>

Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore.

Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019.

Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition&nbsp;between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran.

Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-fortune-teller-arrested-for-predicting-cuddalore-pmk-candidates-victory-in-lok-sabha-polls-709717">Also read |&nbsp;Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls</a>

Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan.

Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League.

Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory.

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations.

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat. The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election. Follow this live blog for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu: Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore. Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019. Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran. Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory. Also read | Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan. Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League. Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates

India delivered the Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines on Friday, as part of the $375 million deal between the two sides signed in 2022. Watch in for more details!

India delivers first batch of Brahmos cruise missile system to Philippines

A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties.&nbsp;

As per an NDTV report, Sangeeta Singh, the headmistress of a primary school in Unnao, was allegedly getting a facial treatment during school hours. The incident occurred in the kitchen area of the school compound in Dandamau village, Bighapur block.

Watch the VIRAL video here:

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In Unnao UP, Principal Sangita Singh of a primary school was enjoying facial during school timing in the kitchen of the school. When another teacher Anam Khan started making video of the same she bite her in both of her hands and then attacked her with a brick. Never mind all… <a href="https://t.co/fctSCWPJN7">pic.twitter.com/fctSCWPJN7</a>
— NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCMIndiaa/status/1780981958920827310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Determined to catch the headmistress in the act, Anam Khan, a teacher at the same school,&nbsp;recorded a video of herself entering the cooking area and finding Singh, who appeared to be nearing the end of her beauty treatment. In the video, a surprised&nbsp;Singh quickly rises from her chair as Khan can be heard saying "very good".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-a-bunch-of-flowers-and-chocolates-landed-a-teacher-in-sexual-harassment-case-in-indias-tamil-nadu-699931">Also read |&nbsp;How a bunch of flowers and chocolates landed a teacher in sexual harassment case in India's Tamil Nadu</a>

Singh then begins chasing Khan. However, matters escalate when Singh reportedly bit Khan's hand, leading to bleeding.

After the confrontation, the issue was reported to the block education officer, leading to an investigation into the incident. Bighapur police also filed a case against Singh following a medical examination of Khan's injuries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-elon-musks-visit-india-notifies-new-fdi-rules-for-space-sector-712389">Also read |&nbsp;Ahead of Elon Musk's visit, India notifies new FDI rules for space sector</a>

Maya Rai, the Circle Officer of Bighapur, told NDTV, "We received a complaint from the assistant teacher of the school in Dandamau village that the headmistress was receiving a facial treatment on the premises and assaulted her when caught. We will take necessary action in this matter."

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Kerala introduces its first humanoid robot teacher

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-kerala-introduces-its-first-humanoid-robot-teacher-694804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties.

A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties. As per an NDTV report, Sangeeta Singh, the headmistress of a primary school in Unnao, was allegedly getting a facial treatment during school hours. The incident occurred in the kitchen area of the school compound in Dandamau village, Bighapur block. Watch the VIRAL video here: In Unnao UP, Principal Sangita Singh of a primary school was enjoying facial during school timing in the kitchen of the school. When another teacher Anam Khan started making video of the same she bite her in both of her hands and then attacked her with a brick. Never mind all… pic.twitter.com/fctSCWPJN7 — NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) April 18, 2024 × Determined to catch the headmistress in the act, Anam Khan, a teacher at the same school, recorded a video of herself entering the cooking area and finding Singh, who appeared to be nearing the end of her beauty treatment. In the video, a surprised Singh quickly rises from her chair as Khan can be heard saying "very good". Also read | How a bunch of flowers and chocolates landed a teacher in sexual harassment case in India's Tamil Nadu Singh then begins chasing Khan. However, matters escalate when Singh reportedly bit Khan's hand, leading to bleeding. After the confrontation, the issue was reported to the block education officer, leading to an investigation into the incident. Bighapur police also filed a case against Singh following a medical examination of Khan's injuries. Also read | Ahead of Elon Musk's visit, India notifies new FDI rules for space sector Maya Rai, the Circle Officer of Bighapur, told NDTV, "We received a complaint from the assistant teacher of the school in Dandamau village that the headmistress was receiving a facial treatment on the premises and assaulted her when caught. We will take necessary action in this matter." Also watch | India: Kerala introduces its first humanoid robot teacher (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: School principal caught getting facial in work hours, bites teacher who recorded video

