India
India reiterates its “Neighbourhood First” policy during PM Modi’s inauguration.

The fact that leaders from the Indian Ocean region and the surrounding area, such as President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, were present at the start of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term underscores the significance New Delhi places on these nations.
In addition, Prime Ministers Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan, Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth of Mauritius, Ahmed Afif of Seychelles, and Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives attended the swearing-in ceremony. The Maldives President’s invitation to attend the ceremony surprised diplomatic circles, given the tense relations between Male and New Delhi at the moment.
Modi underlined India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and “SAGAR” vision, or Security and Growth for All in the Region, to the visiting leaders at Rashtrapati Bhavan after the ceremony. As he pursues his objective of creating Viksit Bharat by 2047, Modi declared that India will keep working for “peace, progress, and prosperity of the region in close partnership with the countries” during his third term in office.
Within this framework, Modi demanded increased connectedness and interpersonal relationships throughout the region. According to him, India would keep raising the Global South’s profile internationally.
The leaders of the eight member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) were invited to Modi’s swearing-in in 2014, while the leaders of the members of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) as well as Mauritius and Kyrgyzstan were the guests at his inauguration in 2019.
Even though Bangladesh was invited to all three swearing-in ceremonies, this is the first time Hasina is speaking on behalf of her nation; in 2014, the speaker of the parliament spoke on behalf of Dhaka while she was on a prearranged visit to Japan, and in 2019, former president Abdul Hamid was present as part of a three-nation tour.
Under India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, Bangladesh holds a particular position and has profited greatly from billions of dollars that New Delhi has given as grants or soft loans to improve road, rail, canal, and energy connectivity. Bangladesh is still India’s top trading partner in South Asia, despite moving down from fifth to tenth place on the list of the nation’s top export destinations.
In order to resolve security concerns pertaining to the strategically important northeastern states, Hasina’s administration has worked closely with India. This has included Japan aligning its development cooperation in Bangladesh with India’s connectivity ambitions.
After winning support for his “India Out” campaign and implementing a number of measures to bring the Maldives closer to China in domains ranging from trade to defence, Muizzu is making his first trip to New Delhi since assuming office in November of last year. Muizzu sought the departure of Indian military soldiers stationed in the Maldives, where they were operating three planes intended for humanitarian missions, just hours after taking an oath of office. Last month, India finished the process of substituting civilian experts for the military personnel.
Although Muizzu accepted India’s invitation to the swearing-in ceremony, he stated that bilateral relationships are “heading in the positive direction, as would be demonstrated by this visit” and that he looked forward to working with Modi to deepen relations with India. In a statement announcing Muizzu’s arrival in New Delhi, spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry Randhir Jaiswal stated on X that “India and Maldives are maritime partners and close neighbours.”
During its economic crisis in 2022, Sri Lanka received nearly $4 billion in aid from India, which included currency support, deferred loan payments, and credit lines for the purchase of food, fuel, and medications. Currently, the two countries are collaborating on a number of initiatives to improve financial, energy, and physical connectivity.
Nepal and Bhutan are also significant allies of India, particularly in light of China’s initiatives to bolster its clout in the area. India’s response to China’s efforts to carry out projects under its Belt and Road Initiative has been to increase energy and physical connectivity with Nepal. Since taking office in January, Tobgay has played a pivotal role in impeding China’s attempts to expedite the demarcation of disputed border sections with Bhutan. This development could have far-reaching implications for the security of the so-called “chicken’s neck,” or narrow swath of territory that connects the northeastern states to the rest of India.
According to the ministry of external affairs, these leaders’ presence to witness the swearing-in is consistent with the greatest priority given to the “SAGAR” vision and the “Neighbourhood First” policy. On Sunday, Modi is anticipated to have separate bilateral discussions with the leaders.
After visiting with senior BJP leader LK Advani at his home on Sunday, Hasina had a bilateral meeting with her colleague from Bhutan.
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Video: India successfully tests homegrown ‘Bhargavastra’ counter-swarm drone system

Bhargavastra, an indigenous low-cost counter drone system designed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), was successfully tested by India at the Seaward Firing Range in Odisha’s Gopalpur on Tuesday. The micro rockets used in this counter-drone system underwent rigorous testing in Gopalpur, with three trials conducted in the presence of senior.
Officials of the Army Air Defense (AAD). All four rockets performed as expected and achieved the required launch parameters, underscoring its pioneering technology in mitigating large-scale drone attacks The Bhargavastra is meant for quick interception of drones for an assured hard kill using tiny, guided missiles with swarm engagement capability This solution offers.
Mobile protection against drone attacks with near-simultaneous engagement of multiple drones. Highlights of ‘Bhargavastra’ include multi-layered defense, advanced detection and targeting, terrain adaptability and modularity, indigenous design, and self-reliance in defense The Bhargavastra is designed for quick interception of drones for an assured hard kill using.
