The United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) Chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmiri has strongly condemned the violence perpetrated by Pakistan-backed tribal militias on the anniversary of the tribal attack on Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on October 22, 1947. This tragic event marked the beginning of a long and painful chapter in the region's history, resulting in decades of suffering and conflict that have divided communities for over 70 years. In a statement, Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, the Chairperson-in-exile of UKPNP, urged party leaders and supporters to remember those who sacrificed their lives defending Jammu and Kashmir. He called for peaceful protests and events to raise awareness of the ongoing struggle against tyranny, emphasizing the importance of reminding the international community of the sacrifices made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Special tributes will be paid to two prominent figures, Master Abdul Aziz and Maqbool Sherwani, who valiantly fought against invaders and gave their lives for the sake of Jammu and Kashmir. Master Abdul Aziz, a respected leader, exemplified courage and dedication to his people and homeland. The UKPNP encourages all supporters to participate in these commemorative events, reinforcing the collective commitment to peace, justice, and unity in the region. On October 22, 1947, a tribal invasion occurred in Jammu and Kashmir, as armed groups from Pakistan, primarily composed of tribesmen from the North-West Frontier Province, launched an attack on the region. This incursion was backed by the Pakistani government, which aimed to annex Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan. The attackers quickly advanced toward the capital, Srinagar, causing chaos and panic. In response to the invasion, Maharaja Hari Singh, the ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, sought military assistance from India. To formalize this support, he ultimately signed the Instrument of Accession to India on October 26, 1947, which led to the deployment of Indian troops to the region and marked the beginning of the First Indo-Pakistani War. This event was crucial in shaping the ongoing conflict over Jammu and Kashmir, which remains unresolved to this day. (Source: dailyhunt)

In a major boost to its defense capabilities, India and the United States have inked deals worth $4 billion for the procurement of 31 Predator drones, aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army. Signed in the presence of senior officials, the agreement also includes establishing a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for these drones in India. The contract, approved last week by India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), marks a significant step forward in India’s defense modernization, especially in the maritime domain. Out of the 31 drones, 15 are designated for the Indian Navy, a clear indication of India’s growing focus on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, where Chinese influence has been steadily expanding. The remaining drones will be split between the Indian Air Force and Army. The deal arrives on the heels of India’s increasing prominence in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), alongside the U.S., Japan, and Australia, which seeks to counterbalance China’s strategic footprint in the region. The signing of this agreement sends a strong message about India’s military preparedness, particularly in the context of its leadership role within the Quad. As global powers aim to secure a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” the addition of advanced Predator drones is set to significantly enhance India’s surveillance and strike capabilities, positioning it as a formidable player in the region. The timing is also noteworthy, coinciding with China’s persistent efforts to assert dominance through its ‘string of pearls’ strategy—an encircling tactic designed to limit India’s influence in the Indian Ocean. This “string” stretches from China’s Hainan Island in the east to Gwadar Port in Pakistan in the west, encompassing key strategic points like Coco Island in Myanmar and Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka. Throughout this region, China is building its naval firepower with submarines, destroyers, and other vessels that pose a direct threat to India’s maritime security. Now, in the Wilmington Declaration, the Quad’s emphasis has taken a marked shift toward a more unified and strategic defense alignment. “Four years since elevating Quad to a leader-level format, the Quad is more strategically aligned than ever before and is a force for good that delivers real, positive, and enduring impact for the Indo-Pacific. Anchored by shared values, we seek to uphold the international order based on the rule of law,” the Declaration stated. While China isn’t explicitly mentioned, the message is clear: the Quad partners are committed to countering Beijing’s aggressive push in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and the Taiwan Strait. One of the most crucial elements of the Wilmington Declaration is the new regional Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI), which aims to strengthen the capabilities of partner nations to secure their waters, enforce maritime laws, and deter illegal activity. “We welcome the launch of a Quad maritime legal dialogue to support efforts to uphold the rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific,” the Declaration noted. For India, this drone acquisition is more than just a military upgrade; it’s a strategic manoeuvre that aligns with its broader Quad objectives. As part of MAITRI, India will host the inaugural workshop in 2025, solidifying its leadership role in shaping maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. The move is seen as a bulwark against China’s expanding ambitions, ensuring that the region remains open and secure for trade and commerce, free from unilateral coercion. In a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, India’s enhanced defense posture, coupled with its leadership in the Quad, signals a growing confidence in its ability to safeguard its maritime interests and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific. As the world’s eyes remain on the region, the India-U.S. drone deal marks yet another chapter in the shifting balance of power, where India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of regional security. (Source: ETRUTH MV)

