The Resurgence of a Troubling Alliance Between Pakistan& Bangla Desh

The recent revival of the direct maritime link between Bangladesh and Pakistan after a 50-year hiatus has raised significant concerns for India. This development, far from being a mere trade-boosting measure, appears to be a strategic move with geopolitical implications.

A New Era of Islamist Influence

The ouster of Sheikh Hasina and the rise of a new government in Bangladesh have ushered in a period marked by increasing Islamist influence. The new regime, backed by Western interests and Islamist forces, has taken steps to align itself more closely with Pakistan. This shift is reminiscent of the pre-1971 era when Islamist collaborators of Pakistan wreaked havoc in the region.

A Strategic Maritime Link

The establishment of the direct maritime link between Bangladesh and Pakistan is a significant development with far-reaching consequences. While both countries claim that this move is aimed at boosting trade, the strategic implications are undeniable. The route, though longer and less cost-effective than traditional shipping lanes, provides a direct connection between the two countries, facilitating the movement of goods and potentially other items.

A Threat to India's Security

This renewed alliance between Bangladesh and Pakistan poses a serious threat to India's security interests. The potential for increased infiltration, arms smuggling, and terrorist activities from across the border is a major concern. The region's strategic importance, coupled with the growing influence of China and Pakistan, makes it a volatile hotspot.

India's Response

India must remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard its interests. This includes strengthening border security, enhancing intelligence cooperation with regional partners, and leveraging diplomatic channels to address concerns. While India should engage with Bangladesh to maintain cordial relations, it must also be prepared to take decisive action if necessary.

The revival of the maritime link between Bangladesh and Pakistan marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the region. India must navigate this complex situation carefully, balancing its strategic interests with diplomatic engagement

Germany Suspects Sabotage Behind Severed Undersea Cables

 Germany's Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, has voiced concerns that recent damage to two undersea cables in the Baltic Sea is likely the result of sabotage. Describing the incidents as a potential "hybrid action," Pistorius acknowledged the lack of clarity about who is responsible but dismissed the possibility of accidental damage.

Key Incidents of Cable Damage

The first incident involved a 1,170-kilometer (730-mile) telecommunications cable linking Finland and Germany, which was severed early Monday morning. Separately, a 218-kilometer internet link connecting Lithuania to Sweden's Gotland Island ceased functioning on Sunday.

Rising Tensions in the Baltic

These incidents come amid heightened geopolitical tensions with Russia, adding to fears of sabotage. Pistorius emphasized the improbability of such damage occurring accidentally, stating, “Nobody believes that these cables were cut accidentally.”

A Pattern of Suspected Sabotage

This latest episode follows a series of incidents involving Baltic pipelines and infrastructure since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The recurring disruptions underscore growing concerns about the vulnerability of critical undersea networks in the context of modern hybrid warfare

Philippines Leverages Media to Counter China

 

In the face of China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea, the Philippines has adopted a proactive approach by using media to shape the narrative. Recognizing the power of information in modern conflicts, Manila aims to gain domestic and international legitimacy through strategic storytelling.

Masterclass in Information Warfare

Over the past 18 months, the Philippines has demonstrated expertise in managing the information battle, a critical aspect of its territorial disputes with China. By embracing “assertive transparency,” Manila has ensured that its side of the story dominates the media, compelling Beijing to play defense.

Mixed Success in the Face of Beijing's Resistance

While this media strategy has been impressive, it has not deterred China from continuing its assertive control over the South China Sea. However, by other measures—such as gaining international support and enhancing domestic unity—the campaign has been a clear success.

Publicizing Chinese Aggression

The Philippines' strategy took shape in early 2023 when the government began widely publicizing instances of Chinese harassment in its waters. Reports highlighted Chinese vessels swarming, blocking, and even ramming Philippine boats, raising awareness about the persistent threats to Philippine sovereignty.

This effort underscores Manila’s determination to counter Beijing’s gray-zone tactics through the potent weapon of public opinion.

