National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday (Sep 19) recalled a tense intelligence operation along the Sikkim border during the state’s merger with India. He shared a fascinating story about how a team sent on a mission was captured by Chinese forces and failed to return for several days. NSA Doval was speaking at the convocation of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. Doval said he was a young IPS officer in his 20s when he was posted as the intelligence chief in Sikkim. He said his responsibilities included monitoring the border and gathering information on the activities of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA). But this incident made him feel that his career was over.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I was a young IPS officer, new to the intelligence profession. I was in my 20s, and I was posted as in charge of intelligence in Sikkim. That was not a part of India at that time. It was becoming part of India. I was part of that process where the merger was taking place. But my responsibility also included looking after the border areas and collecting intelligence about the movement of the PLA, activities of the Chinese Army," the NSA said, ANI reported.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/system-run-by-six-individuals-rahul-gandhi-targets-pm-modi-amit-shah-nsa-doval-1789834397443"> ‘System run by six individuals’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi, Amit Shah, Doval</a>&nbsp;Doval recalled an intelligence team that was expected to return after around eight days but remained missing well beyond the deadline. “Once, we had an intelligence mission in the border area, and about eight days later, they had to return. So, five days went by, then ten days went by, then perhaps 15 days went by. For me, it was a matter of very great concern, not only professionally but also on the human side, that so many people we don’t know whether they are dead or alive, and what has happened to them," Doval added. He later learnt that the personnel had been taken into Chinese custody. “The Chinese returned them, probably after some talks or negotiations, or a deal must have been struck. So, they returned totally shattered, in shambles. And an inquiry was started. I knew that this was the end of my career. I was still in my twenties, and I had to start a new career. I saw the incident as something very unprofessional,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-family-members-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-get-sir-notices-1789842059956">Arvind Kejriwal, family members, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta get SIR notices</a>&nbsp;However, an inquiry eventually found him not at fault, with maps and sketches supplied by headquarters found to contain defects. Doval added, “Anyway, the inquiry was over. I wasn’t found at fault. Probably, I had done everything right. The sketches and the maps that were given to us by the headquarters had some defects and mistakes in them. That is how it happened…"

NSA Ajit Doval has recalled a tense intelligence operation in Sikkim during its merger with India, saying a team he sent to the border was captured and interrogated by Chinese forces. The personnel were later returned after negotiations, while an inquiry found Doval was not at fault.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday (Sep 19) recalled a tense intelligence operation along the Sikkim border during the state’s merger with India. He shared a fascinating story about how a team sent on a mission was captured by Chinese forces and failed to return for several days. NSA Doval was speaking at the convocation of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. Doval said he was a young IPS officer in his 20s when he was posted as the intelligence chief in Sikkim. He said his responsibilities included monitoring the border and gathering information on the activities of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA). But this incident made him feel that his career was over. “I was a young IPS officer, new to the intelligence profession. I was in my 20s, and I was posted as in charge of intelligence in Sikkim. That was not a part of India at that time. It was becoming part of India. I was part of that process where the merger was taking place. But my responsibility also included looking after the border areas and collecting intelligence about the movement of the PLA, activities of the Chinese Army," the NSA said, ANI reported. Also Read: ‘System run by six individuals’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi, Amit Shah, Doval Doval recalled an intelligence team that was expected to return after around eight days but remained missing well beyond the deadline. “Once, we had an intelligence mission in the border area, and about eight days later, they had to return. So, five days went by, then ten days went by, then perhaps 15 days went by. For me, it was a matter of very great concern, not only professionally but also on the human side, that so many people we don’t know whether they are dead or alive, and what has happened to them," Doval added. He later learnt that the personnel had been taken into Chinese custody. “The Chinese returned them, probably after some talks or negotiations, or a deal must have been struck. So, they returned totally shattered, in shambles. And an inquiry was started. I knew that this was the end of my career. I was still in my twenties, and I had to start a new career. I saw the incident as something very unprofessional,” he said. Also Read: Arvind Kejriwal, family members, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta get SIR notices However, an inquiry eventually found him not at fault, with maps and sketches supplied by headquarters found to contain defects. Doval added, “Anyway, the inquiry was over. I wasn’t found at fault. Probably, I had done everything right. The sketches and the maps that were given to us by the headquarters had some defects and mistakes in them. That is how it happened…"

NSA Ajit Doval has recalled a tense intelligence operation in Sikkim during its merger with India, saying a team he sent to the border was captured and interrogated by Chinese forces. The personnel were later returned after negotiations, while an inquiry found Doval was not at fault.

‘End of my career...’: NSA Doval recalls tense Sikkim mission when China captured Indian intelligence team

India and China have committed to advancing talks toward a political settlement of their long-standing boundary question, emphasizing overall bilateral growth and long-term mutual interests. During the 25th round of Special Representatives' Talks in Beijing—led by Indian National Security Advisor Ajit G. Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi—both nations highlighted that maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) remains a prerequisite for normalized diplomatic, economic, and regional ties.


India, China push for settlement of border dispute in 'long-term' interests

India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing for the 25th round of Special Representative talks on the boundary question. The discussions focused on maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), strengthening confidence-building measures and advancing the gradual normalization of bilateral ties.


Breaking: Wang Yi hails ties, says India-China relations globally significant 

India and China India held the 25th meeting of the special representatives on the China-India boundary question in Beijing on Tuesday (August 25), with both sides holding comprehensive and candid discussions on the long-standing border issue, bilateral relations and regional and international developments. China's Special Representative Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, met India's Special Representative and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval for the talks.&nbsp;The meeting comes as New Delhi and Beijing continue efforts to stabilize bilateral relations and maintain peace along the disputed border. The Chinese Foreign Ministry had earlier said the talks would focus on advancing communication on the boundary question, maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas, and discussing bilateral and international issues.Wang Yi Calls for strategic and long-term approach.&nbsp;Wang Yi said China and India are important neighbours and major developing countries, arguing that stable bilateral relations serve the interests of both populations and have significance beyond the two countries. "China and India are important neighbours and representatives of major developing countries and emerging economies. The healthy and stable development of China-India relations is in the fundamental interests of both peoples, meets the common aspirations of countries in the Global South, and aligns with the trend of the times. China-India relations have transcended the bilateral scope and possess global and strategic significance."&nbsp;Wang referred to meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan and Tianjin, saying the two leaders had reached important understandings that provided direction for improving bilateral ties. He said China is prepared to work with India from a strategic and long-term perspective, strengthen communication, improve mutual understanding and manage differences. "China is willing to work with India to grasp bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, strengthen communication, enhance understanding, eliminate differences, overcome obstacles, and be good-neighborly and friendly friends and mutually beneficial partners, achieving a harmonious coexistence between the dragon and the elephant."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-aircraft-lands-in-moscow-mystery-theories-swirl-as-kremlin-claims-it-has-no-idea-1787665191079">CIA Director John Ratcliffe on secret trip to Russia amid rumours over US military aircraft mystery landing in Moscow</a><h2>India and China discuss border management</h2>Wang said the two sides are implementing understandings reached during previous Special Representatives' meetings and that institutionalized exchanges and cooperation are gradually resuming. He also said both countries remain committed to maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas. "Both sides should learn from historical experience, place the border issue in its proper place within bilateral relations, and move forward without stagnation, regression, or deviation, gradually building a positive narrative on China-India border affairs, making dialogue, peace, consultation, and cooperation the mainstream, and injecting positive factors into the healthy and stable development of bilateral relations."&nbsp;The talks covered border demarcation negotiations, border control, institutional mechanisms and cross-border cooperation. Earlier this month, the two countries' Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs also discussed demarcation, border management, mechanisms and cross-border cooperation while preparing for the 25th Special Representatives' meeting.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Beijing: NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hold Special Representatives’ talks on the border issue and improving bilateral ties. NSA Ajit Doval says, &quot;I am very happy to be here for the 25th round of our talks, which are particularly important against… <a href="https://t.co/NhZlyZXkyb">pic.twitter.com/NhZlyZXkyb</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2092230106316235019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Doval says India and China are partners, not competitors</h2>Ajit Doval emphasized the importance of stable and predictable relations between the two Asian powers. "India and China are both ancient civilizations, populous nations, and important economies, and are partners, not competitors. Developing a stable, predictable, and forward-looking India-China relationship is in the common interest of both peoples and is of great significance to Asia and the world."&nbsp;Doval said relations between the two countries had returned to a positive trajectory under the guidance of their leaders and noted that border areas had remained broadly peaceful. “Under the guidance of the leaders of both countries, India-China relations have returned to the right track, border areas have maintained overall peace, and exchanges and cooperation in various fields have steadily progressed.” He added that India is ready to strengthen strategic communication, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, deepen multilateral coordination and improve management of border areas.&nbsp;"India is willing to further strengthen strategic communication with China, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, deepen multilateral collaboration, effectively manage border areas, explore solutions to border issues, and promote the accelerated improvement and development of India-China relations."<h2>Both sides reaffirm 2005 political guiding principles</h2>During the meeting, China and India discussed ways to advance negotiations on boundary demarcation and strengthen mechanisms for maintaining stability along the frontier. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the political guiding principles agreed in 2005 and agreed to use the Special Representatives mechanism to pursue a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable comprehensive settlement of the boundary question. They also agreed to continue addressing differences through dialogue and consultation while jointly maintaining peace and tranquility along the border.<h2>26th Special Representatives meeting to be held in India next year</h2>A key outcome of the meeting was an agreement to hold the 26th meeting of the Special Representatives on the China-India Boundary Question in India in 2027. The decision signals that both sides intend to maintain the Special Representatives mechanism as a key channel for negotiations and strategic communication on the boundary issue. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has described the Special Representatives talks as the principal channel for China-India boundary negotiations and an important platform for discussing issues of mutual interest. The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.<h2>‘The Chinese border is our most important border’: MJ Akbar</h2>On SR-level talks between NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese FM Wang Yi in China, former Union Minister MJ Akbar said, "The Chinese border is our most important border, whereas the Pakistani border is our most volatile border. But the management of the Chinese border is a critical element in whether there is equanimity in the relationship between India and China, and this has been true even before 1962. The reason why the NSA inspires confidence is that the Chinese respect his integrity and honour his candour. These virtues play well in the Chinese playbook. There has been a recent issue in terms, again, over Arunachal Pradesh, the Chinese maintain their positions, we assert our positions, but the secret of the relationship between India and China, as established in the historic visit by Rajiv Gandhi in 1988, is, and this is quite remarkable as a philosophy for resolution, both countries have accepted a formula in which non-resolution is the resolution. A conflict between India and China can really have ruinous implications for, I think, for the region as well as for, I think, the world. It will explode and perhaps join the bonfire that lies both to the west of this region as well as to the east."

