The Supreme Court recently denied bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, citing the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The court established a 'hierarchy of roles,' distinguishing 'ideological drivers' from 'local-level facilitators.' Under Section 43D(5) of the UAPA, bail is significantly harder to obtain compared to ordinary criminal law, as the court must be satisfied that the accusations are prima facie true. The judgment also expanded the reading of 'terrorist acts' under Section 15 to include road blockades (chakka jams) intended to disrupt essential services or threaten national security.
- Section 43D(5) of the UAPA creates a high threshold for bail, departing from the general principle of 'bail, not jail' found in ordinary criminal law.
- The court distinguished between 'ideological drivers' who devised strategies and 'derivative' participants who provided logistical support for protests.
- Section 15 of the UAPA defines 'terrorist acts' broadly, including actions intended to threaten the unity, integrity, or security of India.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS), a first-of-its-kind platform containing details of every bomb blast in India since 1999. Managed by the National Security Guard (NSG) in Manesar, Haryana, the NIDMS serves as a single-click window for investigative agencies to access IED-related data. The platform uses advanced AI-based software to analyze patterns, modus operandi, and signatures of explosive devices, helping establish inter-linkages between different incidents. This digital platform is expected to be a milestone in making the country safe from terrorism by enabling predictive analysis and organized data sharing.
- NIDMS is a centralized digital platform for the collection, integration, and secure sharing of IED-related data across India.
- The system helps establish 'signature links' between incidents based on location, explosive type, or circuit methods used.
- It is accessible to State police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and other investigating agencies for post-blast analysis.
The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) is scrutinized as a potential tool for "digital authoritarianism." Initially conceived after the 26/11 attacks to link intelligence databases, its scope has expanded to include the National Population Register (NPR) and facial recognition. Critics argue that NATGRID operates without a robust statutory framework or independent oversight, potentially violating the privacy doctrine established in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy case. The integration of various datasets allows for "entity resolution," which can profile individuals based on patterns rather than specific evidence, raising concerns about mass surveillance and the lack of judicial or parliamentary scrutiny.
- NATGRID was established to provide a centralized platform for 11 security agencies to access 21 categories of data from various providers.
- The project lacks a specific Act of Parliament and was created via executive order by the Cabinet Committee on Security.
- The integration with the NPR and the use of AI-driven 'entity resolution' raise significant concerns about mass surveillance and profiling.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned ICGS Samudra Pratap in Goa, the first of two indigenously designed Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs). Built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) with over 60% indigenous content, it is the largest ship in the Coast Guard's fleet. The vessel is equipped for oil spill response, fire-fighting, and maritime surveillance. It features advanced pollution detection systems and a helicopter hangar. Notably, the ship will have two women officers on board, reflecting the government's push for gender inclusion in frontline maritime operations.
- ICGS Samudra Pratap is India's first homegrown pollution control vessel designed to protect the marine environment.
- The ship enhances the Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) capability in oil spill response and maritime law enforcement.
- It was built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) with a high degree of indigenous components (over 60%).
Despite trade tensions and tariffs, the U.S.-India relationship remains resilient through deep-seated institutional collaboration in defense and technology. Key frameworks like the 2023 INDUS-X and the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) drive this 'parallel track' of cooperation. A significant 10-year defense framework was signed in October 2025. While political summits like the Quad might face delays, bureaucratic and military-to-military engagements, including joint exercises like Yudh Abhyas and Malabar, ensure continuity. This institutional depth helps the partnership survive short-term political volatility and divergent national interests.
- Defense and technology agreements form the backbone of the resilient U.S.-India strategic partnership.
- The 2023 India-U.S. Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) promotes co-production and co-development.
- Foundational agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA facilitate logistical support and information sharing.
The Supreme Court, while hearing bail pleas in the 2020 Delhi riots case, ruled that a 'terrorist act' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) includes the build-up and conspiracy, not just the final act of violence. A bench led by Justice Arvind Kumar emphasized that Section 15(1)(a) covers 'other means' like disrupting essential services or causing economic insecurity. The court introduced a 'hierarchy of participation' to grant bail to five accused while denying it to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, noting that UAPA bail conditions under Section 43D(5) are more stringent than ordinary laws.
- The Supreme Court ruled that conspiracy to commit a terrorist act is as punishable as the act itself under UAPA.
- Section 15 of UAPA is interpreted broadly to include economic destabilization and disruption of essential supplies.
