The Connemara Public Library, located on the Government Museum campus in Egmore, Chennai, is experiencing a renewed surge in popularity, particularly among civil service aspirants. Here are the key details encapsulating the rich history and current significance of this venerable institution:

• Foundation and History: Established on March 22, 1890, by the then Governor of the Madras Presidency, Lord Connemara, who recognized the necessity for a public library in Chennai, it officially opened in 1896. The library is deeply rooted in the city's cultural landscape and has served as a resource for many prominent figures in Indian history.

• Library Collection: The Connemara Library boasts a vast collection of over 9.8 lakh (980,000) books, making it an invaluable hub for research and study. It is noted for its archives, including significant historical texts available only once a year on April 18, showcasing rare publications from the 18th and 19th centuries.

• Current Usage Trends: The library attracts approximately 600-700 students daily, with a notable influx of civil service aspirants who utilize the various resources. Among them is Ilamathi T., who describes the library as her "second home." She emphasizes the importance of the library in her preparations, especially benefiting from the archives and exam literature available.

• Facilities and Amenities: Although many younger students often require additional space, they utilize nearby outdoor areas for studying. The library’s layout includes a dedicated textbook section, general books, references, Indian language books, and periodicals, reflecting a diverse academic environment.

• Upcoming Developments: The library management is actively enhancing student engagement through various initiatives, including organizing book exhibitions, cultural programs, and upgrading facilities comprised of a conference room and dedicated STEM zones, supported by the Public Works Department.

• Legal Recognition: Connemara is distinguished as one of only four libraries in India under the Delivery of Books Act, which mandates all published works in the country be made accessible here. It features accessible membership fees—₹300 for a deposit and ₹50 for annual circulation, allowing members to borrow up to six books concurrently.

• Community Engagement: The library's commitment to increasing literary engagement has seen a decline in literary fiction readership being addressed through programmed activities aimed at invigorating interest in various genres.

The Connemara Public Library stands not just as a reservoir of knowledge but also as a lively community hub fostering educational pursuit, highlighted by its rich history and modern dynamics catering to the evolving needs of Chennai's students.

Key Points:

• Established on March 22, 1890; opened in 1896.
• Houses over 9.8 lakh books.
• Approximately 600-700 daily users, predominantly civil service aspirants.
• Rare book exhibition on April 18 every year.
• Ongoing enhancements include STEM zones and cultural programs.
• Only four libraries in India recognized under the Delivery of Books Act.
• Affordable membership fees: ₹300 for deposit and ₹50 for annual circulation.

The Axiom-4 Mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which was scheduled to launch on Wednesday from Kennedy Space Centre, Cape Canaveral, Florida, has been postponed due to a technical fault. This mission is notable as it includes a diverse crew of four astronauts: American Peggy Whitson, Indian Shubhanshu Shukla, Polish Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungarian Tibor Kapu. Shukhla will mark a significant milestone by becoming only the second Indian to venture into space.

Key Components of the Launch:

• Spacecraft and Rocket: The mission will utilize SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, launched by the Falcon 9 rocket, which is designed for low Earth orbit activities.

• Launch Logistics: Prior to a mission, scientists need to select an optimum launch window and calculate trajectories considering the dynamic nature of celestial bodies to ensure efficiency concerning fuel and time.

• Rendezvous and Docking Process:

  1. The Dragon spacecraft, traveling at a speed of around 28,000 km/h towards the ISS, must undertake a series of phasing maneuvers using its 16 Draco thrusters capable of generating 90 pounds of thrust each.
  2. The typical travel time for Dragon to reach the ISS from launchpad is approximately 28 hours. In contrast, other missions, like those conducted by Russia’s Soyuz spacecraft, can complete this in about 8 hours due to their longer operational history and established systems.

SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket:

• Design: The Falcon 9 is a partially reusable rocket that comprises two stages: the first stage boasting nine Merlin engines and the second stage containing a single Merlin engine.
• Operation: During launch, the first stage re-enters the atmosphere and lands back, while the second stage continues towards its intended orbit, releasing the Dragon capsule.

Docking Procedure:

• Final Approach: Upon nearing the ISS, the Dragon spacecraft makes contact with the space station’s systems to verify its docking plan. It enters a designated "keep-out sphere" of 200 meters around the ISS for final alignment.
• Autonomous Docking: The capsule employs an autonomous docking system aided by GPS, cameras, and Lidar sensors that collect data to guide its trajectory. Astronauts aboard can manually control the spacecraft if necessary.
• Post-Docking Procedures: After docking, it takes 1 to 2 hours for the spacecraft to stabilize before the astronauts can safely enter the ISS through transfer gates.

