Current Affairs - Defence

Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the officiating Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) after the retirement of Anish Dayal Singh on December 31, 2024. Kumar, who has served as the Special Director General of CRPF, brings extensive experience and has been recognized for his contributions with several prestigious awards. His leadership will be critical in addressing key challenges, including the government’s push to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism in Chhattisgarh and managing tensions in Manipur.

India's defence exports have surged to a record Rs 21,000 crore, a significant increase from Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago. This achievement reflects the nation’s focus on indigenous defence production and technological advancements. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced this milestone during his visit to the Army War College in Mhow, setting an ambitious target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. The growth aligns with India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, underscoring its global presence in the defence sector and its commitment to self-reliance in national security and manufacturing.

The 18th edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, took place in Saljhandi, Nepal. The exercise involved 334 personnel from the Indian Army, led by the 11th Gorkha Rifles, and the Nepal Army's Srijung Battalion. It emphasized key areas such as jungle warfare, counter-terrorism, disaster relief, and enhancing operational preparedness, strengthening military collaboration between the two nations.

INS Sarvekshak conducted a joint hydrographic survey in Mauritius, arriving at Port Louis to foster technical exchanges and training. This survey is aimed at assisting Mauritius with maritime infrastructure, resource management, and coastal planning. The visit highlights India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and strengthens the maritime cooperation between India and Mauritius, promoting closer ties and collaboration in regional security and development.

India and Kuwait have elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on cooperation in sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, infrastructure, and security. This milestone was achieved during the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. The agreements signify a strengthened bond between the two nations, emphasizing their mutual commitment to enhance economic and security collaborations.