A hydrogen train trial will be held on the 90 km long Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana in December 2024. This will be the first train in India that is hydrogen-powered. Indian Railways is set to revolutionise transportation by launching it.
The Jind-Sonipat route was selected for the trial due to its moderate traffic and suitable infrastructure. This ensures smooth evaluation of train performance, safety and efficiency. Successful testing will pave the way for hydrogen technology to be used on other non-electrified routes.
Benefits of the Hydrogen train
There are various benefits of the hydrogen train. Following are a few of the benefits:-
1 Eco-friendly
Hydrogen train is a big step towards sustainable travel. This is an eco-friendly train. This test reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and reflects its dedication to combat climate change.
This hydrogen-powered train is equipped with advanced fuel cells that generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Thus the process releases only water vapour as a byproduct, making it a zero-emission transportation solution. This train is not only environmentally friendly but is also quieter and more energy-efficient than diesel trains.
This train emits zero greenhouse gases, thereby reducing pollution. Furthermore, Hydrogen fuel cells are quieter than diesel engines, reducing noise pollution, especially in urban areas.
2 Cost-effective:
Indian Railways expansion plans to introduce 35 hydrogen-powered trains by 2025. It will focus on routes currently dependent on diesel engines. Each train is estimated to cost ₹80 crore. Moreover, an additional ₹70 crore is required for the creation of infrastructure. Above all as the production of hydrogen fuel increases, the cost is expected to decrease.
Furthermore, these trains can run on non-electrified routes, eliminating the need for costly electrification projects.
3 Energy efficiency
Hydrogen can act as a storage medium for excess renewable energy, helping to stabilize energy grids and promote energy independence. Furthermore, a Hydrogen train is quieter and uses energy more efficiently. Moreover, transitioning to hydrogen helps diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on oil and gas.
A Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile was successfully tested in a field firing range located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. On Tuesday, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) successfully test-fired the indigenously developed Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM).
Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile capable of hitting tanks
A Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile can be easily carried anywhere. Moreover, It is capable of targeting enemy tanks from anywhere. MPATGM is a fire control system with aiming. Furthermore, it is suitable for both day and night operations. A Defense Ministry official said that the trial of its tandem warhead system has been completed. Moreover, it was found to be capable of defeating modern armour-protected tanks. Even before this, the system was tested in various areas.
According to sources, this Indigenous man-portable anti-tank guided missile is equipped with a tandem high explosive anti-tank weapon. Moreover, it can pierce armoured vehicles with state-of-the-art explosive reactive armour. In such a situation, no tank or armoured vehicle can escape from it during the war.
The man-portable anti-tank guided missile system consists of a missile, launcher, target acquisition system and a fire control unit. DRDO officials said the warhead flight trials had been successfully conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. Moreover, the performance of the missile and the warhead is “remarkable”.
Types of anti-tank missiles
Anti-rank missiles are designed to target and destroy enemy tanks and armoured vehicles. Moreover, they come in various types. Furthermore, each has unique features and capabilities. Here are some common types:
Description: These are shoulder-fired or tripod-mounted missiles that can be carried and operated by a single soldier. They are often equipped with guidance systems such as infrared homing, laser guidance, or wire-guidance, allowing them to hit targets from long distances.
Indian man-portable anti-tank guided missile
An example of an Indian man-portable anti-tank missile is the DRDO MPATGM.
DRDO MPATGM
Developer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India.
Lightweight and can be carried by individual soldiers.
Moreover, it is designed to engage and destroy modern armoured tanks with Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA).
Furthermore, the missile has a top-attack and direct-attack mode, providing flexibility in engaging different types of targets.
The MPATGM is intended to replace the older 2nd generation Milan and Konkurs ATGMs currently in service with the Indian Army.
2. Vehicle-mounted anti-tank Guided Missiles
Examples: TOW (U.S.), Kornet (Russia), Hellfire (U.S.). Additionally, Nag (India) is the perfect example.
Description: These missiles are mounted on vehicles like armoured personnel carriers (APCs), helicopters, or drones. They offer greater range and power than man-portable systems and are used for both offensive and defensive purposes.