Conclusion:

The Axiom-4 mission exemplifies advancements in space exploration technologies and international collaboration in scientific research, while highlighting the meticulous planning necessary for success in space travel. The postponement of the launch serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in space missions.

Important Points:

• Axiom-4 Mission postponed due to a technical fault.
• Crew includes astronauts from the USA, India, Poland, and Hungary.
• Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the second Indian in space.
• SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Falcon 9 rocket utilized for the mission.
• Spacecraft requires a calculated launch window to align with the ISS's orbit.
• Dragon takes approximately 28 hours to reach ISS; Soyuz takes about 8 hours.
• Docking involves autonomous systems for precision alignment.
• Post-docking involves safety checks before astronaut transfer into the ISS.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, as a special invitee to the G-7 summit outreach from June 15-17, marking his first visit to Canada in ten years. The invitation extended by Prime Minister Mark Carney comes amidst attempts to reset bilateral relations that have been strained due to various diplomatic tensions.

Key Highlights:

• Historical Context: Modi's visit comes after a period of deteriorating ties, particularly since 2023 when former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly alleged that India was involved in the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. These allegations led to significant diplomatic backlash, including reduced mission strengths and the suspension of talks for a free trade agreement.

• The G-7 Summit Invitation: The invitation to Modi was perceived as a last-minute decision, likely influenced by prior discussions to mitigate any potential fallout. Carney justified the invitation by stating India’s importance as a major global economic force deserving a place within G-7 outreach discussions.

• Current State of Relations: The ongoing tensions have led Canada to cut its diplomatic mission in India and prompted India to pause visa issuance for Canadians amid security concerns for its diplomats. This has significantly impacted trade relations, which include substantial investment opportunities, as both nations are interconnected through a large Indian diaspora in Canada, numbering over 1.86 million.

• Future Dialogue: As part of the upcoming meeting, Mr. Carney indicated that Modi has consented to engage in a "law enforcement dialogue". This is expected to focus on the Nijjar incident and allegations of Khalistani threats against Indian diplomats and establishments in Canada. The effectiveness of this dialogue will depend heavily on the public messaging that emerges from the meeting, which is pivotal for the renewal of diplomatic relations.

• Past Issues: The India-Canada relationship has a complicated history, rooted partly in the Khalistan movement dating back to the 1970s. Experts caution against expecting immediate resolution of these longstanding issues. A constructive approach fostered by mutual respect from both leaders is crucial to facilitate improved communication going forward.

• Expectations from the Summit: The summit serves as a preliminary step towards improving relations, but it also highlights the need for ongoing, meticulous negotiations beyond the summit to create a sustainable path forward. Restoring diplomatic personnel and revisiting trade negotiations will be essential components of this process.

• Published Date: The article was published on June 12, 2025.

In conclusion, while Prime Minister Modi's participation in the G-7 summit presents an opportunity to mend India-Canada ties, it underscores the need for continued dialogue and careful diplomatic engagement to address both current issues and historical grievances effectively.

Important Sentences:

• Modi's visit to Canada is set for June 15-17 as a special invitee to the G-7 summit outreach.
• The invitation came unexpectedly and highlights attempts to reset bilateral ties strained by allegations against India.
• Canada suspended negotiations for a free trade agreement amidst accusations of India's involvement in the Nijjar assassination.
• Current tensions include a reduced diplomatic presence and halted visa issuance to Canadians by India.
• A “law enforcement dialogue” is anticipated between Modi and Carney, focused on pressing security concerns.
• Historical diplomatic strains rooted in the Khalistan issue remain a significant backdrop to current relations.
• Effective public messaging and ongoing negotiations post-summit are crucial for moving forward.

This summary encapsulates the significant developments and implications of Modi's anticipated visit to Canada in the context of their strained diplomatic relations.

The discovery of a crystal casket and associated relics in Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh, has garnered significant attention due to their historical and cultural importance. Below is a comprehensive summary of the news article detailing the artifact's significance, the excavation history, current efforts towards their exposition, and the challenges in reclaiming them.

Summary:

• Artifact Discovery: The crystal casket, believed to be over 2,300 years old, was excavated in 1898 at the site of ancient Kapilavastu, Piprahwa, during a project led by William Claxton Peppe. The casket measures 5 cm x 10 cm and contains precious gems and gold leaves.