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - India's massive election kicks off - Phase 1: 166 mn voters, 1625 candidates & 102 seats - Pakistan: Suicide attack in Karachi - Jury selected for Trump trial - Blasts at Isfahan, nuclear plants safe

Pakistan: Suicide attack in Karachi | WION Headlines

Voting is underway for 102 parliamentary seats across 21 states/Union Territories in the first phase of the India's 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Watch in the report for latest developments.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Sporadic incidents of violence reported from West Bengal

Over the years, batters have dominated proceedings in the IPL. Here is a list of batters comprising with most centuries in winning causes in the cash-rich league

Most 100s in winning causes in IPL

Voting has begun for 102 parliamentary seats across 21 states/UTs in the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Watch to know more.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: 43% polling recorded in J&K & 33% in Rajasthan till 1 PM

India National Elections 2024: Phase-1 voting underway in 102 constituencies across India

India Elections 2024: World's biggest dance of democracy begin, fate of 162 candidates to be decided

In today's edition of pollnomics, we take a look at the western Indian state of Gujarat. The state sends 26 MPs to the lower house of India's parliament and assumes additional significance as prime minister Narendra Modi's home state. Take a look at the next report to understand the economic landscape of Gujarat.

Why Gujarat matters to India's economy | India's economic lodestar?

As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence. Enshrined within the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Sections 126, 126A, and 135C mandate a cessation of all election-related activities during the silence period. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issues notifications to enforce these provisions and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

The Election Commission by the Media Certification &amp; Monitoring Committee, diligently monitors compliance with electoral regulations. Citizens can report violations through the cVIGIL mobile application and can contribute to the maintenance of electoral integrity.

Here's a breakdown of what takes place during this time:

Prohibited activities

1. Liquor sales - The sale or distribution of alcohol within polling areas is strictly forbidden. If someone still engages in this activity there are penalties of imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of up to Rs 2,000.

2. Public meetings - Gathering for public meetings, processions, or entertainment events in order to sway&nbsp;voters is prohibited. Violators face potential imprisonment of&nbsp;up to two years and/or a fine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-will-bjp-wrest-away-chhindwara-from-congress-712393">Battle of the Bastions: Will BJP wrest away Chhindwara from Congress?</a>

3. Media engagement - Candidates and political entities are barred from addressing the media through press conferences or interviews. It ensures a blackout on this kind of election-related discourse and "any violation of this may lead to imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine."

4. Advertisements - Advertisements must be clearly distinguished from news content, with stringent regulations governing their dissemination across platforms. Social media giants like Google are required to verify political ads to prevent undue influence.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-key-candidates-in-rajasthans-first-phase-of-voting-712365">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Key candidates in Rajasthan's first phase of voting</a>

5. Press Responsibilities - Media outlets are tasked with providing objective coverage and refraining from promoting animosity or biased narratives. Scrutiny by the Media Certification &amp; Monitoring Committee is done to thwart the dissemination of "paid news".

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-elections-2024-campaigning-ends-for-lok-sabha-polls-phase-1-712395">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Campaigning ends for Lok Sabha polls phase 1</a>

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6. Online Platforms - Social media intermediaries must adhere to a "Voluntary Code of Ethics" and curb unfair practices and promote electoral awareness.

7. Loudspeakers - The use of loudspeakers is suspended during the silence period. "After the 48 hours are over, proper permissions from the District Administration have to be taken to use them again," as per the ECI.&nbsp;

8. Poll Surveys - Opinion polls and exit polls are prohibited from publication. It ensures impartiality and avoids undue influence on voter sentiment.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence.