China and India held the 25th Special Representatives meeting in Beijing, discussing border demarcation, peace, bilateral ties and the next 2027 talks

India and China India held the 25th meeting of the special representatives on the China-India boundary question in Beijing on Tuesday (August 25), with both sides holding comprehensive and candid discussions on the long-standing border issue, bilateral relations and regional and international developments. China's Special Representative Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, met India's Special Representative and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval for the talks. The meeting comes as New Delhi and Beijing continue efforts to stabilize bilateral relations and maintain peace along the disputed border. The Chinese Foreign Ministry had earlier said the talks would focus on advancing communication on the boundary question, maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas, and discussing bilateral and international issues. Wang Yi Calls for strategic and long-term approach. Wang Yi said China and India are important neighbours and major developing countries, arguing that stable bilateral relations serve the interests of both populations and have significance beyond the two countries. "China and India are important neighbours and representatives of major developing countries and emerging economies. The healthy and stable development of China-India relations is in the fundamental interests of both peoples, meets the common aspirations of countries in the Global South, and aligns with the trend of the times. China-India relations have transcended the bilateral scope and possess global and strategic significance." Wang referred to meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan and Tianjin, saying the two leaders had reached important understandings that provided direction for improving bilateral ties. He said China is prepared to work with India from a strategic and long-term perspective, strengthen communication, improve mutual understanding and manage differences. "China is willing to work with India to grasp bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, strengthen communication, enhance understanding, eliminate differences, overcome obstacles, and be good-neighborly and friendly friends and mutually beneficial partners, achieving a harmonious coexistence between the dragon and the elephant." Also Read: CIA Director John Ratcliffe on secret trip to Russia amid rumours over US military aircraft mystery landing in Moscow India and China discuss border management Wang said the two sides are implementing understandings reached during previous Special Representatives' meetings and that institutionalized exchanges and cooperation are gradually resuming. He also said both countries remain committed to maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas. "Both sides should learn from historical experience, place the border issue in its proper place within bilateral relations, and move forward without stagnation, regression, or deviation, gradually building a positive narrative on China-India border affairs, making dialogue, peace, consultation, and cooperation the mainstream, and injecting positive factors into the healthy and stable development of bilateral relations." The talks covered border demarcation negotiations, border control, institutional mechanisms and cross-border cooperation. Earlier this month, the two countries' Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs also discussed demarcation, border management, mechanisms and cross-border cooperation while preparing for the 25th Special Representatives' meeting.

China and India held the 25th boundary talks in Beijing, reaffirming dialogue, border peace and the 2005 principles, with the next meeting set for India in 2027

Ajit Doval meets Wang Yi for 25th India-China boundary talks in Beijing, says 'India and China are partners, not competitors'

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's possible visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing for a key two-day visit. He will hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the border issue.


Ajit Doval to hold border talks in China ahead of Xi's possible India visit

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's possible visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, India's national security advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing on a crucial two-day visit with both countries eyeing a reset in their bilateral ties. Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will hold the 25th round of special representatives' talks on the dispute over the India-China border spanning three thousand four hundred and eighty eight kilometres.&nbsp;During this visit, Doval will also call on China's Vice President Han Zheng. While relations between New Delhi and Beijing had come under severe strain after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, both sides have taken steps to stabilise ties. For instance, direct flights between India and China have resumed and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra has restarted. The last round of talks between Doval and Wang took place in New Delhi in August 2025. Back then, they reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote overall development of the bilateral relationship.&nbsp;On that occasion, they also agreed to re-open trade through the three designated trading points of Lipulekh pass, Shipki La pass and Nathu La pass and facilitate trade and investment flows. Doval's visit also assumes significance as it may lay the groundwork for Xi's potential visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit next month where he can meet PM Modi. Now, the two leaders last met in China's Tianjin in August last year on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ajit-doval-to-hold-border-talks-in-china-ahead-of-xi-s-possible-india-visit-1787593240596/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ajit-doval-to-hold-border-talks-in-china-ahead-of-xi-s-possible-india-visit-1787593240596/embed</a>&nbsp;Back then, PM Modi affirmed that ties between the two countries are heading in a positive direction. Prior to that, PM Modi met Xi in October 2024 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia's Kazan. It is worth noting that seven years have elapsed since Xi Jinping's last visit to India. Have a look at these visuals from October 2019. As the Chinese President arrived in Chennai for a Summit with PM Modi, he was welcomed by traditional dancers and musicians. The two leaders met in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram, which is known for its historic temples and architecture. Adorning a traditional Tamil attire, PM Modi took Xi on a tour around UNESCO world heritage-listed monuments in this town.&nbsp;Xi who was dressed in a white shirt and dark trousers watched an Indian cultural show alongside PM Modi. On the next day, both leaders held talks in Mahabalipuram itself as part of their summit. Now, friction between both countries have been brewing over Arunachal Pradesh as well. Earlier in August, India rejected China's criticism of its decision to formally identify 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh on official maps.&nbsp;New Delhi stressed that the state is an inalienable and integral part of India and nothing can change this indisputable reality. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made India's position amply clear. He emphasised that peace and tranquility in border areas is a pre-requisite for good relations between India and China.

Ajit Doval visits Beijing for India-China border talks as ties improve ahead of Xi Jinping's possible India visit for the BRICS summit

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's possible visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, India's national security advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing on a crucial two-day visit with both countries eyeing a reset in their bilateral ties. Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will hold the 25th round of special representatives' talks on the dispute over the India-China border spanning three thousand four hundred and eighty eight kilometres. During this visit, Doval will also call on China's Vice President Han Zheng. While relations between New Delhi and Beijing had come under severe strain after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, both sides have taken steps to stabilise ties. For instance, direct flights between India and China have resumed and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra has restarted. The last round of talks between Doval and Wang took place in New Delhi in August 2025. Back then, they reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote overall development of the bilateral relationship. On that occasion, they also agreed to re-open trade through the three designated trading points of Lipulekh pass, Shipki La pass and Nathu La pass and facilitate trade and investment flows. Doval's visit also assumes significance as it may lay the groundwork for Xi's potential visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit next month where he can meet PM Modi. Now, the two leaders last met in China's Tianjin in August last year on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ajit-doval-to-hold-border-talks-in-china-ahead-of-xi-s-possible-india-visit-1787593240596/embed Back then, PM Modi affirmed that ties between the two countries are heading in a positive direction. Prior to that, PM Modi met Xi in October 2024 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia's Kazan. It is worth noting that seven years have elapsed since Xi Jinping's last visit to India. Have a look at these visuals from October 2019. As the Chinese President arrived in Chennai for a Summit with PM Modi, he was welcomed by traditional dancers and musicians. The two leaders met in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram, which is known for its historic temples and architecture. Adorning a traditional Tamil attire, PM Modi took Xi on a tour around UNESCO world heritage-listed monuments in this town. Xi who was dressed in a white shirt and dark trousers watched an Indian cultural show alongside PM Modi. On the next day, both leaders held talks in Mahabalipuram itself as part of their summit. Now, friction between both countries have been brewing over Arunachal Pradesh as well. Earlier in August, India rejected China's criticism of its decision to formally identify 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh on official maps. New Delhi stressed that the state is an inalienable and integral part of India and nothing can change this indisputable reality. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made India's position amply clear. He emphasised that peace and tranquility in border areas is a pre-requisite for good relations between India and China.

