Japan is reinforcing its national security and defense policies in response to threats from China, North Korea, and Russia, prompting a potential review of the Japan-US relationship by American think tanks Centre for a New American Security and RAND Corporation. The reports suggest Japan's defense transformation aligns with a broader revamp of U.S. national security strategy. The CNAS report emphasizes Japan's concern over Chinese dominance and the need for closer security cooperation with allies like India. The RAND report recommends bolstering deterrence against China and Russia, focusing on base resiliency, munitions stockpiles, and intra-theatre mobility. It also highlights the political considerations surrounding Japan's potential support for US forces in the event of a conflict over Taiwan.

Former US President Donald Trump faces a growing list of indictments and accusations, including inciting the Capitol attack, mishandling classified documents, and campaign finance violations. Despite this, he remains a frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination. Experts highlight the polarization he represents in American politics. The Manhattan grand jury has brought charges against Trump for payments made to Stormy Daniels, which could have misused campaign funds. The Department of Justice is also investigating Trump for retaining top secret documents, with a trial likely in mid-2024. Trump claims he declassified the documents found at Mar-a-Lago, asserting presidential authority to do so without a formal process.

The article discusses the complex relationship between India and Israel, highlighting the historical context of India's initial opposition to Israel's statehood and its pro-Arab foreign policy post-independence. Despite this, India and Israel have developed a strong defence and intelligence relationship, which began informally before the official establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992. The article outlines various instances where Israel supported India militarily, including during the 1962 India-China war and the Kargil conflict. It also touches upon India's consistent support for the Palestinian cause, while simultaneously growing closer to Israel, particularly in defence, agriculture, and technology. The relationship has been further cemented by shared concerns over terrorism and nuclear proliferation. The article also examines the impact of India's evolving relations with the US and the Arab world on its ties with Israel. The author, Ramananda Sengupta, suggests that India's engagement with Israel is driven by 'enlightened self-interest' and does not necessarily compromise its stance on Palestine or relations with Arab nations.

The concept of 'Akhand Bharat' or undivided India holds different meanings for various Indian leaders and factions. While some envision it as a return to pre-Partition geographical boundaries, others see it as a cultural or religious unity. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh relates it to reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, whereas RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat views it as integrating Pakistan and Afghanistan with India through 'sanatana dharma'. The term has also been associated with economic unions like the now dysfunctional South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. However, such rhetoric often leads to increased military vigilance in Pakistan and unease among other neighbors, potentially pushing them towards China. The article suggests that India should be clear about its intentions and strategic in its approach to power projection, citing the late Ambassador Arundhati Ghosh's insights on India's understanding of power.

The Chinese satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5's docking at Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka, despite Indian concerns, has tested India's diplomatic resolve. The ship, part of China's People's Liberation Army Strategic Support Force, was allowed to dock after Sri Lanka initially deferred the visit. India deployed satellites and a communications warship to monitor the ship. The incident has sparked diplomatic tensions, with China warning that denying permission could jeopardize financial discussions, while India insists on its right to address security concerns without interfering with Sri Lanka's sovereignty. The situation underscores the delicate balance of power in the region, with China's influence in Sri Lanka being a point of contention for India.

A human rights group revealed that over 24,570 Indian workers died in the Gulf countries from 2012 to mid-2018, averaging more than 10 deaths per day. This figure corresponds to 117 deaths per $1 billion remitted to India from the region. While remittances from the Gulf countries accounted for $209.07 billion, the number of Indians migrating for work declined in 2017 due to falling crude prices and economic slowdown in the GCC countries. The data, analyzed by Venkatesh Nayak from the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, was provided by the External Affairs Ministry and parliamentary responses. Kerala received the highest share of remittances, with a former diplomat emphasizing the need to address the issue of worker deaths.