3. Fire-and-Forget Missiles
Examples: FGM-148 Javelin (U.S.), Spike-LR (Israel) and HELINA (Helicopter-launched Nag) missile, also known as Dhruvastra(India).
Description: These missiles lock onto their target before launch and then guide themselves, allowing the operator to take cover or move after firing. Moreover, they often use infrared or optical guidance systems.
4. Wire-Guided Missiles
Examples: BGM-71 TOW (U.S.), MILAN (France/Germany) and MILAN 2T (India).
Description: These missiles are guided by a wire that unspools behind the missile as it travels. The operator can steer the missile toward the target by adjusting the controls during flight.
Description: These missiles are guided to their target by a laser beam. Furthermore, the laser designator, which can be handheld, vehicle-mounted, or airborne, illuminates the target, and the missile follows the reflected laser energy.
6. Infrared-Guided Missiles
Examples: Javelin (U.S.), Spike (Israel) and Nag (India).
Description: These missiles use infrared sensors to detect the heat signature of a target. Hence allowing them to home in on the target’s engine or exhaust.
7. Top-Attack Missiles
Examples: Javelin (U.S.), Spike (Israel) and Nag (India).
Description: Designed to strike the more vulnerable upper surfaces of a tank, these missiles can fly over the target and then dive down onto it, bypassing the heavily armoured front and sides.
8. Kinetic Energy Penetrators
Examples: M829 series (U.S.), APFSDS (various). India also has FSAPDS (Fin-Stabilized Armor-Piercing Discarding Sabot).
Description: While not a missile, kinetic energy penetrators are a type of anti-tank round used in tank guns and some missile systems. They rely on high velocity to penetrate armor, rather than explosives.
Each of these types is designed for specific tactical scenarios, with varying ranges, guidance systems, and methods of attack. Furthermore, the DRDO (India) has designed all types of anti-tank missiles.
Manu Bhaker won the first medal for Bharat in the Paris Olympics. She has won the bronze medal in women’s 10-meter air pistol shooting, ending India’s 12-year medal drought in Olympic shooting. This is also Bharat’s first medal, and we hope more medals in the Paris Olympics. Moreover, she becomes the 1st woman to win a medal in shooting for India.
Manu Bhaker had qualified for the final in this event on 27 July. On Sunday, she scored 221.7 points in the final match. The gold and silver medals of this event went to Korea. Korean player Oh Ye Jin won the gold medal with 243.2 points. Korea’s second player Kim Yeji managed to win the silver medal with 241.3 points.
At the age of 19, Manu Bhaker participated in the Tokyo Olympics. Although she remained empty-handed there. Moreover, India’s overall performance in shooting in the Tokyo Olympics was also poor. But she made a brilliant comeback in the Paris Olympics and won the bronze medal. This is also India’s first medal in women’s shooting. Manu Bhaker is also the first Indian shooter to win a gold medal at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires 2018. She has also previously won the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games titles.
Manu Bhaker missed the silver medal.
Manu Bhaker had once secured the second position by defeating Korea’s Kim Yeji. Manu’s last shot hit the target of 10.3, while Korea’s Kim Yeji targeted 10.5 and went ahead of Manu. Kim got two more shots to decide the gold, but she could not defeat her compatriot Oh Ye Jin and won the silver.
Manu Bhaker Biography
Even as a teenager, Manu Bhaker quickly rose through the ranks to become India’s latest shooting star.
Manu Bhaker was born in Jhajjar, Haryana, a state known for its boxers and wrestlers. She was involved in various sports like tennis, skating, and boxing during her school days. Additionally, she excelled in a form of martial arts called ‘thang ta’ and won medals at the national level.
At the age of 14, right after the conclusion of the 2016 Rio Olympics, she impulsively ventured into the world of shooting and found love for the sport. Notably, within a week of her newfound passion, Manu asked her father to acquire a sports shooting pistol for her to further develop her skills.
Her ever-supportive father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, bought her a gun. This decision made Manu Bhaker an Olympian.