- The 'hierarchy of participation' was used to distinguish between those who planned and those who merely participated in riots.
The Jammu & Kashmir administration has issued new directives to courier and parcel services to prevent the transport of narcotics. Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita-2023 and the NDPS Act, 1985, all courier employees must undergo police verification. Companies are required to maintain updated registers of verified staff and provide training to identify suspicious consignments. No operator is permitted to transport narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances without a valid permit under the NDPS Rules 1985 and the Drugs and Cosmetic Act 1940. Non-compliance may lead to criminal sanctions, fines, and license cancellation.
- Courier and logistics operators in Jammu must verify all employees through local police to prevent the misuse of services for drug smuggling.
- The order was issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, replacing older procedural laws.
- Operators are mandated to report suspicious consignments to the nearest police authority and maintain a register of all verified employees.
As 2026 begins, China faces a paradox of domestic economic challenges and assertive international projection. Despite a slowdown in growth (around 5%) and deflationary pressures, Beijing continues to project power through the 'Global South' and 'China Shock 2.0' in high-tech manufacturing. The article highlights the recalibration of U.S.-China relations under the 'America First' approach and the persistent friction in India-China relations. While some tactical stabilization occurred in 2025, core issues like the border dispute and China's support for Pakistan remain unresolved. India must navigate this by strengthening domestic capabilities and maintaining external balances while preparing for a long-term strategic competition.
- China's economic growth has slowed to approximately 5%, with persistent deflationary pressures and a struggling property sector weighing on confidence.
- The 'China Shock 2.0' involves aggressive exports of high-tech goods like electric vehicles and solar panels to compensate for weak domestic demand, causing global trade tensions.
- India-China relations saw tactical stabilization in 2025, but structural issues and border tensions, including the creation of 'buffer zones', continue to hinder full normalization.
The Indian Army has signed a ₹293-crore contract with NIBE Ltd. for the supply of 'Suryastra', a long-range multi-calibre rocket launcher system. Developed in collaboration with Israel's Elbit Systems, Suryastra is India's first domestically produced high-precision rocket launcher with strike capabilities of 150 km and 300 km. The system is designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously at varying ranges with a circular error probable (CEP) of less than five metres. This procurement, made under emergency powers, significantly enhances the Army's deep-strike artillery firepower and operational reach.
- Suryastra is India's first indigenously produced universal multi-calibre rocket launcher capable of surface-to-surface strikes.
- The system offers two strike ranges: 150 km and 300 km, with high precision (CEP < 5m).
- It is manufactured by NIBE Ltd. in collaboration with Israeli defence major Elbit Systems.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will be pivotal in the 'Sudarshan Chakra' initiative. This ambitious project, announced by PM Modi, aims to equip critical installations across India with advanced, indigenous air defence systems for comprehensive aerial protection over the next decade. The initiative focuses on strengthening preparedness against evolving aerial threats. The Minister highlighted the success of indigenous capabilities during Operation Sindoor and urged DRDO to focus on innovation, deep tech, and next-generation technologies to ensure future readiness in emerging warfare domains.
- The Sudarshan Chakra initiative aims to provide comprehensive aerial protection for critical national installations.
- DRDO is tasked with developing and deploying advanced indigenous air defence systems over the next ten years.
- The project emphasizes self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in defence and preparedness against modern aerial threats.
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out a salvo launch of two indigenous Pralay missiles from a single launcher. The test took place off the coast of Odisha at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. Both missiles followed their intended trajectories and met all mission objectives, as confirmed by tracking sensors and telemetry systems. These flight tests were part of user evaluation trials. The Pralay is a quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile designed for short-range precision strikes, significantly enhancing India's tactical battlefield capabilities and deterrence.
- DRDO conducted a successful salvo launch of two Pralay missiles from the same launcher on Wednesday.
- The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha.
- Pralay is an indigenous surface-to-surface missile developed for tactical precision strikes.
The Ministry of Defence has signed two major contracts totaling ₹4,666 crore to enhance the operational preparedness of the Indian Army and Navy. The first contract, worth ₹2,770 crore, involves the procurement of over 4.25 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines from Bharat Forge Ltd. and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. The second contract, valued at ₹1,896 crore, is for 48 Heavyweight Torpedoes for the Navy's Kalvari Class submarines, to be integrated by Italy's WASS Submarine Systems. These acquisitions align with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision and aim to modernize the armed forces with high-lethality weapons.
