India will give a befitting reply if an enemy country attacks it, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday, sending a clear message to China in the midst of the border row in eastern Ladakh.

Without naming any country, the defence minister, in a message to armed forces on the eve of the Independence Day, said anyone daring to occupy India's land has to suffer heavy consequences.

He said India believes in winning hearts and not land, but it does not mean the country will let hurt its self-esteem.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/independence-day-in-covid-19-times-invites-only-no-school-children-6-feet-distance-320525" hreflang="en">Independence Day in COVID-19 times: Invites only, no school children &amp; 6 feet distance</a>

"Today the country is confident that no force can occupy even one inch of land while you are deployed. If anyone dares to do it, then he has to suffer heavy consequences and will continue to suffer," Singh said.

He said whatever India does in the realm of national security is always for self-defence and not to attack other countries. 
"If enemy country attacks us, then we will give a befitting reply like every time," he said.

"History is a witness to the fact that India never attacked anyone or tried to capture land of another country," Singh added.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-itbp-troops-responded-fiercely-to-chinas-army-at-galwan-recommended-for-gallantry-medals-320496" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: When ITBP responded fiercely to China's army at Galwan</a>

He assured the armed forces that government is doing all that is required to maintain their operational requirement.

Singh also paid "special tributes" to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Galwan Valley clashes on June 15.

"This country can never forget their bravery and their supreme sacrifice. I want to assure their families that they are not alone, the whole country stands with them," he said.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in a violent clash with Chinese armies in Galwan Valley. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details.

"Our forces are pioneers in the defending the nation. I assure you that the government is doing all that is necessary to keep your morale high and fulfill your operational requirement," Singh said.

Referring to development of infrastructure in border areas, he also mentioned about the construction of a 80-km-long strategically crucial road in Uttarakhand.

India's ties with Nepal came under strain after Singh inaugurated the road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8.

Nepal protested the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through its territory.

Singh said the 8.8-km-long Rohtang tunnel is likely to be completed by September.

The tunnel at Rohtang pass in Himachal Pradesh is located at a height of over 10,000 feet.

The defence minister also said that the arrival of five Rafale jets to India marked the beginning of a new era in the country's military history.

India will give a befitting reply if an enemy country attacks it, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday, sending a clear message to China in the midst of the border row in eastern Ladakh.

India will give a befitting reply if an enemy country attacks it, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday, sending a clear message to China in the midst of the border row in eastern Ladakh. Without naming any country, the defence minister, in a message to armed forces on the eve of the Independence Day, said anyone daring to occupy India's land has to suffer heavy consequences. He said India believes in winning hearts and not land, but it does not mean the country will let hurt its self-esteem. Also see: Independence Day in COVID-19 times: Invites only, no school children & 6 feet distance "Today the country is confident that no force can occupy even one inch of land while you are deployed. If anyone dares to do it, then he has to suffer heavy consequences and will continue to suffer," Singh said. He said whatever India does in the realm of national security is always for self-defence and not to attack other countries. "If enemy country attacks us, then we will give a befitting reply like every time," he said. "History is a witness to the fact that India never attacked anyone or tried to capture land of another country," Singh added. Also read- India-China standoff: When ITBP responded fiercely to China's army at Galwan He assured the armed forces that government is doing all that is required to maintain their operational requirement. Singh also paid "special tributes" to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Galwan Valley clashes on June 15. "This country can never forget their bravery and their supreme sacrifice. I want to assure their families that they are not alone, the whole country stands with them," he said. Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in a violent clash with Chinese armies in Galwan Valley. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details. "Our forces are pioneers in the defending the nation. I assure you that the government is doing all that is necessary to keep your morale high and fulfill your operational requirement," Singh said. Referring to development of infrastructure in border areas, he also mentioned about the construction of a 80-km-long strategically crucial road in Uttarakhand. India's ties with Nepal came under strain after Singh inaugurated the road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8. Nepal protested the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through its territory. Singh said the 8.8-km-long Rohtang tunnel is likely to be completed by September. The tunnel at Rohtang pass in Himachal Pradesh is located at a height of over 10,000 feet. The defence minister also said that the arrival of five Rafale jets to India marked the beginning of a new era in the country's military history.

We will give befitting reply if enemy attacks us: Rajnath Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took extensive review meetings of the defence ministry departments dealing with indigenous defence production and development before the release of the negative import list by the government under which 101 items and equipment have been banned for procurement from abroad, reported ANI.

A few days ago, the Defence Ministry issued a list of 101 items compiled by the Department of Military Affairs including big-ticket items like submarines, artillery guns and assault rifles which would not be imported from abroad in a phased manner in the next two to three years.

"The Prime Minister took an extensive review of the Department of Defence Production and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in the last fortnight to know about the work being done by them and what all capabilities have they developed over these years," the ANI report said quoting government sources.

During separate review meetings in the Prime Minister`s Office, details were presented to the Modi about the different projects and major work done by them for increasing indigenization in the military hardware being used by the armed forces for their different operational requirements, the sources said.

During the meetings held in presence of senior bureaucrats including Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar, the Prime Minister also sought to know the status of the preparation of the negative imports list which was announced in May this year during the COVID-19 lockdown period as measures to boost indigenous production in the military sector, the sources said.

The Prime Minister was briefed by the Chief of Defence Staff on the status of the list and also how there would be a frequent review of the list and more items would be added to it, the sources said. The complaints and suggestions of private sector industry were also mentioned during the meetings, the sources added.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took extensive review meetings of the defence ministry departments dealing with indigenous defence production and development before the release of the negative import list by the government under which 101 items and equipment have been banned for procurement from abroad, reported ANI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took extensive review meetings of the defence ministry departments dealing with indigenous defence production and development before the release of the negative import list by the government under which 101 items and equipment have been banned for procurement from abroad, reported ANI. A few days ago, the Defence Ministry issued a list of 101 items compiled by the Department of Military Affairs including big-ticket items like submarines, artillery guns and assault rifles which would not be imported from abroad in a phased manner in the next two to three years. "The Prime Minister took an extensive review of the Department of Defence Production and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in the last fortnight to know about the work being done by them and what all capabilities have they developed over these years," the ANI report said quoting government sources. During separate review meetings in the Prime Minister`s Office, details were presented to the Modi about the different projects and major work done by them for increasing indigenization in the military hardware being used by the armed forces for their different operational requirements, the sources said. During the meetings held in presence of senior bureaucrats including Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar, the Prime Minister also sought to know the status of the preparation of the negative imports list which was announced in May this year during the COVID-19 lockdown period as measures to boost indigenous production in the military sector, the sources said. The Prime Minister was briefed by the Chief of Defence Staff on the status of the list and also how there would be a frequent review of the list and more items would be added to it, the sources said. The complaints and suggestions of private sector industry were also mentioned during the meetings, the sources added. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi reviewed indigenous defence capabilities before release of negative import list

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched &nbsp;'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday.

If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country. With the help of that capital, around 7000 MSMEs, associated with Defence Industry, can be encouraged, he said speaking at the launch.

On August 9, Singh had announced that the Defence Ministry will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production while stating it as a big step towards `Atmanirbhar Bharat` (self-reliance) in defence.

In a series of tweets, the Minister had said that the Defence Ministry has also bifurcated the capital procurement budget for 2020-21 between domestic and foreign capital procurement routes.&nbsp;

A separate budget head has been created with an outlay of nearly Rs 52,000 crore for domestic capital procurement in the current financial year, he had said.

"The Ministry of Defence is now ready for a big push to #AtmanirbharBharat initiative. MoD will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production," Singh had tweeted.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for a self-reliant India based on the five pillars, i.e., Economy, Infrastructure, System, Demography and Demand and announced a special economic package for Self-Reliant India named `Atmanirbhar Bharat`," he had said in another tweet.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday. If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday. If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country. With the help of that capital, around 7000 MSMEs, associated with Defence Industry, can be encouraged, he said speaking at the launch. On August 9, Singh had announced that the Defence Ministry will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production while stating it as a big step towards `Atmanirbhar Bharat` (self-reliance) in defence. In a series of tweets, the Minister had said that the Defence Ministry has also bifurcated the capital procurement budget for 2020-21 between domestic and foreign capital procurement routes. A separate budget head has been created with an outlay of nearly Rs 52,000 crore for domestic capital procurement in the current financial year, he had said. "The Ministry of Defence is now ready for a big push to #AtmanirbharBharat initiative. MoD will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production," Singh had tweeted. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for a self-reliant India based on the five pillars, i.e., Economy, Infrastructure, System, Demography and Demand and announced a special economic package for Self-Reliant India named `Atmanirbhar Bharat`," he had said in another tweet.