At the 2017 national shooting championships, Manu stunned Olympian and former world No. 1 Heena Sidhu by shooting a record score of 242.3 to erase Sidhu’s mark and win the 10m Air Pistol final.
She then added a silver medal at the 2017 Asian Junior Championships and the following year, Manu announced her arrival on a big stage in style.
Active on Social Media
Manu is also very active on social media sites. Manu Bhaker’s Instagram account is followed by 390K followers. Furthermore, She has 185.4 K followers on X.
Aviation Minister Shri Kinjrapu Rammohan Naidu has announced the implementation of a uniform IGST rate of 5% on all aircraft and aircraft engine parts. This will be effective from today,15th July 2024. This decision represents a major milestone for the domestic Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry. It intends to establish India as a global aviation hub.
Commenting on this development, Shri Naidu said, “The introduction of a uniform 5% IGST rate on MRO items is a major boost for the aviation sector.” Previously, the varied GST rates of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% on aircraft components created challenges. The varied taxes include an inverted duty structure and GST accumulation in MRO accounts. This new policy removes inequalities, simplifies the tax system, and promotes growth in the MRO industry.
The Union Minister emphasized Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership in making the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative possible. PM’s support has been crucial in driving forward the policy to transform India into a leading aviation hub.
The Union Minister praised the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Finance, and other stakeholders for their diligent work. This helped in achieving the policy change recommended by the GST Council during its 53rd meeting on June 22, 2024. The new uniform 5% IGST rate is designed to lower operational costs, address tax credit issues, and attract investment.
Target for the Aviation Industry
Shri Rammohan Naidu highlighted the prospects, saying, “Our vision is to turn India into a leading aviation hub.” Moreover, the Indian MRO industry is projected to reach a value of $4 billion by the year 2030. Furthermore, this policy change is a crucial step toward establishing a robust MRO services ecosystem, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth.
The ministry is confident that this action will greatly improve the competitiveness of the Indian MRO sector. It will also encourage innovation and efficiency, and establish a strong and effective aviation industry.
What is Aviation Meaning
Aviation refers to the activities surrounding mechanical flight and the aircraft industry. It encompasses a wide range of aspects, including:
Aircraft: This covers all types of flying machines, from fixed-wing aeroplanes and helicopters to lighter-than-air vehicles like hot air balloons and airships.
Flight Operations: This involves the entire process of operating an aircraft, from pre-flight checks and air traffic control to take-off, landing, and navigation.
Airports and Air Traffic Control: Airports provide the infrastructure for take-off, landing, and maintenance of aircraft, while Air Traffic Control ensures the safe and orderly flow of air traffic.
Manufacturing and Design: The aviation industry involves a complex network of companies that design, develop, manufacture, and maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and other technologies.
Regulation and Safety: Government agencies and international organizations set and enforce safety regulations to ensure the safe operation of aircraft.
General: This refers to all non-commercial flying activities, such as private flying, recreational flying, airshows, and flight training.
Aviation has revolutionized transportation, making it possible to travel long distances quickly and efficiently. It has also played a significant role in global trade, military operations, and scientific research.
Proposal to replace DGCA with CAA
Currently, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the Indian government’s regulatory body for civil aviation. Here’s a summary of its functions:
Ensures Safety: The primary focus of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation is safety. Moreover, it enforces regulations, maintains airworthiness standards for aircraft, and investigates accidents and incidents.
Issues Licenses: Pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers and flight engineers all require licenses issued by the DGCA.
Regulation of Air Transport: The DGCA regulates air transport services within, to and from India. Furthermore, this includes economic regulations and setting airfare standards.
Coordinates with ICAO: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation works alongside the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure compliance with international safety standards.
The DGCA is headquartered in New Delhi and you can find more information on their official website. There’s also a proposal to replace the DGCA with a new Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) but currently, the DGCA remains the active regulatory body.
3 New criminal laws are being implemented in India from midnight as soon as July 1st started. 3 new criminal laws are Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) 2023 and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. Thus it is the end of the rules made in the British era named the Indian Penal Code.