More than 90 fake bomb threats have been made against flights operated by multiple Indian airlines this week, Indian media reported Sunday, sparking fear among passengers and global delays. All flights landed safely, but the spate of threats has resulted in planes being diverted to Canada and Germany, and fighter jets scrambled to escort aircraft in the skies above Britain and Singapore. India's government and civil aviation authorities have warned that "very strict action" will be taken. New Delhi's civil aviation authorities have not said how many threats have been received in the past week, but the Times of India and broadcaster News18 reported more than 70 hoaxes targeting both domestic and international flights since October 13. At least 30 hoax threats were made on Saturday alone, and at least 20 more threats were made to different airlines on Sunday. India's IndiGo airline confirmed threats were made against six of its flights on Sunday. Two were on domestic routes, and four were international -- linking Indian cities to Saudia Arabia's Jeddah and Dammam, as well as two separate flights to Istanbul in Turkey. "The safety and security of our passengers and crew is our highest priority," IndiGo said in a statement. "We are working closely with the relevant authorities and taking all necessary precautions." The global impact of delays and diversions has been heavy on airline schedules and costs. At least one person -- a minor -- has been arrested in India, but the threats have continued. "All others responsible for the disruptions will be identified and duly prosecuted," India's aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu said after the arrest on Wednesday. A report in The Indian Express said that an anonymous account on X, formerly Twitter, was suspended after posting bomb threats to at least 40 flights on Friday and Saturday. This included both Indian and international airlines, including from the United States and New Zealand. "There are bombs placed onboard... No one will make out alive. Hurry up and evacuate the plane," read the identical messages from the suspended account, the newspaper reported. Among the recent flights impacted was an Air India plane heading from Mumbai to New York, with US security officials sweeping the aircraft after its safe landing on Saturday. Other flights that were impacted include an Air India plane from New Delhi to Chicago, which was forced to make an emergency landing in the far northern Canadian city of Iqaluit on Tuesday. Canada's airforce had to fly the passengers onward. The same day, Singapore scrambled fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane. On Thursday, British RAF fighter jets escorted an Air India Boeing 777-300 after a threat was made against the plane, which landed safely in London.

Maritime piracy is one of humanity’s pet-peeves that should have been rooted out through collective efforts of the nations a long time ago. Concerted efforts have indeed been made by United Nations since the 1950s to define, analyse, monitor and tackle piracy issues head-on. However, maritime piracy has slowly evolved from a traditional problem to a critical global concern of the 21stcentury. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982, defines “piracy” as an act of unlawful violence, plunder or detention by a private ship or aircraft against another ship or aircraft, goods or persons on board that is not authorised by any State, and committed for personal purposes or private gain in high seas or in places without jurisdiction of any state. The UNCLOS casts a positive obligation upon its 170 signatories to cooperate to the fullest possible extent in the repression of piracy. UNCLOS created a harmonized regime for the high seas and reaffirmed international customs and principles that were codified through earlier attempts like the High Seas Convention, 1958, especially those relating to acts of non-state actors on high seas or terra nullis. India, being the world’s only country with an ocean named after it has historically played a pivotal role in navigation, commerce and security endeavours at high seas. With one of the world’s largest navy fleet, India’s maritime approach is articulately encapsulated in its vision of ‘SAGAR’- ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region’. The Indian maritime policy is aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and ensuring a favourable and positive maritime environment. In addition to playing role of the good Samaritan for the maritime nations of the global south during the COVID era, India has empowered the naval security apparatus of various countries in the IOR through fleet-empowerment, capacity building and training exercises. However, the issue of maritime piracy is still a looming concern in the IOR and the oceans of the world at large. Rise in Maritime Piracy A resurgence and increase in maritime piracy has been observed in the Indian Ocean region and the Gulf of Aden near Somalia. Between the period of November 2023 and April 2024, as many as 25 reported cases of attacks on ships have been linked to piracy. Piracy and armed robbery increased by nearly 20% in 2023, with 194 recorded incidents as against 161 such incidents in 2022. Somalia has been particularly flagged as a critical area of concern, noting a significant rise in the hijacking of dhows.Somali piracy operates in large areas that cover Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles, Mozambique, Madagascar, the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and even the areas near the west coast of India and Maldives. The role of climate change and deteriorating