DEFENCE

• Raksha Mantri on official visit to Russia from September 3-5.
• Visit of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) to frontline air bases in Eastern Air Command
• The 11th edition of exercise INDRA NAVY, a biennial bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy.
• Indian Army Chief of Army staff visits Ladakh.
• Raksha Mantri meets Chinese Defence Minister at latter’s request on the sidelines of SCO meeting in Moscow.
• Indian Army rescues Chinese Citizens in North Sikkim.
• Raksha Mantri holds meeting with Iran's Minister of Defence in Tehran; Talks centred on Issues of regional security including Afghanistan and bilateral cooperation.
• DRDO successfully flight tests Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle.
• Situation in Eastern Ladakh.
• Induction Ceremony of Rafale Aircraft into Indian Air Force.
• India and Japan sign agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between Forces of both countries.
• Joint Press Statement - Meeting of External Affairs Minister and the Foreign Minister of China.
• MoD appoints KPMG Advisory Services led consortium for consultancy on corporatisation of OFB.
• India-US hold 2 plus 2 intersessional meeting
• Ceasefire Violations by Pakistan in J&K.
• Funds for Defence Modernisation.
• Text of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s Statement in Lok Sabha on September 15 Regarding Situation on Eastern Border in Ladakh.
• Indian and U.S. Defense Delegations conduct Virtual Discussion on Defense Cooperation.

International Terrorism

Africa

• Kenya
• Matiangi unmasks warlords funding terror.

• Somalia
• Somali Army Kills 7 al-Shabaab terrorists in Southern Somalia.

Afghanistan

• Targeted bombing killed 10 people in Kabul; Vice President suffered minor burns.
• Dozens killed in fighting in Afghanistan as peace talks continue.
• 25 Taliban terrorists were killed in airstrike in Laghman province.
• Taliban continues attacks as peace negotiations progress.

Pakistan

• Police arrested an AQIS terrorist from Karachi.

Domestic Terrorism

Jammu and Kashmir

• Security forces arrested three LeT OGWs from Bandipora.
• Three JeM hideouts were busted in Pulwama.
• Pakistan plans to infiltrate 400 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir amid India-China border row.

Left-Wing Extremism

• Security forces eliminated five Maoists in Odisha.
• NIA arrested three people in Elgaar Parishad case.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• GoI attached assets of two Khalistani ‘terrorists’ under UA (P) Act.
• Police arrested two BKI terrorists from Delhi.

Islamist Extremism in India

• NIA filed charge-sheet against five accused in IS-KP case.
• Turkey supporting Islamic State’s network in India.

Cyber, Information Warfare & Artificial Intelligence (Security Perspective)

• Pakistan’s ISI and Military Intelligence embarked on IW against India.
• AI in Cyber Security Market to Cross USD 101,763 Million Revenue by 2030.

Defence

RakshaMantri official visit to Russia September 3-5.

Raksha Mantri was in Moscow from September 3-5, 2020 at the invitation of Defence Minister of Russian Federation General Shergei Shoigu to attend the combined meeting of Defence Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member States in commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of victory in the World War II.

Raksha Mantri was accompanied by Defence Secretary and other senior officials. The Raksha Mantri met with Russian Defence Minister, Gen. Sergei Shoigu, at the Russian Ministry of Defence. The meeting was marked by the traditional warmth and friendship, characteristic of the Special & Privileged Partnership between India and the Russian Federation in which Military Technical Cooperation and Military-to-Military cooperation constitutes an important pillar. Defence Minister General Shoigu conveyed his warm appreciation to Raksha Mantri for his participation in the 75th Anniversary of Victory Day Parade at Red Square on 24 June 2020, and his participation in the joint meeting of the SCO, CIS & CSTO countries.

The meeting covered a broad range of areas of cooperation between the two countries. It was noted that this meeting coincides with the Indra Naval Exercises to be conducted by the Indian and Russia navies off the Straits of Malacca over 4-5th Sep. Raksha Mantri noted that these exercises demonstrated the common interests of both countries in maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. There was substantial commonality in positions with respect to challenges at the regional and international levels in the areas of peace and security, reflective of the deep trust and confidence that both sides enjoy as Strategic Partners. Raksha Mantri conveyed appreciation for the steadfast support provided by Russia consistent with the defence and security needs of India, and in this context, particularly noted the timely manner in which the Russian had responded to requests for procurement of particular weapon systems. Both sides would continue to maintain contacts to ensure the timely delivery.