Tiny, guided missiles with swarm engagement capability. It offers complete situational awareness to engage single or multiple threats, and is fully compatible with existing network-centric warfare systems. The system is also designed for deployment across diverse terrains, including high-altitude areas, and allows configuration of sensors and launchers per mission need.
In addition to drones, the Bhargavastra has been used in various other sectors, such as education, entertainment, sports, and more. The system has been praised for its effectiveness in countering the threat of drone swarms and providing a safer environment for civilians.
India has successfully tested its indigenous counter-swarm drone system, ‘Bhargavastra’, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s defense capabilities. Developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), Bhargavastra is designed to neutralize the growing threat posed by drone swarms.
Overview of Bhargavastra
Bhargavastra is a low-cost, hard-kill counter-drone system that employs a multi-layered defense mechanism. The system integrates both unguided micro-rockets and guided micro-missiles to effectively detect and eliminate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including drone swarms.Wikipedia+11Hindustan Times+11mint+11Wikipedia+6Moneycontrol
Key Features
- Detection and Engagement Range: The system can detect small drones at distances up to 6 kilometers and engage targets up to 2.5 kilometers away. Business Today+2Wikipedia+2Business Today+2
- Layered Defense:
- First Layer: Unguided micro-rockets with a lethal radius of 20 meters, designed to neutralize multiple drones simultaneously.
- Second Layer: Guided micro-missiles for precision targeting of high-value or elusive aerial threats. Deccan Chronicle+10Hindustan Times+10www.ndtv.com+10ap7am.com+9mint+9Hindustan Times+9
- Operational Flexibility: Bhargavastra is adaptable to various terrains, including high-altitude regions exceeding 5,000 meters, making it suitable for deployment across India’s diverse geographical landscape. ap7am.com+4Business Today+4mint+4
- Modular Design: The system’s architecture allows for the integration of additional soft-kill measures, such as jamming and spoofing technologies, providing a comprehensive shield against UAV threats. Hindustan Times+3mint+3Moneycontrol+3
Recent Trials
On May 13, 2025, Bhargavastra underwent rigorous testing at the Seaward Firing Range in Gopalpur, Odisha. The trials, conducted in the presence of senior Army Air Defence officials, included:Wikipedia+10www.ndtv.com+10mint+10
- Two tests involving the firing of individual micro-rockets.
- One test in salvo mode, launching two rockets within a two-second interval.@EconomicTimes+9ap7am.com+9mint+9
All four rockets performed as expected, achieving the required launch parameters and demonstrating the system’s operational readiness. Moneycontrol+7@EconomicTimes+7Business Today+7
Strategic Significance
The successful testing of Bhargavastra aligns with India’s broader defense initiatives aimed at enhancing self-reliance and countering modern aerial threats. The system’s development underlines the country’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and its capability to address emerging challenges in drone warfare.@EconomicTimes+1@EconomicTimes+1@EconomicTimes
Bhargavastra is part of a suite of defense projects reviewed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the Nagastra-3 loitering munition, which is currently in its prototype phase. @EconomicTimes+1@EconomicTim
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Amritsar hooch tragedy: 15 dead, a dozen critical; death toll likely to rise
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At least 17 people have died and six have been hospitalized in the Majitha sub division of Punjab’s Amritsar district after consuming spurious liquor. Nine accused individuals have been arrested and four officials, including the local excise and taxation officer (ETO) and deputy superintendent of police, have been suspended. The deaths were reported in Bhangali.
Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, and Therewal villages. A police probe revealed that methanol was procured in bulk online to prepare the hooch. State finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema placed the Majitha sub division excise and taxation officer (ETO) and inspector with Amritsar immediate effect for negligence. The main suppliers, Prabhjit Singh and Sahib Singh, have.
Been arrested from Rajasansi. The police are tracing and seizing each packet and a case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Excise Act.Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has criticized Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for his anti-addiction campaign, claiming it is a “political theatre.” Bittu criticized the Aam Aadmi Party government’s Yudh.
Nasheyan De Virudh campaign, which he called “political theatre” and criticized the Mann government’s history with alcohol. He argued that the fight against addiction should be sincere, as the liquor mafia rules and people are dying. Bittu argued that Punjab needs action, not slogans. The issue of the hooch tragedy in Amritsar, Punjab, has been a topic of discussion.
In recent days. The incident has led to the release of high-quality satellite images showing destruction by Indian strikes at Pak military sites. The situation has also led to the launch of the United Airlines Dreamliner with luxury business class studio suites. Bittu also highlighted the availability of smartphones and tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, which.
