Indian and U.S. armies held counter-terrorism drills in the western desert state of Rajasthan on Saturday (February 20) as part of their joint military exercise.

India, US armies participate in counter-terrorism desert military drills

In the West,&nbsp;people are refusing to take jabs,&nbsp;but in&nbsp;Africa,&nbsp;there aren't medicines,&nbsp;let alone vaccines.&nbsp;

There are talks&nbsp;about global cooperation, but&nbsp;this is the end result.&nbsp;It is&nbsp;a logistical nightmare.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This whole pandemic has been a learning curve.&nbsp;The lessons learnt in the last&nbsp;year&nbsp;should help us prevent the next pandemic&nbsp;if countries are willing to learn.&nbsp;

Right now,&nbsp;this is a world of vaccine haves and have nots.&nbsp;In the United States,&nbsp;doses are&nbsp;getting&nbsp;wasted&nbsp;in refrigerators.&nbsp;In Japan,&nbsp;they don't have enough syringes.&nbsp;

It's a complete breakdown&nbsp;in terms of&nbsp;global cooperation and planning.&nbsp;

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Earlier,&nbsp;multilateral and regional groupings have failed to boost cooperation&nbsp;but on Thursday,&nbsp;Saarc&nbsp;workshop was South Asia's chance to&nbsp;make the&nbsp;right amends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The virtual meeting was convened by India&nbsp;and around&nbsp;10 of&nbsp;India's&nbsp;neighbours&nbsp;participated along with&nbsp;Saarc&nbsp;members.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the meeting&nbsp;and&nbsp;talked about promoting best Covid&nbsp;practises&nbsp;and the need for South&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;unity.&nbsp;

Some proposals laid out&nbsp;were&nbsp;a visa regime for medical workers,&nbsp;a regional air ambulance for health contingencies,&nbsp;and most importantly,&nbsp;sharing vaccine efficiency data.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The only issue is that&nbsp;getting everyone onboard&nbsp;in this political climate will be next to impossible.&nbsp;

Politicisation&nbsp;of the pandemic&nbsp;has been happening. Now,&nbsp;even vaccine approvals and purchases are political.&nbsp;Venezuela will only use Russia's&nbsp;Sputnik.&nbsp;Iran will let its people die before using&nbsp;US&nbsp;jabs.&nbsp;Pakistan is at the mercy of Chinese doses.&nbsp;Add to this,&nbsp;a breakdown in supply chains&nbsp;and we have a full-blown crisis.&nbsp;

More than 180 million Americans have been inoculated&nbsp;and&nbsp;in Africa,&nbsp;the jabs haven't even arrived&nbsp;yet.&nbsp;At this rate,&nbsp;it will be 2023 before large parts of the continent are inoculated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the world's most powerful fighting force is turning out to be anti-vaccine.&nbsp;Almost one-third of&nbsp;US&nbsp;servicemen are refusing to take the jab.&nbsp;The reason is unclear.&nbsp;Some reports say the troops are falling for internet&nbsp;rumours.&nbsp;Either way,&nbsp;it's a dangerous prospect.&nbsp; 
US&nbsp;troops travel the world.&nbsp;They eat, sleep and train in close quarters.&nbsp;It's a virus cluster waiting to emerge.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;the Pentagon leadership is scrambling to find a solution.&nbsp;

Maj&nbsp;Gen Jeff Taliaferro, joint chiefs of staff vice director for operations,&nbsp;"We believe that, of course, the vaccine is the right thing to do.&nbsp;It's clearly safe for service members and we need to continue to educate our force and help them understand the benefits and ensure there's leadership involvement in the discussion of the benefits of the of the vaccine."&nbsp;

Across the Atlantic,&nbsp;Britain is falling back on some desperate tactics.&nbsp;They have approved a new clinical trial.&nbsp;One that will deliberately expose healthy people to the Wuhan virus.&nbsp;It's a first during this outbreak.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
During a vaccine trial,&nbsp;normally&nbsp;people are&nbsp;given an experimental jab&nbsp;but at no point,&nbsp;they&nbsp;are infected on purpose.&nbsp;In this case,&nbsp;volunteers are being infected in a controlled environment.&nbsp;