• Historical Context: An inscription in Brahmi script on a stone casket found nearby indicates that it was donated by Sukirti brothers of the Sakya clan, related to Lord Buddha. The excavation unearthed sacred bones, ashes, and stones believed to belong to Buddha and was part of a stupa linked to Emperor Ashoka.

• Current Exposition Plans: The Ministry of Culture is planning the first-ever public exposition of these relics, which have been stored in secure vaults of the Indian Museum, Kolkata, for over 127 years. The venue is likely to be a secure location in New Delhi, with possibilities of public display as early as next month, pending final confirmation.

• Legal Dispute: Recently, a significant legal notice was issued to Sotheby’s Hong Kong to halt the auction of Piprahwa relics previously held by Peppe’s family. This auction was stopped earlier this year. The Ministry reiterated the importance of repatriating these sacred relics to India, emphasizing their cultural heritage importance.

• International Context: The situation raises global concerns regarding the commodification of sacred relics and the broader struggle for post-colonial nations like India to reclaim cultural heritage looted during colonial rule. Experts highlighted that the lack of bilateral treaties and the burden of proof complicate legal claims. India is a signatory to the 1970 UNESCO Convention, yet challenges persist.

• Legal Classification: The relics, classified as ‘AA’ antiquities under Indian law, prohibit any sale or removal. The Indian Museum preserves these antiquities in accordance with international museum practices, maintaining their historical, cultural, and religious significance.

• Complex Ownership Issues: The ownership complexity arises from the colonial-era excavation and the subsequent transition of the relics into private hands, making it difficult to assert claims under current legal frameworks. The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, was established after the excavation, complicating claims on earlier finds.

• Government Efforts: The Ministry of Culture has involved the Financial Investigation Unit (FIU) to address related legal matters with Hong Kong authorities about the auction's legality. There is a concerted effort to protect India's cultural heritage and secure the return of the relics.

Key Points:

• A crystal casket, over 2,300 years old, was found during the 1898 excavation in Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh.
• The Ministry of Culture plans an exposition of the relics, the first public display in 127 years.
• Legal actions taken to prevent the auction of these relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong.
• The relics have significant cultural and historical importance, linked to Buddha and the Sakya clan.
• India faces challenges in reclaiming cultural artifacts due to colonial legacy and legal complexities.
• The relics are categorized as ‘AA’ antiquities, protected under Indian law.
• Government efforts involve international collaboration to secure repatriation of the relics.

The intricate connection between cultural heritage, colonial history, and present legal frameworks is key to understanding the significance of the Piprahwa relics and the ongoing efforts for their reclamation and public exhibition.

Summary of the News Article

Event & Context:

• On June 10, 2025, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed shock regarding the United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) decision to appoint Pakistan as the vice-chair of its counter-terrorism committee. Singh highlighted concerns about Pakistan's history of harboring terrorism, particularly its sheltering of terrorists like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar.

Statements from Defence Minister:

• Singh noted that the UNSC committee was established post-9/11, following the terror attacks in the United States, and questioned the credibility of Pakistan in leading efforts against global terrorism given that it has been a refuge for terrorists.
• He criticized the UNSC for its decision and urged international organizations, including the UN, to seriously address terrorism and its implications on global peace, progress, and prosperity.
• Singh contended that the rulers in Pakistan led the nation toward destruction while he suggested that the common people share a desire for peace.

Call for Action:

• The Defence Minister called for an end to foreign funding to Pakistan, arguing that such support contributes to the growth of terrorism infrastructure. He urged for strategic, diplomatic, and economic pressure on Pakistan to combat terrorism effectively.

Reflections on National Security:

• Singh emphasized a significant shift in India's national security approach under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government over the past 11 years. He referenced Operation Sindoor and the removal of special status in Jammu and Kashmir as pivotal moments pointing to India’s proactive stance on its security.
• He claimed that despite challenges from Pakistan, development in Jammu and Kashmir continued, citing the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway link as a notable achievement.

Defence Sector Growth:

• The Defence Minister discussed the robust growth of India’s domestic defense sector, stating that the defense budget increased from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.22 lakh crore in 2024-25, with a focus on capital procurement from domestic companies.
• He highlighted advancements in indigenous defense production, mentioning over 5,500 items listed for indigenization, and described the development of missiles and aircraft carriers as a demonstration of India's defense capabilities.