fish stocks has also led to “occasional piracy”, where individuals engage in piracy out of economic distress. As a result, poverty, lawlessness and take-over of important institutions remain pervasive in Somalia, especially in the backdrop of the ongoing civil war. Another key hotspot for piracy is the Gulf of Aden, being a critical maritime trade hub in the Horn of Africa. The area has been infamous for pirate activities since 2005 and has recently seen a spike in reported incidents. Experts attribute this to the shift in global security focus from the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea primarily due to increased Houthi attacks. Further, the suspension of NATO operations and reallocation of naval resources, primarily U.S., United Kingdom and France, has led to increased pressure on regional naval resources. Key regions of piracy activities in the Pacific Ocean include the Strait of Hormuz, Malacca Strait and Bab-elMandeb, also serve as key economic chokepoints since a large part of Asia’s oil supply is transported through these regions. India’s role in combatting maritime piracy The Indian Navy has played an active role in combatting piracy in the IOR. It has often emerged as the first-responder to pirate attacks upon commercial vessels. For instance, on 14 December 2023, a commercial vessel named MV RUEN was hijacked by Somali piratesand detained in Somalia’s Puntland region. The anti-piracy mission, which took place 260 nautical miles east of Somalia and 1,400 nm (2,600 km) from the Indian coast, saw the Indian Navy’s elite commandoes—MARCOS PRAHARs—being air-dropped by a C-17 aircraft and rescuing the crew besides apprehending 35 pirates. In recent years, India has significantly enhanced its maritime strategy by bolstering its naval capabilities. Aiming to establish itself as a global maritime leader, India has developed the Maritime India Vision 2030, which outlines an ambitious plan for rapid growth within the maritime sector over the next decade. Additionally, the Indian Navy has been committed to achieving full self-reliance — Atmanirbhar — by the centenary of India's independence in 2047. The appointment of the country's first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) in February 2022 underscores India's strong dedication to the maritime domain. The maritime sector has taken on a more prominent role in government policies, driven by India's expanding maritime and Blue Economy interests. Several initiatives have been launched by the Indian government to promote the development of the maritime sector and increase Maritime Domain Awareness. These initiatives include the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Through the IPOI that builds up on India's “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) vision. India has also implemented a comprehensive maritime cooperation strategy that addresses maritime safety and security in addition to conservation and sustainable use of the maritime domain. Additionally, in December 2018, the Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) was established in Gurugram, Haryana to house shared information on piracy, illegal fishing, drug smuggling, maritime terrorism and even environmental hazards, with some special emphasis on the Gulf of Aden. India’s most notable efforts to combat regional piracy can be seen through its operations and regional efforts for a cohesive response. Since January 2024, the Indian Navy tracked the movements of MV Ruen, which was used by pirates to launch attacks in IOR, before being recaptured in mid-March by the INS Kolkata. Other significant rescue operations include the rescue of 21 crew members from the bulk carrier Liberian-flagged vessel MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea. Additionally, under the Indian Navy-led Operation Sankalp over 5000 personnel have been deployed at sea, over 21 ships patrol the waters and over 900 hours of flying by maritime aircraft have been recorded to address maritime threats. Operation Sankalp has enabled India to play a strategic role as a “First Responder” and “Preferred Security Partner” in the IOR, having responded to over 18 incidents until March 2024. Deeper emphasis has been laid on bolstering regional cooperation to combat maritime piracy. Key issues facing contemporary India, like connectivity and resilient supply chains, are closely linked to the stability and freedom of navigation in the Pacific Ocean. In 2018, the Prime Minister of India signed the Shared Vision of Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and a Defence Cooperation Agreement with Indonesia that granted access to the strategic port of Sabang in northern Sumatra, which is situated at the entrance of the Malacca Strait. India has also established a legal framework for maritime piracy through the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022 (“MAP Act”). The MAP Act was passed by the Parliament in 2022 to give effect to UNCLOS’s framework for combatting piracy and armed robbery at sea. The Act defines piracy along similar lines as the UNCLOS, and extends its application to high seas, including the Exclusive Economic Zone of India and other States as well as all waters beyond the jurisdiction of any other State i.e. international waters. It enables Indian enforcement agencies and authorised personnelto arrest any ship and crew on suspicion of piracy in high seas. Penalties for offences include imprisonment for life and even death in cases of acts of piracy causeor attempt to cause death. The provisions also include extradition clauses whereby offences are extraditable even in the absence of such treaties on the basis of reciprocity between countries. The resurgence of maritime piracy, especially in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, presents serious challenges to global maritime security, stability and trade. Various factors, including the changing focus of security forces, climate change, and economic instability in certain countries, have fuelled this rise in piracy. Unless checked, incidents may increase substantially. In response, India has developed a comprehensive maritime strategy that enhances its naval capabilities and promotes regional cooperation. The Indian Navy has undertaken proactive operations, such as those under Operation Sankalp and the successful recapture of hijacked vessels, showcasing its dedication to safeguarding the region's seas. Additionally, India's legislative measures, particularly the MAP Act of 2022, bolster its legal framework for combating piracy. By fostering maritime domain awareness and establishing strategic partnerships through initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, India is positioning itself as a vital player in ensuring both regional and global maritime stability. (Times of Oman)