Raksha Mantri briefed General Shoigu on the 'Make-in-India' defence programme in the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Both sides welcomed the advance stage of discussions for the establishment in India of an India-Russian Joint Venture for the production of AK-203 assault rifles which are considered one of the most modern weapons available for infantry forces. This provides very positive basis for further engagement of Russian defence industry in 'Make in India' programme. General Shoigu reiterated commitment of the Russian side to engage actively with our MOD to ensure the success of 'Make in India' programme including substantial participation in the forthcoming Aero India Exhibition to be held in February next year. Raksha Mantri extended an invitation for General Shoigu to visit India for the next meeting of the Inter-Governmental Commission for Technical & Military Cooperation which is expected to be held towards the end of this year.
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Visit of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) to frontline air bases in Eastern Air Command.

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) visited frontline air bases in Eastern Air Command (EAC) on 02 Sep 20. On arrival at the bases in Eastern Air Command the CAS was apprised of the readiness state and operational preparedness of the combat units under their command. The CAS also met and interacted with air warriors serving in these units during the course of his visit.

The 11th edition of exercise INDRA NAVY, a biennial bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy.

The 11th edition of exercise INDRA NAVY, a biennial bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy was undertaken in the Bay of Bengal from 04 to 05 September 2020. Initiated in 2003, Ex INDRA NAVY epitomises the long-term strategic relationship between the two Navies. The primary aim of exercise INDRA NAVY-20 is to further consolidate inter-operability built up by the two Navies over the years and also to enhance understanding and procedures for multi-faceted maritime operations. Due to restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, INDRA NAVY-20 would be undertaken in a ‘non-contact, at sea only’ format.

The Indian Navy will be represented by guided missile destroyer Ranvijay, indigenous frigate Sahyadri and fleet tanker Shakti, along with their integral helicopters. Sahyadri has been presently redeployed to provide assistance to MT New Diamond, which has caught fire off the coast of Sri Lanka. The Russian Federation Navy will be represented by destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet, based at Vladivostok.
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Indian Army Chief of Army staff visits Ladakh.

The Chief of the Army Staff, General MM Naravane concluded a two day visit to Leh on 04 Sep 2020. The COAS arrived at Leh on 03 September 2020 and proceeded to forward areas to undertake a firsthand assessment of the situation along the LAC. The COAS interacted with soldiers and local commanders deployed in difficult High Altitude forward areas. He appreciated their high morale and standards of professionalism exhibited by the units in safeguarding own territorial integrity. The COAS urged all ranks to remain vigilant and maintain a high order of operational readiness. Lt General Harinder Singh, GOC, Fire and Fury Corps briefed him on the state of operational preparedness and on the logistics arrangements for sustenance of forces in winters. The COAS expressed satisfaction on the efforts being made to ensure operational effectiveness and capability enhancement of the forces.

RakshaMantri meets Chinese Defence Minister at latter’s request on the sidelines of SCO meeting in Moscow.

Raksha Mantri met General Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and Defence Minister of China on 4th September in Moscow on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting. The two Ministers had frank and in-depth discussions about the developments in the India-China border areas as well as on India-China relations.

Raksha Mantri categorically conveyed India’s position on the developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) including in the Galwan valley in the Western Sector of the India-China Border Areas in the last few months. He emphasised that the actions of the Chinese troops, including amassing of large number of troops, their aggressive behaviour and attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo were in violation of the bilateral agreements and not in keeping with the understandings reached between the Special Representatives of two sides. The RM stated clearly that while the Indian troops had always taken a very responsible approach towards border management, but at the same time there should also be no doubt about our determination to protect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

State Councillor and Defence Minister of China said that both sides should scrupulously implement the consensus reached between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping and continue to solve the issues through dialogue and consultation, strictly follow the various bilateral agreements, strengthen the regulation of frontline troops and not undertake any provocative actions that might escalate the situation. The two sides should focus on the overall situation of India-China relations and work together to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible, and maintain peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas. The Chinese Defence Minister suggested that both sides should maintain communication at all levels including between the two Ministers.