Economic Indicators:

• Annual defense production surged from approximately ₹40,000 crore in 2014 to over ₹1.30 lakh crore. Furthermore, defence exports increased from ₹686 crore in 2014 to ₹23,622 crore in 2024-25.
• Looking ahead, Singh set ambitious targets for defense production, aiming for ₹1.75 lakh crore within the year and ₹3 lakh crore by 2029, alongside defense export targets of ₹30,000 crore and ₹50,000 crore for the same timelines.

Information Warfare:

• Singh expressed concerns over misinformation, urging citizens to act as “social soldiers” in combatting false information spread through fake videos and manipulated news.
• He emphasized the responsibility of the media to prioritize the accuracy of reporting, labeling journalism as a national duty integral to informing and defending the nation’s security.

Key Points:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh criticized the UNSC's appointment of Pakistan to its counter-terrorism committee.
• Concerns raised over Pakistan's history as a haven for terrorists and the implications for global peace.
• Urgent calls to the international community to cease funding to Pakistan and exert pressure on Islamabad regarding terrorism.
• Significant growth in India’s defense budget and production capabilities highlighted, with ambitious future targets set.
• Singh's remarks on misinformation warfare reflect the need for awareness and responsible media practices.

On April 3, 1984, Rakesh Sharma, an Indian Air Force officer, became the first Indian citizen to travel to space aboard the Soyuz T-11 spacecraft, launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Soviet Kazakhstan. His voyage marked a significant landmark in the history of India-Soviet relations and was part of the Soviet Interkosmos program designed to enhance cooperative relationships through joint space ventures.

Key Facts:

• Mission Context: Sharma's mission was pivotal in the backdrop of the 1960s-1980s Cold War dynamics, during which India gravitated towards the Soviet Union. The Interkosmos initiative sent 17 non-Soviet astronauts/ cosmonauts into space between 1978 and 1991.

• Selection & Training: In 1980, Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev proposed a joint space mission to Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which was officially confirmed a year later. The selection of Rakesh Sharma and fellow IAF pilot Ravish Malhotra for the mission was entrusted to the Indian Air Force, leading to their rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City, near Moscow, starting September 1982.

• Launch and Voyage: The Soyuz T-11 lifted off at 6:38 PM IST on April 3, 1984, making Sharma the 138th individual to enter space and India the 14th nation to send a person into space. The craft docked with the Salyut 7 space station approximately 25 hours later.

• Duration in Space: The crew spent a week conducting various scientific experiments, including the "Terra experiment," which involved photographing India's geographical resources to assist in resource management and environmental studies. Other experiments focused on understanding microgravity's effects on materials and human physiology, including a unique study assessing yoga's impact on acclimatization to weightlessness.

• Symbolic Significance: Prime Minister Indira Gandhi hailed the mission as a proof of constructive cooperation between India and the USSR. The journey was also filled with symbolic gestures, such as taking soil from Raj Ghat and Indian foods for consumption, emphasizing national pride amidst an evolving Indian space program.

• Historical Impact: Despite limited direct benefits for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at that time, Rakesh Sharma's journey served as an inspirational moment for millions of Indians, symbolizing national identity and the potential for future advancements in science and technology.

• Return to Earth: The crew returned safely to Earth on April 11, 1984. During his time in space, Sharma made a notable televised interaction with Prime Minister Gandhi, famously declaring India's beauty from space as "Sare jahan se achcha" (better than the entire world), echoing a line from Iqbal's patriotic poem.

In summary, Rakesh Sharma’s space mission stands as a significant milestone not just in the context of India's growing collaboration with the Soviet Union during the Cold War but also as an emblem of national achievement and inspiration, laying the groundwork for future endeavors in the Indian space program.

Important Points:

• Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space on April 3, 1984.
• The mission was part of the Soviet Interkosmos program for international space cooperation.
• Training was conducted at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center.
• The Soyuz T-11 spacecraft lifted off at 6:38 PM IST.
• Sharma's crew conducted various scientific experiments, including a unique study on yoga and its effects in space.
• The mission boosted Indo-Soviet relations and evoked national pride in India.
• Returns to Earth were completed on April 11, 1984, making it a week-long mission.

The article discusses the government's periodic revisions of the base year for key economic indicators such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These revisions aim to accurately reflect the changing patterns of consumption and production in India and incorporate new data sources, thus enhancing the quality of economic statistics.