It is&nbsp;to understand the minimum virus load needed to trigger the infection&nbsp;and understanding how the virus transmits.&nbsp;

90 volunteers have been roped in&nbsp;for it.&nbsp;All&nbsp;are&nbsp;aged between 18 and 30.&nbsp;They&nbsp;will&nbsp;be paid 88 pounds per day&nbsp;as&nbsp;the&nbsp;cost of putting their lives on the line.&nbsp;

Human challenge trials have been done before&nbsp;as&nbsp;they can be helpful in understanding more about a disease.&nbsp;But the fact that the UK&nbsp;is&nbsp;doing this now just goes to show how dire the situation is.&nbsp;

The world would do well to take a leaf from India's playbook,&nbsp;cooperation,&nbsp;solidarity,&nbsp;and&nbsp;neighbourhood&nbsp;first.&nbsp;These have been the pillars of India's pandemic response.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the West, people are refusing to take jabs, but in Africa, there aren't medicines, let alone vaccines. There are talks about global cooperation, but this is the end result.

In the West, people are refusing to take jabs, but in Africa, there aren't medicines, let alone vaccines. There are talks about global cooperation, but this is the end result. It is a logistical nightmare. This whole pandemic has been a learning curve. The lessons learnt in the last year should help us prevent the next pandemic if countries are willing to learn. Right now, this is a world of vaccine haves and have nots. In the United States, doses are getting wasted in refrigerators. In Japan, they don't have enough syringes. It's a complete breakdown in terms of global cooperation and planning. × Earlier, multilateral and regional groupings have failed to boost cooperation but on Thursday, Saarc workshop was South Asia's chance to make the right amends. The virtual meeting was convened by India and around 10 of India's neighbours participated along with Saarc members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the meeting and talked about promoting best Covid practises and the need for South Asian unity. Some proposals laid out were a visa regime for medical workers, a regional air ambulance for health contingencies, and most importantly, sharing vaccine efficiency data. The only issue is that getting everyone onboard in this political climate will be next to impossible. Politicisation of the pandemic has been happening. Now, even vaccine approvals and purchases are political. Venezuela will only use Russia's Sputnik. Iran will let its people die before using US jabs. Pakistan is at the mercy of Chinese doses. Add to this, a breakdown in supply chains and we have a full-blown crisis. More than 180 million Americans have been inoculated and in Africa, the jabs haven't even arrived yet. At this rate, it will be 2023 before large parts of the continent are inoculated. Meanwhile, the world's most powerful fighting force is turning out to be anti-vaccine. Almost one-third of US servicemen are refusing to take the jab. The reason is unclear. Some reports say the troops are falling for internet rumours. Either way, it's a dangerous prospect. US troops travel the world. They eat, sleep and train in close quarters. It's a virus cluster waiting to emerge. So, the Pentagon leadership is scrambling to find a solution. Maj Gen Jeff Taliaferro, joint chiefs of staff vice director for operations, "We believe that, of course, the vaccine is the right thing to do. It's clearly safe for service members and we need to continue to educate our force and help them understand the benefits and ensure there's leadership involvement in the discussion of the benefits of the of the vaccine." Across the Atlantic, Britain is falling back on some desperate tactics. They have approved a new clinical trial. One that will deliberately expose healthy people to the Wuhan virus. It's a first during this outbreak. During a vaccine trial, normally people are given an experimental jab but at no point, they are infected on purpose. In this case, volunteers are being infected in a controlled environment. It is to understand the minimum virus load needed to trigger the infection and understanding how the virus transmits. 90 volunteers have been roped in for it. All are aged between 18 and 30. They will be paid 88 pounds per day as the cost of putting their lives on the line. Human challenge trials have been done before as they can be helpful in understanding more about a disease. But the fact that the UK is doing this now just goes to show how dire the situation is. The world would do well to take a leaf from India's playbook, cooperation, solidarity, and neighbourhood first. These have been the pillars of India's pandemic response.