3 New criminal laws for crime and justice came into force in the country after midnight on Sunday i.e. from the 1st of July 2024. Now FIRs of criminal incidents will be registered as per the new law and the cases will also be conducted based on the new law. Difficulties will increase for serious criminals. It will not be easy for them to influence the case by threatening or luring the victim and witnesses or to reach an out-of-court settlement. Furthermore, there will be video recordings at every step of the police investigation. Moreover, there will be an obligation to submit strong scientific evidence, which cannot be refuted in court.
Preparation to implement 3 new criminal laws
The Central Government has made extensive preparations for implementing the 3 new criminal laws by holding meetings with various Central Ministries, State/UT Chief Secretaries and Police Chiefs. The concerned officers have been given training. Moreover, measures have been taken to develop technology and adapt it to judicial officers. Many further programs are also proposed. Let’s take a look at the government’s preparations.
Academic preparation for 3 new criminal laws
The Bar Council of India has directed to include the new laws in the curriculum of universities and legal education centres from the 2024-25 academic year. A module will also be made for school education.
Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie has trained IAS/IPS/Judicial officers and officers of the Crime Records Bureau, Forensic Laboratories etc.
Ministries of Women and Child Development, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj organized webinars on the new laws for grassroots-level workers. About 90 lakh people participated in it.
Technical preparation
National Crime Records Bureau has made 23 improvements in the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNAS) application to facilitate technical compatibility. This also includes filing an FIR.
Technical assistance is being provided to States/UTs and support teams and call centers are being set up for review and assistance. On March 14, a mobile web application, Compendium of NCRB Criminal Laws, was launched.
National Informatics Center has developed applications such as e-Sakshya, Nyayashruti and e-Summon to facilitate videography/photography of crime scenes, judicial hearings and delivery of court summons electronically.
Police training
The Bureau of Police Research and Development has developed 13 training modules. These modules are for capacity building of police, prisons, prosecutors, judicial officers, forensic experts and central police organizations.
Legal matters
The Department of Legal Affairs has organized five conferences with representatives from different sectors. These included judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, senior police personnel and domain experts.
Comprehensive guidance will also be provided to civil service officers on the IGOT karmayogi online platform. A curated program has also been introduced on this.
Convenience of Online Summons-Testimony by 3 new criminal laws
In the new law, maximum facilities have been given to witnesses and plaintiffs. If the witness is not able to get the information, then the summons and warrant received on WhatsApp will also be considered as information.
If the witness is unable to come due to some reason, he can give his testimony online from the video conferencing centre of the court of the district in which he is present.
It will be difficult to reach a compromise by threatening witnesses.
Trial of a new case under the new laws
The cases registered according to the new law will also be tried under the new law. The cases which are filed under the old law before midnight on 30th June trial will be conducted according to the old law only.
Main changes
1 Indian Penal Code (IPC) will now be the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). There were 511 sections in IPC but now there are 358 sections in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The order of the streams has also been changed.
2 CRPC (Criminal Procedure Code) will now be called the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). There were 484 sections in CrPC. Now there are 531 sections in the new law.
3 The Indian Evidence Act of 1872 will now be known as the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023. There were 167 provisions in the old law. Now there are 170 in the new one. The importance of digital evidence has been increased.
4 In case of rape, death or disability of the victim, the accused will get capital punishment.
5 Life imprisonment or death penalty for a second murder to a person previously convicted of murder.
6 Only the woman magistrate will record the statement of the rape-molestation victim.
7 In the absence of a female magistrate, the presence of a female employee is necessary.
8 A case of any incident can be registered in any police station.
9 Report will have to be filed on the petition sent online or on WhatsApp.
10 Investigations into crimes against women and children will have to be completed within two months. Also now the facility to take PCR within 40 days of going to jail has been fixed.
An unknown man has spread an atmosphere of fear among the terrorists living in Pakistan who are enemies of India. Many terrorists living freely in Pakistan are enemies of India. These enemies have been living in fear for the last 2 years. The reason for this is that an unknown man is selectively killing these enemies of India living in Pakistan. From time to time, cases of unknown assailants killing these terrorists come to light in Pakistan.
