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Indian Army says border ceasefire with Pakistan ‘intact’ despite ‘minor incidents’

MHA
Indian Army on patrolling somewhere in Jammu and Kashmir (File Pic)

Jammu, Feb 13 (NVI): The Indian Army today said the border ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, which started from February 2021, remains “intact” despite “stray incidents” of cross-LoC firing and a recent explosion caused by a suspected IED.

“The ceasefire on the LoC is intact and continues to be observed as per the understanding between both the armies (of India and Pakistan),” the Army said in a post on social media platform X.

“The situation remains stable and being closely monitored. Indian Army maintains high state of alertness and is dominating the LoC,” it said.

Yesterday, the Pakistani side had resorted to firing across the LoC in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch in Jammu. The effective retaliatory firing by the Indian side is believed to have resulted in casualties among the Pakistani soldiers.

The exchange of fire was said to be brief.

Earlier, two days back, an IED, suspectedly planted by terrorists or Pakistani army men from across, exploded near the fencing close to the LoC in Akhnoor sector of Jammu, killing two Indian soldiers, including a Captain, who were patrolling the area.

“Tension due to some stray incidents of cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast on one of our ptls (patrols) on the LoC is being dealt with through the established mechanism. No exchange of fire of heavy-calibre weapons has taken place. Minor incidents are not unprecedented along the LoC,” the Indian Army said.

“Concerns have been raised to the Pakistan Army at the appropriate level,” it added.

The ceasefire along the LoC and International Border came into effect from February 24, 2021, after a mutual understanding between the armies of India and Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Singh held again a security review meeting today in Srinagar, a day after holding a similar meeting in Jammu.

Senior officers of J&K Police, intelligence agencies, CAPFs and the Army attended the meeting where Sinha is reported to have given clear directions to the security forces to ensure zero infiltration and zero tolerance for terrorism. (NVI)

Balochistan: BLA says it killed 7 Pakistani soldiers, injured 4

Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOQ) of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Feb 13 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed to have killed 7 personnel of Pakistan Army and injured 4 in multiple attacks in various areas of Balochistan over last two days.

The freedom-seeking outfit said its fighters targeted the occupying Pakistan army and their supply vehicles in three separate attacks in Panjgur, Mastung and Kech.

The freedom fighters ambushed and attacked a foot patrol party of the Pakistan army, comprising 13 men, in Tump area of Kech on the night of February 11-12, BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

The freedom fighters opened fire on the enemy with automatic weapons and grenade launchers, killing 7 personnel of the Pakistan army on the spot and injuring at least 4 others.

In another attack, BLA freedom fighters targeted Pakistani army personnel at Alizai Bypass in Mastung when when they were heading towards their camp yesterday afternoon.

In yet another attack, BLA freedom fighters targeted vehicles carrying supplies to the occupying Pakistan army in the Prom Daz area of Panjgur on February 10.

As a result of the attack, both vehicles were destroyed and the drivers were released after being warned. (NVI)

J&K: Security forces directed to crush terrorism in intensified manner

J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha

Srinagar, Feb 12 (NVI) Against the backdrop of intermittent terror attacks, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir got a fresh directive today to crush the menace in an intensified manner.

The directive was issued as Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha held a high-level meeting to review the security situation in the Union Territory, just a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired such a meeting in New Delhi.

Terrorism has been substantially contained in Jammu and Kashmir for several months now but terrorists strike intermittently to cause bloodshed.

Only yesterday, two Army men, including a Captain, were killed when an IED planted by terrorists exploded near the border fence close to the Line of Control (LoC) in Akhnoor sector of Jammu.

Prior to this, some terrorists recently killed a retired Army man and injured his two close relatives in a targeted attack in Kulgam district of Kashmir.

During the meeting chaired by Sinha, Jammu and Kashmir Police chief Nalin Prabhat gave a briefing about the prevailing security scenario and the measures put in place to counter the various security challenges like counter insurgency, terrorist recruitment and protection of minorities.

IGP Kashmir also gave a detailed presentation highlighting the challenges and the achievements of the Kashmir Zone and strategic foresight for the future, an official spokesman said.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the senior police officials and head of its various wings to work in close synergy with each other and intensify the efforts to crush terrorism and those aiding and abetting terrorists, the spokesman said.

He said a 360-degree approach against terrorism is critical to enhance the capability and performance in all dimensions of security challenges and asked the police officials to strictly follow the policy of property attachment in terror and narco-terror cases.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials to devise a result-oriented strategy to identify and neutralize foreign terrorists active in the Kashmir valley.