The story of vaccine haves and have nots

After admitting to suffering casualties in Galwan, China has kicked off a propaganda push to paint India as an aggressor. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Beijing's claim of 4 deaths doesn't add up.

Gravitas | China's Galwan admission: Beijing's propaganda push

Has Sri Lanka scrapped another deal with India? Colombo has decided to re-acquire 99 oil tanks that were leased to Indian Oil. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka says there is no truth to these reports. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Has Sri Lanka scrapped another deal with India?

The European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has spoken exclusively to WION post the 2-day visit of 24 foreign envoys to Jammu & Kashmir. Astuto has termed his visit to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an "opportunity" to see the "situation on the ground" and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet.

Exclusive: J&K visit an opportunity to see ground situation: EU Envoy

China has officially admitted that its 4 soldiers from PLA had died during the Galwan clash with the Indian Army in June 2020. This is the first time that China has unveiled casualties and details of its soldiers who died while dealing with Indian troops.

China acknowledges casualties in Galwan clash

Two policemen died after being shot at close range by a terrorist in Srinagar. The incident, the second such in three days, was captured on CCTV cameras located in the area.

Two policemen shot dead at terror attack in Srinagar, India

More than four years after ending its controversial one-child policy, China is considering additional measures to increase its flagging birthrate.&nbsp;

For decades, China enforced strict controls on additional births in the name of preserving scarce resources for its burgeoning economy. But its plunging birthrate is now seen as a major threat to economic progress and social stability.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the National Health Commission issued a statement saying it will conduct research to further stimulate birth potential.&nbsp;

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It said the initiative will focus first on northeastern China, the country's former industrial heartland that has seen a major population decline as young people and families depart for better opportunities elsewhere.&nbsp;

Authorities said this week that registered new births fell 15.3 per cent last year to just 10 million.&nbsp;

China abandoned its one-child policy in 2016 to allow families to have an additional child. However, the move had only a temporary effect on the birthrate, with many couples citing the high cost of raising children and other economic and social barriers in deciding not to have more children.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-disengagement-complete-at-pangong-tso-lake-commander-level-talks-on-saturday-364704">India-China disengagement complete at Pangong lake</a>

Experts have been calling for further reforms because of economic concerns and the problem of an aging population.&nbsp;

China had a population of 1.34 billion in 2010 with an annual growth rate of 0.57 per cent, down from 1.07 per cent a decade earlier, statistics bureau data show. The latest census was conducted in the second half of last year and the results have not yet been released.&nbsp;

A UN report says India is projected to overtake China as the world's most populous country by 2027.&nbsp;

More than four years after ending its controversial one-child policy, China is considering additional measures to increase its flagging birthrate. For decades, China enforced strict controls on additional births in the name of preserving scarce resources for its burgeoning economy.

More than four years after ending its controversial one-child policy, China is considering additional measures to increase its flagging birthrate. For decades, China enforced strict controls on additional births in the name of preserving scarce resources for its burgeoning economy. But its plunging birthrate is now seen as a major threat to economic progress and social stability. On Thursday, the National Health Commission issued a statement saying it will conduct research to further stimulate birth potential. × It said the initiative will focus first on northeastern China, the country's former industrial heartland that has seen a major population decline as young people and families depart for better opportunities elsewhere. Authorities said this week that registered new births fell 15.3 per cent last year to just 10 million. China abandoned its one-child policy in 2016 to allow families to have an additional child. However, the move had only a temporary effect on the birthrate, with many couples citing the high cost of raising children and other economic and social barriers in deciding not to have more children. Also Read: India-China disengagement complete at Pangong lake Experts have been calling for further reforms because of economic concerns and the problem of an aging population. China had a population of 1.34 billion in 2010 with an annual growth rate of 0.57 per cent, down from 1.07 per cent a decade earlier, statistics bureau data show. The latest census was conducted in the second half of last year and the results have not yet been released. A UN report says India is projected to overtake China as the world's most populous country by 2027.