As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence. Enshrined within the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Sections 126, 126A, and 135C mandate a cessation of all election-related activities during the silence period. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issues notifications to enforce these provisions and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. The Election Commission by the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee, diligently monitors compliance with electoral regulations. Citizens can report violations through the cVIGIL mobile application and can contribute to the maintenance of electoral integrity. Here's a breakdown of what takes place during this time: Prohibited activities 1. Liquor sales - The sale or distribution of alcohol within polling areas is strictly forbidden. If someone still engages in this activity there are penalties of imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of up to Rs 2,000. 2. Public meetings - Gathering for public meetings, processions, or entertainment events in order to sway voters is prohibited. Violators face potential imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine. Also Read | Battle of the Bastions: Will BJP wrest away Chhindwara from Congress? 3. Media engagement - Candidates and political entities are barred from addressing the media through press conferences or interviews. It ensures a blackout on this kind of election-related discourse and "any violation of this may lead to imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine." 4. Advertisements - Advertisements must be clearly distinguished from news content, with stringent regulations governing their dissemination across platforms. Social media giants like Google are required to verify political ads to prevent undue influence. Also Read | Lok Sabha elections 2024: Key candidates in Rajasthan's first phase of voting 5. Press Responsibilities - Media outlets are tasked with providing objective coverage and refraining from promoting animosity or biased narratives. Scrutiny by the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee is done to thwart the dissemination of "paid news". Watch | Lok Sabha elections 2024: Campaigning ends for Lok Sabha polls phase 1 × 6. Online Platforms - Social media intermediaries must adhere to a "Voluntary Code of Ethics" and curb unfair practices and promote electoral awareness. 7. Loudspeakers - The use of loudspeakers is suspended during the silence period. "After the 48 hours are over, proper permissions from the District Administration have to be taken to use them again," as per the ECI. 8. Poll Surveys - Opinion polls and exit polls are prohibited from publication. It ensures impartiality and avoids undue influence on voter sentiment. (With inputs from agencies)

Pre-election silence period in India: What happens 48 hours before polls?

India is embarking on an ambitious high-speed rail project. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, under construction since 2017, is targeted for completion in 2026. Watch to know more.

India's bullet train project racing toward 2026 launch

The Iran ambassador to India Iraj Elahi has said that the Indian nationals onboard MSC Aries are free to go. The Israel-linked Portuguese flag was seized by Iran over the weekend and had 17 Indian crew members on board. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the ambassador said, "From the Iranian side, they are free and not detained. Yesterday, the lady was handed over to consulate. Consulate got access to other crew." With the concerted efforts of the Indian Mission in Tehran and the Iranian Government, Indian deck cadet Ann Tessa Joseph from Thrissur, Kerala, who was among the Indian crew members of container vessel MSC Aries, has landed safely at the Cochin International Airport today afternoon.

Indians onboard MSC Aries free to go, Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi speaks to WION

India’s election, starting on Friday, is the world’s largest electoral exercise with more than 18 million people voting for the first time. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: The mother of all elections

India's Lok Sabha elections are here. Fervent voters are going to cast their vote. However, some may want to cast their vote but don't have voter ID themselves. Voter identification is needed at polling places according to the ECI. You must provide your ECI-issued voter ID card to cast a ballot. However, you can cast a ballot in an election without a voter ID card as well.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: These documents can be used as an alternative to voter ID card

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday conducted a successful flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of the eastern state of Odisha.&nbsp;

DRDO announced that all subsystems performed as per expectation during the test. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the agency for the successful test flight of the ITCM.&nbsp;

After the launch, the performance of the missile was monitored by several Range Sensors such as Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System (EOTS) and Telemetry.&nbsp;

The systems have been deployed by the Integrated Test Range at various locations to ensure complete coverage of the flight path.&nbsp;

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Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) successfully flight tested today from ITR Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. ITCM is long range subsonic cruise missile powered by indigenous propulsion system <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a> <a href="https://t.co/wLlpV4wHkx">pic.twitter.com/wLlpV4wHkx</a>
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India/status/1780903893448491281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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DRDO also said that the flight of the missile was also monitored from the Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force.&nbsp;

In a release, DRDO said, "The missile followed the desired path using waypoint navigation and demonstrated very low altitude sea-skimming flight."&nbsp;

"This successful flight test has also established the reliable performance of the indigenous propulsion system developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru," the release added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday conducted a successful flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of the eastern state of Odisha.