China endorsed Pakistan's efforts to improve relations and resolve disputes with India, emphasizing the high priority of their relationship and supporting Pakistan's Nuclear Suppliers Group membership attempts. Pakistan backed the China Pakistan Economic Corridor and combated separatism and extremism, including in Xinjiang. The article also touches on the recent political changes in Sri Lanka and comments by India's foreign secretary on regional connectivity, highlighting the tension between trade and geopolitical interests.

India has finalized a $950 million contract with Russia to acquire two Admiral Grigorovich frigates equipped with BrahMos missiles. This follows the Cabinet Committee on Security's approval of the purchase of four frigates, the S400 Triumpf air defense system, Kamov Utility Helicopters, and a joint venture to produce AK series rifles in India. The deal proceeds despite potential sanctions from Washington against countries transacting significantly with Russia. The frigates, capable of various warfare missions, will be partially constructed at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad and later fitted with engines from Ukraine, with two additional frigates planned to be built in India.

Former Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa, known for his pro-China stance and blaming India for his electoral loss, was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister, replacing Ranil Wickremesinghe. This move by President Maithripala Sirisena, after his party UPFA left the unity government, has led to a constitutional crisis and concerns in New Delhi due to Rajapaksa's past actions, such as allowing Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo. The legality of the appointment is questioned, as a 2015 constitutional amendment removed the president's power to dismiss the prime minister.

Pakistan condemned India for opening fire at a helicopter carrying the Prime Minister of Occupied Kashmir, Raja Farooq Haider Khan, near the Line of Control. The incident, which occurred without casualties, was labeled an act of cowardice by Pakistan's Leader of the Opposition, Mian Shahbaz Sharif, and a violation of international and bilateral laws. Indian military sources claimed the helicopter violated Indian airspace, prompting troops to fire warning shots and scramble fighters. A 1991 agreement requires prior intimation for aircraft flying close to the LoC, but Pakistan's PM argued that the rule did not apply to civilian helicopters.

The article discusses the challenges brands face in creating high-performing content and presents Contently as a solution. It highlights the shortcomings of agencies, freelance platforms, and internal resources in delivering satisfactory results. Contently is portrayed as an industry-leading content marketing platform that provides strategic alignment, a creative marketplace, and content specialists to help brands create impactful stories. The article also claims that Contently's customers experience an average of 6x return on investment (ROI) within a few months of using the service.

The article is an obituary for Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India's 11th President, who passed away recently. The author, Ramananda Sengupta, reflects on his personal encounters with Kalam and the contrast between Kalam's humble demeanor and his significant achievements. Kalam, known as India's Missile Man, was also a youth icon, nominated for MTV's Youth Icon of the year. The article recounts Kalam's views on India's development, his stance on accepting gifts, and his vision for India's future. Kalam was a patriot who, despite his many roles and honors, remained down-to-earth, leaving the presidential residence with only two suitcases and a legacy of inspiration.

The article pays tribute to General Jacob-Farj-Rafael “JFR” Jacob, a key figure in the 1971 India-Pakistan war, who passed away after being admitted to the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi with acute pneumonia. The author reflects on his interactions with General Jacob, highlighting his significant role in the war, particularly in negotiating the surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. Despite having a smaller force, General Jacob's strategic acumen and boldness led to a swift end to the conflict. The article also touches on General Jacob's life post-retirement, including his political career with the BJP and his philanthropy. The author, a foreign and strategic affairs analyst, shares a personal connection with the late general, having stayed in touch after their first meeting in 2006.

The article discusses the complexities of Pakistan's history and social-political dynamics as presented in Christophe Jaffrelot's book. It highlights the importance of understanding Pakistan beyond the common Islamic and military perspectives, emphasizing the country's internal caste, class, ethnic, and religious fault lines. The author notes three main tensions in Pakistan: the sense of Muslim elite entitlement, the intertwined relationship between military and civilian forces, and religious contradictions. The article points out that these tensions have shaped Pakistan's identity and continue to influence its politics and society. The author also touches upon the role of the judiciary and the impact of the 2014 Peshawar school massacre, suggesting that the military is gaining power at the expense of democratization, and 'good Islamists' remain influential.