Rajnath Singh launches  'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' in Delhi

Rafale arrival in India will make the Indian Air Force (IAF) much stronger to deter any threat that may be posed on our country, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday.

Rafale arrival in India will make the Indian Air Force (IAF) much stronger to deter any threat that may be posed on our country, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday. Singh's comments came moments after the compact aircrafts landed safely in Ambala airbase. ''The Birds have landed safely in Ambala. The touch down of Rafale combat aircrafts in India marks the beginning of a new era in our military history. These multirole aircrafts will revolutionise the capabilities of the IAF,'' he said in a tweet. The Touchdown of Rafale at Ambala. pic.twitter.com/e3OFQa1bZY — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 29, 2020 × The aircraft' flying performance and its weapons, radar and other sensors and Electronic Warfare capabilities are amongst the best in the world, he said. ''Its arrival in India will make the IAF much stronger to deter any threat that may be posed on our country,'' he added. Rajnath thanked Modi for his courage and decisiveness, and for taking the right decision to get the aircrafts through an Inter-Governmental Agreement with France. He also thanked the French government, Dassault Aviation and other French companies for ensuring the timely delivery of the aircraft, despite the severe restrictions posed by COVID pandemic.

Arrival of Rafale combat aircraft marks beginning of new era in military history, says Rajnath Singh

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart&nbsp;Benny Gantz&nbsp;on Friday.

"We discussed the prevailing coronavirus situation and how we can fight against this menace through mutual cooperation," defence minister Rajnath Singh informed. The two leaders also reviewed progress on defence cooperation between the two countries.

On Thursday, Israel had said it was sending a "high-level research delegation" to India to conduct "final stages of testing" to jointly develop rapid testing kits for COVID-19. The new kits can reportedly detect the virus in the body in 30 seconds.

Israel is seeking to take advantage of India's mass production capability. India's Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&amp;D) along with Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) have been working on the sophisticated coronavirus kit.

The DDR&amp;D team in India will conduct the "final stages of testing" in the country divided into four types - isothermal test, polyamino acids test, breathalyzer test and voice test.

The two countries will take the help of artificial intelligence to develop the kit which will be validated through using PCR tests.

The Israeli delegation arriving in India to conduct the test will also be getting mechanical ventilators with special permission from the government of Israel for export to India.

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart Benny Gantz on Friday.

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart Benny Gantz on Friday. "We discussed the prevailing coronavirus situation and how we can fight against this menace through mutual cooperation," defence minister Rajnath Singh informed. The two leaders also reviewed progress on defence cooperation between the two countries. On Thursday, Israel had said it was sending a "high-level research delegation" to India to conduct "final stages of testing" to jointly develop rapid testing kits for COVID-19. The new kits can reportedly detect the virus in the body in 30 seconds. Israel is seeking to take advantage of India's mass production capability. India's Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) along with Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) have been working on the sophisticated coronavirus kit. The DDR&D team in India will conduct the "final stages of testing" in the country divided into four types - isothermal test, polyamino acids test, breathalyzer test and voice test. The two countries will take the help of artificial intelligence to develop the kit which will be validated through using PCR tests. The Israeli delegation arriving in India to conduct the test will also be getting mechanical ventilators with special permission from the government of Israel for export to India.

India-Israel COVID-19 cooperation: Rajnath speaks to defence minister Benny Gantz

'Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst' is a phrase that was coined in the 18th century but is still relevant, especially in the present circumstances on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

LAC is the&nbsp;undefined border dividing India and China — the two nuclear-armed Asian giants. The last 30 days have been among the most tense months in the history of LAC as&nbsp;20 Indian troops died in action in the Galwan skirmish on June 15.

Since then, there have been multiple rounds of talks, rhetorics and top level visits. However, not much of this has resulted in&nbsp;de-escalation along the LAC.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-india-china-standoff-the-latest-on-the-disengagement-process-314139/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The first problem is China, till now has not&nbsp;revealed any casualty numbers. But what is almost unprecedented is India's approach to the stand-off.

Indian government knows it is dealing with a difficult neighbour. So, while it is sending a message of peace, it is not mincing its words while warning China against future provocation. India is also setting new traditions and preparing for the worst.

On July 03, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian troops at Ladakh, which is a rare sighting in our country. Modi&nbsp;sent a message of peace from Ladakh but&nbsp;also hinted to Biejing that&nbsp;the age of expansionism is over.

After PM Modi, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also visited Ladakh along with top defence officials on Friday morning to review the ground situation. He visited forward military locations and interacted with the troops.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-economy-suffers-after-covid-19-huawei-trouble-and-tiktok-ban-314107">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese economy suffers after COVID-19, Huawei trouble and TikTok ban</a>

The Defence Minister also addressed Indian soldiers at the Lukung post near the Pangong lake. His message had the same tone as that of the Prime Minister. He&nbsp;said that India believes in vasudhaiva kutumbakam&nbsp;— the world is one family — but India is not shy of giving a befitting reply to any provocation.

"We do not want unrest, we want peace. It has not been our nature to hurt any country's pride. If any attempt is made to hurt India's pride, it won't be tolerated. We will give a befitting reply," he said.

"Whatever talks have happened so &nbsp;far, the matter should get resolved. But to what extent it would be resolved, I cannot guarantee," he added,

From tanks carrying out military exercises to&nbsp;para drops by Indian troops, Indian military might was at display this morning.

Beijing, of course, was watching all of this. China has promised peace, but the actions do not match the words.

There has been a pull back at patrolling points 14, 15, and 17-a. Indian troops and the PLA have created a bufffer zone of 1 to 4 kilomerters, i.e.&nbsp;at these patrolling points, the two sides are no longer eyeball-to-eyeball.

However, the problem remains the same at the Pangong lake. The LAC&nbsp;runs through water here and&nbsp;mountain folds jutting into the Pangong lake are called 'fingers'. The Chinese troops had earlier come till the 'finger 4', and have not gone back to 'finger 5'. But, this is not complete withdrawal.

India insists that the PLA return to pre-stand-off position, which is 'finger 8'. Clearly, there has been little progress in the Pangong Tso in the last one month.

There have been several rounds of diplomatic and military level talks between India and China in the last 30 days. Officials of the Indian army and the PLA have met thrice since the skirmish.&nbsp;The first military level talks were on June 22 and the latest were on July 14. There have also been two&nbsp;rounds of diplomatic talks between India and China and a phone conversation has also happened between India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval,&nbsp;and Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi on July 05.

However, even after all this there is not guarantee that a complete de-escalation will take place. So, the best way forward for India would be to 'hope for the best, but&nbsp;prepare for the worst'.

'Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst' is a phrase that was coined in the 18th century but is still relevant, especially in the present circumstances on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

'Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst' is a phrase that was coined in the 18th century but is still relevant, especially in the present circumstances on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). LAC is the undefined border dividing India and China — the two nuclear-armed Asian giants. The last 30 days have been among the most tense months in the history of LAC as 20 Indian troops died in action in the Galwan skirmish on June 15. Since then, there have been multiple rounds of talks, rhetorics and top level visits. However, not much of this has resulted in de-escalation along the LAC. The first problem is China, till now has not revealed any casualty numbers. But what is almost unprecedented is India's approach to the stand-off. Indian government knows it is dealing with a difficult neighbour. So, while it is sending a message of peace, it is not mincing its words while warning China against future provocation. India is also setting new traditions and preparing for the worst. On July 03, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian troops at Ladakh, which is a rare sighting in our country. Modi sent a message of peace from Ladakh but also hinted to Biejing that the age of expansionism is over. After PM Modi, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also visited Ladakh along with top defence officials on Friday morning to review the ground situation. He visited forward military locations and interacted with the troops. Also read: Chinese economy suffers after COVID-19, Huawei trouble and TikTok ban The Defence Minister also addressed Indian soldiers at the Lukung post near the Pangong lake. His message had the same tone as that of the Prime Minister. He said that India believes in vasudhaiva kutumbakam — the world is one family — but India is not shy of giving a befitting reply to any provocation. "We do not want unrest, we want peace. It has not been our nature to hurt any country's pride. If any attempt is made to hurt India's pride, it won't be tolerated. We will give a befitting reply," he said. "Whatever talks have happened so far, the matter should get resolved. But to what extent it would be resolved, I cannot guarantee," he added, From tanks carrying out military exercises to para drops by Indian troops, Indian military might was at display this morning. Beijing, of course, was watching all of this. China has promised peace, but the actions do not match the words. There has been a pull back at patrolling points 14, 15, and 17-a. Indian troops and the PLA have created a bufffer zone of 1 to 4 kilomerters, i.e. at these patrolling points, the two sides are no longer eyeball-to-eyeball. However, the problem remains the same at the Pangong lake. The LAC runs through water here and mountain folds jutting into the Pangong lake are called 'fingers'. The Chinese troops had earlier come till the 'finger 4', and have not gone back to 'finger 5'. But, this is not complete withdrawal. India insists that the PLA return to pre-stand-off position, which is 'finger 8'. Clearly, there has been little progress in the Pangong Tso in the last one month. There have been several rounds of diplomatic and military level talks between India and China in the last 30 days. Officials of the Indian army and the PLA have met thrice since the skirmish. The first military level talks were on June 22 and the latest were on July 14. There have also been two rounds of diplomatic talks between India and China and a phone conversation has also happened between India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, and Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi on July 05. However, even after all this there is not guarantee that a complete de-escalation will take place. So, the best way forward for India would be to 'hope for the best, but prepare for the worst'.

Rajnath Singh sends out strong message against China on his visit to Ladakh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited a forward post near the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district on Saturday and interacted with the soldiers deployed there.

He tweeted a couple of pictures on Twitter in which he can be seen&nbsp;inspecting&nbsp;arms and ammunition at the forward post and reviewed the security situation.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Visited a forward post near LoC in Kupwara District of Jammu-Kashmir today and interacted with the soldiers deployed there. 
 
We are extremely proud of these brave and courageous soldiers who are defending our country in every situation. <a href="https://t.co/Chaqvf83Xq">pic.twitter.com/Chaqvf83Xq</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1284395937498927104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier today, Singh along with Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief General MM Naravane offered prayers at Amarnath Temple.

The Defence Minister is on a two-day visit to Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. He will take stock of the situation at both the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LOC).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-sends-out-strong-message-against-china-on-his-visit-to-ladakh-314120" hreflang="en">Rajnath Singh sends out strong message against China on his visit to Ladakh</a>

On the first day of his visit, the Defence Minister interacted with the troops in Lukung, Ladakh along with Chief of Defence Staff and Army Chief General yesterday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has been continuously carrying out ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and China has been carrying out incursions into Indian territory in Ladakh region in recent past.

On June 15, 20 Indian soldiers laid out their lives during combat with Chinese forces in Galwan valley, leading to tensions between both nations. Chinese soldiers subsequently started moving back following dialogues between two countries through the military level and diplomatic level.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited a forward post near the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district on Saturday and interacted with the soldiers deployed there.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited a forward post near the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district on Saturday and interacted with the soldiers deployed there. He tweeted a couple of pictures on Twitter in which he can be seen inspecting arms and ammunition at the forward post and reviewed the security situation. Visited a forward post near LoC in Kupwara District of Jammu-Kashmir today and interacted with the soldiers deployed there. We are extremely proud of these brave and courageous soldiers who are defending our country in every situation. pic.twitter.com/Chaqvf83Xq — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 18, 2020 × Earlier today, Singh along with Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief General MM Naravane offered prayers at Amarnath Temple. The Defence Minister is on a two-day visit to Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. He will take stock of the situation at both the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LOC). Also read: Rajnath Singh sends out strong message against China on his visit to Ladakh On the first day of his visit, the Defence Minister interacted with the troops in Lukung, Ladakh along with Chief of Defence Staff and Army Chief General yesterday. Meanwhile, Pakistan has been continuously carrying out ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and China has been carrying out incursions into Indian territory in Ladakh region in recent past. On June 15, 20 Indian soldiers laid out their lives during combat with Chinese forces in Galwan valley, leading to tensions between both nations. Chinese soldiers subsequently started moving back following dialogues between two countries through the military level and diplomatic level.

India-China standoff: Rajnath Singh visits forward post near LOC in J&K's Kupwara

Russia will deliver on India request for defence equipment in 2-3 months and is waiting for an official listed to hand over from New Delhi. During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Russia earlier this week visit, India had requested for defence supplies, mostly daily requirements for the armed forces.&nbsp;

Russia was positive on Indian request and assured of early delivery. Russian Govt Sources said, "we will soon get the exact list and we will try our best to deliver at earliest, most probably within 2-3 months".&nbsp;

While the request is for daily requirement defence equipment, the sources said no urgent request for delivery of S400 or SU 30 by the India side. The Russian side has already "speed up" the delivery "as much as possible" but for that kind of a "sophisticated system, we are making it as early as we can, because India's ministry of defence long back requested us to speed up", the source explained.&nbsp;

During the visit, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met the Russian deputy PM Yury Borisov. After the meeting, Singh said, “All our proposals have received a positive response from the Russian side. I am fully satisfied with my discussions." The Russian side also assured that ongoing contracts "will be maintained and not just maintained, in a number of cases will be taken forward in a shorter time", he added.

Raksha Mantri was on a 3-day visit to Moscow from Monday at the invitation of the Russian Defence Minister to attend the 75th Anniversary of Victory Day Parade. The parade saw the participation of 75 members’ strong Indian contingent.

Russia will deliver on India request for defence equipment in 2-3 months and is waiting for an official listed to hand over from New Delhi. During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Russia earlier this week visit, India had requested for defence supplies, mostly daily requirements for the armed forces.

Russia will deliver on India request for defence equipment in 2-3 months and is waiting for an official listed to hand over from New Delhi. During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Russia earlier this week visit, India had requested for defence supplies, mostly daily requirements for the armed forces. Russia was positive on Indian request and assured of early delivery. Russian Govt Sources said, "we will soon get the exact list and we will try our best to deliver at earliest, most probably within 2-3 months". While the request is for daily requirement defence equipment, the sources said no urgent request for delivery of S400 or SU 30 by the India side. The Russian side has already "speed up" the delivery "as much as possible" but for that kind of a "sophisticated system, we are making it as early as we can, because India's ministry of defence long back requested us to speed up", the source explained. During the visit, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met the Russian deputy PM Yury Borisov. After the meeting, Singh said, “All our proposals have received a positive response from the Russian side. I am fully satisfied with my discussions." The Russian side also assured that ongoing contracts "will be maintained and not just maintained, in a number of cases will be taken forward in a shorter time", he added. Raksha Mantri was on a 3-day visit to Moscow from Monday at the invitation of the Russian Defence Minister to attend the 75th Anniversary of Victory Day Parade. The parade saw the participation of 75 members’ strong Indian contingent.

Rajnath's Moscow visit: Russia will deliver defence equipment in two to three months

Indian contingent takes part in Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Moscow on a three-day state visit to attend the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow that marks the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Moscow on a three-day state visit to attend the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow that marks the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War. The defence minister will also hold talks on ways to further deepen India-Russia defence and strategic partnership during his visit. Also read: Rajnath Singh invited to grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 Leaving for Moscow on a three day visit. The visit to Russia will give me an opportunity to hold talks on ways to further deepen the India-Russia defence and strategic partnership. I shall also be attending the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 22, 2020 × ''Leaving for Moscow on a 3-day visit. The visit to Russia will give me an opportunity to hold talks on ways to further deepen the India-Russia defence and strategic partnership. I shall also be attending the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow,'' tweeted Defence Minister Rajnath Singh ahead of his visit today. Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar is also accompanying the minister.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leaves for Russia; set to boost defence ties

Amid India's escalating border row with China, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Russia on a three-day visit during which he is likely to press for the timely delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems and discuss ways to further expand bilateral military ties.