Key developments and timelines include:

• History of Revision:

  • In 2015, India revised the national accounts series' base year from 2004-05 to 2011-12.
  • Concurrently, the base year for CPI was updated to 2012 from 2010.
  • In May 2017, the IIP's base year was changed from 2004-05 to 2011-12.

• Upcoming Revisions:

  • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) plans to release a new GDP series with a base year of 2022-23 on February 27, 2026.
  • The new IIP series, also expected to have the base year of 2022-23, is anticipated to begin in 2026-27.
  • A new CPI series, with 2024 as the base year, is likely to be published in the first quarter of 2026.

• Incorporation of New Datasets:

  • The revisions will incorporate contemporary datasets, including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transaction data, which were not available during previous assessments.
  • The MoSPI also plans to utilize new data sources for CPI computation, such as online platforms for air and rail fares, as well as pricing data from e-commerce websites.
  • Updates will rely on the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey for 2023-24 to refine the items and weights in the CPI calculations.

• Impact on Economic Statistics:

  • These base year revisions are crucial for improving the accuracy of economic indicators, which in turn aids in effective policymaking.
  • An example of this impact is seen in the changing composition of the household consumption basket. For cereals, the share in the rural consumption basket has decreased from 10.69% in 2011-12 to 4.97% in 2023-24; in urban areas, from 6.61% to 3.74%.
  • The adjustment of weights based on updated data could significantly influence headline inflation, which has implications for the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) inflation-targeting framework.

• Controversies and Transparency Issues:

  • Past revisions, such as the introduction of the GDP series based on 2011-12, faced scrutiny regarding their accuracy and the quality of underlying data.
  • The article emphasizes the need for the government to ensure transparency by publicly disclosing all data sources and methodologies used in the calculation processes to mitigate concerns over the credibility of these figures.

In summary, the article underscores the importance of up-to-date and accurate economic indicators for policymaking, along with the necessity of transparency in the methodology of data collection and analysis.

Important Points:

• Government revises base years for economic indicators to reflect changing consumption and production.
• Past revisions occurred in 2015 (GDP, CPI) and 2017 (IIP).
• Upcoming releases include new GDP (base year 2022-23) on February 27, 2026, and CPI (base year 2024) in early 2026.
• New datasets (GST, UPI) will enhance the accuracy of estimates.
• Significant changes in consumption patterns, particularly in cereals, indicate the need for updated weights in CPI.
• Previous GDP revisions faced criticism; transparency in data sources and methodologies is essential.

A recent archaeological exploration in Kadri, Mangaluru, has led to significant discoveries, including a headless Buddha sculpture and a group of three rock-cut caves, as reported by T. Murugeshi, a retired associate professor in ancient history and archaeology. These findings are notable in the context of South Asian Buddhist studies and Tuluva history.

Key Discoveries:

• Buddha Sculpture:

  • The sculpture, stylistically attributed to the 4th-6th century A.D., was discovered in a water tank near the Kadri Manjunatha temple.
  • It is preserved in a damaged state, with the head and right hand missing. Yet, its Dhyana Buddha depiction features characteristics of serene beauty, seated in the padmasana pose with hands in dhyana mudra.
  • Dimensions: Approximately 68 cm in height and 48 cm in width, it is considered the presiding deity of the temple.

• Rock-Cut Caves:

  • The archaeological exploration also revealed three rock-cut caves located above the eastern side of Kadri tanks.
  • These laterite-cut caves are of considerable size with the first cave exhibiting an 8-foot height and a porthole-like entrance, suggestive of a megalithic dolmen.
  • Each cave includes a single square room with lamp provisions, indicating a likely residential use.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• The discoveries indicate that Kadri served as a Buddhist center up until the 10th century A.D., supported by an inscription from the Alupa king Kundavarma associated with a Lokeshwara image found in the Kadri temple.
• The Buddha sculpture showcases stylistic links to a similar exemplar found in Goa, currently displayed at the Fr. Heras Institute, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai.
• The discovery finishes a long-standing debate regarding Kadri's historical significance as a Buddhist site, asserting it as a center of Mahayana Buddhism that transitioned to Vajrayana Buddhism before the advent of the Natha cult in the 11th century.

Call for Archaeological Action: Murugeshi has urged the commissioner of State Archaeology to take immediate measures for the recovery and protection of the artifact to ensure its preservation for future study.