- The CQB Carbines are designed for close-combat operations, offering high rates of fire and enhanced lethality in confined spaces.
- The procurement of heavyweight torpedoes will significantly strengthen the Indian Navy's underwater warfare capabilities.
- These contracts promote the 'Make in India' initiative by involving domestic private sector players like Bharat Forge.
The INSV Kaundinya, an indigenously built traditional stitched sailing vessel, has set off from Porbandar, Gujarat, for its maiden overseas voyage to Muscat, Oman. This expedition is a significant effort by the Indian Navy to revive and celebrate India's ancient maritime heritage. The vessel was constructed using traditional shipbuilding techniques and natural materials, drawing inspiration from historical sources. The voyage aims to retrace ancient maritime routes that once connected India's western coast with the Gulf region, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Oman.
- Stitched shipbuilding is an ancient technique where planks are sewn together with ropes rather than using nails.
- The expedition highlights the deep historical and civilizational links between Gujarat and the Sultanate of Oman.
- The crew consists of four officers and 13 naval sailors, led by Commander Vikas Sheoran.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various capital acquisition proposals totaling ₹79,000 crore. These approvals cover critical equipment for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Key items include Loiter Munition Systems, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for Pinaka MRLS, and High-Frequency Software Defined Radios. The move is aimed at boosting the operational capabilities and indigenous manufacturing of the Indian Armed Forces. Additionally, DRDO successfully tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120), marking a major milestone in indigenous rocket artillery.
- The DAC approved the procurement of Loiter Munition Systems to enable precision strikes against tactical targets.
- For the Navy, approvals include Bollard Pull Tugs and High-Frequency Software Defined Radios for secure communication.
- The Air Force will receive AoN for Astra Mk-II missiles and Full Mission Simulators for the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas.
India's foreign policy in 2025 faced significant hurdles across economic, security, and strategic domains. Relations with the U.S. were strained by tariffs on key exports and tightened immigration rules. Despite initial resistance, India faced pressure to reduce oil imports from Russia. Regionally, instability in Bangladesh and Myanmar, alongside persistent tensions with China and Pakistan, tested India's diplomatic resilience. The 'Vishwaguru' narrative faced challenges as India navigated a world increasingly defined by transactional diplomacy and 'G-2' dynamics between the U.S. and China. The year underscored the limits of performative diplomacy in achieving tangible strategic gains.
- Economic ties with the U.S. suffered due to the withdrawal of GSP privileges and new tariffs on labor-intensive sectors.
- India's energy security strategy was pressured by U.S. sanctions on Russian oil and Iranian/Venezuelan imports.
- Regional challenges include the political transition in Bangladesh and the ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar.
The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has been linked to the National Population Register (NPR), providing investigative agencies real-time access to the family-wise details of 119 crore residents. This integration aims to bolster intelligence gathering and speed up criminal investigations through secure platforms. A key tool, 'Gandiva', utilizes facial recognition and entity resolution to identify suspects by matching images against databases like telecom KYC or driving licenses. While the government emphasizes security benefits, the move links the first step of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to a powerful surveillance infrastructure.
- NATGRID provides a secure platform for police and central agencies to access government and private databases.
- The NPR contains family-wise data of 119 crore residents, last updated in 2015.
- 'Gandiva' is an upgraded NATGRID tool used for facial recognition and entity resolution.
The Union Government has constituted the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) as a statutory body under the newly established Merchant Shipping Act 2025. Modelled after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, BoPS will function under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Its primary role is to provide regulatory oversight for the security of ships and port facilities, addressing challenges like maritime terrorism, smuggling, and cybersecurity. While intended to streamline coordination among agencies like the Coast Guard and Navy, the move has faced criticism from coastal states for centralizing authority over non-major (state-owned) ports.
- BoPS will enforce compliance with international standards like the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
- The CISF is designated as a recognized Security Organisation to conduct assessments and train personnel.
- The new legislation grants the Union government more authority over state-owned ports, raising concerns about 'maritime federalism.'
A U.S. Department of War report suggests that China is using the recent disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to reset its relationship with India. The goal is to ease tensions and prevent India from deepening its strategic alignment with the United States. While high-level engagements between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping have resumed, India remains cautious due to past actions and unresolved disputes. Meanwhile, China continues to expand its military footprint in South Asia, including potential bases in neighboring countries and supplying advanced fighter aircraft to Pakistan.