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lao PDR was notable for several significant achievements, both at the bilateral level and within the broader regional context. His presence at the 19th East Asia Summit (EAS) was symbolic, as he was the first leader to speak following the host and incoming chair, highlighting India's growing importance in ASEAN. India’s Focus on East Asia and ASEAN PM Modi has now attended nine out of the 19 EAS summits, underscoring India’s commitment to ASEAN and regional processes. This year’s summit also marked ten years since the launch of India’s "Act East" policy. Modi’s participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit reflected the deepening cooperation between India and ASEAN, as leaders reviewed progress across multiple areas, including digital public infrastructure, which India actively supports in the region. During the EAS, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to ASEAN unity and its role at the heart of the Indo-Pacific strategy. He emphasized the need for peace and stability, especially in Eurasia and West Asia, due to the adverse impacts of conflicts on developing nations. Modi also drew parallels between India’s "Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative" and ASEAN’s "Outlook on the Indo-Pacific," advocating for a rules-based, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Lao PDR In Vientiane, Modi held productive talks with Lao PDR’s Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. Both leaders emphasized the importance of cultural and historical ties, in addition to expanding cooperation in areas like renewable energy, heritage restoration, defense, disaster management, and people-to-people connections. Several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, particularly in defense, broadcasting, and customs cooperation. Under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, three Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) were launched with grants of $50,000 each, focusing on the preservation of Lao cultural heritage, including the restoration of Wat Pakea Temple and supporting shadow puppet theatre in Champasak province. Both leaders also noted progress in restoring Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with support from the Archaeological Survey of India. Humanitarian and Development Assistance India announced a $1 million grant through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund to improve nutrition security in Lao PDR—marking the Fund’s first such project in Southeast Asia. Modi also reaffirmed India’s commitment to humanitarian support by referencing recent flood relief assistance provided after Typhoon Yagi. ASEAN-India Partnership: Building Connectivity and Tourism Modi introduced a 10-point plan to enhance connectivity and cooperation with ASEAN, which included declaring 2024 the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. This announcement, warmly welcomed by ASEAN leaders, will be accompanied by India’s $5 million contribution for joint activities to promote tourism. Several other initiatives were also announced to celebrate the decade of India’s "Act East" policy, including a Youth Summit, an ASEAN-India music festival, a startup festival, and a hackathon. The ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks will meet soon, reflecting the importance of intellectual and policy collaboration. Historical and Cultural Connections India's cultural links with ASEAN have roots in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Historical legends suggest that King Ashoka’s emissaries brought a relic of the Buddha to Laos, now enshrined in the Pha That Luang monument in Vientiane. Another key cultural connection is Vat Phou, an ancient Hindu temple complex dedicated to Shiva, which stands as a reminder of shared religious heritage. The Ramayana, locally known as Ramakien, continues to influence Lao arts and traditions, including ballet and puppetry. Strengthening Diaspora and Connectivity India has a strong diaspora presence in the ASEAN region, with 20% of the global Indian diaspora living there. Direct flights currently connect India with seven ASEAN countries, with more connections planned by year-end. Enhancing air connectivity will further boost people-to-people ties and economic cooperation. Conclusion PM Modi’s visit to Lao PDR offered a valuable opportunity to deepen ties with ASEAN and revitalize the "Act East" policy. With India’s strong support for Lao PDR’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2024 and commitments to cultural, economic, and humanitarian initiatives, the visit marks a renewed push to elevate regional partnerships. (Source: Vietnam Times)