Ajit Doval's Beijing visit aims to strengthen India-China ties and prepare for Xi Jinping's possible India visit for the BRICS summit

Gravitas | Ajit Doval to hold border talks in China, all eyes on Xi's possible India visit

Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has arrived in Beijing to hold high-stakes negotiations with Chinese Foreign Minister and State Councilor Wang Yi for the 25th round of Special Representatives talks on the India-China boundary dispute.

NSA Ajit Doval to meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi

National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval is expected to visit China on Monday (Aug 24) for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue, and will meet his counterpart for the Special Representatives mechanism, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. It is part of efforts by the two sides to normalise ties. This will be the 25th round of talks under the mechanism, established in 2003 to work out a framework for resolving the dispute over the 3,488-km border. Doval’s visit assumes comes weeks ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s expected trip to India next month to participate in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This will be Xi’s first visit to India in seven years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi last met in August 2025 on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-water-hunting-space-mission-to-moon-s-south-pole-postponed-1787503810216">China's water hunting space mission to moon's south pole postponed</a><h2>Talks against recent Arunachal Pradesh standoff</h2>The visit of Doval comes amid reported clash of Indian and Chinese troops in the Arunachal Pradesh sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). External affairs minister S Jaishankar recently said that the state of the border will determine the course of the overall India-China relationship. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” Jaishankar said, referring to a military face-off in the Ladakh sector of the LAC that lasted more than four years and took bilateral ties to a six-decade low. After the two sides reached an understanding on ending the face-off in Ladakh in October 2024, Xi and Modi met in Russia and agreed on measures to normalise ties and address the border dispute. Steps were taken to revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights and ease of visa restrictions for Chinese nationals&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ajit-doval-in-beijing-for-crucial-india-china-border-talks-ahead-of-xi-jinping-visit-1787490646127">Ajit Doval In Beijing For Crucial India-China Border Talks Ahead Of Xi Jinping Visit</a><h2>Last round of Special Representatives' talk</h2>At the last round of Special Representatives’ talks in New Delhi a year ago, the two sides reiterated the “importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity” on the border to promote the overall development of ties. According to an Indian readout issued at the time, the Special Representatives agreed on the need for a “political perspective” while working on a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for settling the boundary question in line with the Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question of 2005. They also agreed to set up an expert group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs to “explore early harvest in boundary delimitation”, and a working group under the WMCC to advance effective border management. They further agreed to create general-level mechanisms in the eastern and middle sectors of the border, in addition to the existing general-level mechanism in the western sector.

NSA Ajit Doval is expected to visit China for the 25th round of India-China Special Representatives’ talks with Wang Yi on the boundary dispute. The discussions come ahead of Xi Jinping’s expected India visit for the BRICS Summit

National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval is expected to visit China on Monday (Aug 24) for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue, and will meet his counterpart for the Special Representatives mechanism, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. It is part of efforts by the two sides to normalise ties. This will be the 25th round of talks under the mechanism, established in 2003 to work out a framework for resolving the dispute over the 3,488-km border. Doval’s visit assumes comes weeks ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s expected trip to India next month to participate in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This will be Xi’s first visit to India in seven years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi last met in August 2025 on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China. Also Read: China's water hunting space mission to moon's south pole postponed Talks against recent Arunachal Pradesh standoff The visit of Doval comes amid reported clash of Indian and Chinese troops in the Arunachal Pradesh sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). External affairs minister S Jaishankar recently said that the state of the border will determine the course of the overall India-China relationship. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” Jaishankar said, referring to a military face-off in the Ladakh sector of the LAC that lasted more than four years and took bilateral ties to a six-decade low. After the two sides reached an understanding on ending the face-off in Ladakh in October 2024, Xi and Modi met in Russia and agreed on measures to normalise ties and address the border dispute. Steps were taken to revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights and ease of visa restrictions for Chinese nationals Also Read: Ajit Doval In Beijing For Crucial India-China Border Talks Ahead Of Xi Jinping Visit Last round of Special Representatives' talk At the last round of Special Representatives’ talks in New Delhi a year ago, the two sides reiterated the “importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity” on the border to promote the overall development of ties. According to an Indian readout issued at the time, the Special Representatives agreed on the need for a “political perspective” while working on a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for settling the boundary question in line with the Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question of 2005. They also agreed to set up an expert group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs to “explore early harvest in boundary delimitation”, and a working group under the WMCC to advance effective border management. They further agreed to create general-level mechanisms in the eastern and middle sectors of the border, in addition to the existing general-level mechanism in the western sector.

NSA Ajit Doval is expected to visit China for the 25th round of India-China Special Representatives’ talks with Wang Yi on the boundary dispute. The discussions come ahead of Xi Jinping’s expected India visit for the BRICS Summit

Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed

The Bay of Bengal is a crucial component of regional and global trade flows due to its geography, economic centrality, and vulnerability to disruptions. Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's speech on Thursday (July 26) at the fifth BIMSTEC NSA meeting touched upon maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, along with other key pillars such as counter-terrorism, transnational crime, and cyber threats. He framed it within BIMSTEC's goals of regional security, connectivity, capacity building, and economic security. Here is why a stable and secure Bay of Bengal is in the interest of littoral states like India.<h2>Bay of Bengal: Strategic location and trade volume</h2>The Bay of Bengal is a vital sea line of communication (SLOC) linking the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean via the Strait of Malacca. It handles nearly one-fourth of the world's traded goods that pass through or near the region, including critical energy shipments such as oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Middle East to East Asia. This strategic importance also underpins cooperation among the Bay's littoral states through BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.&nbsp;Littoral states such as India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand depend heavily on the Bay of Bengal for maritime trade, fishing, offshore energy resources, and connectivity. Any disruption would directly impact supply chains, energy security, and economic growth across the member states, which together account for a combined GDP of around $5 trillion and a population of nearly 1.7 billion.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5th-bimstec-nsa-meet-nsa-ajit-doval-calls-for-decisive-action-amid-global-conflict-and-economic-turmoil-1784193698075">5th BIMSTEC NSA Meet: NSA Ajit Doval calls for decisive action amid global conflict and economic turmoil</a><h2>Threats to trade flows in the Bay of Bengal: Maritime security risks</h2>The threats faced by the littoral nations include piracy and armed robbery, with the Bay of Bengal reporting several incidents in the Indo-Pacific. Trafficking of drugs, arms, and humans is another major concern. The maritime region also reports widespread illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which threatens marine resources and coastal livelihoods.Maritime terrorism and other non-traditional threats, such as natural disasters, environmental degradation, climate-related risks, and the potential for blockages or hybrid disruptions to shipping, are also issues of concern.<h2>BIMSTEC's moves towards safe, secure waters in the Bay of Bengal</h2>A key area of focus for BIMSTEC is to ensure freedom of navigation and the safe passage of the tens of thousands of commercial vessels that pass through the Bay of Bengal every year. The grouping also seeks to enhance the resilience and stability of regional ports, maritime infrastructure, and supply chains.BIMSTEC's efforts towards this end include the Expert Group on Maritime Security Cooperation, strengthening Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) through information sharing, capacity building, joint exercises and patrols, and coordinated responses to maritime threats.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bimstec-security-chiefs-meet-in-new-delhi-ajit-doval-leads-talks-on-terrorism-maritime-security-1784193102354/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bimstec-security-chiefs-meet-in-new-delhi-ajit-doval-leads-talks-on-terrorism-maritime-security-1784193102354/embed</a><h2>China's growing presence in the Bay of Bengal maritime region</h2>Chinese interests in the Bay of Bengal region and the wider Indo-Pacific amplify the importance of maritime security in the Bay. The waters are a key transit route for Chinese energy imports and trade, and secure SLOCs are vital for Beijing's economic security.Over the last decade, China has expanded its influence through infrastructure projects such as ports in Myanmar and Bangladesh under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It also continues to increase its naval activities in the region. A significant proportion of IUU fishing in the wider Indo-Pacific has been attributed to Chinese distant-water fishing fleets, straining local resources and bilateral ties.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bimstec-nsa-meeting-amid-security-challenges-in-a-complex-world-the-evolution-of-cooperation-1784101472635">BIMSTEC NSA meeting amid security challenges in a complex world: The evolution of cooperation</a>&nbsp;Beijing is also building up military infrastructure, while the presence of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) in the Indian Ocean Region is growing, raising concerns about strategic competition, potential dual-use facilities, and the implications for freedom of navigation.The Bay of Bengal states have differing security perceptions regarding the region. India is pushing for cooperative frameworks that counterbalance external influence while maintaining open sea lanes through initiatives such as BIMSTEC, the Act East Policy, and MAHASAGAR, or Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.It is in this context that Doval's emphasis on strengthened maritime cooperation in the region should be understood.&nbsp;India is stressing the need to safeguard vital trade arteries in a contested maritime space where geopolitical rivalries, particularly involving China, intersect with non-state actor threats and growing economic interdependence.&nbsp;Stable waters in the Bay of Bengal are essential not only for regional prosperity but also for the broader stability of Indo-Pacific trade.