He called for systematic attention to terror ecosystem, which is providing support to adversarial forces and terrorists.

“You must follow zero tolerance policy to tackle terrorism. I have given J&K Police and Security Forces free hand to neutralise terror ecosystem operating in the shadows. Those supporting and financing terrorism will have to pay a very heavy price,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

“I have full faith in your valour, effective, focused measures and better institutional arrangements to make Jammu Kashmir terror-free. Improved intelligence generation, coordination and precision in anti-terror operations are vital to meet the future security challenges,” Sinha said.

The meeting also discussed the challenges of disinformation and propaganda and directed the officials to take firm action against those involved.

“Strict action must be taken against the elements exploiting cyber space to carry out their disruptive activities and disinformation campaign. We must aggressively counter fundamentalist and extremist ideas and take action as per the law,” the Lieutenant Governor said. (NVI)

Rajnath says ‘unparalleled opportunities’ in India, invites global community to take advantage

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Bengaluru, Feb 11 (NVI) Highlighting the “unparalleled opportunities” for collaboration offered by the thriving Indian aerospace and defence sectors, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today invited the global community to join India in the co-development and co-production of advanced systems.

He underlined the need for strong partnerships and innovative approaches while observing that the world order has become “more fragile” due to “increasing number of conflicts, new power plays, new methods & means of weaponisation, growing role of non-state actors and the emergence of disruptive technologies”.

He was addressing the Defence Ministers’ Conclave — ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)’ — organised as part of the 15th ‘Aero India’ here.

The event witnessed the participation of over 162 delegates from 81 countries, including 15 Defence Ministers, 11 Deputy Defence Ministers, 15 Permanent Secretaries, and 17 Service Chiefs.

“The distinction between border security and internal security is getting blurred as hybrid warfare has the ability to target critical national infrastructure even during peace time,” Singh said.

“Cyberspace and Outer space are challenging the established definition of sovereignty,” he added.

The Defence Minister said disruptive technologies such as Al, quantum technologies, hypersonic and directed energy are transforming the character of warfare, creating new vulnerabilities.

He stressed that these changes would have a deep impact on future warfare, forcing reassessment of the capabilities required to meet the challenges.

Singh said that international order and peace cannot be ensured from a position of weakness, and the Government of India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, “is leaving no stone unturned to transform defence capabilities.”

“We have put in place a conducive policy regime which encourages investment and production of an entire range of modern state-of-the-art land, maritime & air systems. India’s emergence as a global hub for R&D and innovation in defence is a testament to our capabilities and aspirations,” he said.

Singh said India possesses a vibrant defence start-up ecosystem which has the third largest number of unicorns in the world.

He highlighted the unparalleled opportunities for collaboration offered by the thriving Indian aerospace and defence sectors, supported by a significant R&D base and an entrepreneurial spirit.

“Our skill base enables us to produce at highly competitive costs. India is committed to share state-of-the-art defence equipment, hardware, services, and technology with our friends and partners,” he told the Defence Ministers and other foreign delegates.

He voiced India’s vision of peace, security and development, which is inclusive & collaborative, stating that it is guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dynamic five ‘S’ approach: Samman (Respect), Samvaad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace) and Samriddhi (Prosperity). These principles, he added, form the cornerstone of India’s international engagements and resonate strongly in today’s world, which is increasingly witnessing divisions.

Singh asserted that India has embraced the vision of  ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), focussing on key areas such as maritime security, economic development and blue economy.

He added that India’s collaborative efforts in combating non-traditional threats such as piracy, terrorism, illegal & unregulated fishing, and climate-related challenges underline the commitment for global cooperative action beyond IOR.

“Our commitment extends beyond IOR and serves as a blueprint for fostering global partnerships built on equality, trust, mutual respect, and adherence to international law,” he said.

The Defence Minister laid stress on the fact that India does not believe in transactional relationships or imposing solutions, and its approach emphasises on mutual capacity building, prosperity and security for the sovereignty of partner nations.

He stated that the aim is to empower its partners to chart their own paths, through support that aligns with their national priorities.

He described equitable partnership as the foundation of defence collaboration, whether it involves supplying Indian-made ships and aircraft, sharing expertise or conducting joint training programmes.

Singh highlighted that India’s position as a preferred partner for defence exports is reinforced by its adherence to quality, reliability, and commitment to the specific needs of partners.

“Our defence industry is well-equipped to meet diverse requirements from cutting-edge technology to cost-effective solutions. We take pride in offering customised support that strengthens the capabilities of our partner nations, enabling them to address their security challenges effectively,” he said.