- The October 2024 agreement is seen as part of a broader Chinese strategy to manage border tensions while pursuing regional dominance.
- China's overtures are viewed through a lens of persistent mutual distrust and multiple strategic irritants.
- The U.S. report highlights China's exploration of base options in countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The Indian Navy has received 'Anjadip', the third of eight indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC). Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with L&T Shipyard, the vessel was delivered in Chennai. These 77-meter long ships are designed for coastal surveillance, mine-laying, and detecting underwater threats. With over 80% indigenous content, the project exemplifies the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision. Anjadip is named after an island off the Karwar coast and succeeds a decommissioned Petya-class corvette of the same name.
- Anjadip is the third of eight ASW SWC vessels being built for the Navy to safeguard maritime domains.
- The ship features over 80% indigenous content, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defense.
- It is designed for anti-submarine warfare, coastal surveillance, and mine-laying operations in shallow waters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to India for the annual summit highlights the resilience of the India-Russia relationship despite Western pressure and the Ukraine conflict. The joint statement reaffirmed the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,' marking the 25th anniversary of the Declaration of Strategic Partnership. Key areas of cooperation include defense (S-400, Brahmos, Sukhoi-30 MKI), energy (Russian oil), and new trade corridors like the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor. While India diversifies its defense imports, Russia remains a critical and reliable partner for high-end technology and joint manufacturing in the aerospace sector.
- The visit marked the 25th anniversary of the Declaration of Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.
- Defense remains a cornerstone, featuring S-400 systems, Brahmos missiles, and joint manufacturing of Sukhoi-30 MKI.
- New logistics routes like the Northern Sea Route and Chennai-Vladivostok corridor were prioritized for trade.
The Union Home Ministry has decided to significantly enhance the reservation for ex-Agniveers in Group C posts of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) from 10% to 50%. This move follows a previous decision to implement a 10% quota and includes age relaxations of three to five years. The recruitment rules for all CAPFs, including BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, and SSB, will be amended. While ex-Agniveers are exempted from physical tests, they must still pass written examinations. This policy shift aims to provide better career prospects for those completing four years of service under the Agnipath scheme.
- Reservation for ex-Agniveers in Group C posts of CAPFs has been hiked from 10% to 50%.
- Age relaxations of five years for the first batch and three years for subsequent batches will be provided.
- Ex-Agniveers are exempted from the Physical Standard Test and Physical Efficiency Test but must take written exams.
India aims to become a developed nation by 2047, a goal that necessitates robust strategic capabilities and a self-reliant defence industrial base. Historically, the sector faced restrictive policies and high import dependency. Recent reforms, including private sector participation, FDI liberalization, and the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board, have led to exponential growth in exports, now reaching over 80 countries. To sustain this, India needs to simplify regulatory procedures for MSMEs, overhaul financial frameworks, and shift the DRDO's focus toward frontier research while allowing the private sector to handle large-scale production and commercialization.
- India's defence exports have grown exponentially and now reach more than 80 countries globally.
- The corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board and liberalized FDI norms have been pivotal in sector reforms.
- A dedicated export facilitation agency is proposed to provide a single-window interface for global partners.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has announced DHRUV64, an indigenous 64-bit multi-core microprocessor developed by C-DAC under the Microprocessor Development Programme. Built on the open-source RISC-V instruction set architecture, DHRUV64 is designed for high-performance applications in telecommunications, industrial control, and automotive sectors. This development is a significant step toward India's goal of self-reliance in semiconductor technology, reducing dependence on imported proprietary chips. The chip is part of the broader 'Chips to Startup' (C2S) initiative.
- DHRUV64 is a 64-bit, dual-core processor running at 1 GHz, developed by C-DAC.
- It uses the RISC-V architecture, which is open-source and allows for royalty-free chip design.
- The processor is intended for 'embedded deployment' in sectors like networking and industrial automation.
An Indian Army contingent has departed for the United Arab Emirates to participate in the second edition of the joint military exercise 'DESERT CYCLONE-II'. Scheduled from December 18 to 30 in Abu Dhabi, the exercise involves 45 personnel from India's Mechanised Infantry Regiment and a similar contingent from the UAE's 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion. The primary objective is to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense cooperation between the land forces of both nations. This exercise underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and the UAE in the defense sector.
- Desert Cyclone-II is a bilateral joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces.
- The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability in desert warfare and mechanized operations.
- It reflects the deepening defense and security ties between India and the United Arab Emirates.