joint war committee

Washington's campaign against Iran has surged to nearly $29 billion, surpassing initial Pentagon estimates. Experts warn the escalating costs, driven by operational and equipment replacement, could ultimately reach a staggering $1 trillion. This financial burden is becoming a political flashpoint ahead of US elections, with concerns over inflation.

In summer 1999, the Indian Air Force launched Operation Safed Sagar, a critical air-to-ground campaign to dislodge Pakistani intruders from Kargil heights. Facing unprecedented high-altitude challenges and early setbacks, the IAF rapidly adapted. By integrating advanced targeting systems like the Litening pod, they achieved precision strikes, notably at Tiger Hill, turning the tide and showcasing air power's decisive role.

In a charged political atmosphere, Defence secretary Pete Hegseth is facing tough questions from lawmakers, including some from his own party, regarding the prolonged conflict in Iran and its controversial lack of congressional authorization. The Trump administration's ambitious military spending plan is taking a backseat to growing concerns about economic fallout and rising international tensions.

India is set to revolutionize its mechanized warfare with the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) program, replacing aging BMPs with advanced, indigenous platforms. This multi-billion dollar initiative emphasizes drone integration, digitization, and high-mobility capabilities, marking a significant shift towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing and modernizing the Army's battlefield prowess.

India's economy has faced significant challenges from global oil price surges over the past fifty years. From the 1973 Arab embargo to the recent Hormuz disruption, these shocks have impacted inflation and foreign exchange reserves. Policymakers have continuously adapted strategies to manage these crises, balancing economic stability with consumer needs.

During his recent trip to Beijing, President Trump showcased a willingness to engage in conversations about US arms sales to Taiwan, confident that his personal bond with Xi Jinping would act as a buffer against any potential Chinese aggression. The visit, primarily focused on enhancing trade relations, also included key American business leaders.

Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi is on a four-day visit to Myanmar to bolster defence ties. He will meet with top Myanmar defence officials to review maritime cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration. The visit, concluding May 5, includes engagements with naval commands and a visit to the Fallen Heroes’ War Memorial, reinforcing the strong India-Myanmar defence relationship.

India's Athletics Federation has signed a cooperation deal with Russia, potentially allowing Russian athletes to compete in domestic Indian meets. This comes despite global bans on Russian athletes due to the Ukraine conflict. The agreement also includes joint training and coaching exchanges, aligning with India's neutral foreign policy stance.

Fresh reports reveal internal Pentagon discussions exploring punitive measures against Nato allies, including Spain, for perceived lack of support during the Iran conflict. These discussions, alongside President Trump's continued questioning of US commitment, expose deep divisions within the alliance, raising questions about its future and European security.

India's ambitious military reforms, creating integrated theatre commands, face a critical leadership gap. The nation's vast armed forces are led by a disproportionately small number of four-star generals compared to global peers. This deficit risks undermining the effectiveness of new theatre commands, demanding a strategic increase in senior leadership to match evolving responsibilities and complex security challenges.

India and Russia have activated a logistics pact allowing each to station up to 3,000 troops, five warships and ten aircraft in the other’s territory for five years, extendable by mutual consent. The agreement enhances military cooperation, supports equipment servicing, enables joint exercises and missions, and grants reciprocal access to bases, strengthening interoperability in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung emphasized close collaboration with India as emerging global leaders amidst geopolitical uncertainty. He highlighted shared values and complementary economies, advocating for upgraded trade agreements, defense industrial cooperation, and joint ventures in critical minerals and shipbuilding to foster mutual growth and innovation.

Amidst rising energy costs and Middle East tensions, the Indian government is boosting domestic induction heater production to reduce reliance on gas-based cooking. An inter-ministerial meeting strategized scaling up manufacturing of induction appliances and cookware. This initiative, driven by the Prime Minister's directive for future planning, also involves expanding Piped Natural Gas coverage to further ease energy dependence.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Congress in-charge for the state Randeep Singh Surjewala on Tuesday held a joint press conference from Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee headquarters, sharply criticising the Centre over rising prices of essential commodities and alleged rollback of welfare benefits.

From being one of party chief Arvind Kejriwal’s visible lieutenants, Raghav Chadha has demolished AAP in the Rajya Sabha and defected to the BJP with other party MPs

Three weeks into a military campaign against Iran, President Trump faces congressional scrutiny over strategy and funding. Lawmakers demand clear objectives as 13 US service members have been killed. Trump is considering winding down operations, but the War Powers Act necessitates a clear exit strategy or authorization after 45 days.