He termed the BRIDGE initiative as the commitment to transforming dialogue into actionable outcomes, fostering partnerships that are resilient, adaptable, and forward-looking.

Challenges ranging from terrorism and cyber-crime to humanitarian crises and climate-induced disasters transcend borders, and they demand a united response.

During the meeting, the Defence Ministers lauded the efforts of Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence for organising Aero India and providing an opportunity to world-class manufacturers for showcasing latest innovations and technologies under one roof.

They appreciated the concept of BRIDGE which promises to work for peace and prosperity for all.

They expressed their willingness to work with India for their defence and other requirements, reaffirming their commitment to further deepen the ties with New Delhi.

The delegates conveyed their desire for Transfer of Technology and co-development & co-production of latest equipment and products, terming India as a partner in resilient supply chain.

They acknowledged India’s role in peacekeeping and its efforts towards upgrading the capabilities of many countries in various fields, including defence, health and education.

Shared security concerns also figured during the deliberations, with the Ministers unanimously agreeing to avoid armed conflict, describing it as anti-people and anti-development.

Various challenges such as illegal drug trafficking, illicit fishing, terrorism and cybercrime were discussed, with the nations pledging to fight together against these menaces.

They collectively agreed to move forward together with the idea of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, which was the theme of India’s G20 Presidency. (NVI)

Two Indian soldiers killed in blast near Akhnoor border in Jammu and Kashmir

Chhattisgarh
Representatinal Image of a blast

Jammu, Feb 11 (NVI) In a tragic incident, two Indian Army soldiers were killed today an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast near the border in Akhnoor district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The explosion took place in Laleali area of Aknoor sector of the border in Jammu district during patrolling by the troops, the Army said.

“Suspected Improvised Explosive Device blast reported in Laleali in Akhnoor sector during a fence patrol resulting in two fatalities,” the Army posted on X.

“Own troops are dominating the area and search operations are underway,” it added.

The Army paid tributes to the supreme sacrifice of the two gallant soldiers.

The IED is suspected to have been planted by terrorists or Pakistani troops. (NVI)

 

50 Million people afflicted with Epilepsy globally, 80% in low & middle-income nations: WHO

Representational image

New Delhi, Feb 11 (NVI) Around 50 million people worldwide are afflicted with Epilepsy, a chronic noncommunicable disease of the brain characterized by recurrent seizures, and close to 80 per cent of them live in low and middle-income countries, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

A great proportion of the causes of death related to epilepsy, especially in low- and middle-income countries, are potentially preventable, such as falls, drowning, burns and prolonged seizures, it says.

The seizures are brief episodes of involuntary movement that may involve a part of the body (partial) or the entire body (generalized) and are sometimes accompanied by loss of consciousness and control of bowel or bladder function.

Seizure episodes are a result of excessive electrical discharges in a group of brain cells and different parts of the brain can be the site of such discharges.

Seizures can vary from the briefest lapses of attention or muscle jerks to severe and prolonged convulsions. Seizures can also vary in frequency, from less than one per year to several per day.

One seizure does not signify epilepsy, the WHO says, while noting that up to 10 of people worldwide have one seizure during their lifetime.

“Epilepsy is defined as having two or more unprovoked seizures,” it says.

Epilepsy is one of the world’s oldest recognized conditions, with written records dating back to 4000 BCE. Fear, misunderstanding, discrimination and social stigma have surrounded epilepsy for centuries. This stigma continues in many countries today and can impact on the quality of life for people with the disease and their families.

Characteristics of seizures vary and depend on where in the brain the disturbance first starts, and how far it spreads, the WHO says.

Temporary symptoms occur, such as loss of awareness or consciousness, and disturbances of movement, sensation (including vision, hearing and taste), mood, or other cognitive functions.

“People with epilepsy tend to have more physical problems (such as fractures and bruising from injuries related to seizures), as well as higher rates of psychological conditions, including anxiety and depression.

“Similarly, the risk of premature death in people with epilepsy is up to three times higher than in the general population, with the highest rates of premature mortality found in low- and middle-income countries and in rural areas,” according to the global health body.

As Epilepsy affects around 50 million people worldwide, the estimated proportion of the general population with active epilepsy (i.e. continuing seizures or with the need for treatment) at a given time is between 4 and 10 per 1000 people, the WHO says.

In high-income countries, there are estimated to be 49 per 100 000 people diagnosed with epilepsy each year.

In low- and middle-income countries, this figure can be as high as 139 per 100 000.

This is likely due to the increased risk of endemic conditions such as malaria or neurocysticercosis; the higher incidence of road traffic injuries; birth-related injuries; and variations in medical infrastructure, the availability of preventive health programmes and accessible care.