There was a time when anti-India terrorists in Pakistan used to threaten India openly, hold rallies and live comfortably. But now those terrorists are afraid to even step out of their homes because they fear that they too may be targeted. People like militants and key figures in terror organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba have been targeted primarily living in Pakistan.
There have been several incidents in the past year where enemies of India, particularly those involved in terrorist activities, have been killed by unknown gunmen in neighbouring countries. These killings have been shrouded in mystery, with no one officially claiming responsibility.
The killings are attributed to “unknown gunmen” in official reports, leading to speculation about India’s involvement but with no concrete evidence. Recently another enemy of India has met its end in Pakistan.
An unknown man killed Mohammad Qari
Recently, the dreaded terrorist Mohammad Qari Idrees has died in Pakistan. Idris was found dead in suspicious condition in Mirpur, Pakistan. Idris was the Mirpur in-charge for the terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba and its other terrorist organizations The Resistance Force and People’s Anti-Fascist Front. Idris’s death is described as murder and an unknown man is said to be behind it.
Till now many terrorists have been made victims of unknown attackers in Pakistan. Pakistan blames India for saying that this unknown man has connections with India. This unknown attacker is killing the enemies of India at different places in Pakistan and due to this there is an atmosphere of fear among the terrorists living in Pakistan.
Ajit Doval has been appointed to the post of National Security Advisor (NSA) of the country for the third time. The Modi government at the Center has once again appointed Ajit Doval. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has issued a letter related to this. At the same time, PK Mishra will remain Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Modi. Thus PM Modi retained his team again.
Ajit Doval is a counter-terrorism expert
Ajit Doval, a 1968 batch IPS officer, brings an excellent combination of diplomatic thinking and operational planning to the Prime Minister. He is a renowned counter-terrorism expert. Along with this, he is also considered an expert on nuclear issues.
Ajit Doval has been working as the country’s NSA for the last 10 years. Be it the surgical strike in Uri or killing terrorists by entering Pakistan, all this work was done while Ajit Doval was NSA.
The post of NSA is at the level of Cabinet Minister. NSA reports directly to the Prime Minister and does not report to the Defense Minister or the Home Minister. According to the circular, his tenure will be coterminous with the tenure of the Prime Minister or his tenure can be terminated earlier under any other order.
Doval was made NSA on May 30, 2014, during the first term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He replaced former Indian Foreign Service officer Shiv Shankar Menon. Doval was re-appointed to this post in the second Modi government in 2019.
Doval has also been the head of the IB
Ajit Doval is a prominent Indian civil servant and intelligence officer who has played a key role in shaping India’s national security policy. Doval has had a distinguished career in intelligence and national security. Mr Doval, a Kerala cadre police officer, has also been the chief of the National Intelligence Bureau.
Ajit Doval Biography
Ajit Doval was born on January 20, 1945, in Ghiri Banelsyun, Pauri Garhwal, in what is now Uttarakhand.
Early Life and Education
Ajit Doval was born into a Garhwali family and attended King George’s Royal Indian Military School (now Rashtriya Military School) in Ajmer. Doval has received higher education from Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Agra. He later graduated with a Master’s degree in Economics from Agra University in 1967.
Career in the Indian Police Service
Doval joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968, starting his career in the Kerala cadre. His early assignments included stints in various districts, where he quickly gained a reputation for his intelligence acumen and operational capabilities.
Role of Ajit Doval in Intelligence
Doval’s career took a significant turn when he joined the Intelligence Bureau (IB), India’s domestic intelligence agency. Over the years, he became known for his undercover operations and his ability to gather critical intelligence. Some of his notable achievements include:
Undercover Operations: Doval spent seven years in Pakistan posing as a Pakistani national, gathering crucial intelligence. His work in Pakistan is often cited as one of the most significant contributions to Indian intelligence operations.
Handling Insurgencies: He played a pivotal role in handling insurgencies in the North-East and Punjab. His efforts in the Mizoram insurgency are particularly noteworthy, where he negotiated a peaceful settlement.
