international maritime organisation

A bold overhaul of higher education aims to align degrees with emerging industries, transforming classrooms into pathways for jobs and nation-building

Global conflicts highlight the need for affordable, long-range weapons. The US is procuring thousands of new, mass-producible cruise missiles, the Barracuda-500M, for over $2.6 million each. India, too, is seeking similar low-cost, high-volume strike capabilities, including drones and missiles, under its upcoming Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026.

The NCB’s Rs 182 crore Captagon bust has exposed India’s first known link to a narcotics trade tied to Syria, Gulf smuggling routes and organised crime networks. But what exactly is Captagon, and why is it called the “jihadi drug”?

Ancient Egyptians ingeniously utilized a forgotten, high-volume Nile branch, the Khufu Branch, to transport massive pyramid stones. Scientific evidence reveals this 'water highway' flowed directly to Giza, proving they worked smarter, not harder. This natural waterway, sustained by a wetter climate, facilitated efficient logistics, solving the mystery of pyramid construction.

US president Donald Trump's presidency has shifted to muscular interventionism, beginning with the swift overthrow of Venezuela's Maduro. Now, the focus turns to Cuba, but unlike Venezuela, the island presents a more cohesive political structure, a disciplined military, and a population prepared for conflict, making the 'Venezuela model' unlikely to succeed.

Defence veterans, including former IAF chief R K S Bhadauria, strongly back the Greater Nicobar project, deeming it vital for India's national security and military presence. They argue it enhances surveillance of the Malacca Strait, crucial for checking China's growing influence in the Indian Ocean. The project is seen as a strategic and economic win.

Unlike traditional Earth observation systems that rely on either optical or radar imaging, Mission Drishti combines both to deliver clear, real-time insights in any condition — day, night, or bad weather. Here’s why it matters.

Operation Sindoor showcased India's potent military response to a terror attack, demonstrating its ability to strike deep into Pakistan and dominate escalation ladders against nuclear rivals. The 88-hour operation highlighted India's conventional superiority, while also spurring advancements in air defence, drone warfare, and joint military operations to counter evolving threats.

US naval actions have significantly disrupted oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, forcing six tankers carrying millions of barrels of Iranian oil back to Iran. While some vessels are being diverted, others have managed to pass, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict on global oil exports and the plight of stranded seafarers.

Blockade of Hormuz hurts world’s poor most, because cost of living has shot up, and food security is at risk. UAE envoy to India argues for a resolution that ensures Hormuz is never weaponised again

The Strait of Hormuz's reopening remains uncertain despite Iranian and US claims. While some vessels attempted passage, many turned back, with the International Maritime Organization seeking clarification on safety. The US maintains its naval blockade, while Iran warns of re-closure if the blockade persists, impacting vital global oil and LNG transit.

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.

Following a Lebanon ceasefire, Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz to all commercial vessels for the truce's duration. This development aligns with a US-brokered deal between Israel and Lebanon, aiming to halt hostilities and pave the way for peace talks. The agreement emphasizes Lebanon's responsibility for its security and disarming Hezbollah, while Israel pledges no offensive operations.