Epilepsy is not contagious. Although many underlying disease mechanisms can lead to epilepsy, the cause of the disease is still unknown in about 50% of cases globally, the WHO says.

The causes of epilepsy are divided into the following categories: Structural, Genetic, Infectious, Metabolic, Immune and Unknown.

For example, brain damage from prenatal or perinatal causes (like loss of oxygen or trauma during birth, low birth weight); congenital abnormalities or genetic conditions with associated brain malformations; a severe head injury; a stroke that restricts the amount of oxygen to the brain; an infection of the brain such as meningitis, encephalitis or neurocysticercosis, certain genetic syndromes; and a brain tumour.

Seizures can be controlled. Up to 70% of people living with epilepsy could become seizure free with appropriate use of antiseizure medicines. Discontinuing antiseizure medicine can be considered after 2 years without seizures and should take into account relevant clinical, social and personal factors. A documented etiology of the seizure and an abnormal electroencephalography (EEG) pattern are the two most consistent predictors of seizure recurrence.

In low-income countries, about three quarters of people with epilepsy may not receive the treatment they need. This is called the “treatment gap”.

In many low- and middle-income countries, there is low availability of antiseizure medicines. A recent study found the average availability of generic antiseizure medicines in the public sector of low- and middle-income countries to be less than 50%. This may act as a barrier to accessing treatment.

It is possible to diagnose and treat most people with epilepsy at the primary health-care level without the use of sophisticated equipment.

WHO pilot projects have indicated that training primary health-care providers to diagnose and treat epilepsy can effectively reduce the epilepsy treatment gap.

Surgery might be beneficial to patients who respond poorly to drug treatments. (NVI)

India, UK sign pacts for next-generation weapons

UK-India
Representational Image

Benguluru, Feb 10 (NVI) Taking one more step towards strengthening their strategic partnership, the UK and India today formally launched Defence Partnership–India (DP-I) and signed several defence agreements at the ‘Aero India 2025’ here.

Announcing DP-I, British Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker opened the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion, establishing a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence that will serve as a one-stop shop for strengthening bilateral defence collaboration between the two countries, said a press statement.

“The UK and India have today agreed to expand their collaboration on next-generation weapons with Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL),” it said.

British company Thales and Indian Public Sector Undertaking Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) signed a contract that will deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), with an initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers to be delivered this year.

This contract represents an important next step for UK-Indian defence co-operation in the critical area of air defence, the statement said.

“It was a pleasure to visit India and continue to grow our already strong defence relationship. Our Defence Partnership and the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion will help strengthen our cooperation further, supporting economic growth in both our countries and India’s Atmanirbhar ambition,” said Lord  Coaker.

“This event showcases our collaboration in next generation capability, and the massive potential the UK and India can unlock by working together,” he added.

Following the signing of this initial LBRM contract, both Thales and BDL will further collaborate to produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM).

This develops and expands the partnership between Indian and British industry, laying the foundation for BDL and Indian industry to form an integral part of Thales’ global supply chain.

It will address mutual security concerns, create jobs in both countries and enable interoperability by both armies.

Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said: “India is taking significant steps in its journey to become Atmanirbhar in its defence capabilities. The UK is really looking forward to working with India as a partner of choice in supporting this ambition: collaborating on defence technologies lies at the heart of this. These are landmark agreements that support our economic growth and joint security.”

In a separate development, MBDA UK and BDL have been working together on the installation of a first of its kind Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad, arming current fleet of India’s fighter jets as well as exporting to the world.

On the maritime front, the UK and India have signed a Statement of Intent to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet.

As next steps, GE Vernova and BHEL are working to develop India’s first maritime Land Based Testing Facility to deliver LPD in the water by 2030.

The strengthening of UK-India partnership will directly support India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ ambition and deliver the UK Government’s growth agenda and Plan for Change. (NVI)

Aero India 2025: US pavilion to showcase latest defence systems

US Pavilion being inaugurated at 'Aero India 2025' in Benguluru today

Bengaluru, Feb 10 (NVI) As ‘Aero India 2025’ began here today, the US inaugurated ‘Partnership Pavilion’ at the venue, underscoring its commitment to deepening defense and security cooperation with India.

The United States is one of the largest international exhibitors at Aero India 2025, featuring leading American aerospace and defense firms showcasing next-generation aircraft, advanced avionics, unmanned systems, space technologies, and innovative defense capabilities, according to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Delhi.

Throughout the event, U.S. government and industry participants will highlight and promote technology sharing, joint ventures, and industrial partnerships that support the U.S-India Major Defense Partnership, it said.