Raksha Mantri said that both sides should take guidance from the consensus of the leaders that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas was essential for the further development of our bilateral relations and that two sides should not allow differences to become disputes. Accordingly, the two sides should resolve the ongoing situation and outstanding issues in the border areas peacefully through dialogue. The Chinese Defence Minister conveyed that Chinese side too desired to resolve the issues peacefully. Raksha Mantri advised that it was important therefore that Chinese side should work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols on maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas, strictly respect and observe the line of actual control and should not make attempts to unilaterally change status quo. He further said that the current situation should be handled responsibly and that neither side should take any further action that could either complicate the situation or escalate matters in the border areas. Raksha Mantri conveyed that the two sides should continue their discussions, including through diplomatic and military channels, to ensure complete disengagement and de-escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC at the earliest.
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Indian Army rescues Chinese Citizens in North Sikkim.

The Indian Army extended a helping hand to three Chinese citizens who lost their way in Plateau area of North Sikkim at an altitude of 17,500 feet on 03 September 2020. Realising danger to the lives of the Chinese citizens which included two men and one woman in sub zero temperatures, the soldiers of Indian Army immediately reached out and provided medical assistance including oxygen, food and warm clothes to protect them from the vagaries of extreme altitude and harsh climatic conditions.

Raksha Mantri holds meeting with Iran's Minister of Defence in Tehran.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting on 5th September 2020 with Iran's Minister of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics, Brigadier General Amir Hatami. Talks centred on Issues of regional security including Afghanistan and bilateral cooperation.
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DRDO successfully flight tests Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated the hypersonic air-breathing scramjet technology with the flight test of Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) at 1103 hours on 07 Sep 2020 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island, off the coast of Odisha. The hypersonic cruise vehicle was launched using a proven solid rocket motor, which took it to an altitude of 30 kilometres (km), where the aerodynamic heat shields were separated at hypersonic Mach number. The cruise vehicle separated from the launch vehicle and the air intake opened as planned. The hypersonic combustion sustained and the cruise vehicle continued on its desired flight path at a velocity of six times the speed of sound i.e., nearly 02 km/second for more than 20 seconds. The critical events like fuel injection and auto ignition of scramjet demonstrated technological maturity. The scramjet engine performed in a text book manner.

The parameters of launch and cruise vehicle, including scramjet engine was monitored by multiple tracking radars, electro-optical systems and Telemetry Stations. The scramjet engine worked at high dynamic pressure and at very high temperature. A Ship was also deployed in the Bay of Bengal to monitor the performance during the cruise phase of hypersonic vehicle. All the performance parameters have indicated a resounding success of the mission.

With this successful demonstration, many critical technologies such as aerodynamic configuration for hypersonic manoeuvers, use of scramjet propulsion for ignition and sustained combustion at hypersonic flow, thermo-structural characterisation of high temperature materials, separation mechanism at hypersonic velocities etc. were proven.
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Situation in Eastern Ladakh.

India, while is committed to disengagement and de-escalating the situation on the LAC, China continues to undertake provocative activities to escalate.At no stage has the Indian Army transgressed across the LAC or resorted to use of any aggressive means, including firing.It is the PLA that has been blatantly violating agreements and carrying out aggressive manoeuvres, while engagement at military, diplomatic and political level is in progress. In the instant case on 07 September 2020, it was the PLA troops who were attempting to close-in with one of our forward positions along the LAC and when dissuaded by own troops, PLA troops fired a few rounds in the air in an attempt to intimidate own troops. However, despite the grave provocation, own troops exercised great restraint and behaved in a mature and responsible manner. The Indian Army is committed to maintaining peace and tranquility, however is also determined to protect national integrity and sovereignty at all costs. The statement by the PLA’s Western Theatre Command is an attempt to mislead their domestic and international audience. Click here to read...

Induction Ceremony of Rafale Aircraft into Indian Air Force.

Rafale Fighter Air craft has been formally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 10 Sep 2020, at a formal function at Air Force Station, Ambala. Raksha Mantri and Ms Florence Parly, Minister of the Armed Forces of France graced the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Raksha Mantri said the induction of Rafale was historic moment and a very important milestone in the history of the IAF. He said, the Rafale deal was a game changer for India’s national security and its induction is a strong message for the world and especially for those who challenge India’s sovereignty. Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the resolve of not compromising India's sovereignty and territorial integrity under any circumstances and the country’s determination to make all possible preparations for it. “The intentions of military are as strong as it can be” he said. Raksha Mantri also said “strengthening our defence is aimed at achieving international peace and stability and we do not want to take any step that can endanger international peace. We have the same expectation of our neighbours and other countries of the world.”