Singh is primarily visiting Russia to attend a grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Germany in the Second World War. However, it is learnt that the minister will also discuss with Russian leaders regional security scenario and bolstering of overall defence cooperation.

It is the first visit abroad by a senior union minister in four months as foreign travels were restricted because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Singh travelled by an Indian Air Force aircraft, while strictly following all laid precautions against the coronavirus infection, officials said.

The last foreign trip abroad by a senior member of the union cabinet was by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman when she visited Riyadh from Feb 22-24 to attend a meeting of G-20 finance ministers. Days before Sitharaman''s trip, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Germany from February 18 to 19.

The defence minister's visit to Russia comes amid the escalating border standoff between India and China, particularly after the killing of 20 Indian Army personnel by Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh''s Galwan Valley on June 15.

Russia has been in touch with both India and China following their border row and officials did not rule out discussion on the matter during Singh''s meetings in Moscow.

"Leaving for Moscow on a three-day visit. The visit to Russia will allow me to hold talks on ways to further deepen the India-Russia defence and strategic partnership. I shall also be attending the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow," Singh tweeted before leaving for Moscow.

Officials said Singh went ahead with the visit, notwithstanding the border row with China, due to India''s decades-old military ties with Russia.

They said the defence minister in his talks with top Russian military brass is expected to request for the timely delivery of the S-400 missile systems.

Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin recently told PTI that there could be some delays in implementation of military contracts including the S-400 one because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In October 2018, India had signed a USD 5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding warning from the Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions.

Last year, India made the first tranche of payment of around USD 800 million to Russia for the missile systems. Moscow was to begin the delivery of the system by the second half of next year.

The defence minister is also expected to request Moscow to cut delays in supply of spares of key Russian-origin platforms like tanks, fighter jets and helicopters.

Russia has been one of India''s key suppliers of arms and ammunition. However, it has been a long-standing grievance of armed forces that supply of critical spares and equipment from Russia takes a long time affecting maintenance of military systems procured from that country.

A tri-service 75-member Indian military contingent has already reached Moscow to participate in the parade. The Indian team will participate in the parade alongside armed forces personnel from at least 11 countries including China.

"The visit of the defence minister will strengthen the longstanding special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia," the defence ministry said on Saturday.

"The Indian participation in the victory day parade will be a mark of tribute to the great sacrifices made by Russia and other nations in the Second World War in which Indian soldiers also participated and made supreme sacrifice," it said. 
&nbsp;

Amid India's escalating border row with China, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Russia on a three-day visit during which he is likely to press for the timely delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems and discuss ways to further expand bilateral military ties.

Amid India's escalating border row with China, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Russia on a three-day visit during which he is likely to press for the timely delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems and discuss ways to further expand bilateral military ties. Singh is primarily visiting Russia to attend a grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Germany in the Second World War. However, it is learnt that the minister will also discuss with Russian leaders regional security scenario and bolstering of overall defence cooperation. It is the first visit abroad by a senior union minister in four months as foreign travels were restricted because of the coronavirus pandemic. Singh travelled by an Indian Air Force aircraft, while strictly following all laid precautions against the coronavirus infection, officials said. The last foreign trip abroad by a senior member of the union cabinet was by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman when she visited Riyadh from Feb 22-24 to attend a meeting of G-20 finance ministers. Days before Sitharaman''s trip, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Germany from February 18 to 19. The defence minister's visit to Russia comes amid the escalating border standoff between India and China, particularly after the killing of 20 Indian Army personnel by Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh''s Galwan Valley on June 15. Russia has been in touch with both India and China following their border row and officials did not rule out discussion on the matter during Singh''s meetings in Moscow. "Leaving for Moscow on a three-day visit. The visit to Russia will allow me to hold talks on ways to further deepen the India-Russia defence and strategic partnership. I shall also be attending the 75th Victory Day Parade in Moscow," Singh tweeted before leaving for Moscow. Officials said Singh went ahead with the visit, notwithstanding the border row with China, due to India''s decades-old military ties with Russia. They said the defence minister in his talks with top Russian military brass is expected to request for the timely delivery of the S-400 missile systems. Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin recently told PTI that there could be some delays in implementation of military contracts including the S-400 one because of the coronavirus pandemic. In October 2018, India had signed a USD 5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding warning from the Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions. Last year, India made the first tranche of payment of around USD 800 million to Russia for the missile systems. Moscow was to begin the delivery of the system by the second half of next year. The defence minister is also expected to request Moscow to cut delays in supply of spares of key Russian-origin platforms like tanks, fighter jets and helicopters. Russia has been one of India''s key suppliers of arms and ammunition. However, it has been a long-standing grievance of armed forces that supply of critical spares and equipment from Russia takes a long time affecting maintenance of military systems procured from that country. A tri-service 75-member Indian military contingent has already reached Moscow to participate in the parade. The Indian team will participate in the parade alongside armed forces personnel from at least 11 countries including China. "The visit of the defence minister will strengthen the longstanding special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia," the defence ministry said on Saturday. "The Indian participation in the victory day parade will be a mark of tribute to the great sacrifices made by Russia and other nations in the Second World War in which Indian soldiers also participated and made supreme sacrifice," it said.

Rajnath leaves for Russia; to press for timely delivery of S-400 missile defence systems

The armed forces deployed along the 3,500-km de-facto border with China have been given "full freedom" to give a "befitting" response to any Chinese misadventure, government sources said after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation in eastern Ladakh at a meeting with the top military brass on Sunday.

The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria.

India has already mobilised fighter jets and sent thousands of additional Army troops to forward locations along the border with China after 20 Indian Army personnel were killed in a brutal attack by Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh's Galwan Valley on June 15.

The clash in Galwan Valley, the worst cross-border violence in 45 years, significantly frayed ties between the two countries, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi sending a strong message to China that India wants peace but if provoked, India is capable of giving a befitting reply.

In the meeting on Sunday, Singh told the top military officers to maintain a strict vigil on Chinese activities around the land border, the airspace and in strategic sea lanes, the sources said.

Following the Galwan incident, military sources said Indian troops will no longer be bound by the long-held practice of not using firearms in faceoffs.

The armed forces were told to be fully ready to give a befitting reply to any Chinese misadventure, the sources said, adding a "tough" approach is being adopted to guard the border.

Seventy-six Indian soldiers were also injured in the Galwan Valley clash. China's People's Liberation Army has not yet talked about the number of casualties it suffered.

The sources said the armed forces have been given full freedom to deal with any act of aggression by China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de-facto border between the two countries.

The two armies had mutually decided not to resort to use firearms during face-offs in sync with provisions of two agreements on border management. The agreements were signed in 1996 and 2005.

"Henceforth, our approach will be different. The ground commanders have been given full freedom to take decisions depending on the situation," a top military official told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

The IAF has already moved a sizeable number of its frontline Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar, Mirage 2000 aircraft and Apache attack helicopters to several key air bases including Leh and Srinagar in the last five days.

The two armies were engaged in a standoff in Galwan and several other areas of eastern Ladakh since May 5 when their troops clashed on the banks of the Pangong Tso.

The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on May 5 and 6. The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in north Sikkim on May 9.

Prior to the clashes, both sides had been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it was necessary to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

Singh's review of the situation in eastern Ladakh came a day before he embarks on a three-day visit to Russia to attend a grand military parade in Moscow to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Germany in the Second World War.&nbsp;

The armed forces deployed along the 3,500-km de-facto border with China have been given "full freedom" to give a "befitting" response to any Chinese misadventure, government sources said after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation in eastern Ladakh at a meeting with the top military brass on Sunday.