'शूरा मी वंदिले'1962 च्या भारत चीन युद्धाची गाथा या विषयावर ब्रिगेडियर हेमंत महाजन यांचे दृकश्राव्य व्याख्यान रोटरी क्लब ऑफ सांगली च्या वतीने-21 NOVEMBER 6-8PM AT SANGLI ROTARY CLUB

भारत-चीन युद्ध समाप्ती झालेला दिवस म्हणून २१ नोव्हेंबर 1962   या दिवसाला ऐतिहासिक महत्त्व आहे .हे औचित्य साधून  या युद्धातील शहिदांना श्रद्धांजलीपर 'शूरा मी वंदिले'1962 च्या भारत चीन युद्धाची गाथा या विषयावर ब्रिगेडियर हेमंत महाजन यांचे दृकश्राव्य व्याख्यान रोटरी क्लब ऑफ सांगली च्या वतीने संपन्न होणार आहे. ब्रिगेडियर महाजन हे भारतीय लष्करातील पराक्रमासाठीचे अनेक पुरस्कार प्राप्त अधिकारी, युद्धनीती तज्ञ व सल्लागार तसेच अभ्यासू लेखक म्हणून प्रसिद्ध आहेत.

 

DRDO's Breakthrough in Hypersonic Missile Technology: Boosting India’s Strategic Deterrence

 A Milestone Achievement in 2024

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major breakthrough in hypersonic missile technology on November 16, 2024, with the successful flight test of a long-range hypersonic missile from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. This accomplishment positions India among an elite group of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, capable of developing and deploying advanced hypersonic weaponry. The missile, capable of reaching speeds of Mach 6 and ranges exceeding 1,500 km, enhances India’s strategic deterrence for all three armed forces.

Understanding Hypersonic Weapons

Hypersonic weapons fall into two primary categories:

1. Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs): Launched via rockets, these glide toward their targets.
2. Hypersonic Cruise Missiles: Powered by scramjet engines, they sustain high speeds during flight.

Traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound), these weapons can penetrate advanced missile defense systems such as THAAD or S-400. Hypersonic speeds are categorized further:

• Mach 5 to Mach 10: Hypersonic speeds.
• Mach 10 to Mach 25: High hypersonic speeds.

Historical Context of Hypersonic Technology

Though often dubbed the “technology of the 21st century,” hypersonic research dates back to the 1930s. The V-2 missile of World War II, launched in 1942, was the first human-made object to reach space, traveling to an altitude of 176 km. Modern developments have expanded these technologies for advanced military applications.

Global Use and Development

Hypersonic weapons gained significant attention during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, where Russia became the first country to use these weapons in combat, notably deploying the Kh-47 Kinzhal missile at speeds exceeding Mach 10. However, the limitations of hypersonic systems were also exposed, with Ukraine successfully intercepting a Kinzhal missile using the Patriot Air Defense System.

Globally, the focus has shifted to developing HGVs and missile defense systems capable of countering hypersonic threats. However, the development of these technologies remains a long-term endeavor.

India’s Hypersonic Advancements

India’s hypersonic research, led by DRDO and private sector players like BrahMos Aerospace, has been underway for over 15 years. Key milestones include:

• September 7, 2020: Successful test of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV), achieving speeds of Mach 6.
• November 16, 2024: Validation of critical subsystems and demonstration of advanced terminal maneuverability.

India’s hypersonic missiles boast low-altitude flight capabilities, rendering adversaries’ missile defense systems ineffective while bolstering India’s deterrence.

Future Projects: BrahMos-II and HGV-202F

India is developing the BrahMos-II, a hypersonic scramjet-propelled missile with a range of 1,500 km. Testing is expected to begin in 2025, with operational deployment by 2028. Additionally, HTNP Industries, an Indian startup, is developing the HGV-202F, a hypersonic glide vehicle capable of achieving speeds of Mach 15 or more, potentially deployable on platforms like the Agni-V ballistic missile.

Strengthening India’s Deterrence Architecture

2024 has been a landmark year for DRDO, marked by significant achievements:

1. Agni-V MIRV Test (March 2024): Demonstrating multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle capabilities.
2. Phase-2 Ballistic Missile Defense System Test (July 2024): Advancing India’s missile defense capabilities.
3. Hypersonic Missile Test (November 2024): Cementing India’s position in cutting-edge military technology.

These milestones significantly reinforce India’s nuclear deterrence architecture and demonstrate its technological prowess in defense innovation.

Escalating Violence in Manipur: A way ahead

 

In Manipur, a state in northeastern India, a surge of violence has recently compelled the government to deploy additional security forces. Around 2,500 officers have been sent to restore order, but the situation remains highly complex, with authorities facing significant challenges in their efforts to stabilize the region.