China looks for measures to lift flagging birthrate

The tenth round of the talks, which were supposed to be held within 48 hours of the completion of the first phase of disengagement. Early this morning Chinese administration has finally broken its silence over the casualties took place during Galwan valley Skirmish last year. The PLA has accepted that 4 of their soldiers had lost their lives during the conflict.

India-China border row: 10th round of Corps Commander talks tomorrow

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit.

Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India."

The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well.

The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region."

The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue.

The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity."

The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes."

The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue.

The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated."

Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan.

Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit. Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India." The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well. The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region." The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue. The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity." The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes." The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue. The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated." Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan. Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Quad FMs meet for third time; India calls for upholding rule of law in Myanmar

India has invited Pakistan for a virtual SAARC meeting on the Wuhan virus. Will Pakistan stick to the agenda or try to derail the proceedings again? WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | SAARC Virtual Meet: India invites Pakistan for Wuhan virus workshop

China has withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers at Pangong Tso. The first phase of disengagement could end this week. But, what is India's post-Ladakh plan? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how India is upgrading its military processes, procurements & partnerships.

Gravitas: As Chinese troops withdraw, what is India's post-Ladakh plan?

What should be India's strategy for the future - now that China is off its back for the moment? WION's Palki Sharma says India must focus on preparing for a leadership role in the post-pandemic work. Here's how

Gravitas: India's strategies for the future

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a 'COVID-19 Management' workshop with 10 neighboring countries. Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Seychelles attend the workshop.

PM Narendra Modi addresses 'COVID-19 Management' workshop

After a months-long stand-off that began last April, India and China have agreed to disengage at the Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh.

China vacating military camps along Pangong Tso; Here are the first images

On their second and last day of the visit to Jammu & Kashmir, India the Union Territories Lt Governor interacted with the foreign envoys. The envoys also visited the High Court of Jammu.

WION Dispatch: Last day of foreign envoys Jammu & Kashmir visit

The US, Japan, Australia, and India will hold virtual Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meet. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be speaking to his counterparts as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

US to hold virtual Quad meet with Australia, India and Japan

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

Watch |

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"These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-potential-bulwark-against-chinas-increasing-activity-in-the-indo-pacific-364376">Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific</a>

The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region.&nbsp;

Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing.&nbsp;

The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot."

Recently Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday. Watch | "These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said. Also read | Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region. Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing. Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President Joe Biden that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing. The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot." Recently Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.

US to hold talks with 'Quad' partners despite China pressure

The Quad grouping makes sense, but to make a difference it needs to speak in one voice. The alliance has informally existed for 13 long years but seems to have restricted itself to mere posturing. WION's Palki Sharma says it's time the Quad become proactive and not reactive.

Gravitas: Time to turn Quad into a formal alliance?

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In late January, the Chinese military had built multiple camps, along with the deployment of soldiers and placement of military equipment. All of these have been removed. &nbsp;

China has already withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers. And more will follow but this will not end the standoff as some flashpoints still remain. And China has not really had a change of heart. It is just the change of tactics. &nbsp;

So, what should India do? What should be Delhi's post-Ladakh strategy? &nbsp;

India is revamping its defence strategy in three broad ways - processes, procurement and partnerships. It is integrating its armed forces, upgrading weapons and strengthening its military alliances. &nbsp;

First, the reorganisation of the armed forces. It began with the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff. A position that was created by Modi Government. Besides being the single point military adviser to the defence minister, the CDS was given another critical job, which is the integration of the operations of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy. &nbsp;

General Bipin Rawat was appointed as India's first CDS last year. A year into the job, he is now ready with a plan. According to a report, the first joint commands are ready for a roll out. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What are joint commands? &nbsp;

They are units and resources from different branches of the armed forces. They are combined under a single branch with a dedicated commander. This commander takes care of what is called a geographical theatre. The air defence command and the maritime theatre command could be launched by May. &nbsp;

Both of these commands will pay a critical role in boosting India's defences against Pakistan And China. The air defence command will be set up in Prayagraj. This command will control all the air defence resources of all three services. &nbsp;