The armed forces deployed along the 3,500-km de-facto border with China have been given "full freedom" to give a "befitting" response to any Chinese misadventure, government sources said after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation in eastern Ladakh at a meeting with the top military brass on Sunday. The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria. India has already mobilised fighter jets and sent thousands of additional Army troops to forward locations along the border with China after 20 Indian Army personnel were killed in a brutal attack by Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh's Galwan Valley on June 15. The clash in Galwan Valley, the worst cross-border violence in 45 years, significantly frayed ties between the two countries, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi sending a strong message to China that India wants peace but if provoked, India is capable of giving a befitting reply. In the meeting on Sunday, Singh told the top military officers to maintain a strict vigil on Chinese activities around the land border, the airspace and in strategic sea lanes, the sources said. Following the Galwan incident, military sources said Indian troops will no longer be bound by the long-held practice of not using firearms in faceoffs. The armed forces were told to be fully ready to give a befitting reply to any Chinese misadventure, the sources said, adding a "tough" approach is being adopted to guard the border. Seventy-six Indian soldiers were also injured in the Galwan Valley clash. China's People's Liberation Army has not yet talked about the number of casualties it suffered. The sources said the armed forces have been given full freedom to deal with any act of aggression by China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de-facto border between the two countries. The two armies had mutually decided not to resort to use firearms during face-offs in sync with provisions of two agreements on border management. The agreements were signed in 1996 and 2005. "Henceforth, our approach will be different. The ground commanders have been given full freedom to take decisions depending on the situation," a top military official told PTI on the condition of anonymity. The IAF has already moved a sizeable number of its frontline Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar, Mirage 2000 aircraft and Apache attack helicopters to several key air bases including Leh and Srinagar in the last five days. The two armies were engaged in a standoff in Galwan and several other areas of eastern Ladakh since May 5 when their troops clashed on the banks of the Pangong Tso. The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on May 5 and 6. The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in north Sikkim on May 9. Prior to the clashes, both sides had been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it was necessary to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas. Singh's review of the situation in eastern Ladakh came a day before he embarks on a three-day visit to Russia to attend a grand military parade in Moscow to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Germany in the Second World War.

Armed forces told to forcefully deal with Chinese aggression along LAC

Russia has invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to attend a grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 marking the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the second World War, diplomatic sources said.

It is learnt that notwithstanding the escalating tension between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh, the defence minister's office is positively considering the invitation due to India's decades-old military ties with Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pushes-idea-of-russian-backed-summit-to-stabilise-world-307122">Also read|&nbsp;Putin pushes idea of Russian-backed summit to stabilise world</a>

The defence minister's office is positively considering the invitation, the sources said.

India is sending a tri-services contingent to participate in the military parade at Red Square in Moscow.

The Indian parade will be led by a colonel rank officer. The 75-member Indian team will participate in the parade alongside armed forces personnel from at least 11 countries including China.&nbsp;

Russia has invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to attend a grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 marking the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the second World War, diplomatic sources said.

Russia has invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to attend a grand military parade in Moscow on June 24 marking the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the second World War, diplomatic sources said. It is learnt that notwithstanding the escalating tension between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh, the defence minister's office is positively considering the invitation due to India's decades-old military ties with Russia. Also read| Putin pushes idea of Russian-backed summit to stabilise world The defence minister's office is positively considering the invitation, the sources said. India is sending a tri-services contingent to participate in the military parade at Red Square in Moscow. The Indian parade will be led by a colonel rank officer. The 75-member Indian team will participate in the parade alongside armed forces personnel from at least 11 countries including China.

Rajnath Singh invited to grand military parade in Moscow on June 24

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid rich tributes to soldiers martyred in the recent skirmish with the Chinese army and said the nation will never ''forget their bravery and sacrifice.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid rich tributes to soldiers martyred in the recent skirmish with the Chinese army and said the nation will never ''forget their bravery and sacrifice. ''The Nation will never forget their bravery and sacrifice. My heart goes out to the families of the fallen soldiers. The nation stand shoulder to shoulder with them in this difficult hour. We are proud of the bravery and courage of India’s breavehearts,'' tweeted the Defence Minister. The loss of soldiers in Galwan is deeply disturbing and painful, he said in another tweet. The loss of soldiers in Galwan is deeply disturbing and painful. Our soldiers displayed exemplary courage and valour in the line of duty and sacrificed their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2020 × 20 soldiers lost their lives following a face-off with the Chinese army along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) yesterday. ''Our soldiers displayed exemplary courage and valour in the line of duty and sacrificed their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army,'' he added.

Nation will never forget their bravery and sacrifice: Rajnath Singh on martyred Indian soldiers

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked,&nbsp;New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses.

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The anti-government protests increased in the country as the Nepal government was blamed for not doing enough to contain the outbreak. The government&nbsp;has been accused of misusing relief money. The government further faced immense criticism for responding to the protests with force and violence, and detaining dozens of demonstrators, including&nbsp;several foreign citizens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/nepal/hundreds-protest-against-nepals-coronavirus-response-7-foreigners-arrested-305599">Also read|&nbsp;Hundreds protest against Nepal's coronavirus response; 7 foreigners arrested</a>

Nepal says that foreign powers are apparently trying to interfere in its internal matters, but the protests seem to bearing fruit.

The Nepal government has been forced to make public the details of its coronavirus expenses.

According to the details, the federal and provincial governments have apparently spent 8 billion rupees in dealing with the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-nepal-ties-not-ordinary-no-power-in-the-world-can-break-it-rajnath-singh-305948">Also read|&nbsp;Indo-Nepal ties not ordinary, no power in the world can break it: Rajnath Singh</a>

Map politics

As we all know, Nepal wants to update its map to include the disputed territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.

On Saturday, the lower house of the Nepal parliament unanimously voted in favour of altering the map. Atleast 258 out of 275 lawmakers are said to have voted in favour of the constitution amendment bill.

On Sunday, the bill reached the upper house and a&nbsp;proposal to discuss the amendment bill for approval was unanimously endorsed.

The discussion is expected to go on for 72 hours, and the outcome will be declared by Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-expresses-surprise-at-nepal-pm-olis-distorted-comments-on-covid-surge-in-country-due-to-india-306073">Also read|&nbsp;New Delhi expresses surprise at Nepal PM Oli's 'distorted' comments on Covid surge in country due to India</a>

Happenings at Delhi

The Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh has categorically stated that any misunderstanding with Nepal will be sorted only through dialogue. He even used a famous adage to describe India's ties with Nepal. He called the bilateral relationship "roti-beti ka rishta", which in simpler words means it's like a relationship between two families.

The two countries indeed have shared excellent bilateral ties. However, situation suddenly became very tense during the pandemic.

On May 08, the Indian Defence Minister virtually inaugurated a new 80-kilometre long road in the Himalayas. This road was built along the India-China border at the Lipulekh pass.

Three days later, on May 11,&nbsp;Kathmandu protested and contended that the road crosses territory it claims.

It accused India of changing the status quo and summoned the Indian ambassador to Kathmandu.

Nepal's actions were followed by some remarks by the Indian army chief on May 15.

Without taking any names, army chief M.M Naravane said that Nepal was doing what it was doing at someone else's behest -- a&nbsp;subtle reference to the growing influence of China in Nepal.

What followed was an endless war-of-words. The Prime Minister of Nepal unleashed a torren of invectives against India. He took jibes at the Indian motto of 'satyamev jayate' ---- truth prevails. Prime Minister K.P Oli said that India was not living up to this motto.

Its been less than a month and now his government is on the verge of passing a constitutional amendment to alter its official map.

If this continues, a possible dispute between India and Nepal will further put the stability of this region at risk. So,&nbsp;New Delhi and Kathmandu need to think out of the box and find a practical solution.

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked, New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses.

