LADAKH OPERATIONS
Sonam Wangchuk seeks President Droupadi Murmu's intervention in Ladakh, accuses LG V K Saxena of smear campaign
Sonam Wangchuk called for presidential intervention regarding the situation in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. He claimed that Ladakh has experienced significant repression since it became a Union Territory. Wangchuk accused the Lieutenant Governor of engaging in a smear campaign against him and other local leaders. He expressed concerns over various policies that favor corporatization and harm local communities.
Sonam Wangchuk appeals to President Murmu, alleges smear campaign by Ladakh administration
Sonam Wangchuk has expressed concerns to President Droupadi Murmu regarding administrative actions affecting critics in Ladakh. He alleges that a smear campaign is being orchestrated by the Lieutenant Governor's administration against him and others. The appeal follows the cancellation of the land lease for the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh, which he co-founded.
Ladakh administration asks Sonam Wangchuk-founded institute to halt school activities pending HC decision
The Ladakh administration has directed the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, founded by Sonam Wangchuk, to stop activities at its Desert Flower School in Leh until the High Court delivers its decision in a pending matter concerning the institute. The notice cited the absence of requisite approvals and clearances for starting classes.
Global criticism during COVID-19 hardened China's attitude towards world: Foreign Secretary Misri
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the challenges faced by India during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that China felt stigmatised by the international community for the virus. Misri reflected on his experience as Ambassador during the India-China confrontation in Galwan Valley. He highlighted the importance of coordination in Operation Sindoor, which included multiple government agencies. Additionally, he expressed his connection to his Kashmiri Pandit heritage and community resilience.
Cyclonic storm brewing in Bay of Bengal may hit Andhra coast on Nov 3; likely weaker than Cyclone Arnab: IMD
The India Meteorological Department forecasts a cyclonic system approaching Andhra Pradesh on November 3. Rainfall across the southern peninsula regions is expected to be below the long-period average. Above-normal temperatures are predicted across most of India, with some exceptions in northwest regions. Strong El Nino conditions are set to continue, which might affect weather patterns through March.
Ladakh chief secretary directs early resolution of land issues for Kargil airstrip expansion
Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Kargil to expedite land acquisition processes. He emphasized conducting a joint site inspection with the Indian Air Force to resolve land acquisition issues. The meeting also addressed the construction of a new terminal at Thoise Airport on defense land. Administrative secretaries were instructed to resolve procedural issues for timely project execution.
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Manipur census deferred, Registrar General notifies
Census operations in Manipur are currently on hold after a decision made by the Central Government. The deferment follows protests for updating the National Register of Citizens before conducting the census. Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a meeting to review the situation in Manipur, which led to this decision. The Manipur High Court has also temporarily paused all census-related activities until further notice.
Protest against liquor policy in Ladakh suspended after govt agrees to all demands: Wangchuk
Women's organisations in Ladakh suspended their protest against a liquor policy after receiving assurance from the UT administration. The organisations demanded a complete rollback of the liquor policy and preservation of local culture and values. The UT administration agreed to all demands and requested a week's time to formalise the agreement. The interim suspension of protests reflects the organisations' faith in the administration's commitment.
Weather today, October 30: IMD forecasts hailstorms and thunderstorms in Delhi-NCR, heavy rain in Andhra Pradesh and other regions due to Cyclone Arnab; check the state-wise forecast
Weather today, October 30: The India Meteorological Department has predicted thunderstorms and hailstorms in Delhi NCR on October 30. A low-pressure area has formed in the South Andaman Sea, expected to intensify into a depression. Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for multiple states across India, highlighting severe weather conditions. Rescue operations are underway in Odisha due to floods and landslides related to Cyclone Arnab.
"India's counter-terrorism strategies battle-tested": Rajnath Singh cites Operation Sindoor in ADMM-Plus
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed state-sponsored terrorism and India’s commitment to regional security during the ADMM-Plus forum. He emphasised the need for sharing practical counter-terrorism experience with partners to strengthen collective capabilities.
Indian Army conducts high-altitude training in Ladakh to enhance mechanised forces' readiness
The Indian Army is currently focusing on enhancing the operational readiness of its mechanised forces. Training is being conducted in the high-altitude terrain of Ladakh, which poses numerous challenges. Key training includes battlefield movements, surveillance setups, and effective equipment management practices. This effort aims to improve combat preparedness and ensure successful operations in demanding environments. The Army emphasizes its commitment to train hard, operate smart, and strike decisively.
L&T and BAE Systems start production of BVS 10 Sindhu ATVs for Indian Army's high-altitude operations
Larsen and Toubro, in collaboration with BAE Systems, has commenced production of the BVS 10 Sindhu all-terrain vehicle. This development follows an order from the Indian Army for 18 units of the ATV. The vehicles are expected to be deployed in the high-altitude region of Ladakh for operations at extreme conditions. Moreover, Pakistan is fielding ATVs in the Kutch region for troop transportation purposes.
Ladakh has only one operational liquor shop, LG Admin rebuts Sonam Wangchuk's claims
Sonam Wangchuk has raised concerns over the increase in liquor outlets in Ladakh, leading to protests by women. The UT administration responded by rejecting his claims as false and cautioned against spreading rumors. Wangchuk alleged that liquor shops were being opened despite local opposition, particularly near schools. The administration clarified that only one liquor shop is operational and the new Excise Policy was rolled back after public feedback.