The article discusses India's response to terrorism and the need for a clear and accountable nodal agency to handle such acts. It criticizes the lack of 'red lines' that define acts of war and suggests that the Indian government needs to enforce these lines against challenges from Pakistan and China. The author disagrees with C Christine Fair's assessment that India lacks offensive capability against Pakistan, advocating instead for a reconfiguration of military assets and strategies. The article proposes economic and political measures against Pakistan, such as revoking MFN status and linking terrorism to talks and the Indus Water Treaty. It also suggests changing the narrative around Kashmir, emphasizing terrorism as the issue, not Kashmir itself, and reviving the 'Neelam Plan' for a strategic response to the conflict. The plan includes integrating J&K into India, addressing security concerns, and renegotiating the Indus Water Treaty.

The article discusses the decline of the Indian Navy's submarine fleet over two decades due to poor decision-making and corruption scandals. It highlights the resignation of former Navy Chief Adm DK Joshi following a series of accidents, including the sinking of INS Sindhurakshak which resulted in the loss of 18 lives. The fleet's aging vessels, over 50% of which are undergoing repairs, are contrasted with China's larger submarine fleet. The article also touches on corruption allegations in the HDW and Scorpene submarine deals. Despite these setbacks, there is optimism with the induction of new submarines like the INS Kalvari and the nuclear-powered INS Arihant, which are expected to enhance India's naval capabilities. The article also mentions the challenges faced by the National Institute for Research and Development in Defence Shipbuilding (NIRDESH) in becoming operational.

The article provides an overview of the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2016 hosted by the Indian Navy off the coast of Visakhapatnam from February 4-8. Over 70 warships from India and 20 other nations, including the US, UK, Russia, and China, will participate in this maritime event. The review will be attended by President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other high-ranking officials. The event will feature a grand display of naval strength, including flypasts and aerobatics by Naval aircraft, parades, and a maritime exhibition with a 'Make in India' theme. The IFR is a tradition where navies showcase their might, and this is the second International Fleet Review in India, with the first one held in Mumbai in 2001. The event aims to foster friendship across the oceans and display India's maritime capabilities.

The article discusses the strategic and diplomatic interactions between India and China, particularly in the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to dealing with China's incursions and territorial claims. It highlights historical instances of Chinese aggression and India's traditional diplomatic responses, contrasting them with Modi's more direct and assertive stance. The article covers Modi's visit to China, his engagement with Chinese social media, and the outcomes of the visit, including business contracts and agreements on various issues such as the trade deficit and regional cooperation. It also touches upon India's broader strategic moves in Asia, such as relations with Japan, the US, Australia, ASEAN nations, and the development of the Chabahar port in Iran as a counter to China's influence in the region.

The article recounts the author's experiences during President K.R. Narayanan's official visit to China in 2000. It highlights the cultural and communication gaps between the Indian delegation and the Chinese hosts, such as misunderstandings over vegetarian food and the number of Indian presidents. The visit aimed to soothe relations after India's nuclear tests in 1998 and the subsequent diplomatic fallout. The article describes various interactions, including a banquet without vegetarian options, sightseeing in Beijing, and a candid discussion with Chinese academics. The author also touches on the Tibet issue and the China-Pakistan relationship. The article concludes by noting that despite the passage of time and changes in leadership, the core issues between China and India remain unresolved.

The article discusses the evolution of India's military and strategic relationship with the United States, highlighting the shift from Russia to the US as India's primary defense supplier. It details the historical context of India's defense procurement, including the preference for the American Apache over the Russian MI-24 helicopter, and the political considerations behind defense contracts. The article also covers the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) tender, where the French Rafale was initially selected. It notes the US's overtaking of Russia as India's largest weapon supplier and the recent approval of a deal to buy military helicopters from Boeing Co. The transformation in Indo-US military ties is described as significant, with both nations engaging in joint exercises and technology co-production. However, a cautionary perspective is offered, reminding readers that international relations are driven by permanent interests, not permanent friendships.