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked, New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses. The anti-government protests increased in the country as the Nepal government was blamed for not doing enough to contain the outbreak. The government has been accused of misusing relief money. The government further faced immense criticism for responding to the protests with force and violence, and detaining dozens of demonstrators, including several foreign citizens. Also read| Hundreds protest against Nepal's coronavirus response; 7 foreigners arrested Nepal says that foreign powers are apparently trying to interfere in its internal matters, but the protests seem to bearing fruit. The Nepal government has been forced to make public the details of its coronavirus expenses. According to the details, the federal and provincial governments have apparently spent 8 billion rupees in dealing with the pandemic. Also read| Indo-Nepal ties not ordinary, no power in the world can break it: Rajnath Singh Map politics As we all know, Nepal wants to update its map to include the disputed territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. On Saturday, the lower house of the Nepal parliament unanimously voted in favour of altering the map. Atleast 258 out of 275 lawmakers are said to have voted in favour of the constitution amendment bill. On Sunday, the bill reached the upper house and a proposal to discuss the amendment bill for approval was unanimously endorsed. The discussion is expected to go on for 72 hours, and the outcome will be declared by Thursday. Also read| New Delhi expresses surprise at Nepal PM Oli's 'distorted' comments on Covid surge in country due to India Happenings at Delhi The Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh has categorically stated that any misunderstanding with Nepal will be sorted only through dialogue. He even used a famous adage to describe India's ties with Nepal. He called the bilateral relationship "roti-beti ka rishta", which in simpler words means it's like a relationship between two families. The two countries indeed have shared excellent bilateral ties. However, situation suddenly became very tense during the pandemic. On May 08, the Indian Defence Minister virtually inaugurated a new 80-kilometre long road in the Himalayas. This road was built along the India-China border at the Lipulekh pass. Three days later, on May 11, Kathmandu protested and contended that the road crosses territory it claims. It accused India of changing the status quo and summoned the Indian ambassador to Kathmandu. Nepal's actions were followed by some remarks by the Indian army chief on May 15. Without taking any names, army chief M.M Naravane said that Nepal was doing what it was doing at someone else's behest -- a subtle reference to the growing influence of China in Nepal. What followed was an endless war-of-words. The Prime Minister of Nepal unleashed a torren of invectives against India. He took jibes at the Indian motto of 'satyamev jayate' ---- truth prevails. Prime Minister K.P Oli said that India was not living up to this motto. Its been less than a month and now his government is on the verge of passing a constitutional amendment to alter its official map. If this continues, a possible dispute between India and Nepal will further put the stability of this region at risk. So, New Delhi and Kathmandu need to think out of the box and find a practical solution.

On a shaky ground: India Nepal dispute put the stability of the region at risk

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that soon people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) will demand that they want to be with India and not under the rule of Pakistan, and the day this happens, a goal of our Parliament will also be accomplished.

Singh was addressing 'Jammu Jan Samvad rally' via video conferencing.

He also said that earlier in Kashmir, protests demanding 'Kashmir azaadi' were held and flags of Pakistan and ISIS were seen, but now only Indian flag is seen there.

The defence minister also paid tribute to Sarpanch Ajay Pandita, who died in an attack recently.

''I pay my tribute to Sarpanch Ajay Pandita, who died in a cowardly attack and also Mohd Makbul Sherwani of Baramulla, who in 1947 hoisted the Indian flag in Kashmir valley,'' Singh noted.

He also said that India should not be known as an importing country in the world.

''Our Government has decided that the import of goods from abroad should be stopped. Our country should not be known as an importing country in the world, but India should be known as an exporting country,'' he said.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that soon people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) will demand that they want to be with India and not under the rule of Pakistan, and the day this happens, a goal of our Parliament will also be accomplished.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that soon people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) will demand that they want to be with India and not under the rule of Pakistan, and the day this happens, a goal of our Parliament will also be accomplished. Singh was addressing 'Jammu Jan Samvad rally' via video conferencing. He also said that earlier in Kashmir, protests demanding 'Kashmir azaadi' were held and flags of Pakistan and ISIS were seen, but now only Indian flag is seen there. The defence minister also paid tribute to Sarpanch Ajay Pandita, who died in an attack recently. ''I pay my tribute to Sarpanch Ajay Pandita, who died in a cowardly attack and also Mohd Makbul Sherwani of Baramulla, who in 1947 hoisted the Indian flag in Kashmir valley,'' Singh noted. He also said that India should not be known as an importing country in the world. ''Our Government has decided that the import of goods from abroad should be stopped. Our country should not be known as an importing country in the world, but India should be known as an exporting country,'' he said.

Soon people of PoK will demand that they want to be with India: Rajnath Singh

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a virtual Jan Samvad rally for Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said on Sunday that when people of PoK will want to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and be part of India, then this will lead to the fulfilment of Parliament's resolution that the region is an integral part of the country.

"Let's wait for what happens in future. There will be demand from PoK to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and to live with India. When this happens, then Parliament's resolution will also be fulfilled," Singh said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/soon-people-of-pok-will-demand-that-they-want-to-be-with-india-rajnath-singh-305731">Also read|&nbsp;Soon people of PoK will demand that they want to be with India: Rajnath Singh</a>

Parliament has also earlier passed resolution that PoK is part of India.

Reacting to Singh's remarks, the Foreign Office said that his statement is "another desperate attempt to divert attention from" Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a virtual Jan Samvad rally for Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said on Sunday that when people of PoK will want to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and be part of India, then this will lead to the fulfilment of Parliament's resolution that the region is an integral part of the country. "Let's wait for what happens in future. There will be demand from PoK to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and to live with India. When this happens, then Parliament's resolution will also be fulfilled," Singh said. Also read| Soon people of PoK will demand that they want to be with India: Rajnath Singh Parliament has also earlier passed resolution that PoK is part of India. Reacting to Singh's remarks, the Foreign Office said that his statement is "another desperate attempt to divert attention from" Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pak rejects Rajnath Singh's remarks about situation in PoK

The high-level dialogue between Chinese and Indian militaries was "positive", and both sides vowed to continue the talks to end the "tussle", Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday on the eastern Ladakh standoff, asserting that the government will not allow India's pride and self-respect to be hurt at any cost.

His comments indicating India's resolve to deal with the row with a firm approach came even as the two armies remained engaged in a bitter confrontation in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso.

The defence minister, addressing a virtual rally for the people in Maharashtra, also came down hard on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks that the government should ?come clean" and tell the country what is happening on the border with China.

"The talks held on June 6 were quite positive. India and China have agreed to continue the talks to resolve the border issue including the current tussle. I want to assure people that leadership of the country is in strong hands and we will not compromise on India's pride and self-respect at any cost," the defence minister said.

Talking about decades-old border row with China, Singh said India wants its resolution as soon as possible, adding the military and diplomatic engagement between the two sides to end the current row continues.

"India's policy has been to not hurt anyone's dignity and honour. At the same time, we do not allow the country's honour and self-respect to be hurt.

On Gandhi's comments, Singh said the whole country should be united on such an issue and have faith in the capability of the armed forces.

"I cannot even imagine that any political leader will make such comments on an issue of the country's security.... As the defence minister, I will say whatever I have to say in Parliament," he said.

"Do not try to tell us (about our responsibility). There is a dispute between the two countries and the whole country should stand united," he added

Indian and Chinese troops were engaged in a month-long confrontation since May 5 following a violent clash in Pangong Tso which is turning out to be biggest military standoff after the 2017 Doklam episode.

In their first serious efforts to end the row, Lt General Harinder Singh, the general officer commanding of Leh-based 14 Corps, and Commander of the Tibet Military District Maj Gen Liu Lin held an extensive meeting on Saturday. However, it could not produce any tangible results.

In a statement, the external affairs ministry on Sunday said the meeting took place in a "cordial and positive atmosphere" and that both sides agreed that an "early resolution" of the issue would contribute to the further development of the relationship between the two countries.

The high-level dialogue between Chinese and Indian militaries was "positive", and both sides vowed to continue the talks to end the "tussle", Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday on the eastern Ladakh standoff, asserting that the government will not allow India's pride and self-respect to be hurt at any cost.