Do not release provisional census data to press: RGI to states and UTs
The Registrar General of India has announced that Census 2027 data will not be made public, emphasizing the confidentiality guaranteed by the Census Act of 1948. This census is notably being conducted digitally, allowing for swift data submission. The process comprises two main phases: the initial house listing followed by the actual population count. The government has pledged a substantial financial investment for this extensive headcount endeavor.
Five appeals, 15 visits, 30 calls: Sonam Wangchuk cites administrative delays in execution of HIAL land lease
Sonam Wangchuk has blamed administrative delays for the failure to execute a lease deed for land allotted to his Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), citing a February 2021 letter from the Ladakh administration that said the process was pending a new lease policy. Wangchuk said he made five written appeals, 15 visits and 30 phone calls seeking the deed.
China face-offs 'ongoing' along Arunachal Pradesh border, says ITBP Chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has raised a new combat unit, the Shaurya commandos, who have demonstrated their capabilities during ongoing face-offs with Chinese troops at multiple locations in Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor said on Thursday.
Solar Defence’s Nagastra 2 completes technical trials for Army, offers 650 mm armour penetration
Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd. has completed the delivery of the Nagastra 2 anti-tank loitering munition system. This system includes advanced features such as day-and-night surveillance cameras and an Electronic Counter-Countermeasures system. The Indian Army issued an order in 2025 for approximately 450 NAGASTRA-1R loitering munitions. The Nagastra-1R system is designed with over 80% indigenous content, emphasizing self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
ITBP has raised drone platoons, building bunkers along LAC: ITBP DG
ITBP Director General (DG) Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor told his troops at a force base in Rajasthan's Alwar that countering China through "traditional" means of warfare was a thing of the past and hence they were investing in modernizing the force, its weapons, vehicles and border posts.
Delhi Metro adds extra weekday trips as GRAP-I kicks in from October 22 to combat air pollution
The Delhi Metro will run 20 additional weekday train trips from October 22 after GRAP-I was implemented across Delhi-NCR to tackle worsening air pollution. The DMRC will also intensify dust-control drives at construction sites, inspect nearby roads and strengthen existing pollution-control measures. Delhi's AQI stood at 246 in the poor category, with forecasts indicating that air quality could remain poor in the days ahead.
India’s Zorawar tank for China border faces 2-year delay as Army’s new demand puts engineers to the test
India’s Zorawar light tank must overcome a difficult engineering trade-off before it can fulfil its role in the Himalayas. Stronger armour could help protect crews against heavier weapons, but additional weight may undermine the mobility that sets the vehicle apart. The decision could shape the tank’s engine requirements, testing schedule and planned induction around 2028-2029.
Love shooting trains, Vande Bharat videos & scenic railway bridges with a drone? Railways is cracking down, and vloggers need to take note
Indian Railways has stepped up its crackdown on unauthorised drone operations over railway tracks, stations and other infrastructure, citing safety and security risks. The action follows a Kollam court ruling that fined a man and sentenced him to one day of community service for illegally flying a drone over a railway line. The move could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts filming trains, bridges, tunnels and scenic routes for social media without the required permissions.
Teachers of aided/unaided private bodies can be appointed for Census duties: Registrar General of India
The Census Rules of 1990 have been amended by the Centre to allow private teachers as enumerators. This amendment follows a legal challenge regarding the use of private school staff for this duty. The 2027 Census will occur in two phases, with a substantial budget approved for its execution. Enumeration in certain states will begin from December 1, 2026, due to upcoming elections.
Jammu & Kashmir High Court bans fuel-powered motorboats and jet skis on Dal Lake to curb pollution
Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court recently issued an order banning fuel-powered motorboats and jet skis on Dal Lake. Chief Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajesh Sekhri enforced the ban in response to a petition. The court directed relevant authorities to ensure compliance with this order promptly. The banning of these vehicles aims to protect the ecological balance of the lake.
PM Modi to inaugurate five development projects worth around Rs 3,350 crore in Ladakh tomorrow
On October 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate key development projects that enhance infrastructure in Ladakh. The projects aim to improve connectivity, energy security, and cultural heritage conservation in the region. These efforts include the New Passenger Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport and the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road. Additionally, a Petroglyph Conservation Park and 40 water bodies under Project Him Sarovar will be inaugurated.
LAC must be stable for normalisation of ties with China: EAM S Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said stable conditions along the Line of Actual Control are essential for normalising India-China relations, warning that border disturbances will have consequences. He linked expanded trade and investment ties to peace along the border, while flagging China's trade surplus and India's concerns over market access.
PM Modi woos global investors, says India believes in 'Power to Empower'
The Prime Minister told the gathering of business leaders from India and abroad that the country has seen inclusive growth at a steady pace in the last decade, despite challenges such as the Covid pandemic, wars, disruption of supply chains, trade barriers and supplies of critical minerals being choked off.
Indian Army preparing for high-altitude drone warfare, orders 225 FPV drone capable of operating in Himalyas
The Army’s latest drone procurement comes after rigorous trials in extreme Himalayan conditions, where FPV systems were assessed for their ability to function at elevations reaching 17,500 feet. The 225-drone order highlights the military’s expanding reliance on unmanned platforms for operations in high-altitude areas, where low oxygen levels, freezing temperatures, mountainous terrain and unreliable communications can limit conventional equipment.
DRDO conducts maiden live jump of Advanced High-Altitude Parachute system
The Defence Research and Development Organisation marked a significant milestone with the successful live jump of the Advanced High-Altitude Parachute at Nyoma drop zone in Ladakh, soaring at an altitude of 13,700 feet. This jump not only showcased the parachute's capability for high-altitude tactical missions, but also its safety features.
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