At the BIMSTEC NSA meeting in Delhi, Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval highlighted maritime security among other things. Here is why a stable and secure Bay of Bengal is essential for trade, energy flows, regional connectivity, and countering growing security challenges

The Bay of Bengal is a crucial component of regional and global trade flows due to its geography, economic centrality, and vulnerability to disruptions. Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's speech on Thursday (July 26) at the fifth BIMSTEC NSA meeting touched upon maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, along with other key pillars such as counter-terrorism, transnational crime, and cyber threats. He framed it within BIMSTEC's goals of regional security, connectivity, capacity building, and economic security. Here is why a stable and secure Bay of Bengal is in the interest of littoral states like India. Bay of Bengal: Strategic location and trade volume The Bay of Bengal is a vital sea line of communication (SLOC) linking the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean via the Strait of Malacca. It handles nearly one-fourth of the world's traded goods that pass through or near the region, including critical energy shipments such as oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Middle East to East Asia. This strategic importance also underpins cooperation among the Bay's littoral states through BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. Littoral states such as India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand depend heavily on the Bay of Bengal for maritime trade, fishing, offshore energy resources, and connectivity. Any disruption would directly impact supply chains, energy security, and economic growth across the member states, which together account for a combined GDP of around $5 trillion and a population of nearly 1.7 billion. Also read: 5th BIMSTEC NSA Meet: NSA Ajit Doval calls for decisive action amid global conflict and economic turmoil Threats to trade flows in the Bay of Bengal: Maritime security risks The threats faced by the littoral nations include piracy and armed robbery, with the Bay of Bengal reporting several incidents in the Indo-Pacific. Trafficking of drugs, arms, and humans is another major concern. The maritime region also reports widespread illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which threatens marine resources and coastal livelihoods. Maritime terrorism and other non-traditional threats, such as natural disasters, environmental degradation, climate-related risks, and the potential for blockages or hybrid disruptions to shipping, are also issues of concern. BIMSTEC's moves towards safe, secure waters in the Bay of Bengal A key area of focus for BIMSTEC is to ensure freedom of navigation and the safe passage of the tens of thousands of commercial vessels that pass through the Bay of Bengal every year. The grouping also seeks to enhance the resilience and stability of regional ports, maritime infrastructure, and supply chains. BIMSTEC's efforts towards this end include the Expert Group on Maritime Security Cooperation, strengthening Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) through information sharing, capacity building, joint exercises and patrols, and coordinated responses to maritime threats. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bimstec-security-chiefs-meet-in-new-delhi-ajit-doval-leads-talks-on-terrorism-maritime-security-1784193102354/embed China's growing presence in the Bay of Bengal maritime region Chinese interests in the Bay of Bengal region and the wider Indo-Pacific amplify the importance of maritime security in the Bay. The waters are a key transit route for Chinese energy imports and trade, and secure SLOCs are vital for Beijing's economic security. Over the last decade, China has expanded its influence through infrastructure projects such as ports in Myanmar and Bangladesh under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It also continues to increase its naval activities in the region. A significant proportion of IUU fishing in the wider Indo-Pacific has been attributed to Chinese distant-water fishing fleets, straining local resources and bilateral ties. Also read: BIMSTEC NSA meeting amid security challenges in a complex world: The evolution of cooperation Beijing is also building up military infrastructure, while the presence of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) in the Indian Ocean Region is growing, raising concerns about strategic competition, potential dual-use facilities, and the implications for freedom of navigation. The Bay of Bengal states have differing security perceptions regarding the region. India is pushing for cooperative frameworks that counterbalance external influence while maintaining open sea lanes through initiatives such as BIMSTEC, the Act East Policy, and MAHASAGAR, or Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. It is in this context that Doval's emphasis on strengthened maritime cooperation in the region should be understood. India is stressing the need to safeguard vital trade arteries in a contested maritime space where geopolitical rivalries, particularly involving China, intersect with non-state actor threats and growing economic interdependence. Stable waters in the Bay of Bengal are essential not only for regional prosperity but also for the broader stability of Indo-Pacific trade.

At the BIMSTEC NSA meeting in Delhi, Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval highlighted maritime security among other things. Here is why a stable and secure Bay of Bengal is essential for trade, energy flows, regional connectivity, and countering growing security challenges

BIMSTEC NSA meet and a stable Bay of Bengal: How maritime security is crucial for trade flows

In today's top world headlines, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval urged stronger BIMSTEC cooperation to address shared security and economic challenges, including global supply chain disruptions. Iran warned that any U.S. interference in the Strait of Hormuz would cross a "red line," while explosions were reported near Iran's Jabar Port amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Israel reaffirmed its military presence in security zones across Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, and Russian ballistic missile strikes killed civilians in Kyiv. Meanwhile, Toronto recorded the world's worst air quality due to wildfire smoke, Indian stock markets traded flat after a volatile session, and Zee Group Chairman Dr. Subhash Chandra announced the establishment of Sri Nand Kishor Goenka University in Hisar.

Iran threatens U.S. | BIMSTEC summit | Toronto air quality worsens | Kyiv missile attack | WION News

India hosted the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' Meeting in New Delhi, with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval chairing discussions involving security leaders from India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The meeting focused on strengthening regional cooperation in maritime security, counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and supply chain resilience amid rising geopolitical tensions. NSA Doval emphasized India's Neighbourhood First Policy, Act East Policy, and MAHASAGAR vision while calling for greater collaboration to tackle common security challenges across the Bay of Bengal region. Bilateral meetings with several member nations also explored mechanisms to enhance intelligence cooperation and regional stability.

BIMSTEC Security chiefs meet in New Delhi | Ajit Doval leads talks on terrorism & maritime security 

India is strengthening regional security cooperation ahead of the Fifth BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with senior officials from Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh to discuss key regional security issues. The discussions focused on maritime security, intelligence sharing, counterterrorism cooperation, law enforcement coordination, and regional stability. Ajit Doval also reviewed bilateral security cooperation with Myanmar and explored deeper collaboration with Thailand on intelligence sharing and security coordination. During his meeting with Bangladesh's Defence Adviser, the two sides discussed emerging security challenges facing the Bay of Bengal region, including cross-border crime, terrorism, insurgency, narcotics trafficking, and climate-related security risks.

Ajit Doval meets BIMSTEC security chiefs to boost regional security and counterterrorism cooperation

India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with senior officials from Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, as New Delhi seeks to bolster regional cooperation on maritime security, intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism ahead of the BIMSTEC NSAs meet on Thursday.&nbsp;The discussions come at a time of heightened focus on stability in the Bay of Bengal region, where traditional and non-traditional security challenges, from insurgencies to narcotics trafficking and climate impacts, are testing governments.&nbsp;The first bilateral meeting of the day for NSA Doval was with Myanmar's National Security Adviser U Tin Aung San. The two reviewed bilateral security cooperation and exchanged assessments on regional stability. The talks are particularly significant given the volatile situation in parts of Myanmar, including areas bordering India's north-eastern states. New Delhi has long expressed concerns over cross-border insurgent movements and the flow of narcotics by elements taking advantage of the situation in the country.&nbsp;With Thailand, Mr Doval engaged with Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary General of the National Security Council. Both sides explored ways to deepen their strategic partnership. Topics included enhanced intelligence sharing, law enforcement collaboration, connectivity projects and the possible creation of new institutional mechanisms for security coordination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-1-27-trillion-for-semiconductor-mission-2-0-to-boost-chip-manufacturing-1784123665135">Cabinet approves ₹1.27 trillion for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 to boost chip manufacturing</a>&nbsp;During talks with Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) &amp; Indian NSA, the key focus was on maritime issues. With the situation in the Indian Ocean volatile due to the war in West Asia, both India, &amp; Sri Lanka have regularly exchanged notes. Mr Doval also met Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Defence Adviser to Bangladesh's Prime Minister. No detailed readout of their discussion was released immediately.&nbsp;The meetings pave the way for the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' conclave that brings together the group's seven members: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The forum is designed to coordinate responses to terrorism, cyber security threats, climate-related challenges and other non-traditional security issues.&nbsp;Often described as a natural bridge between South and Southeast Asia, BIMSTEC has gained renewed prominence in recent years. The grouping offers an alternative platform for cooperation as SAARC, the wider South Asian body, has remained largely stalled due to Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism.