The maritime theatre command will be headquartered in Karwar on the west coast. Its job will be to protect the Indian ocean, India's island territories and to keep the sea lanes free and open. It is essential, not just for India but the country’s allies too. &nbsp;

The maritime command will have assets from the Indian Army and Air Force. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-indian-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-to-visit-bangladesh-on-march-4-364229">Ahead Of PM Modi's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh on March 4</a>&nbsp;

India plans to reorganise its forces into five theatre commands by 2022. So, we expect three more to come in by next year. The reports say there will be one command each for China and Pakistan. India's defence resources will be integrated into these commands. &nbsp;

Secondly, the country will also be procuring the much-needed weapons upgrades. The work on this front already began last year. In the last six months, India has signed at least 10 defence deals. It includes 83 new light combat aircraft Tejas, 118 Arjun Mark-1a tanks, and tactical drones worth $20 million. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A $200 Million deal was also struck for Israeli spice bombs. These were used by the Indian Air Force during the Balakot air strike. &nbsp;

Even in the budget this year, the focus was on procurement. &nbsp;

While the overall defence budget was hiked by just over one per cent, the budget for military modernisation has been hiked by almost 19 per cent. &nbsp;

The Indian defence minister said this is the highest-ever increase in capital outlay for defence in 15 years. New and better weapons will improve India's defences. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-envoys-reach-union-territory-of-jammu-and-kashmir-364193">Foreign envoys reach Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir</a>

Thirdly, closer ties with like-minded countries could be a booster shot for India's defence strategy. One of the possibilities could be The Quad and India is already on the track. &nbsp;

In a recent interview, Japanese ambassador to India Sato Shi Suzuki said both allies, India and Japan, had collaborated within India's neighbourhood countries, such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Maldives. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is to strengthen the Quad under the Indo-Pacific framework and this would be welcome news in the US. The new Biden administration is serious about the Quad. It wants this informal grouping to evolve into a formal alliance. Biden's biggest challenge is China and he will need India's help to deal with Beijing.&nbsp;

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time.

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time. In late January, the Chinese military had built multiple camps, along with the deployment of soldiers and placement of military equipment. All of these have been removed. China has already withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers. And more will follow but this will not end the standoff as some flashpoints still remain. And China has not really had a change of heart. It is just the change of tactics. So, what should India do? What should be Delhi's post-Ladakh strategy? India is revamping its defence strategy in three broad ways - processes, procurement and partnerships. It is integrating its armed forces, upgrading weapons and strengthening its military alliances. First, the reorganisation of the armed forces. It began with the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff. A position that was created by Modi Government. Besides being the single point military adviser to the defence minister, the CDS was given another critical job, which is the integration of the operations of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy. General Bipin Rawat was appointed as India's first CDS last year. A year into the job, he is now ready with a plan. According to a report, the first joint commands are ready for a roll out. What are joint commands? They are units and resources from different branches of the armed forces. They are combined under a single branch with a dedicated commander. This commander takes care of what is called a geographical theatre. The air defence command and the maritime theatre command could be launched by May. Both of these commands will pay a critical role in boosting India's defences against Pakistan And China. The air defence command will be set up in Prayagraj. This command will control all the air defence resources of all three services. The maritime theatre command will be headquartered in Karwar on the west coast. Its job will be to protect the Indian ocean, India's island territories and to keep the sea lanes free and open. It is essential, not just for India but the country’s allies too. The maritime command will have assets from the Indian Army and Air Force. Also Read: Ahead Of PM Modi's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh on March 4 India plans to reorganise its forces into five theatre commands by 2022. So, we expect three more to come in by next year. The reports say there will be one command each for China and Pakistan. India's defence resources will be integrated into these commands. Secondly, the country will also be procuring the much-needed weapons upgrades. The work on this front already began last year. In the last six months, India has signed at least 10 defence deals. It includes 83 new light combat aircraft Tejas, 118 Arjun Mark-1a tanks, and tactical drones worth $20 million. A $200 Million deal was also struck for Israeli spice bombs. These were used by the Indian Air Force during the Balakot air strike. Even in the budget this year, the focus was on procurement. While the overall defence budget was hiked by just over one per cent, the budget for military modernisation has been hiked by almost 19 per cent. The Indian defence minister said this is the highest-ever increase in capital outlay for defence in 15 years. New and better weapons will improve India's defences. Also Read: Foreign envoys reach Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir Thirdly, closer ties with like-minded countries could be a booster shot for India's defence strategy. One of the possibilities could be The Quad and India is already on the track. In a recent interview, Japanese ambassador to India Sato Shi Suzuki said both allies, India and Japan, had collaborated within India's neighbourhood countries, such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Maldives. It is to strengthen the Quad under the Indo-Pacific framework and this would be welcome news in the US. The new Biden administration is serious about the Quad. It wants this informal grouping to evolve into a formal alliance. Biden's biggest challenge is China and he will need India's help to deal with Beijing.