Amritsar, May 14, 2025 — A devastating hooch tragedy has rocked the Majitha area of Amritsar district in Punjab, claiming at least 15 lives so far, with over a dozen individuals battling for survival in critical condition. The incident, which unfolded over the past 48 hours, has Amritsar triggered widespread panic and anger among locals, with fears that the death toll could rise as more victims are being admitted to hospitals with deteriorating health.
According to police and health officials, the victims had consumed spurious liquor allegedly distributed in local villages, including Chogawan and Daburji. Many started showing symptoms such as vomiting, blurred vision, and unconsciousness soon after consumption. Several have been referred to Guru Nanak Dev Hospital in Amritsar for emergency treatment.
Initial investigations suggest that the illicit liquor may have contained high levels of Amritsar hooch tragedy: 15 dead, a dozen critical; death toll likely to rise methanol, a toxic industrial alcohol often used to increase the potency of bootleg alcohol but extremely lethal when consumed. Punjab Police have detained at least six individuals in connection with the tragedy. special investigation team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the supply chain and distribution network behind the spurious liquor.
The Punjab government has promised strict action, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressing condolences to the bereaved families and ordering a thorough investigation. “Those responsible for this horrific crime will not be spared,” he said in a press statement. The tragedy has reignited concerns over the illegal liquor trade in Punjab, which has claimed.
Numerous lives in recent years despite repeated crackdowns. Civil society groups and opposition leaders have criticized the administration’s failure to prevent such incidents, calling for stronger enforcement and grassroots awareness campaigns As rescue operations and medical treatments continue, the community remains on edge, mourning the lives lost to another preventable tragedy.
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Sunny Doel was roped in for Jaap after this Tollywood actor declined it, reveals director

Director Gopichand Malignin disclosed in a recent interview that Jaap was not initially approached by Sunny Doel as an actor. This is his statement Tollywood filmmaker Gopichand Malignin’s first Bollywood film, Jaap, starring Sunny Doel, was first offered to another actor. He disclosed in an interview with TeluguOne that Nantaimori Balakrishna rejected his first pitch.
For the movie. (Also Read: Everything we know about Balakrishnan’s important part in Rajinikanth-Nelson Dilipkumar’s Jailer Sunny Doel in a shot from Jaap, the first Bollywood film directed by Gopichand Malignin Sunny Doel in a shot from Jaap, the first Bollywood film directed by Gopichand Malignin Balakrishnan was initially presented with Jaap The much.
Anticipated action drama Jaap has been generating significant buzz ever since veteran Bollywood actor Sunny Doel was announced as its lead. But in a recent revelation, the film’s director disclosed that Doel was not the first choice for the role. In fact, the role was initially offered to a leading Tollywood star who eventually turned it to the on down.
Speaking candidly in a promotional interview, director Rajeev Verme revealed, “The character of Jaap was envisioned as a rugged, emotionally complex figure with deep-rooted ties to justice and personal redemption. We originally approached Telugu superstar Rana Decubiti because of his towering screen presence and intense acting chops. Rana loved the script but had to.
Verme added that the casting team had a shortlist of actors who could embody the gritty charisma required for Jaap. “It wasn’t an easy role to fill. We needed someone who could carry the emotional depth while also delivering the kind of action that feels both raw and real. When Rana couldn’t come on board, we went back to the drawing board. That’s when Sunny sir’s.
Sunny Doel, known for his intense performances in iconic films like Ghazali, Gadara, and Border, was apparently enthusiastic about the role from the very beginning. Verma recalled, “When we approached Sunny sir, he immediately connected with the story. He said the character reminded him of the kind of roles he did in the early 2000s, but with a fresh narrative.
According to sources close to the production, Sunny Doel underwent a month-long physical transformation to get into the skin of Jaap. He also trained in a specific style of hand-to-hand combat choreographed by South Korean action directors. The film blends traditional Indian storytelling with an international cinematic style, something Verme believes Doel was able to.
The film, set against the backdrop of a fictional northern town gripped by political corruption and organized crime, follows Jaap, a former police officer who returns from exile to uncover the truth behind a string of mysterious murders tied to his past. With a layered screenplay and action set-pieces designed for the big screen, Jaap is expected to be one of major pan-India.
While fans of Tollywood might wonder what the film would’ve looked like with Rana Daggubati in the lead, Verma is confident that the right decision was made. “Everything happens for a reason. Rana was gracious and supportive even when he declined. But Sunny Deol has brought something rare to the character—something visceral and grounded.”
Jaap is slated for release later this year and will be available in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam. With a power-packed star cast and a gripping narrative, the film promises to be a thrilling cinematic experience As for Sunny Doel, this could mark yet another high point in a career that continues to evolve, decades after his debut. Fans are already counting down.
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