NSA Ajit Doval held bilateral talks with senior officials from Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to strengthen cooperation on maritime security, intelligence sharing and counter terrorism ahead of the BIMSTEC NSAs conference.

India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with senior officials from Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, as New Delhi seeks to bolster regional cooperation on maritime security, intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism ahead of the BIMSTEC NSAs meet on Thursday. The discussions come at a time of heightened focus on stability in the Bay of Bengal region, where traditional and non-traditional security challenges, from insurgencies to narcotics trafficking and climate impacts, are testing governments. The first bilateral meeting of the day for NSA Doval was with Myanmar's National Security Adviser U Tin Aung San. The two reviewed bilateral security cooperation and exchanged assessments on regional stability. The talks are particularly significant given the volatile situation in parts of Myanmar, including areas bordering India's north-eastern states. New Delhi has long expressed concerns over cross-border insurgent movements and the flow of narcotics by elements taking advantage of the situation in the country. With Thailand, Mr Doval engaged with Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary General of the National Security Council. Both sides explored ways to deepen their strategic partnership. Topics included enhanced intelligence sharing, law enforcement collaboration, connectivity projects and the possible creation of new institutional mechanisms for security coordination. Also Read: Cabinet approves ₹1.27 trillion for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 to boost chip manufacturing During talks with Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) & Indian NSA, the key focus was on maritime issues. With the situation in the Indian Ocean volatile due to the war in West Asia, both India, & Sri Lanka have regularly exchanged notes. Mr Doval also met Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Defence Adviser to Bangladesh's Prime Minister. No detailed readout of their discussion was released immediately. The meetings pave the way for the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' conclave that brings together the group's seven members: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The forum is designed to coordinate responses to terrorism, cyber security threats, climate-related challenges and other non-traditional security issues. Often described as a natural bridge between South and Southeast Asia, BIMSTEC has gained renewed prominence in recent years. The grouping offers an alternative platform for cooperation as SAARC, the wider South Asian body, has remained largely stalled due to Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism.

NSA Ajit Doval held bilateral talks with senior officials from Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to strengthen cooperation on maritime security, intelligence sharing and counter terrorism ahead of the BIMSTEC NSAs conference.

NSA Ajit Doval meets top Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh officials ahead of BIMSTEC NSAs conference

Senior security officials from the seven BIMSTEC nations are meeting in New Delhi for the 5th National Security Advisors' Meeting to strengthen regional security cooperation. The discussions focus on maritime security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, piracy, organized crime, drug trafficking, disaster response, and the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis on the Bay of Bengal. India is hosting the two-day meeting as it pushes for stronger regional coordination and capacity building among South and Southeast Asian nations.

BIMSTEC NSA meeting | India hosts 7-nation security summit | Ajit Doval leads key talks

India is hosting the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi on Thursday (Jul 16). Chaired by India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, the discussions are likely to include counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts against cross-border threats. The meeting is taking place amid a number of challenges in a world beset by conflict, including cyber security, transnational organised crime, maritime security, and emerging threats such as violent extremism and disaster response. It is a good time to revisit the evolution of the security cooperation of this grouping.<h2>What is BIMSTEC?</h2>BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, brings together seven countries around the Bay of Bengal, five from South Asia and two from Southeast Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Together, these nations represent nearly 22 per cent of the world's population—about 1.8 billion people—and a combined GDP of around US$5 trillion. Focused on multi-sectoral technical and economic cooperation, its priority sectors include trade, investment and development; environment and climate change; security; agriculture and food security; people-to-people contact; science, technology and innovation; and connectivity. Under the current sectoral structure adopted by BIMSTEC, India is the lead country for the Security pillar.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bimstec-security-chiefs-convene-in-delhi-amid-bay-of-bengal-tensions-1784099616544">BIMSTEC security chiefs convene in Delhi amid Bay of Bengal tensions</a><h2>BIMSTEC security cooperation: Key mechanisms</h2>The National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting is one of the main mechanisms of security cooperation and began after the 2016 Goa Retreat, where leaders agreed to hold regular meetings for intelligence and information sharing and for countering terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalisation. BIMSTEC's Expert Group on Maritime Security Cooperation focuses on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), oil pollution response, the Blue Economy, and maritime law enforcement guidelines. There are sub-groups focused on intelligence sharing, anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), legal and law enforcement issues, countering radicalisation and terrorism, human trafficking, and the prevention of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals. Initiatives in the security sector include coastal security workshops and the BIMSTEC Military Exercise or MILEX-18, held in 2018. A joint maritime exercise is planned for November this year. The emphasis is on practical coordination among law enforcement, intelligence, and security agencies without creating a military alliance structure.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-hosts-bimstec-foreign-ministers-retreat-2024-739974/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-hosts-bimstec-foreign-ministers-retreat-2024-739974/embed</a><h2>BIMSTEC's evolution in past three decades</h2>In 1997, the seeds of BIMSTEC were laid as BIST-EC , or Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand Economic Cooperation, with the Bangkok Declaration aiming to promote technical and economic cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. Myanmar joined the grouping later in 1997, after which it was renamed BIMST-EC. The grouping expanded in 2004 with the inclusion of Nepal and Bhutan, and adopted its current name, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. The permanent Secretariat of BIMSTEC was established in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2014. The 2016 Goa Retreat, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, gave fresh impetus to security cooperation and the National Security Advisers' meetings. Between 2018 and 2022, BIMSTEC rationalised its areas of cooperation into seven pillars, with Security formalised as one of the key pillars.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bimstec-to-hold-first-joint-maritime-security-exercise-in-november-2026-says-secretary-general-pandey-1775995848409">BIMSTEC to hold first joint maritime security exercise in November 2026, says Secretary General Pandey</a><h2>India's Act East policy amid SAARC stagnation: Why BIMSTEC matters</h2>BIMSTEC has gathered momentum in recent years as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has stagnated, mainly because of political differences between India and Pakistan. As a platform bridging South and Southeast Asia, it is a key organisation supporting India's "Act East" and "Neighbourhood First" foreign policies. The grouping offers an alternative framework for cooperation on security, connectivity, energy, and trade. While progress has been gradual, it has registered several achievements, including progress on regional energy grid interconnection, cooperation in disaster management, and ongoing negotiations towards a BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement.

India is hosting the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi. The grouping has evolved over the past three decades, playing a growing role in counter-terrorism, maritime security, regional cooperation and other sectors.

India is hosting the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi on Thursday (Jul 16). Chaired by India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, the discussions are likely to include counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts against cross-border threats. The meeting is taking place amid a number of challenges in a world beset by conflict, including cyber security, transnational organised crime, maritime security, and emerging threats such as violent extremism and disaster response. It is a good time to revisit the evolution of the security cooperation of this grouping. What is BIMSTEC? BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, brings together seven countries around the Bay of Bengal, five from South Asia and two from Southeast Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Together, these nations represent nearly 22 per cent of the world's population—about 1.8 billion people—and a combined GDP of around US$5 trillion. Focused on multi-sectoral technical and economic cooperation, its priority sectors include trade, investment and development; environment and climate change; security; agriculture and food security; people-to-people contact; science, technology and innovation; and connectivity. Under the current sectoral structure adopted by BIMSTEC, India is the lead country for the Security pillar. Also read: BIMSTEC security chiefs convene in Delhi amid Bay of Bengal tensions BIMSTEC security cooperation: Key mechanisms The National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting is one of the main mechanisms of security cooperation and began after the 2016 Goa Retreat, where leaders agreed to hold regular meetings for intelligence and information sharing and for countering terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalisation. BIMSTEC's Expert Group on Maritime Security Cooperation focuses on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), oil pollution response, the Blue Economy, and maritime law enforcement guidelines. There are sub-groups focused on intelligence sharing, anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), legal and law enforcement issues, countering radicalisation and terrorism, human trafficking, and the prevention of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals. Initiatives in the security sector include coastal security workshops and the BIMSTEC Military Exercise or MILEX-18, held in 2018. A joint maritime exercise is planned for November this year. The emphasis is on practical coordination among law enforcement, intelligence, and security agencies without creating a military alliance structure. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-hosts-bimstec-foreign-ministers-retreat-2024-739974/embed BIMSTEC's evolution in past three decades In 1997, the seeds of BIMSTEC were laid as BIST-EC , or Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand Economic Cooperation, with the Bangkok Declaration aiming to promote technical and economic cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. Myanmar joined the grouping later in 1997, after which it was renamed BIMST-EC. The grouping expanded in 2004 with the inclusion of Nepal and Bhutan, and adopted its current name, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. The permanent Secretariat of BIMSTEC was established in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2014. The 2016 Goa Retreat, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, gave fresh impetus to security cooperation and the National Security Advisers' meetings. Between 2018 and 2022, BIMSTEC rationalised its areas of cooperation into seven pillars, with Security formalised as one of the key pillars. Also read: BIMSTEC to hold first joint maritime security exercise in November 2026, says Secretary General Pandey India's Act East policy amid SAARC stagnation: Why BIMSTEC matters BIMSTEC has gathered momentum in recent years as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has stagnated, mainly because of political differences between India and Pakistan. As a platform bridging South and Southeast Asia, it is a key organisation supporting India's "Act East" and "Neighbourhood First" foreign policies. The grouping offers an alternative framework for cooperation on security, connectivity, energy, and trade. While progress has been gradual, it has registered several achievements, including progress on regional energy grid interconnection, cooperation in disaster management, and ongoing negotiations towards a BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement.