The high-level dialogue between Chinese and Indian militaries was "positive", and both sides vowed to continue the talks to end the "tussle", Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday on the eastern Ladakh standoff, asserting that the government will not allow India's pride and self-respect to be hurt at any cost. His comments indicating India's resolve to deal with the row with a firm approach came even as the two armies remained engaged in a bitter confrontation in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso. The defence minister, addressing a virtual rally for the people in Maharashtra, also came down hard on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks that the government should ?come clean" and tell the country what is happening on the border with China. "The talks held on June 6 were quite positive. India and China have agreed to continue the talks to resolve the border issue including the current tussle. I want to assure people that leadership of the country is in strong hands and we will not compromise on India's pride and self-respect at any cost," the defence minister said. Talking about decades-old border row with China, Singh said India wants its resolution as soon as possible, adding the military and diplomatic engagement between the two sides to end the current row continues. "India's policy has been to not hurt anyone's dignity and honour. At the same time, we do not allow the country's honour and self-respect to be hurt. On Gandhi's comments, Singh said the whole country should be united on such an issue and have faith in the capability of the armed forces. "I cannot even imagine that any political leader will make such comments on an issue of the country's security.... As the defence minister, I will say whatever I have to say in Parliament," he said. "Do not try to tell us (about our responsibility). There is a dispute between the two countries and the whole country should stand united," he added Indian and Chinese troops were engaged in a month-long confrontation since May 5 following a violent clash in Pangong Tso which is turning out to be biggest military standoff after the 2017 Doklam episode. In their first serious efforts to end the row, Lt General Harinder Singh, the general officer commanding of Leh-based 14 Corps, and Commander of the Tibet Military District Maj Gen Liu Lin held an extensive meeting on Saturday. However, it could not produce any tangible results. In a statement, the external affairs ministry on Sunday said the meeting took place in a "cordial and positive atmosphere" and that both sides agreed that an "early resolution" of the issue would contribute to the further development of the relationship between the two countries.

Will not allow India's pride and self-respect to be hurt: Rajnath on eastern Ladakh row

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's military and diplomatic levels talks with China have been positive and will continue.

Addressing the BJP's Maharashtra Jan-Samvad Rally via video link, the minister also said the Narendra Modi-led government will ensure that India's pride is not affected as far as the situation along Indo-China border is concerned.

"The border dispute between India and China has been ongoing for a long time. We want to resolve it as soon as possible," Singh said.

"Talks with China are on at military and diplomatic level. The June 6 talks were very positive and both the countries have agreed to continue talks to resolve the ongoing tussle," he said.

"I want to assure people that leadership of the country is in strong hands and we will not compromise on India's pride and self-respect," he said.

Singh said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and some opposition leaders had sought the government's clarification on what is happening at the India-China border.

"As the Defence Minister of the country, I want to say that whatever I have to say I will say it inside Parliament, I will not mislead the people," the minister said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's military and diplomatic levels talks with China have been positive and will continue. Addressing the BJP's Maharashtra Jan-Samvad Rally via video link, the minister also said the Narendra Modi-led government will ensure that India's pride is not affected as far as the situation along Indo-China border is concerned.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's military and diplomatic levels talks with China have been positive and will continue. Addressing the BJP's Maharashtra Jan-Samvad Rally via video link, the minister also said the Narendra Modi-led government will ensure that India's pride is not affected as far as the situation along Indo-China border is concerned. "The border dispute between India and China has been ongoing for a long time. We want to resolve it as soon as possible," Singh said. "Talks with China are on at military and diplomatic level. The June 6 talks were very positive and both the countries have agreed to continue talks to resolve the ongoing tussle," he said. "I want to assure people that leadership of the country is in strong hands and we will not compromise on India's pride and self-respect," he said. Singh said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and some opposition leaders had sought the government's clarification on what is happening at the India-China border. "As the Defence Minister of the country, I want to say that whatever I have to say I will say it inside Parliament, I will not mislead the people," the minister said.

Indian military's talk with China positive, will continue: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going&nbsp;on for almost a month now.

Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down.

WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent&nbsp;of the Chinese intrusion.

"According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said.

"They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-exclusive-indian-defence-minister-on-india-china-border-standoff-rajnath-singh-302746/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

So that's the situation right now as&nbsp;the standoff continues with both&nbsp;sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute.

Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today&nbsp;leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism.

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"I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." 
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In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues.

Engel heads the&nbsp;powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America.

A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one.

Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway,&nbsp;there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country."&nbsp;

While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt.

A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that&nbsp;the ball is now in China's court.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down. WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent of the Chinese intrusion. "According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said. "They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added. So that's the situation right now as the standoff continues with both sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute. Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism. "I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." -Chairman @RepEliotEngel https://t.co/say45WUhBt — House Foreign Affairs Committee (@HouseForeign) June 1, 2020 × In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues. Engel heads the powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America. A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one. Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway, there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country." While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt. A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that the ball is now in China's court.

A face-off happened, then they left, Rajnath Singh to WION on standoff with China

France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, said Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

Singh said that he had a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart.&nbsp;

''France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,'' he said.

''Had a telephonic conversation with French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly today. We discussed matters of mutual concern including COVID-19 situation, regional security and agreed to strengthen Bilateral Defence Cooperation between India and France,'' he said.&nbsp;

''We also appreciated the efforts made by Armed Forces of India and France in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,'' he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, said Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, said Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Singh said that he had a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart. ''France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,'' he said. ''Had a telephonic conversation with French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly today. We discussed matters of mutual concern including COVID-19 situation, regional security and agreed to strengthen Bilateral Defence Cooperation between India and France,'' he said. ''We also appreciated the efforts made by Armed Forces of India and France in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,'' he said.

France will ensure timely delivery of Rafale jet despite challenges: Rajnath Singh

As Indian and Chinese troops remain engaged in a tense border standoff, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the government will not allow India's pride to be hurt under any circumstances even as he said bilateral talks were on at military and diplomatic levels to resolve the row.

Singh also said that he conveyed to US Defence Secretary Mark T Esper during a telephonic conversation on Friday that India and China have an existing mechanisms to resolve "problems" through talks at diplomatic and military levels.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajanth-singh-us-defence-secretary-mark-esper-discuss-china-build-up-301895" hreflang="en">Rajanth Singh, US defence secretary Mark Esper discuss China build-up</a>

In the midst of the flare-ups between Indian and Chinese armies, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was "ready, willing and able to mediate" between the two countries. He reiterated the offer on Thursday as well. 
The Ministry of External Affairs indirectly rejected the offer two days ago, but Singh became the first central minister to speak on India's position on the issue with clarity.

"I spoke to the US Defence Secretary yesterday. I told him that we have developed a mechanism already under which any problem between India and China are resolved through military and diplomatic dialogue," Singh said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-chinas-pla-troops-clashed-with-india-in-1962-war-over-galwan-valley-301377">When China's PLA troops clashed with India in 1962 war over Galwan valley</a>

He was replying to a question on whether India ruled out any third-party mediation in resolving the border row with China. The defence minister said efforts are on to resolve the border row in eastern Ladakh.

"I want to assure the country that we will not allow India's pride to be hurt under any circumstances. India has been following a clear policy of maintaining good relationship with neighbouring countries and it is not a new approach; We have been following it for long. At times, situation arises with China. It has happened before," he said.

Singh noted that China has also said that it wants to resolve the border issue through diplomatic dialogue.

"It has been India's efforts to ensure that the tension does not escalate. It should be resolved through talks at military and diplomatic levels. Negotiations are ongoing between the two countries at the military and diplomatic levels," he said.

Troops of India and China were engaged in the standoff for over three weeks in Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldie in eastern Ladakh.

The trigger for the face-off was China's stiff opposition to India laying a key road in the Finger area around the Pangong Tso Lake besides construction of another road connecting the Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie road in Galwan Valley.

Military sources said China was also laying a road in the Finger area which is not acceptable to India.

The sources said military reinforcements including troops, vehicles and artillery guns were sent to eastern Ladakh by the Indian Army to shore up its presence in the areas where Chinese soldiers were resorting to aggressive posturing.

The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on the evening of May 5 which spilled over to the next day before the two sides agreed to "disengage". 
However, the standoff continued.

The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in north Sikkim on May 9.