The ‘Partnership Pavilion’ was inaugurated by Jorgan K. Andrews, Chargé d’Affaires (of Acting Ambassador) at the US Embassy in New Delhi.

At the inauguration ceremony, he said, “President Trump and Prime Minister Modi have talked about the need to deepen defense trade between our nations. I am happy to report that, from small start-ups to the robust defense public sector undertakings to the expanding private defense sector, bilateral defense trade is deepening.”

He added, “The U.S. defense industry has demonstrated its commitment to partnering with India to provide high-quality, technologically advanced defense equipment and systems that are considered the most operationally reliable in the world.”

Andrews led a high-level U.S. delegation, including Consul General Chris Hodges, U.S. Consulate General Chennai; Brigadier General Patrick Teague, Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché, U.S. Embassy New Delhi;  and Major General Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs.  (NVI)

IAF chief flies LCA Tejas along with Army Chief

Bengaluru, Feb 9 (NVI) In a unique development, India Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Marshal AP Singh today flew a sortie of indigenously-developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas here with Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi on board with him.

As both Chiefs soared together in the skies, they exemplified the deepening bond and collaboration between the Army and the Air Force, vital to achieving operational excellence, IAF spokesman said.

Today’s flight highlighted the enhanced cooperation between the Services, an essential pillar for modern warfare, the spokesman said.

“This unprecedented flight not only marks a personal milestone for the two Chiefs, who are coursemates, but also underscores the growing synergy and integration between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF),” said a statement by the IAF spokesman.

The flight is a powerful demonstration of India’s advancing defence capabilities, particularly in the realm of self-reliance, he said.

The Tejas, developed entirely within India, is a shining example of the nation’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence, the spokesman said.

The successful operation of this homegrown aircraft signifies the significant strides India has made in the field of indigenous defence aviation, he said.

The Indian Army’s role in the air domain is becoming increasingly pivotal, especially in tactical battle areas where advanced technologies such as helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and air defence systems play a crucial role.

“This historic moment serves as a clear indicator of the evolving landscape of warfare, where jointness and seamless integration between the Army and the Air Force will define success in the future,” the statement said.

“The ongoing decade of transformation (2023-2032) is reshaping the future of defence operations, and the period of 2024-2025 will be crucial for integrating cutting-edge technologies across all domains,” he said.

The sortie was carried out to coincide with ‘Aero India 2025′, the premier aerospace exhibition which provides an exceptional platform for defence industry leaders to engage, collaborate, and explore emerging technologies.

“It serves as an ideal venue for the Indian Armed Forces to forge stronger ties with the industry and acquire the best solutions to modernize and enhance their operational capabilities,’ the spokesman said. (NVI)

Balochistan: BLA claims killing of 15 Pakistani soldiers

Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) fighters at some undisclosed location. File Pic.

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Feb 9 (NVI): Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight claimed to have killed 15 personnel of the Pakistani army and injured several others in multiple attacks in Balochistan over the last three days.

Two Pakistani soldiers were killed and 3 were injured in an attack by BLA freedom fighters on a post of the occupying Pakistani army in the Rutenko area of Kharan last night, its spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said.

The freedom fighters fired several rounds from automatic and heavy weapons, including grenade launchers, at the enemy army, he said in the statement to NVI.

Earlier, on the night of February 7, the occupying Pakistani army surrounded the area at Khazeng in the Zorabad area of Nushki and attempted to arrest BLA commander Naqeeb Jamaldini, the spokesman said.

Naqeeb preferred to fight the occupying Pakistani army instead of surrendering, he said.

During this clash with the enemy, Naqeeb was injured but he continued to fight the enemy army for more than an hour in a wounded state.

During the intense gunfight, 13 enemy army personnel were killed and m4 were injured, Jeeyand Baloch said.

When the bullets ran out, Naqeeb chose to commit suicide, following the philosophy of the last bullet, rather than being captured by the enemy, he added.

He had been associated with the Baloch Liberation Army for the past eight months and was performing his duties as a citizen guerrilla against national slavery, the spokesman said.

Paying tributes to Naqeeb, Jeeyand said within a short period of time, the martyr dealt effective blows to the enemy army in the city of Nushki and its surroundings and carried out organizational responsibilities efficiently.

“He was a high example of courage and bravery. He was a staunch ally in intellectual and ideological terms,” the spokesman said.

He added that the Baloch Liberation Army pays tribute to Shaheed Sangat Naqeeb for this great sacrifice and reiterates its resolve that sooner or later the great mission of the martyrs will be completed. (NVI)

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