India is hosting the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs and Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi. The grouping has evolved over the past three decades, playing a growing role in counter-terrorism, maritime security, regional cooperation and other sectors.

BIMSTEC NSA meeting amid security challenges in a complex world: The evolution of cooperation

New Delhi: India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held “constructive and forward-looking” talks on Monday ahead of the BRICS National Security Advisers’ meeting in New Delhi, with both sides noting progress towards “gradual normalisation” of ties.&nbsp;The meeting comes as India chairs BRICS this year ahead of a leaders’ summit in September. It marks the latest high-level contact between the two Asian giants, whose relations have been slowly recovering since the deadly border clashes in 2020 in eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alan-greenspan-architect-of-modern-us-economy-and-fed-chair-under-4-presidents-dies-at-100-1782148833171">Alan Greenspan, architect of modern US economy and Fed chair under 4 presidents, dies at 100</a>&nbsp;According to the Indian side, the two top officials reviewed recent developments and highlighted steps towards stabilisation. “The NSA underlined that stable, predictable and constructive bilateral relations contribute to building of trust and better understanding between the two sides,” said an Indian readout.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vance-says-iran-has-agreed-to-resume-iaea-nuclear-inspections-probably-by-this-week-1782143460029">Vance says Iran has agreed to resume IAEA nuclear inspections, probably by ‘this week’</a>&nbsp;Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Political Bureau and Beijing’s special representative on the India-China border, is attending the meet at the invitation of Mr Doval.&nbsp;The meet is part of the broad contours of a pragmatic thaw that began accelerating after a 2024 border agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cred-founder-kunal-shah-becomes-global-ceo-of-whatsapp-meta-invests-900-million-in-fintech-startup-1782137297377">CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup</a>&nbsp;Since then, the two countries have resumed direct flights, eased some visa restrictions, restarted the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, and taken incremental steps on trade and investment. Bilateral trade hit record levels in 2025, though India continues to grapple with a large deficit.&nbsp;The meeting is seen as preparation for potential higher-level engagements, including a possible visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to India later this year for the BRICS summit.

Chinese FM Wang Yii, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Political Bureau and Beijing’s special representative on the India-China border, is attending the meet at the invitation of India’s NSA Ajit Doval. The meet is part of a pragmatic thaw that started after 2024.

New Delhi: India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held “constructive and forward-looking” talks on Monday ahead of the BRICS National Security Advisers’ meeting in New Delhi, with both sides noting progress towards “gradual normalisation” of ties. The meeting comes as India chairs BRICS this year ahead of a leaders’ summit in September. It marks the latest high-level contact between the two Asian giants, whose relations have been slowly recovering since the deadly border clashes in 2020 in eastern Ladakh. Also Read: Alan Greenspan, architect of modern US economy and Fed chair under 4 presidents, dies at 100 According to the Indian side, the two top officials reviewed recent developments and highlighted steps towards stabilisation. “The NSA underlined that stable, predictable and constructive bilateral relations contribute to building of trust and better understanding between the two sides,” said an Indian readout. Also Read: Vance says Iran has agreed to resume IAEA nuclear inspections, probably by ‘this week’ Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Political Bureau and Beijing’s special representative on the India-China border, is attending the meet at the invitation of Mr Doval. The meet is part of the broad contours of a pragmatic thaw that began accelerating after a 2024 border agreement. Also Read: CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup Since then, the two countries have resumed direct flights, eased some visa restrictions, restarted the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, and taken incremental steps on trade and investment. Bilateral trade hit record levels in 2025, though India continues to grapple with a large deficit. The meeting is seen as preparation for potential higher-level engagements, including a possible visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to India later this year for the BRICS summit.

Chinese FM Wang Yii, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Political Bureau and Beijing’s special representative on the India-China border, is attending the meet at the invitation of India’s NSA Ajit Doval. The meet is part of a pragmatic thaw that started after 2024.&nbsp;

NSA Doval to FM Wang Yi: Stable ties key to India-China understanding

Ajit Doval and Myanmar’s security chief Tin Aung San held important talks in Moscow focusing on defence cooperation, regional security and bilateral coordination. The meeting comes at a time of growing strategic challenges in the region, including border security and insurgency concerns. Both sides are understood to have reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation and maintain stability in shared areas of interest.


India-Myanmar Push Stronger Ties Despite Security Challenges

Ajit Doval and Myanmar’s security chief Tin Aung San held important talks in Moscow focusing on defence cooperation, regional security and bilateral coordination. The meeting comes at a time of growing strategic challenges in the region, including border security and insurgency concerns. Both sides are understood to have reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation and maintain stability in shared areas of interest.

New Delhi: Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held talks with his Myanmar counterpart, Tin Aung San, on the sidelines of the inaugural International Security Forum in Moscow on Friday. The two security chiefs reviewed bilateral cooperation across security, defence, connectivity and other areas of mutual interest, and exchanged views on recent regional developments, officials said.The meeting comes as the two neighbours seek to deepen ties despite challenges in Myanmar’s internal security situation and broader geopolitical shifts in the Indo-Pacific. Myanmar’s National Security Advisor is also scheduled to visit India in July for the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Advisors’ meeting, underlining the importance both sides attach to the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rupee-slide-wars-and-more-indian-students-in-us-battle-currency-crisis-no-one-prepared-them-for-wion-horizons-1780044945428">Rupee slide, wars and more: Indian students in US battle currency crisis no one prepared them for | WION Horizons</a>The Moscow meet sets the stage for a high-profile visit by Myanmar’s President U Min Aung Hlaing to India from 30 May to 3 June. Originally planned to attend the International Big Cat Alliance Summit on 1 June, which has now been deferred, the trip has been upgraded to a full official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.President U Min Aung Hlaing, accompanied by a high-level delegation of Cabinet ministers, senior officials and business leaders, will hold formal talks with Prime Minister Modi on 1 June in New Delhi.The discussions are expected to focus on further strengthening the “historical and civilisational ties” between the two countries, an Indian government statement said. A dedicated business forum will also be held during the visit.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cywyddau-who-is-shrey-parikh-indian-origin-teen-wins-america-s-biggest-spelling-competition-takes-home-50-000-prize-scripps-national-1780033420442">'Cywyddau': Who is Shrey Parikh? Indian-origin teen wins America's biggest spelling competition, takes home $50,000 prize</a>On 30 May, the Myanmar President will travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar, a site of immense religious significance for Buddhists, before heading to Mumbai on 2 June for business engagements and site visits with Indian industry leaders.“Myanmar lies at the confluence of India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR policies,” the Indian statement noted, highlighting the strategic weight New Delhi places on the relationship.Connectivity projects, including the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, energy cooperation and enhanced border management are expected to feature prominently.Trade, counter-terrorism cooperation along the porous border in India’s Northeast, and connectivity corridors that could link India’s landlocked states to Southeast Asia are also likely to dominate the agenda. The visit marks the first foreign trip by President U Min Aung Hlaing in his current capacity. &nbsp;

After key talks between NSA Ajit Doval and Tin Aung San in Moscow, Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing is heading to India for a major visit. Security, connectivity and regional strategy are all on the table. What makes this trip so important?