Operation Black Thunder: Doval was instrumental in the success of Operation Black Thunder in 1988, which aimed to flush out militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
National Security Advisor
In 2005, Ajit Doval retired as the Director of the Intelligence Bureau. However, his retirement from active service did not mark the end of his contribution to national security. In 2014, he was appointed as the National Security Advisor (NSA) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Contributions as NSA
As NSA, Doval has been central to several key national security decisions and initiatives:
Surgical Strikes: He is credited with planning and overseeing the 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, in response to terrorist attacks on Indian soil.
Doklam Standoff: Doval played a crucial role in managing the 2017 Doklam standoff between India and China, ensuring a peaceful resolution without escalation.
Balakot Airstrikes: In 2019, following the Pulwama attack, Doval was instrumental in planning the Balakot airstrikes against terrorist camps in Pakistan.
Internal Security: Under his tenure, there have been significant moves to strengthen internal security mechanisms, including the reorganization of the National Security Council Secretariat and initiatives to counter terrorism and insurgency.
Legacy and Recognition
Ajit Doval is often referred to as India’s “James Bond” due to his undercover work and significant contributions to the nation’s security. He has received numerous awards and honours, including the Kirti Chakra, a military decoration awarded for valour, courageous action, or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield.
Ajit Doval Personal Life
Doval is known for his low-profile, no-nonsense approach to his work. Despite his high-ranking position and influence, he maintains a reserved and disciplined personal life.
Conclusion
Ajit Doval’s career is marked by his unwavering dedication to India’s national security. Moreover, his strategic acumen, operational expertise, and ability to handle complex security challenges have made him one of the most respected figures in Indian intelligence and national security circles.
PK Mishra will remain the Principal Secretary
PK Mishra is a 1972 batch IPS officer. He has been working with Prime Minister Modi as Principal Secretary for the last decade. Before this, he was in the post of Agriculture Secretary, at the Government of India. PM Modi appointed him as his Principal Secretary after he retired from that post.
The exit polls have predicted that the BJP and its led NDA will come to power for the third consecutive time with an overwhelming majority. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Voting ends, speculation begins. Now eyes are on June 4th. In the poll of polls, NDA got 366 seats, and India got 144 seats. BJP can set a milestone with 27% votes in Kerala.
The voting process for the eighteenth Lok Sabha, which lasted for about two and a half months, ended on Saturday with the seventh and final voting phase. In this phase, on average, more than 61% of voting took place on 57 seats in eight states and union territories.
Along with this, the speculation market became heated regarding the results of the exit polls conducted after the voting. Most of the exit polls have predicted BJP and its led NDA coming to power for the third consecutive time with an overwhelming majority. That means once again there are indications of the Modi government. The India group of Congress and its allies is not visible anywhere in the contest. However, it is also true that exit polls have not always proved correct. Now the eyes of the country are fixed on June 4 when the actual results will be revealed after the counting of votes.
NDA is likely to get 371 to 401 seats according to the exit polls
In the exit polls of both Today’s Chanakya and India TV, NDA is expected to get more than 400 seats as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s estimate. Today’s Chanakya has predicted 400 seats for NDA. While India TV has predicted NDA to get 371 to 401 seats. Exit polls of both of them have predicted that India Group will get 107 and 109 to 139 seats respectively. Others are said to get 36 and 28 to 38 seats respectively.
Poll of Polls Tally
Survey Agency
NDA
INDIA
Others
Axis My India
361-401
131-166
8-10
CVoter
353-383
152-182
4-12
Today’s Chankaya
385-415
96-118
27-45
CNX
371-401
109-139
28-38
ETG
358
132
58
Danik Bhaskar
285-350
145-201
33-49
Jan Ki Baat
362-392
141-161
10-20
Matrize
353-368
118-133
43-48
P-Marq
359
154
30
Signs of shock in Hindi-speaking states for NDA
However, some exit polls indicate setbacks in Hindi-speaking states like Bihar, Rajasthan and Haryana. BJP seems to be making good inroads in West Bengal. According to Axis-My India, the BJP seems to be getting a 27% vote share in Kerala. This could be a milestone for the right-wing BJP in this leftist state. Even in Tamil Nadu, BJP can open its account with one or two seats. NDA seems to be in a position to complete a sweep in Karnataka.