Ethnic Divisions Fueling Unrest

Manipur has been grappling with severe unrest for over a year and a half, leading to deep ethnic divisions between communities in the Imphal Valley and the Manipur Hills. These tensions have polarized the state, making conflict resolution increasingly difficult. The central security forces, dispatched to serve as peacekeepers, are encountering significant obstacles due to two critical issues:

1. Distrust of the Local Police
   The Manipur Police is expected to collaborate with central forces to maintain law and order. However, there is a widespread perception among the Hill communities that the police are biased in favor of the Valley residents. This lack of trust undermines the effectiveness of the central forces, who are caught in the middle of these suspicions.

2. Challenges from a Fragile Peace Agreement
   In 2008, the central government signed a peace agreement with several militant groups operating in the Hills, which helped reduce violence at that time. However, maintaining this delicate balance has become challenging as new conflicts arise. The security forces are hesitant to jeopardize the agreement, which could reignite old hostilities, but they also need to address the current wave of violence. Navigating this fine line is proving to be extremely difficult.

Emergence of Village Defense Volunteers

In response to the escalating violence, both ethnic groups have formed self-defense units known as village defense volunteers. These groups claim to protect their respective communities, but their activities have led to further clashes. The situation is complicated by conflicting narratives; for instance, the police have labeled some of these volunteers as “militants,” while their supporters argue that they are merely defending their homes and families.

The Urgent Need for a New Strategy

Restoring peace in Manipur will likely require substantial changes in governance and conflict resolution strategies. The current approach of deploying central forces has proven insufficient amidst widespread distrust and complex local dynamics. The government must act swiftly and decisively to address the root causes of the unrest and prevent further bloodshed. Building trust between communities and security forces, along with reassessing past agreements, may be crucial steps toward long-term stability in the region

Central Forces Facing a Tough Challenge in Manipur

 The Government of India (GOI) is grappling with a renewed surge of violence in Manipur, prompting the deployment of an additional 2,500 central paramilitary personnel to the state. In a parallel move, the government has reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station areas within Manipur. The latest unrest is primarily focused on the Jiribam district. However, the deep-rooted ethnic divide between the Imphal Valley and Manipur Hills places central forces in an almost untenable position.

Escalating Ethnic Tensions: A State Divided

The ongoing conflict, which has persisted for 19 months, has effectively split Manipur along ethnic lines, resulting in massive displacement among both communities. Central forces are tasked with acting as a buffer and controlling the activities of miscreants. However, their mission is significantly hampered by two key challenges:

1. Lack of Unified Support from Manipur Police: Ideally, Manipur Police should operate under a unified command structure to support the central forces. Unfortunately, one faction views the police as biased, which complicates the central forces' operations in the state.

2. Fragile Peace with Militant Groups: In 2008, the GOI signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement with 25 militant groups, primarily from the Hill regions. Maintaining the integrity of this agreement is crucial to sustaining the progress made against insurgency in the Northeast. As a result, central forces must tread carefully to avoid any actions that could jeopardize the SoO and further deteriorate the situation.

Complications from Village Defence Volunteers

Adding to the complexity is the emergence of village defence volunteers on both sides of the conflict. These groups are self-organized and have taken up arms, complicating the security landscape.

• The Manipur Police often labels these volunteers from the Hills as 'militants,' while Hill groups consider the Valley volunteers — including the armed Arambai Tenggol — as militias.
• For instance, during the recent violence in Jiribam, Manipur Police reported that 10 'militants' were killed. In contrast, Hill groups claimed that these individuals were volunteers who were responding to reports that Arambai Tenggol members had taken refuge in a local police station.

The Need for Decisive Action: GOI’s Role in Restoring Order

Given the current scenario, central forces are unable to effectively restore law and order as long as the Manipur Police continues its current approach. The Indian Army has also dismissed several allegations from Manipur Police, including accusations of drone usage by Hill groups. Simply handing over the unified command to the Manipur Chief Minister is not a viable solution.

The Government of India needs to take decisive measures to address this situation. Just as Parliament was able to amend the operational framework of the Delhi government, similar legislative actions can be considered to restore stability in Manipur. It is within the GOI’s power to restructure Manipur’s security apparatus to achieve lasting peace and order in the state.