New Delhi: Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held talks with his Myanmar counterpart, Tin Aung San, on the sidelines of the inaugural International Security Forum in Moscow on Friday. The two security chiefs reviewed bilateral cooperation across security, defence, connectivity and other areas of mutual interest, and exchanged views on recent regional developments, officials said. The meeting comes as the two neighbours seek to deepen ties despite challenges in Myanmar’s internal security situation and broader geopolitical shifts in the Indo-Pacific. Myanmar’s National Security Advisor is also scheduled to visit India in July for the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Advisors’ meeting, underlining the importance both sides attach to the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. Also read | Rupee slide, wars and more: Indian students in US battle currency crisis no one prepared them for | WION Horizons The Moscow meet sets the stage for a high-profile visit by Myanmar’s President U Min Aung Hlaing to India from 30 May to 3 June. Originally planned to attend the International Big Cat Alliance Summit on 1 June, which has now been deferred, the trip has been upgraded to a full official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President U Min Aung Hlaing, accompanied by a high-level delegation of Cabinet ministers, senior officials and business leaders, will hold formal talks with Prime Minister Modi on 1 June in New Delhi. The discussions are expected to focus on further strengthening the “historical and civilisational ties” between the two countries, an Indian government statement said. A dedicated business forum will also be held during the visit. Also read | 'Cywyddau': Who is Shrey Parikh? Indian-origin teen wins America's biggest spelling competition, takes home $50,000 prize On 30 May, the Myanmar President will travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar, a site of immense religious significance for Buddhists, before heading to Mumbai on 2 June for business engagements and site visits with Indian industry leaders. “Myanmar lies at the confluence of India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR policies,” the Indian statement noted, highlighting the strategic weight New Delhi places on the relationship. Connectivity projects, including the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, energy cooperation and enhanced border management are expected to feature prominently. Trade, counter-terrorism cooperation along the porous border in India’s Northeast, and connectivity corridors that could link India’s landlocked states to Southeast Asia are also likely to dominate the agenda. The visit marks the first foreign trip by President U Min Aung Hlaing in his current capacity.

After key talks between NSA Ajit Doval and Tin Aung San in Moscow, Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing is heading to India for a major visit. Security, connectivity and regional strategy are all on the table. What makes this trip so important?

India and Myanmar NSAs meet in Moscow as Myanmar President prepares landmark visit to New Delhi

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is currently in Moscow, participating in the first International Security Forum and the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters. Hosted by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, the forum is deliberating on global security threats in an emerging multipolar world. NSA Doval delivered a strong message against terrorism, calling for an end to "double standards" and urging responsible nations to take decisive action against terror sponsors.


India's NSA Ajit Doval in Moscow for International Security Forum

New Delhi: India and the UK have pledged to intensify cooperation against pro-Khalistan extremism and address threats to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz, as the two countries’ national security advisers held high-level talks in New Delhi.&nbsp;National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell on Thursday for the annual India-UK Strategic Dialogue. The closed-door discussions, which included both restricted and delegation-level sessions, focused on advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership amid a turbulent global security environment. Officials from both sides reiterated their commitment to the goals outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035 document, particularly in technology, defence, and security.&nbsp;They agreed to deepen collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle terrorism, extremism and pro-Khalistan elements. The Indian side thanked the UK for its ongoing support and stressed the need to sustain momentum in joint operations.&nbsp;The advisers held an in-depth exchange on regional and global challenges. They discussed the conflict in West Asia and its repercussions on maritime security and vital trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which a significant portion of India’s energy imports pass.&nbsp;Mr Doval emphasised that “dialogue and diplomacy” remained the only viable path to resolution. The two sides also reviewed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and agreed to stay in close contact on developments.&nbsp;A key focus was progress under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI), launched in 2024. Both sides noted advancements in telecom, critical minerals and artificial intelligence. Mr Doval welcomed the establishment of a Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a joint venture between UK firm Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd. and Indian company SiCSem Pvt Ltd. It is set to become India’s first commercial compound semiconductor fab, supporting sectors from electric vehicles to defence. The NSAs agreed to expand cooperation in semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology and advanced materials, while strengthening institutional ties in cyber security.&nbsp;Defence ties have also gathered pace. The two sides reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific. Mr Doval highlighted prospects for UK original equipment manufacturers to partner with Indian firms and integrate into defence supply chains.&nbsp;The meeting comes as both countries seek to bolster resilience in critical supply chains and counter shared security threats at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. The UK describes the partnership with Delhi as a cornerstone of their Indo-Pacific strategy, while India views London as an important partner in technology and defence diversification.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific.

New Delhi: India and the UK have pledged to intensify cooperation against pro-Khalistan extremism and address threats to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz, as the two countries’ national security advisers held high-level talks in New Delhi. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell on Thursday for the annual India-UK Strategic Dialogue. The closed-door discussions, which included both restricted and delegation-level sessions, focused on advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership amid a turbulent global security environment. Officials from both sides reiterated their commitment to the goals outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035 document, particularly in technology, defence, and security. They agreed to deepen collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle terrorism, extremism and pro-Khalistan elements. The Indian side thanked the UK for its ongoing support and stressed the need to sustain momentum in joint operations. The advisers held an in-depth exchange on regional and global challenges. They discussed the conflict in West Asia and its repercussions on maritime security and vital trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which a significant portion of India’s energy imports pass. Mr Doval emphasised that “dialogue and diplomacy” remained the only viable path to resolution. The two sides also reviewed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and agreed to stay in close contact on developments. A key focus was progress under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI), launched in 2024. Both sides noted advancements in telecom, critical minerals and artificial intelligence. Mr Doval welcomed the establishment of a Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a joint venture between UK firm Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd. and Indian company SiCSem Pvt Ltd. It is set to become India’s first commercial compound semiconductor fab, supporting sectors from electric vehicles to defence. The NSAs agreed to expand cooperation in semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology and advanced materials, while strengthening institutional ties in cyber security. Defence ties have also gathered pace. The two sides reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific. Mr Doval highlighted prospects for UK original equipment manufacturers to partner with Indian firms and integrate into defence supply chains. The meeting comes as both countries seek to bolster resilience in critical supply chains and counter shared security threats at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. The UK describes the partnership with Delhi as a cornerstone of their Indo-Pacific strategy, while India views London as an important partner in technology and defence diversification.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific.

India, UK NSAs discuss Hormuz, closer cooperation against Khalistan extremism

India and Canada Sunday agreed to establish “security and law enforcement liaison-officers,” to enable the sharing of information on issues related to transnational criminal networks and the illegal flow of drugs such as fentanyl precursors, after National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval travelled to Ottawa for a two-day visit.


Ajit Doval Raises Issue of Khalistan in Meeting With Canadian Counterpart

India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that New Delhi would not be bullied by President Donald Trump or his aides, sources said. Doval signaled India’s willingness to wait out Trump’s term while urging Washington to tone down public criticism and revive trade talks.

Report: Doval Told Rubio India Won’t Be Bullied, Signals Patience on Trump-Era Tensions

Report: Doval Told Rubio India Won’t Be Bullied, Signaled Patience on Trump-Era Tensions

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who has been at the helm of India’s security since 2014, expressed confidence that India will become a developed nation and urged the youth to hone decision-making skills to lead the country forward.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who has been at the helm of India’s national security since 2014, expressed confidence that India will become a developed nation and urged the youth to hone decision-making skills to lead the country forward.

NSA Ajit Doval says he doesn’t use phone or internet; shares views on India’s future and youth

India hosts the 7th Colombo Security Conclave in New Delhi, chaired by NSA Ajit Doval, with regional security discussions involving Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia (guest), and Seychelles (observer).

Colombo Security Conclave: India Hosts 7th Colombo Security Conclave | Chaired by NSA Ajit Doval

Colombo Security Conclave: India Hosts 7th Colombo Security Conclave | Led by NSA Ajit Doval

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval said “poor governance” was the reason behind uprisings that led to change of governments in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka over the past three-and-a-half years.


Weak governance led to regime change in Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka: Ajit Doval

NSA Doval Underlines India's Progress in Countering Terrorism

Khalistani Separatist and the organiser of the secessionist group Sikh For Justice, Indrajit Singh Gosal, released a provocative video just after being released on bail from Ontario Prison in Canada. He, along with his aide Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, released a threat directed NSA, Ajit Doval, challenging him to come to Canada, the &nbsp;United States, or any European country to extradite him. Indrajit Singh Gosal recently announced that he will push for a Khalistani Referendum on November 23, 2025.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-inderjit-singh-gosal-key-khalistani-figure-arrested-in-canada-after-violent-attack-at-hindu-temple-1758529624676">Who is Inderjit Singh Gosal? Key Khalistani figure, arrested in Canada after violent attack at Hindu temple</a>&nbsp;"Ajit Doval, why don't you come to Canada, America or any European country and try to arrest or do any extradition. Doval, I am waiting for you," &nbsp;said Pannun."India, I'm out; to support Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, to organise the Khalistan referendum on November 23, 2025. Delhi banega Khalistan," Gosal recorded a video outside the Ontario Prison Gate. Pannun is a designated terrorist by India.&nbsp;Gosal was arrested on September 19, along with his accomplices, Jagdeep Singh from New York and Arman Singh from Toronto were arrested under firearm offences, concealing and carrying a firearm for dangerous purposes. Despite this, he was granted bail on Thursday, within a week. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-dinesh-k-patnaik-india-appoints-new-high-commissioner-to-canada-1756389303602">Who is Dinesh K Patnaik? India appoints new High Commissioner to Canada</a>

screeshot of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun X post

<h2>Observations and implications</h2>Earlier, Pannun was charged with challenging India's sovereignty by offering 11 crore as a reward to stop flag hoisting in the Red Fort. Similarly, Gosal was arrested earlier in November 2024, over an altercation at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton and was immediately out on bail. The growing Khalistani Separatist movement in Canada's outlook towards it had soured the relationship between India and Canada. However, these statements by Pannun and Gosal are more rhetoric instead of having any operational capacity.