Collaboration: The archaeological research involved collaboration with students and faculty from various institutions, including Manipal University and MSRS College in Shirva, indicating a collective academic effort in the field of archaeology in Karnataka.

This discovery is crucial not only for understanding the historical development of Buddhism in the region but also for reinforcing Kadri’s importance in early South Asian history.

Summary of Important Points:

• Discovery of a headless Buddha sculpture and rock-cut caves in Kadri, Mangaluru.
• Sculpture dates to 4th-6th century A.D., located near Kadri Manjunatha temple.
• Rock-cut caves suggest residential use; first cave has a height of 8 feet with a porthole entrance.
• Findings confirm Kadri’s significance as a Buddhist center up to the 10th century.
• Similarities with a Buddha image from Goa indicate cultural connections.
• A request has been made for protective conservation of the discoveries.
• Collaboration involved various academic institutions in Karnataka.

These findings are expected to contribute to an improved comprehension of the region's archaeological and cultural landscape.

Summary of "Operation Sindoor and India's National Security"

In a recent dialogue on national security and terrorism held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand on June 10, 2025, India's Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, presented a comprehensive overview of the Indian government's transformative approach toward national security over the last 11 years under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He specifically highlighted "Operation Sindoor" as a watershed moment in India's counter-terrorism efforts.

Key Highlights:

• Operation Sindoor: Described as the largest anti-terror operation in Indian history, it was initiated in response to a terrorist attack on civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. This operation targeted and dismantled terror infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

• National Unity: Singh emphasized that the Pahalgam attack was an affront to India's social unity and reaffirmed India's commitment to addressing terrorism decisively.

• Article 370: The abrogation of Article 370 is noted as a significant turning point in Jammu & Kashmir, leading to progress and peace in the region despite attempts by terrorists to hinder development.

• Domestic Defense Production: The Defence Minister asserted that the government aims for defense production worth ₹1.75 lakh crore and exports worth ₹30,000 crore in the current fiscal year. He highlighted a massive increase in the defense budget from ₹2.53 lakh crore in FY 2013-14 to ₹6.22 lakh crore in FY 2024-25.

• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Singh discussed the government's initiative for self-reliance in defense (Aatmanirbhar Bharat), which has seen a surge in domestic defense manufacturing. Made-in-India platforms were pivotal in Operation Sindoor.

• Global Positioning: Singh criticized Pakistan's role as a supporter of terrorism and urged for increased international pressure on Islamabad, particularly by cutting off foreign funding, which often supports terrorist activities.

• UN Critique: He expressed concern regarding Pakistan's recent appointment as Vice-Chair of the UN's Counter-Terrorism Panel, questioning the credibility and intentions of international bodies in addressing terrorism.

• Public Participation: The Raksha Mantri called for societal awareness against misinformation and the role citizens can play as “social soldiers” in combating propaganda and false narratives that can undermine national security.

• Role of Media: Singh stressed the importance of responsible journalism in national security, urging media outlets to prioritize accuracy over virality, labeling the media as a critical watchdog in the fight against misinformation.

• Call for International Support: He reiterated the need for global coordination and strategies to eliminate terrorism, emphasizing that terrorism is a blight on humanity and a serious impediment to peace and progress worldwide.

Economic Indicators:

• Defense Production: A target of ₹1.75 lakh crore for this year and a goal of ₹3 lakh crore by 2029.
• Defence Exports: Aiming for ₹30,000 crore this year and ₹50,000 crore by 2029.
• Growth in Defence Sector: Annual defense production has reportedly increased from ₹40,000 crore in 2014 to ₹1.30 lakh crore today, with exports rising from ₹686 crore to ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25.

This dialogue reflects the Indian government's proactive stance on national security, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates civil society, robust defense production, and international cooperation in fighting terrorism. It asserts India's identity as a “Mother of Democracy” while critiquing Pakistan's historical role in fostering terrorism.

Important Bullet Points:

• Operation Sindoor is characterized as India's largest anti-terror operation.
• The Pahalgam attack is viewed as an assault on national unity.
• Article 370's abrogation has led to improved peace and development in J&K.
• The defense budget has increased significantly under Modi's administration.
• The government targets ₹1.75 lakh crore in defense production by FY 2024-25.
• Singh calls for international pressure on Pakistan to curb terrorism funding.
• Criticism of Pakistan's UN Counter-Terrorism Panel appointment.
• Emphasis on public vigilance against misinformation and responsible media reporting.
• The global fight against terrorism requires unified international strategies.