After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy

Indian government has approved one million doses of COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines for Canada. The development comes days after&nbsp;Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to each other.&nbsp;

During the talks, PM Modi assured the Canadian PM of COVID vaccine supplies. A readout from Indian PM's office said during the talks Prime Minister Trudeau informed his PM Modi about "Canada's requirements of COVID-19 vaccines from India" to which the latter "assured...that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Later in response to a question in a presser Canadian PM said that his country is "looking at possible extra vaccines coming from India from the Serum Institute".&nbsp;India, which produces 60% of global vaccines, has sent covid vaccines to more than 20 countries.

The vaccine support from New Delhi to Canada comes even as ties were frayed over comments by Canadian PM on the ongoing farmers' protests in India in December 2020. The comments had drawn a strong reaction from India who had lodged a strong protest by summoning the Canadian envoy to Delhi, Nadir Patel, and handing over a demarche that such comments could impact the bilateral ties.&nbsp;

Indian government has approved one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Canada. The development comes days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to each other.

Indian government has approved one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Canada. The development comes days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to each other. During the talks, PM Modi assured the Canadian PM of COVID vaccine supplies. A readout from Indian PM's office said during the talks Prime Minister Trudeau informed his PM Modi about "Canada's requirements of COVID-19 vaccines from India" to which the latter "assured...that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already". Later in response to a question in a presser Canadian PM said that his country is "looking at possible extra vaccines coming from India from the Serum Institute". India, which produces 60% of global vaccines, has sent covid vaccines to more than 20 countries. The vaccine support from New Delhi to Canada comes even as ties were frayed over comments by Canadian PM on the ongoing farmers' protests in India in December 2020. The comments had drawn a strong reaction from India who had lodged a strong protest by summoning the Canadian envoy to Delhi, Nadir Patel, and handing over a demarche that such comments could impact the bilateral ties.

India approves 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Canada

A group of foreign envoys are on a two-day visit to Jammu & Kashmir, India. The envoys met the mayor of Srinagar Junaid Mattu who said the delegation acknowledged that Jammu-Kashmir had free & fair DDC elections and it is the biggest example of a powerful democracy.

Jammu-Kashmir: Foreign envoys met the mayor of Srinagar

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population. India's strategy must be pillared on strategic autonomy and strategic alliances.

Can the do be achieved together?

Strategic alliances are partnerships that go beyond trade and defence procurement. They are about combining and connecting expertise with a focus on mutual growth. In the Cold War-era India believed in non-alignment. Today, India is building strategic alliances by strengthening diplomatic ties in a changing world order.

India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on oil or diaspora. The two sides are also working towards economic and strategic goals. Saudi Arabia has invested its sovereign funds in India. The money fuels India's growth, while helping Saudi Arabia diversify its economy, marking a symbiosis for the new world order.

The strengthening of the alliance is paralleled by changing geo-politics. West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, considered India’s foe. At the same time, Pakistan is also growing closer to China. India and Saudi Arabia signed the strategic partnership council agreement in October 2019.