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday conducted a successful flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of the eastern state of Odisha. DRDO announced that all subsystems performed as per expectation during the test. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the agency for the successful test flight of the ITCM. After the launch, the performance of the missile was monitored by several Range Sensors such as Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System (EOTS) and Telemetry. The systems have been deployed by the Integrated Test Range at various locations to ensure complete coverage of the flight path. Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) successfully flight tested today from ITR Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. ITCM is long range subsonic cruise missile powered by indigenous propulsion system @PMOIndia @DefenceMinIndia @SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/wLlpV4wHkx — DRDO (@DRDO_India) April 18, 2024 × DRDO also said that the flight of the missile was also monitored from the Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force. In a release, DRDO said, "The missile followed the desired path using waypoint navigation and demonstrated very low altitude sea-skimming flight." "This successful flight test has also established the reliable performance of the indigenous propulsion system developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru," the release added. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: India successfully flight-tests Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile

The first contracted BrahMos missile from India to the Philippines will reach the southeast Asian nation on Friday (Apr 19). The journey of this BrahMos missile, the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, begins from Nagpur, India, where it is loaded onto an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft.

Accompanied by three civilian freight liners carrying additional parts and support systems, the missile is poised to enhance the defence capabilities of the Philippine Marine Corps' coastal defence regiment.

Signed in January 2022, the $375 million deal between BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and the Philippine Marine Corps paved the way for this significant export milestone.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indians-onboard-msc-aries-free-to-go-iran-ambassador-iraj-elahi-712632">EXCLUSIVE: Indians onboard MSC Aries free to go, says Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi</a>

The BrahMos missile is developed jointly by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya.

Today, with up to 85 percent of its components being manufactured in India, the missile exemplifies the nation's commitment to self-reliance and indigenous defense production.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bird-flu-outbreak-reported-in-ducks-in-indias-kerala-authorities-say-no-need-to-panic-712582">Bird flu outbreak reported in ducks in India's Kerala, authorities say not to panic</a>

The successful export of the BrahMos missile underscores India's growing prominence as a defence exporter on the global stage. With defence exports reaching Rs 21,083 crore (approximately US$ 2.63 billion) in FY 2023-24, marking a remarkable 32.5 percent growth from the previous year, India has emerged as a key player in the international defence market.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-militarising-space-712630">China 'militarising' space?</a>

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This key achievement not only highlights India's technological capabilities but also underscores its strategic partnerships and diplomatic outreach. The development underscores the strengthening ties between the two countries and also signifies India's growing role as a major defence exporter in the region.

&nbsp;

The first contracted BrahMos missile from India to the Philippines will reach the southeast Asian nation on Friday (Apr 19). The journey of this BrahMos missile, the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, begins from Nagpur, India, where it is loaded onto an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft.

The first contracted BrahMos missile from India to the Philippines will reach the southeast Asian nation on Friday (Apr 19). The journey of this BrahMos missile, the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, begins from Nagpur, India, where it is loaded onto an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft. Accompanied by three civilian freight liners carrying additional parts and support systems, the missile is poised to enhance the defence capabilities of the Philippine Marine Corps' coastal defence regiment. Signed in January 2022, the $375 million deal between BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and the Philippine Marine Corps paved the way for this significant export milestone. Also Read | EXCLUSIVE: Indians onboard MSC Aries free to go, says Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi The BrahMos missile is developed jointly by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya. Today, with up to 85 percent of its components being manufactured in India, the missile exemplifies the nation's commitment to self-reliance and indigenous defense production. Also Read | Bird flu outbreak reported in ducks in India's Kerala, authorities say not to panic The successful export of the BrahMos missile underscores India's growing prominence as a defence exporter on the global stage. With defence exports reaching Rs 21,083 crore (approximately US$ 2.63 billion) in FY 2023-24, marking a remarkable 32.5 percent growth from the previous year, India has emerged as a key player in the international defence market. Watch | China 'militarising' space? × This key achievement not only highlights India's technological capabilities but also underscores its strategic partnerships and diplomatic outreach. The development underscores the strengthening ties between the two countries and also signifies India's growing role as a major defence exporter in the region.