JP Nadda and Mallikarjun made claims
BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda claimed after the completion of voting that his party would win more than 370 seats. He said that he is confident that BJP will win more than 370 seats in this election and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will become the Prime Minister of the country for the third time.
On the other hand, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed after the India Group meeting that his alliance would win more than 295 seats. Congress media in-charge Jairam Ramesh said on the prediction of exit polls, “The person who has to exit on June 4 has managed the exit polls”.
Agniveers are soldiers, leaders, innovators and defenders of national sovereignty. Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan said this while interacting with Agniveers. On May 20, 2024, he interacted with Agniveers soldiers undergoing training at the Maratha Regimental Center and Pilot Training School (ATS) in Belagavi.
CDS in the Maratha Regiment Center
The CDS of the Maratha Regiment Center highlighted the noble purpose of military service and its crucial role in the military framework and commended Agniveers for choosing the Armed Forces. Moreover, he explained that this demonstrated their extraordinary responsibility to the country.
General Anil Chauhan acknowledged the personal challenges faced by soldiers and their families. Moreover, he highlighted the hardships they had to endure while fighting in challenging environments. Furthermore, he assured that despite the challenges faced, the Agniveers found their journey very rewarding, The steps each person takes to achieve their personal goals lead to growth and a deep sense of pride in serving our country.
CDS explains the evolving nature of warfare and highlights the complexity and unpredictability of future conflicts. It may include cyberwarfare, artificial intelligence and asymmetric threats. Furthermore, he said these are now an integral part of the battlefield.
CDS visited the ATS in Belagavi
During the visit to the ATS in Belagavi, the CDS visited the training facility. Moreover, he gained an in-depth understanding of the Agniveervayu training of the IAF. He interacted with the third batch of Agniveers Vayu cadets undergoing training as per the revised induction model to be launched by the Ministry of Defense in 2022. Furthermore, he urged them to focus on training them to become skilled soldiers, ready to face the challenges of future wars.
CDS also emphasizes to cadets that learning is a lifelong process, especially in the evolving and dynamic field of warfare, which is technology-intensive and requires a deep sense of responsibility for the continuous improvement of capabilities. Moreover, he also talked about technology integration and continuous learning. Furthermore, he clarified the importance of staying updated and being innovative in the fight.
He advised the trainees to always cultivate the values of integrity, fitness, discipline and team spirit in the pursuit of professional excellence.
Highlighting the importance of training, the CDS commended the efforts of the ATS and Maratha Regiment Center training personnel and urged them to continue striving for excellence to enhance the nation’s operational strength.
Who are Agniveers
Agniveers are recruited by the government of India in all three divisions ie Army, Navy and Airforce of the defence sector under the Agneepath Scheme. Any Indian citizen between the ages of 17.5 to 21 years can join as Agniveers. Girls can also join as Agniveers.
The Agneepath scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet in June 2022 and implemented in September 2022. Additionally, it is a new military rank.
Agniveers salary and benefits
– Recruited Agniveer will start with a monthly package of Rs 30000. Additionally, they will get allowances and benefits provided to the regular defence forces.
– The tenure of Agniveers is for four years only.
– Agniveers will get a fixed yearly increment of 10%
– Agniveers will get 30 days’ leave in a year. Sick leave will be granted on medical advice. Grant of leave is subject to conditions and emergencies.
– Agniveers will get all the medical facilities at military hospitals.
– Agniveers are covered by the life insurance schemes.
– An Agniveer Corpus Fund will be created and managed by the Ministry of Defence. In this fund, an Agniveer has to contribute 30% of the monthly package. Additionally, the same amount will be contributed by the Government to secure the future of an Agniveer after his services. Furthermore, this corpus fund is Income tax exempted.
Benefits for Agniveers
1 Proud service
Every citizen of India has the ambition to join the armed forces and serve the nation with the enthusiasm of doing or dying for the nation.
