National

Bihar-Made Boots Now Integrated into Russian Military Equipment

Published

1 year ago

March 26, 2025

Once infamous for its high crime rates, Bihar is now gaining international recognition for a remarkable achievement. The rugged boots produced in the state have officially been incorporated into the Russian Army’s military gear, marking a significant milestone for India’s burgeoning defense manufacturing sector.

According to a recent fact sheet published by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the adoption of ‘Made in Bihar’ boots showcases India’s impressive manufacturing standards. “The inclusion of ‘Made in Bihar’ boots in the Russian Army’s equipment highlights India’s capability for high-quality production,” the report noted.

This development underscores the transformation of India’s defense landscape. Previously reliant on foreign suppliers, the country now manufactures approximately 65% of its defense equipment domestically. India’s export portfolio has broadened to encompass various military assets, including bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters, fast interceptor boats, and lightweight torpedoes.

The MoD highlighted the significant advancements achieved through the ‘Make in India’ initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Transitioning from an initial dependency on imports for 65-70% of its defense needs, India has rapidly enhanced its indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

The fact sheet revealed that India’s defense production set a record of Rs 1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, with an ambitious target of Rs 3 lakh crore by 2029. “India is now a global hub for defense manufacturing, demonstrating remarkable growth and self-reliance in its military industry,” the report emphasized.

In a notable decision, the Cabinet Committee on Security recently approved the procurement of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). This acquisition comprises 307 units of 155mm/52 caliber guns and 327 High Mobility 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, aimed at equipping 15 Artillery Regiments under the Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (IDDM) category, at an estimated cost of Rs 7,000 crore.

Developed collaboratively by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) alongside Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems, ATAGS represents state-of-the-art artillery technology. It boasts a range exceeding 40 km, with advanced fire control, precision targeting, automated loading, and recoil management, having undergone rigorous testing by the Indian Army in diverse terrains.

The MoD reiterated India’s expanding defense capabilities, noting that the country is now a vital player in the global military-industrial arena. The ‘Make in India’ initiative has propelled the development of advanced military platforms, such as the Dhanush Artillery Gun System, the Main Battle Tank Arjun, the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, the Advanced Light Helicopter, the Akash Missile System, the Weapon Locating Radar, as well as indigenous naval assets like destroyers, aircraft carriers, submarines, and offshore patrol vessels.

India’s strong defense industrial base is bolstered by 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), over 430 licensed companies, and approximately 16,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), all enhancing indigenous production capabilities.

With the development of modern warships, fighter jets, artillery systems, and advanced weaponry taking place domestically, India has firmly established itself as a leading force in global defense manufacturing. The success of ‘Made in Bihar’ boots on the international stage further reinforces the country’s growing influence in the defense sector.

National

Ex-IAS Officer Dhanendra Kumar Dies in Delhi House Fire

Published

1 week ago

May 29, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Former IAS officer and the first chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Dhanendra Kumar, died after a fire broke out at his house in Delhi’s Hauz Khas area on Thursday night. He was 80.

According to police, the fire was suspected to have started after an air conditioner blast inside the house. At the time of the incident, five people, including family members and domestic staff, were present in the house.

Firefighters and police teams rushed to the spot and rescued the people trapped inside. Dhanendra Kumar and his son were taken to a nearby hospital. Kumar died during treatment due to smoke inhalation. His son suffered injuries and is now out of danger.

Police said no foul play is suspected in the incident. The house was badly damaged in the fire.

Dhanendra Kumar was a 1968 batch IAS officer. During his long career, he served in several important positions in the central and Haryana governments. He worked in ministries such as Defence, Road Transport, and Culture.

He also served as the first chairman of the Competition Commission of India from 2009 to 2011. He played an important role in strengthening competition laws and economic reforms in the country.

Even after retirement, he remained active in public policy and corporate affairs.

National

Woman Found Dead Six Months after Marriage

Published

2 weeks ago

May 27, 2026

Namma Kudla

Lucknow: A young woman was found hanging at her in-laws’ house just six months after her marriage in Lucknow. The deceased has been identified as Shweta Singh.

According to her family, Shweta married Bhupendra Singh on November 22, 2025. Her father, Umesh Kumar Singh, alleged that her husband and his family harassed her regularly for dowry and demanded a car. He also claimed that Shweta faced mental torture from her husband and in-laws after marriage.

The incident took place at her in-laws’ house in the Thakurganj area of Lucknow. Shweta was rushed to a hospital, but doctors declared her dead.

Her parents suspect murder and alleged that the family tried to present the death as suicide by hanging the body. Based on the complaint, police registered a case against Shweta’s husband and his family under Sections 80 and 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Dowry Prohibition Act.

Police said the accused family members are absconding, and a search operation is underway. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and further action will be taken after the report arrives.

National

Army Helicopter Crashes In Ladakh, All Three Officers Injured But Safe

Published

2 weeks ago

May 23, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: Three Indian Army officers survived after their helicopter crashed in the Tangste region near Leh in Ladakh. The accident took place on May 20. Officials confirmed the incident on Friday.

The helicopter belonged to the Army’s ageing Cheetah fleet. A Lieutenant Colonel and a Major were flying the chopper. Major General Sachin Mehta, General Officer Commanding of the 3rd Infantry Division, was travelling as a passenger.

All three officers suffered injuries in the crash. However, they survived the accident in the difficult mountainous region. A selfie clicked by Major General Mehta after the crash has now gone viral on social media. The photo showed the three officers sitting on rocks near the badly damaged helicopter.

Many people called their survival a miracle because of the harsh terrain and the risks involved in flying the old Cheetah helicopters in high-altitude areas.

The Indian Army has ordered an official inquiry to find out the reason behind the crash.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of the Cheetah helicopters. These helicopters were introduced in the 1970s and have been used for decades in difficult operations, including Operation Meghdoot in Siachen Glacier in 1984.

In recent years, several accidents involving the Cheetah fleet have been reported. The helicopters are now being slowly replaced by the indigenous Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

The Army has reportedly ordered six limited-series-production LUHs. The new helicopters can fly at a top speed of 220 kmph and have an operational range of 350 km.

Despite its age, the Cheetah helicopter is still considered one of the best helicopters for high-altitude flying operations.