भारतीय रेल्वे: पूर्वीपेक्षा अधिक सुरक्षित भारतीय रेल्वेचे योगदान

 भारतीय रेल्वेने देशातील दळणवळणाच्या क्षेत्रात अमूल्य योगदान दिले आहे. रेल्वेचा विस्तार संपूर्ण भारतभर झाला आहे, आणि प्रवाशांच्या सुरक्षेसाठी अत्याधुनिक सोयींचा समावेश करण्यात आला आहे. गेल्या दहा वर्षांत भारतीय रेल्वेचा चेहरामोहरा बदलला आहे, ज्याचे हे आढावा दर्शवितो.

सुरक्षिततेतील सुधारणा

गेल्या दशकभरात भारताच्या रेल्वे मंत्रालयाने सुनियोजित पद्धतीने राबवलेल्या उपक्रमांमुळे प्रवाशांच्या सुरक्षिततेत लक्षणीय सुधारणा झाली आहे. भारतीय रेल्वे दरवर्षी सुमारे ६८५ कोटी प्रवाशांची वाहतूक करते, आणि एक लाख कोटी प्रवासी किलोमीटरचे अंतर पार करते. भारतातील रेल्वे सेवा इतर कोणत्याही देशाच्या तुलनेत अधिक प्रवासी वाहतूक करते, हे लक्षात घेतले पाहिजे.

चीनच्या तुलनेत अद्वितीय कामगिरी

चीनच्या रेल्वे वाहतूक जाळ्याच्या तुलनेत, भारतीय रेल्वेची कामगिरी अद्वितीय आहे. चीनमध्ये रेल्वे प्रवासी वाहतूक भारताच्या तुलनेत कमी, म्हणजेच वर्षाला सुमारे ३०० कोटी आहे, तरीही चीनचे रेल्वे जाळे अधिक विस्तृत आहे.

अपघातांची कमी

भारतीय रेल्वे व्यवस्थेत झालेल्या सुधारणा यामुळे रेल्वे अपघातांची संख्या झपाट्याने घटली आहे. २०००-०१ मध्ये गंभीर अपघातांचे प्रमाण ४७३ होते, जे २०२३-२४ मध्ये फक्त ४० पर्यंत खाली आले आहे. यामध्ये सुधारणा, मानवरहित लेव्हल क्रॉसिंग्सची उच्छादन, पुलांच्या देखभालीवर लक्ष देणे, आणि स्थानकांचे डिजिटायझेशन यांचा समावेश आहे.

या सर्व उपाययोजनांमुळे गंभीर अपघातांमध्ये लक्षणीय घट साध्य होऊ शकली आहे. भारतीय रेल्वे आता अधिक सुरक्षित आणि प्रवाशांच्या दृष्टीने विश्वासार्ह बनली आहे.

Improving India-Taliban Relations: A Pragmatic Approach

Indian Diplomatic Push

The Taliban regime, seeking international recognition, has taken a significant step by appointing an acting consul at the Afghan mission in Mumbai. This move underscores their intent to strengthen diplomatic ties with India, a country with which Afghanistan shares historical connections.

India’s Engagement with the Taliban

While New Delhi has not officially recognized the Taliban regime, known for its human rights abuses, it has been progressively building bridges with the de facto rulers of Afghanistan. A recent high-level delegation from India’s Ministry of External Affairs met with the Taliban’s acting Defence Minister to discuss expanding bilateral relations, including humanitarian assistance and potential use of the Chabahar port.

Strategic Considerations

The growing proximity between India and the Taliban can be attributed to several factors:

• Deteriorating Indo-Pak Relations: The escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, marked by cross-border attacks, have pushed the Taliban towards India as a potential ally. India, itself a victim of cross-border terrorism, sees an opportunity to leverage this situation.
• China’s Influence: China’s proactive engagement with the Taliban, including the appointment of an ambassador, has prompted India to strengthen its presence in Afghanistan. India recognizes the Taliban’s enduring power and seeks to safeguard its strategic interests.

By adopting a pragmatic approach, India aims to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and secure its position in the region

Pune historic first grand salute to the army heroes on the occasion of Army day in Pune on 15 January 2025 by Brigadier Hemant Mahajan

https://www.punekarnews.in/punes-historic-first-a-grand-salute-to-the-nations-brave-soldiers-on-army-day-parade-2025/