Terming that the Rafale induction reflected close India-France strategic relations, Raksha Mantri said “we have cooperated closely in a number of areas to enhance our defence cooperation. As part of the transfer of technology agreement, 6 Scorpene submarines are being built at the Mazagaon Docks. On the basis of this partnership, the first submarine, INS Kalvari was commissioned in 2017.” He also highlighted the Indo-French cooperation in dealing with common challenges like maritime security and piracy in the Indo-Pacific region and IOR.

Raksha Mantri also pitched for French investments in the Indian defence manufacturing sector. He said in response to the call for 'Self-reliant initiative' by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, many policy reforms have been initiated such as manufacturing of defence equipment under the strategic-Partnership model, enhancing FDI up to 74% by automatic route, establishment of two defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and reforms in Offsets. “I am confident that French defence Industries will take advantage of this and France will continue to be our partner in our journey of indigenization”, he said.

The first five Rafael aircraft which arrived at Air Force Station, Ambala from France on 27th July 2020, would be part of 17 Squadron, the “Golden Arrows”.
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India and Japan sign agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between Forces of both countries.

This agreement establishes the enabling framework for closer cooperation between the Armed Forces of India and Japan in reciprocal provision of supplies and services while engaged in bilateral training activities, United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, Humanitarian International Relief and other mutually agreed activities.

The agreement will also enhance the interoperability between the Armed Force of India and Japan thereby further increasing the bilateral defence engagements under the Special Strategic & Global Partnership between the two countries.
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Joint Press Statement - Meeting of External Affairs Minister and the Foreign Minister of China.

H.E. Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India met H.E. Wang Yi, State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China on 10th September in Moscow on the side-lines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting. Both Ministers had a frank and constructive discussion on the developments in the India-China border areas as well as on India-China relations and agreed as follows:

1. The two Ministers agreed that both sides should take guidance from the series of consensus of the leaders on developing India-China relations, including not allowing differences to become disputes.
2. The two Foreign Ministers agreed that the current situation in the border areas is not in the interest of either side. They agreed therefore that the border troops of both sides should continue their dialogue, quickly disengage, maintain proper distance and ease tensions.
3. The two Ministers agreed that both sides shall abide by all the existing agreements and protocol on China-India boundary affairs, maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas and avoid any action that could escalate matters.
4. The two sides also agreed to continue to have dialogue and communication through the Special Representative mechanism on the India-China boundary question. They also agreed in this context that the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China border affairs (WMCC), should also continue its meetings.
5. The Ministers agreed that as the situation eases, the two sides should expedite work to conclude new Confidence Building Measures to maintain and enhance peace and tranquillity in the border areas. Click here to read...

MoD appoints KPMG Advisory Services led consortium for consultancy on corporatisation of OFB.

An Expression of Interest cum Request for Proposal (EOI cum RFP) for engaging a Consultancy Agency for providing strategic and implementation management consulting services to assist the Ministry of Defence in the process of corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board was issued by the Department of Defence Production on 06.07.2020.

Consequent to evaluation of the Technical and Financial proposals of the bidders, the Department has selected M/s KPMG Advisory Services Pvt. Ltd. (Lead Consortium Member) with M/s Khaitan & Co. Ltd. as Consortium Member, as the Consultancy Agency for the said project.

India-US hold 2 plus 2 intersessional meeting.

Both sides reviewed the progress and developments in bilateral ties in defence, security, and foreign policy areas since the last 2+2 Ministerial meeting held on 18 December 2019 in Washington D.C. They explored opportunities for enhancing ongoing cooperation in these fields based on mutual interest. They also exchanged views about regional developments, and agreed to pursue their quest for a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Ceasefire Violations by Pakistan in J&K.

There have been 3186 incidents of Ceasefire Violations along Line of Control in Jammu region in this year (from 01 January to 07 September, 2020). In addition, 242 incidents of cross-border firing have occurred along Indo-Pak International Border in Jammu region in this year (01 January to 31 August, 2020).There have been 08 fatal casualties and 02 non-fatal casualties of Army personnel occurred in J&K in this year (till 07 September, 2020). In addition, there have been 05 non-fatal casualties of BSF personnel occurred along International Border and Line of Control in J&K. This information was given by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik in a written reply to Shri CM Ramesh in Rajya Sabha today.
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Funds for Defence Modernisation.