We are proud of our armed forces and salute our brave soldiers.
Youth have the opportunities to make their parents, relatives, friends and acquaints feel pride and gain self-pride.
2 Emoluments and facilities
Compensations for serving the nation at a very young age are fairly good enough.
You can save a good amount of money after four years of service which is a dream for many young boys who are struggling to find a job at the age of 25-30 years after completing their studies.
3 Opportunities Ahead for Agniveers
After serving for four years you have multiple opportunities.
a) Get direct recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces (25% of Agniveers will be directly selected.)
b) Central and a few states have declared priority for Agniveer in recruiting in other forces.
c) A lot of private organisations have shown their concern in selecting their employees from the Agniveers.
d) You can start your business with your savings and bank loans. Banks have agreed to give loans to the Agniveers.
4 Skill Development
You are bound to develop your skills during the training and services at no extra cost.
Many youths pay for skill development courses to progress in life. These skills will help you make your future in a particular field.
5 Personality Development
Disciplined life in the armed forces and many other activities help you to develop your personality.
You will come out as a new person in you who is not afraid of any challenges of life.
Drawbacks of Becoming Agniveers
I don’t think any disadvantages still a few worries may come to your mind.
1 Daring Job of Agniveers
It’s a hard job. You have to always be ready to sacrifice your life for the nation.
If you are not daring, not fulfilled with patriotic feelings this job is not for you.
2 Short Tenure
If you are looking for a permanent government job then you should wait and prepare yourself for such jobs which may or may not be announced in the coming years.
By that time you may cross the age limit. Although many states may offer age-limit relaxation for Agniveers.
The short tenure of the Agniveers is a problematic issue for those who are looking for a permanent government job.
3 Rehabilitate
After four years of your services, you have reestablished yourself and your career.
You have to mentally prepare yourself for life lifelong career.
Probably you have to join some courses or recontinue your higher studies to make your career.
SUM UP
If you are young, patriotic, energetic, physically and mentally fit, daring and believe in yourself then the Agneepath scheme is for you.
If you are a little bit confused and still not clear your doubts it is advisable not to apply at least in the Agneepath scheme.
India spent 83.6 billion dollars in the year 2023 and thus became the fourth-largest country in the world in terms of military expenditure. This was 4.2 % more than in 2022. The five highest spending countries in 2022 remain in the same position in 2023. Russia is at number three in this. A total of 10 countries have spent lavishly on military weapons. America is on top of this.
Sweden’s Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has revealed this in a report released on Monday. According to the report, global military spending reached $2443 billion in 2023. As compared to the year 2022 it is an increase of 6.8%. It was $22.4 trillion in 2022. According to the report, the amount of money that various countries in the world are currently spending on arms, ammunition and other military equipment has never happened before. According to the report, this is the biggest increase in a year since 2009 and the ninth consecutive year when spending has increased.
America is on top and China is on second
America still tops the list of countries with the highest military spending. In 2023, America spent $916 billion on defence, which is more than 37% of the total worldwide expenditure. In second place is China, whose expenditure is about one-third of America. It spent $296 billion, which is 12% of its total expenditure. This is 6% more than in 2022. China’s military expenditure has increased year-on-year for 29 consecutive years. These two countries contributed half of the total expenditure on weapons.
India is in the fourth position
The fourth largest country in terms of military expenditure is India which spent 83.6 billion dollars. This was 4.2% more than in 2022. After Russia India is in the fourth position. Russia’s expenditure in 2023 increased by 24% compared to 2022 to reach $109 billion. This is a 57 percent increase since Russia separated Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Russia is spending 5.9% of its GDP on military.
The Russia-Ukraine war is also a major cause
SIPRI researcher Lorenzo Scarazzato said, one of the main factors for the increase in military spending is the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine is the eighth-largest country in terms of military expenditure. Its expenditure increased by 51% to reach $64.8 billion, which is 37% of its total GDP. The largest increase in military spending was seen in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where war continues between the government and rebels. Its expenditure has increased by 105%.
Military spending increased in all five regions defined by SIPRI, particularly in Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East.