India and the Maldives have recently redefined their bilateral relationship, transforming it into a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on October 7, 2024. This partnership covers various areas, including economic cooperation, maritime security, development initiatives, and political engagement, signaling a positive shift after periods of tension. Reset in Relations President Muizzu’s initial “India Out” campaign, which sought the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and stirred anti-India sentiments, had strained relations. However, his recent visit to India from October 6–10, 2024, marked a diplomatic reset. Recognizing the need for cooperation amid an economic crisis, Muizzu sought India’s support, acknowledging India as the Maldives’ "closest friendly country and neighbor." Several agreements were signed during his visit, including currency swaps and development projects, further solidifying the new strategic partnership. Modi’s warm reception and Muizzu’s willingness to collaborate demonstrate a pragmatic shift in the Maldives' foreign policy. Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership This new partnership aims to foster cooperation in maritime security, economic development, infrastructure, and political engagement. The Maldives' strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes maritime security a key focus. Joint efforts will ensure the safety of vital trade routes, contributing to regional stability. India remains a significant development partner, offering support in health, education, infrastructure, and disaster management. The partnership also emphasizes boosting bilateral trade and investment through collaborations in tourism, fisheries, and transportation infrastructure. Strengthening Development and Defence Cooperation India has committed to several major development projects, including the Greater Male Connectivity Project and building bridges, airports, and social housing units. During Muizzu’s visit, the inauguration of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport runway and the handover of 700 social housing units were celebrated. Additionally, India provided financial assistance through a $400 million currency swap agreement and $100 million treasury bills rollover, supporting the Maldives' economic stability. On the defense front, India agreed to refit the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship Huravee free of charge, enhancing maritime cooperation. These efforts align with India’s strategy to strengthen regional security partnerships. Focus on Governance, Education, and Digital Services India and the Maldives aim to improve governance through digital cooperation, modernizing financial systems, and enhancing public services. India has also supported education by offering scholarships and training programs. In addition, the two countries engage in joint marine scientific research, focusing on conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. Key Agreements and Their Impact The two leaders signed five significant agreements, including those related to judicial training, corruption prevention, law enforcement, and youth affairs. These agreements reflect both countries' commitment to enhancing governance and mutual cooperation. The launch of the RuPay card in the Maldives will further facilitate seamless financial transactions between the two nations. Regional Implications and Future Prospects The strengthened India-Maldives relationship is expected to have broader regional impacts. Enhanced maritime security cooperation will benefit the Indian Ocean region by ensuring stability along critical trade routes. This dynamic partnership may also influence the strategies of external powers like China and the U.S., compelling them to recalibrate their regional engagements. The focus on economic growth and development projects could open new opportunities for trade and investment across South Asia, potentially encouraging neighboring countries to pursue similar partnerships for their own economic benefit. President Muizzu has invited Modi to visit the Maldives in 2025 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, signaling a future of deeper cooperation. As both countries continue to engage through high-level exchanges, the Indo-Maldives strategic partnership is poised to strengthen further, fostering stability, growth, and mutual prosperity in the region. This evolving partnership not only cements India’s influence in the Indian Ocean but also demonstrates the Maldives’ commitment to regional collaboration, setting the stage for long-term bilateral success. (Source: Times of Oman)

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is set to visit Pakistan today, October 15, to attend a meeting of the regional bloc, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). During his visit, Jaishankar will join a dinner hosted by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This visit marks the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan since 2015, when then-Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj attended a conference in Islamabad focused on Afghanistan. In 2016, then-Home Minister Rajnath Singh traveled to Islamabad for a SAARC meeting, which was the last time India participated in a multilateral event held in Pakistan. According to The Hindu, Jaishankar’s visit carries symbolic importance, as it reflects India’s intent to prioritize diplomacy and multilateral dialogue over bilateral disputes. While in Islamabad, Jaishankar will have no choice but to attend the dinner hosted by PM Sharif, which will also be attended by Pakistan’s Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. Though the official itinerary spans two days, Jaishankar’s actual stay in Pakistan will last less than 24 hours. Indian diplomats view this visit as a smart and strategic move by the Modi government. Recently, Jaishankar remarked that India seeks normal relations with Pakistan, just like with any other neighbor—but not at the cost of tolerating terrorism. New Delhi emphasized that Jaishankar’s visit is rooted in India’s commitment to the SCO, sending a message that it prioritizes multilateral diplomacy over bilateral conflicts. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that no bilateral meeting between the two nations has been requested. "We have not received any request from the Indian Foreign Ministry, nor have we made any such request," Dar stated. However, as per protocol, Jaishankar will be welcomed along with other foreign dignitaries. To ensure security for the SCO summit, Islamabad has implemented a lockdown and declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi. Section 144 has also been imposed in five districts to maintain order during the event.