An amount of Rs. 90,048 crore has been allocated for Capital Acquisition (Modernization) in BE 2020-21 under Defence Service Estimates which is an increase of Rs. 9,088.92 crore over BE 2019-20 allocations. The total amount allocated for Capital Acquisition (Modernization) is 27.87% of Defence Services Estimates. This information was given by Raksha Rajya Mantri in a written reply to Shri P Bhattacharya and Shri Vijay Pal Singh Tomar in Rajya Sabha.

RakshaMantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s Statement in Lok Sabha on September 15 Regarding Situation on Eastern Border in Ladakh.

The salient points of his speech in parliament were:-

1. He acknowledged the indomitable courage, gallant and valorof 20 brave soldiers, who made the supreme sacrifice in the cause of defending the territorial integrity of India.
2. China does not accept the customary and traditional alignment of the boundary between India and China. We believe that this alignment is based on well-established geographical principles confirmed by treaties and agreements, as well as historical usage and practice, well-known for centuries to both sides. The Chinese position, however, is that the boundary between the two countries has not been formally delimited, that there exists a traditional customary line formed by the extent of jurisdiction that they claim was exercised historically by each side, and that the two sides have different interpretations of the position of the traditional customary line. The two countries had engaged in discussions during 1950s-60s but these efforts could not yield a mutually acceptable solution.
3. He brought out as yet there is no commonly delineated Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the border areas between India and China and there is no common perception of the entire LAC. Therefore, in order to ensure peace and tranquility in the border areas, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the two countries have concluded a number of agreements and protocols.
4. Since April, we had noticed a build-up of troops and armaments by the Chinese side in the border areas adjacent to Eastern Ladakh. In early May, the Chinese side had taken action to hinder the normal, traditional patrolling pattern of our troops in the Galwan Valley area, which resulted in a face-off. Even as this situation was being addressed by the Ground Commanders as per the provisions of our bilateral agreements and protocol, in mid-May the Chinese side made several attempts to transgress the LAC in other parts of the Western Sector. This included Kongka La, Gogra and North Bank of Pangong Lake. These attempts were detected early and consequently responded to appropriatelyby our armed forces.
5. It was made it clear to the Chinese side both through diplomatic and military channels that China was, by such actions, attempting to unilaterally alter the status quo. It was categorically conveyed that this was unacceptable.
6. Given the growing friction along the LAC, the Senior Commanders of the two sides in a meeting on June 6 2020agreed on a process of disengagement that involved reciprocal actions. Both sides also agreed to respect and abide by the LAC and not undertake any activity to alter the status quo. However in violation of this the Chinese side created a violent face off on June 15th at Galwan.
7. As of now, the Chinese side has mobilized a large number of troops and armaments along the LAC as well as in the depth areas. There are several friction areas in Eastern Ladakh including Gogra, Kongka La and North and South Banks of the Pangong Lake. In response to China’s actions, our armed forces have also made appropriate counter deployments in these areas to ensure that India’s security interests are fully protected.

The full text of the speech can be accessed at Click here to read...

Indian and U.S. Defense Delegations conduct Virtual Discussion on Defense Cooperation.

The 10th Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) Group Meeting was held virtually on September 15, 2020. The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Raj Kumar, Secretary, Defence Production, from the Indian Ministry of Defence and Ms. Ellen M. Lord, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, from the U.S. Department of Defense. DTTI Group Meetings are normally held twice a year, alternating between India and the United States. This time, meeting was held via VTC on account of COVID pandemic.The co-chairs were also pleased to note that since the last DTTI Group meeting in October 2019, a DTTI Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the identification and development of cooperative projects under DTTI has been completed. The SOP will serve as the framework for DTTI and allow both sides to reach and document a mutual understanding on how to define and achieve success. A publicly releasable extract of key elements of the SOP was also published in July as the DTTI Initial Guidance for Industry, and distributed through Indian and U.S. industry associations.Further efforts to encourage U.S. and Indian industry to cooperatively develop next-generation technologies under the DTTI Group were highlighted by the 1st DTTI Industry Collaboration Forum (DICF), which took place virtually on September 10, 2020.
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International Terrorism