Khalistani separatist Indrajit Singh Gosal, released on bail in Canada, posted a video with SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatening NSA Ajit Doval and vowing to push for a Khalistan referendum on November 23, 2025

Khalistani Separatist and the organiser of the secessionist group Sikh For Justice, Indrajit Singh Gosal, released a provocative video just after being released on bail from Ontario Prison in Canada. He, along with his aide Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, released a threat directed NSA, Ajit Doval, challenging him to come to Canada, the United States, or any European country to extradite him. Indrajit Singh Gosal recently announced that he will push for a Khalistani Referendum on November 23, 2025. Also Read: Who is Inderjit Singh Gosal? Key Khalistani figure, arrested in Canada after violent attack at Hindu temple "Ajit Doval, why don't you come to Canada, America or any European country and try to arrest or do any extradition. Doval, I am waiting for you," said Pannun. "India, I'm out; to support Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, to organise the Khalistan referendum on November 23, 2025. Delhi banega Khalistan," Gosal recorded a video outside the Ontario Prison Gate. Pannun is a designated terrorist by India. Gosal was arrested on September 19, along with his accomplices, Jagdeep Singh from New York and Arman Singh from Toronto were arrested under firearm offences, concealing and carrying a firearm for dangerous purposes. Despite this, he was granted bail on Thursday, within a week. Also Read: Who is Dinesh K Patnaik? India appoints new High Commissioner to Canada

Khalistani separatist Indrajit Singh Gosal, released on bail in Canada, posted a video with SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatening NSA Ajit Doval and vowing to push for a Khalistan referendum on November 23, 2025

'Ajit Doval, why don't you come to Canada' - Provocative remarks of Khalistani separatists freed on bail

The Indian Navy has commissioned two advanced stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—under Project 17A, in a historic ceremony at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on August 26, 2025.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the event, marking the first time two frontline warships built at different Indian shipyards were commissioned simultaneously. INS Udaygiri was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL), Mumbai, and INS Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Both frigates are equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, weapons systems, and sensors, and were designed in-house by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB). Udaygiri is the 100th warship designed by the bureau, symbolizing India's growing defence self-reliance.

India commissions two state-of-the-art stealth frigates in its fleet

In a key decision, the Union government on Sunday appointed Anish Dayal Singh, former Director General of the CRPF and ITBP, having extensive experience in security and intelligence matters, as the Deputy National Security Adviser. Singh will join NSA Ajit Doval’s team comprising one additional NSA and two deputy NSAs. The appointment is an important step to strengthen NSA Ajit Doval’s core team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Singh’s experience will boost the national security intelligence apparatus, as reports suggest he will be responsible for handling India’s internal security matters. In his new role, 60-year-old Singh will report directly to NSA Ajit Doval. Singh has an illustrious career behind him and is highly respected for his contributions to the country’s national security framework.&nbsp;Watch: Ex-CRPF Chief Anish Dayal Singh Named India’s Deputy National Security Adviser&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-ex-crpf-chief-anish-dayal-singh-named-india-s-deputy-national-security-adviser-1756025967055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-ex-crpf-chief-anish-dayal-singh-named-india-s-deputy-national-security-adviser-1756025967055/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Intelligence veteran with vast experience</h2>&nbsp;Born in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, in 1964, Singh is a 1988-batch IPS officer from the Manipur cadre who retired in December 2024.&nbsp;He served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for nearly three decades and rose to the position of Special Director. His expertise in intelligence and counter-terrorism will bolster India’s internal security strategies.&nbsp;Singh also headed the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and oversaw counter-insurgency operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>New responsibility: Bolstering internal security</h2>&nbsp;As Deputy NSA, Singh will oversee Jammu and Kashmir, Naxal insurgency, and militancy in the Northeast and provide key inputs on terrorism, cybersecurity, and internal threats to NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;&nbsp;Former RAW chief Rajinder Khanna is the Additional NSA, while retired IPS officer TV Ravichandran and former IFS officer Pawan Kapoor are the two serving deputy NSAs.&nbsp;In his role as CRPF chief, Singh oversaw the general elections in Jammu and Kashmir last year and the first assembly election held in the union territory since the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;Singh also implemented a comprehensive restructuring and realignment of over 130 CRPF battalions to improve operational efficiency and provide troops with more “family time” and bring down the average distance between units and their parent centres from 1,200 km to 500 km. In his leadership, the security forces made significant strides in the campaign to combat Naxalism.&nbsp;Singh’s appointment to boost NSA’s team comes at a significant time, a few months after India launched precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

Anish Dayal Singh served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for nearly three decades and rose to the position of Special Director. His expertise in intelligence and counter-terrorism will bolster India’s internal security strategies.

In a key decision, the Union government on Sunday appointed Anish Dayal Singh, former Director General of the CRPF and ITBP, having extensive experience in security and intelligence matters, as the Deputy National Security Adviser. Singh will join NSA Ajit Doval’s team comprising one additional NSA and two deputy NSAs. The appointment is an important step to strengthen NSA Ajit Doval’s core team. Singh’s experience will boost the national security intelligence apparatus, as reports suggest he will be responsible for handling India’s internal security matters. In his new role, 60-year-old Singh will report directly to NSA Ajit Doval. Singh has an illustrious career behind him and is highly respected for his contributions to the country’s national security framework. Watch: Ex-CRPF Chief Anish Dayal Singh Named India’s Deputy National Security Adviser https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-ex-crpf-chief-anish-dayal-singh-named-india-s-deputy-national-security-adviser-1756025967055/embed Intelligence veteran with vast experience Born in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, in 1964, Singh is a 1988-batch IPS officer from the Manipur cadre who retired in December 2024. He served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for nearly three decades and rose to the position of Special Director. His expertise in intelligence and counter-terrorism will bolster India’s internal security strategies. Singh also headed the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and oversaw counter-insurgency operations. New responsibility: Bolstering internal security As Deputy NSA, Singh will oversee Jammu and Kashmir, Naxal insurgency, and militancy in the Northeast and provide key inputs on terrorism, cybersecurity, and internal threats to NSA Ajit Doval. Former RAW chief Rajinder Khanna is the Additional NSA, while retired IPS officer TV Ravichandran and former IFS officer Pawan Kapoor are the two serving deputy NSAs. In his role as CRPF chief, Singh oversaw the general elections in Jammu and Kashmir last year and the first assembly election held in the union territory since the abrogation of Article 370. Singh also implemented a comprehensive restructuring and realignment of over 130 CRPF battalions to improve operational efficiency and provide troops with more “family time” and bring down the average distance between units and their parent centres from 1,200 km to 500 km. In his leadership, the security forces made significant strides in the campaign to combat Naxalism. Singh’s appointment to boost NSA’s team comes at a significant time, a few months after India launched precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

Anish Dayal Singh served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for nearly three decades and rose to the position of Special Director. His expertise in intelligence and counter-terrorism will bolster India’s internal security strategies.

Who is Anish Dayal Singh? Intel, security veteran to work under Ajit Doval as deputy NSA

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BIMSTEC Security chiefs meet in New Delhi | Ajit Doval leads talks on terrorism & maritime security

Ajit Doval meets BIMSTEC security chiefs to boost regional security and counterterrorism cooperation

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India-Myanmar Push Stronger Ties Despite Security Challenges

India-Myanmar Push Stronger Ties Despite Security Challenges

India and Myanmar NSAs meet in Moscow

India's NSA Ajit Doval in Moscow for International Security Forum

India, UK NSAs discuss Hormuz, closer cooperation against Khalistan extremism

Ajit Doval Raises Issue of Khalistan in Meeting With Canadian Counterpart

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Colombo Security Conclave: India Hosts 7th Colombo Security Conclave | Chaired by NSA Ajit Doval

Colombo Security Conclave: India Hosts 7th Colombo Security Conclave | Led by NSA Ajit Doval