The troops of India and China were engaged in a 73-day stand-off in Doklam tri-junction in 2017 which even triggered fears of a war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long LAC. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet while India contests it.

Both sides have been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it is necessary to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

As Indian and Chinese troops remain engaged in a tense border standoff, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the government will not allow India's pride to be hurt under any circumstances even as he said bilateral talks were on at military and diplomatic levels to resolve the row.

As Indian and Chinese troops remain engaged in a tense border standoff, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the government will not allow India's pride to be hurt under any circumstances even as he said bilateral talks were on at military and diplomatic levels to resolve the row. Singh also said that he conveyed to US Defence Secretary Mark T Esper during a telephonic conversation on Friday that India and China have an existing mechanisms to resolve "problems" through talks at diplomatic and military levels. Also read: Rajanth Singh, US defence secretary Mark Esper discuss China build-up In the midst of the flare-ups between Indian and Chinese armies, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was "ready, willing and able to mediate" between the two countries. He reiterated the offer on Thursday as well. The Ministry of External Affairs indirectly rejected the offer two days ago, but Singh became the first central minister to speak on India's position on the issue with clarity. "I spoke to the US Defence Secretary yesterday. I told him that we have developed a mechanism already under which any problem between India and China are resolved through military and diplomatic dialogue," Singh said. Also see: When China's PLA troops clashed with India in 1962 war over Galwan valley He was replying to a question on whether India ruled out any third-party mediation in resolving the border row with China. The defence minister said efforts are on to resolve the border row in eastern Ladakh. "I want to assure the country that we will not allow India's pride to be hurt under any circumstances. India has been following a clear policy of maintaining good relationship with neighbouring countries and it is not a new approach; We have been following it for long. At times, situation arises with China. It has happened before," he said. Singh noted that China has also said that it wants to resolve the border issue through diplomatic dialogue. "It has been India's efforts to ensure that the tension does not escalate. It should be resolved through talks at military and diplomatic levels. Negotiations are ongoing between the two countries at the military and diplomatic levels," he said. Troops of India and China were engaged in the standoff for over three weeks in Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldie in eastern Ladakh. The trigger for the face-off was China's stiff opposition to India laying a key road in the Finger area around the Pangong Tso Lake besides construction of another road connecting the Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie road in Galwan Valley. Military sources said China was also laying a road in the Finger area which is not acceptable to India. The sources said military reinforcements including troops, vehicles and artillery guns were sent to eastern Ladakh by the Indian Army to shore up its presence in the areas where Chinese soldiers were resorting to aggressive posturing. The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on the evening of May 5 which spilled over to the next day before the two sides agreed to "disengage". However, the standoff continued. The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in north Sikkim on May 9. The troops of India and China were engaged in a 73-day stand-off in Doklam tri-junction in 2017 which even triggered fears of a war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long LAC. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet while India contests it. Both sides have been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it is necessary to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

Talks at military, diplomatic levels on to resolve Ladakh standoff: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgement on Permanent Commission for women in Army.

Singh took to Twitter and welcomed the decision " wholeheartedly".

"I wholeheartedly welcome Hon'ble Supreme Court’s judgement on giving the Women officers permanent commission in the Armed Forces. PM Shri @narendramodi has supported the idea of permanent commission for women &amp; announced the change in policy in his Independence Day speech in 2018," Singh tweeted out.&nbsp;

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I wholeheartedly welcome Honble Supreme Court’s judgement on giving the Women officers permanent commission in the Armed Forces. PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> has supported the idea of permanent commission for women &amp; announced the change in policy in his Independence Day speech in 2018.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1229394157522710528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The defence minister stated that a historic move to allow women in the field operations came when former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman "announced that women will be inducted into the Military Police. The recruitment process has started in 2019," Singh added.&nbsp;

"In 2019, the defence ministry granted a permanent commission to women in all 10 branches of the Indian Amry, including Signal Corps, intelligence, aviation, engineering, service corps and ordinance corps," he said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-on-granting-command-post-to-women-officers-in-Army-is-irrational-Supreme-Court-to-government">Bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational: Supreme Court to government</a>

<img alt="Women Armed Forces" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6668d681-c79c-4b79-bf90-e1684139eb63" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EQUALITY_OPPORTUNITY..jpg" />

Sigh also highlighted that before the year 2016, women made up just 2.5 per cent of India's armed forces and worked mainly in non-combat roles.

"As of Jan 2019, 3.89 per cent of the army personnel comprised women, while 6.7 per cent of the navy and 13.28 per cent of the air force personnel were women as of June 2019," Singh posted on Twitter.&nbsp;

The top court today said that women officers in Army be given a permanent commission as a change of mindset is required on government's part to end gender bias in armed forces.

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Before 2016, women made up just 2.5 percent of India's armed forces, working in mainly non-combat roles. 
As of Jan 2019, 3.89 percent of the army personnel comprised women, while 6.7 percent of the navy &amp; 13.28 percent of the air force personnel were women as of June 2019.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1229394722084409344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Absolute bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational and against Right to Equality," India's top court said.

The apex court directed the Centre to grant permanent commission within three months to all women officers in the Army who opt for it.&nbsp;

The court said that women officers will also be eligible for command posting in the Army.&nbsp;

The top court said even after 70 years of post-colonial era, there is a need for change in mindset with regard to giving equal opportunity to women officers in the Indian Army.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgement on Permanent Commission for women in Army. Singh took to Twitter and welcomed the decision " wholeheartedly".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgement on Permanent Commission for women in Army. Singh took to Twitter and welcomed the decision " wholeheartedly". "I wholeheartedly welcome Hon'ble Supreme Court’s judgement on giving the Women officers permanent commission in the Armed Forces. PM Shri @narendramodi has supported the idea of permanent commission for women & announced the change in policy in his Independence Day speech in 2018," Singh tweeted out. I wholeheartedly welcome Honble Supreme Court’s judgement on giving the Women officers permanent commission in the Armed Forces. PM Shri @narendramodi has supported the idea of permanent commission for women & announced the change in policy in his Independence Day speech in 2018. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) February 17, 2020 × The defence minister stated that a historic move to allow women in the field operations came when former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman "announced that women will be inducted into the Military Police. The recruitment process has started in 2019," Singh added. "In 2019, the defence ministry granted a permanent commission to women in all 10 branches of the Indian Amry, including Signal Corps, intelligence, aviation, engineering, service corps and ordinance corps," he said. Also read: Bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational: Supreme Court to government Sigh also highlighted that before the year 2016, women made up just 2.5 per cent of India's armed forces and worked mainly in non-combat roles. "As of Jan 2019, 3.89 per cent of the army personnel comprised women, while 6.7 per cent of the navy and 13.28 per cent of the air force personnel were women as of June 2019," Singh posted on Twitter. The top court today said that women officers in Army be given a permanent commission as a change of mindset is required on government's part to end gender bias in armed forces. Before 2016, women made up just 2.5 percent of India's armed forces, working in mainly non-combat roles. As of Jan 2019, 3.89 percent of the army personnel comprised women, while 6.7 percent of the navy & 13.28 percent of the air force personnel were women as of June 2019. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) February 17, 2020 × "Absolute bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational and against Right to Equality," India's top court said. The apex court directed the Centre to grant permanent commission within three months to all women officers in the Army who opt for it. The court said that women officers will also be eligible for command posting in the Army. The top court said even after 70 years of post-colonial era, there is a need for change in mindset with regard to giving equal opportunity to women officers in the Indian Army.

Wholeheartedly welcome SC’s decision to give women permanent commission in Armed Forces: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020.

"By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said.

"The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024,"&nbsp;he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world.

But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing"&nbsp;economy, he said.

"If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said.

He said World Bank has also predicted a revival.

That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said.

Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state.

"We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them.

Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank.

"Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years,"&nbsp;the CM said.

Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030. Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020. "By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said. "The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024," he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world. But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing" economy, he said. "If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said. He said World Bank has also predicted a revival. That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said. Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state. "We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them. Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank. "Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years," the CM said. Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.

UP to play big role in India's goal to become $5 trillion economy: Rajnath Singh

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