Besides common foes and common goals, strategic alliances are also built on mutual support for domestic and foreign policies. For instance India and France have had trade and defence ties over the years. The relationship has now graduated into a strategic alliance. Now, France openly supports India's desire for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. France has used its position at the world body to back India on Kashmir. India, too stood by France when it was being attacked over the Prophet's caricature. The two countries have also cooperated in the space sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-requests-india-to-provide-covid-19-vaccines-364362" hreflang="en">Iran requests India to provide COVID-19 vaccines</a>

Common values are also crucial in a strategic alliance; case in point - India's alliance with Australia. Both believe in democracy and sovereignty, and remain opposed to Chinese aggression. Additionally, both back stability in the Indo-Pacific. In June 2020, India and Australia announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a ”common strategic partnership”.

India has strategic partnership agreements with over 30 countries, and is running an outreach programme. India must also steer clear of taking sides in tussles involving allies, and continue its policy of de-hyphenation which has proven to be a huge diplomatic success.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was India's first head of government to visit Israel. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Palestine. Today, India and Israel and working together in various fields including science, technology, and agriculture. At the same time, India is calling for a two-state solution.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-focus-on-africa-indias-exim-bank-extends-5th-line-of-credit-to-sierra-leone-364324" hreflang="en">With focus on Africa, India's Exim Bank extends 5th line of credit to Sierra Leone</a>

India buys weapons from Russia but continues to partner with the US in securing the Indo-Pacific. The US and Russia have been foes for long. Now, India has found a way to work with both.

As India chalks out its strategic alliances for the years ahead, it must ensure that ties are built on mutual respect for autonomy, aversion for expansionism, hawk-eye diplomacy, and provocation.

Solving the Ladakh stalemate was India's strategic priority. With China off its back, India can now focus on its outreach programs, cement its alliances, and rebuild its economy.

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population.

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population. India's strategy must be pillared on strategic autonomy and strategic alliances. Can the do be achieved together? Strategic alliances are partnerships that go beyond trade and defence procurement. They are about combining and connecting expertise with a focus on mutual growth. In the Cold War-era India believed in non-alignment. Today, India is building strategic alliances by strengthening diplomatic ties in a changing world order. India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on oil or diaspora. The two sides are also working towards economic and strategic goals. Saudi Arabia has invested its sovereign funds in India. The money fuels India's growth, while helping Saudi Arabia diversify its economy, marking a symbiosis for the new world order. The strengthening of the alliance is paralleled by changing geo-politics. West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, considered India’s foe. At the same time, Pakistan is also growing closer to China. India and Saudi Arabia signed the strategic partnership council agreement in October 2019. Besides common foes and common goals, strategic alliances are also built on mutual support for domestic and foreign policies. For instance India and France have had trade and defence ties over the years. The relationship has now graduated into a strategic alliance. Now, France openly supports India's desire for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. France has used its position at the world body to back India on Kashmir. India, too stood by France when it was being attacked over the Prophet's caricature. The two countries have also cooperated in the space sector. Also read: Iran requests India to provide COVID-19 vaccines Common values are also crucial in a strategic alliance; case in point - India's alliance with Australia. Both believe in democracy and sovereignty, and remain opposed to Chinese aggression. Additionally, both back stability in the Indo-Pacific. In June 2020, India and Australia announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a ”common strategic partnership”. India has strategic partnership agreements with over 30 countries, and is running an outreach programme. India must also steer clear of taking sides in tussles involving allies, and continue its policy of de-hyphenation which has proven to be a huge diplomatic success. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was India's first head of government to visit Israel. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Palestine. Today, India and Israel and working together in various fields including science, technology, and agriculture. At the same time, India is calling for a two-state solution. Also read: With focus on Africa, India's Exim Bank extends 5th line of credit to Sierra Leone India buys weapons from Russia but continues to partner with the US in securing the Indo-Pacific. The US and Russia have been foes for long. Now, India has found a way to work with both. As India chalks out its strategic alliances for the years ahead, it must ensure that ties are built on mutual respect for autonomy, aversion for expansionism, hawk-eye diplomacy, and provocation. Solving the Ladakh stalemate was India's strategic priority. With China off its back, India can now focus on its outreach programs, cement its alliances, and rebuild its economy.

What should India's post-Ladakh strategy focus on?

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