India to deliver BrahMos missile system to Philippines tomorrow

Indian deck cadet, Ann Tessa Joseph, who was among the 17 crew members of the Israeli-linked cargo ship MSC Aries, seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz last week, has safely returned home. Watch in for more details!

Indian woman cadet on-board cargo ship seized by Iran returns

India: Woman in Cargo ship seized by Iran returns home

The United States Secretary of Defence, Lloyd Austin, has recently said that the deal between the two nations to produce jet weapons in collaboration is revolutionary. Watch to know more.

US defence secretary Llyod Austin India-US ties

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A prominent Maoist leader named Shankar Rao was among at least 29&nbsp;Naxalites killed by security forces during an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district on Tuesday (April 16). Additionally, a significant cache of weapons, including four AK-47 assault rifles, was seized. The encounter&nbsp;reportedly began after 1:30 pm and was a joint operation between the District Reserve Guard, established in 2008 to counter Maoist activities in the state, and the Border Security Force.

"A large number of naxals have been neutralised...I would like to congratulate the jawans of the security forces...We are all working under the leadership of CM Vishnu Deo Sai. Union HM Amit Shah is giving us guidance...All that is necessary will be done. There will be no laxity...In times to come, all efforts will be made to ensure a naxal-free Bastar...Government is ready for dialogue. A solution should come out through dialogue and discussions and there should be peace in Bastar..." Deputy CM Vijay Sharma said, as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-security-personnel-killed-in-jharkhand-after-encounter-with-naxalites-688023">Also read |&nbsp;India: Two security personnel killed in Jharkhand after encounter with Naxalites</a>

The three policemen injured in the encounter are now out of danger. The injured jawans are being airlifted for better treatment.&nbsp;

During the operation, the BSF team had to face&nbsp;intense gunfire from the insurgents. The BSF retaliated&nbsp;by returning fire, leading to a fierce gun battle.

Also watch |&nbsp;BSP Chief Mayawati revives West UP statehood debate

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Last month, there was another fight in the district. Two people, a Maoist and a cop, were killed, and security forces found a gun, explosives, and other suspicious items. The DRG and Bastar Fighters, both parts of the state police force, along with the Border Security Force, were involved in that operation. They were patrolling a forested area when they were attacked, leading to the shootout. Also, in February, three Maoists were killed in another fight in Kanker.

(With inputs from agencies)

A prominent Maoist leader named Shankar Rao was among at least 29 Naxalites killed by security forces during an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district on Tuesday (April 16).

A prominent Maoist leader named Shankar Rao was among at least 29 Naxalites killed by security forces during an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district on Tuesday (April 16). Additionally, a significant cache of weapons, including four AK-47 assault rifles, was seized. The encounter reportedly began after 1:30 pm and was a joint operation between the District Reserve Guard, established in 2008 to counter Maoist activities in the state, and the Border Security Force. "A large number of naxals have been neutralised...I would like to congratulate the jawans of the security forces...We are all working under the leadership of CM Vishnu Deo Sai. Union HM Amit Shah is giving us guidance...All that is necessary will be done. There will be no laxity...In times to come, all efforts will be made to ensure a naxal-free Bastar...Government is ready for dialogue. A solution should come out through dialogue and discussions and there should be peace in Bastar..." Deputy CM Vijay Sharma said, as quoted by ANI. Also read | India: Two security personnel killed in Jharkhand after encounter with Naxalites The three policemen injured in the encounter are now out of danger. The injured jawans are being airlifted for better treatment. During the operation, the BSF team had to face intense gunfire from the insurgents. The BSF retaliated by returning fire, leading to a fierce gun battle. Also watch | BSP Chief Mayawati revives West UP statehood debate Last month, there was another fight in the district. Two people, a Maoist and a cop, were killed, and security forces found a gun, explosives, and other suspicious items. The DRG and Bastar Fighters, both parts of the state police force, along with the Border Security Force, were involved in that operation. They were patrolling a forested area when they were attacked, leading to the shootout. Also, in February, three Maoists were killed in another fight in Kanker. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Senior Naxalite leader among 29 killed in Chhattisgarh operation; 3 security personnel injured

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