Africa

Kenya

Matiangi unmasks warlords funding terror

Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi, on 02 September, has announced the names of nine influential businessmen based in the country who were involved in the terror funding case. On September 03, two terror suspects— Hamid Adan Ali and Waleed Ahmed Zein, affiliated to the Islamic State (IS) were arrested in connection to the terror financing network. The United States (US) had designated them as “dangerous terrorists” way back n 2018-19. Kenya has been suffering from the wrath of Somalia-based al-Shabaab linked with al-Qaeda, in several parts of Kenya including its capital Nairobi.
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Somalia

Somali Army Kills 7 al-Shabaab terrorists in Southern Somalia

On 16 September, the Somali National Army (SNA) killed seven al-Shabaab terrorists in southern town of Awdhigle in Lower Shabelle in Southern Somalia. In the recent past the SNA has intensified its operations to fight against the group.
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Afghanistan

Targeted bombing killed 10 people in Kabul; Vice-President suffered minor burns

On 09 September, a bombing targeted the convoy of Afghanistan’s first Vice-President Amrullah Saleh, killed 10 people and injured more than dozens in Kabul. No terrorist group claimed the responsibility of the attack. Vice-President Saleh, a former Afghan intelligence chief, had sustained minor burns from the blast. He made television appearance after few hours of the blast. The bomb went off as Vice-President Saleh’s convoy was passing through a section of Kabul with shops that sell home-used gas cylinders. The blast ignited a fire that set ablaze a number of the shops.
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Dozens killed in fighting in Afghanistan as peace talks continue

In two separate incidents on 17 September, Taliban terrorists attacked checkpoints of Afghan Security Forces and killed 11 security personnel in Hesarak and killed other eight in Khogyani district. Retaliating to the attacks, the Afghan Security Force eliminated 30 of Taliban terrorists during both attacks.
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25 Taliban terrorists were killed in airstrike in Laghman province

On 07 September, 25 Taliban terrorists were killed an airstrike in Laghman province. The militants stormed security forces' position in Jaib on locality of Alishing district, in the north of provincial capital Mehtarlam. The ground forces called in an air support, and the Afghan Air Force (AAF) struck the terrorists by a precise airstrike in the area. Those among the killed terrorists, were five Taliban's Red Unit fighters who usually use visible laser and night vision equipment during the fight with security forces.
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Taliban continues attacks as peace negotiations progress

Several Taliban attacks occurred in three provinces of northern Afghanistan since September 15, killing at least 17 people, including six civilians. Taliban fighters set their target on the security frontiers or outposts of anti-Taliban militias that function with government assistance. The sequence of violence was followed by historical peace negotiations that started in Doha.
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Pakistan

Police arrested an AQIS terrorist from Karachi

The Gadap city police, on 05 September, claimed to have arrested Saeedullah aka Choti Dunia—a terrorist of al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) from Gadap town in Karachi. Around four kilograms of explosives, five detonators, detonator wires, two pistols, and other ammunition were recovered from his possession.
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Domestic Terrorism

Jammu and Kashmir

Security forces arrested three LeT OGWs from Bandipora

On 08 September, security forces arrested three Over-Ground Workers (OGWs)—MujeebShamas, Tanveer Ahmed Mir, and Imtiyaz Ahmed Sheikh, of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), for their involvement in hoisting Pakistan’s flag at the main market in Hajin area of Bandipora district. A hand-grenade, a sewing machine, and other incriminating materials used in making a flag were recovered from their possession.
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Three JeM hideouts were busted in Pulwama

On 04 September, security forces busted and subsequently destroyed three hideouts of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Buchoo-Kamla forests of Tral area in Pulwama district. Incriminating material, including the material related to Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered from these hideouts. Each hideout was approx. 5ft x 4ft x 4ft size, located in the axis of Kamla forests in Tral, said a J&K (Jammu and Kashmir) police official on the basis of anonymity.
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Pakistan plans to infiltrate 400 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir amid India-China border row

According to a report based on the inputs provided by the intelligence agencies that Pakistan has been using the opportunity of India-China border tussle and made an attempt to send across 400 terrorists through Line of Control (LoC) into Kashmir Valley. Simultaneously, Pakistan has also activated its Border Action Team (BAT) to provide a cover to these infiltrators.
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Left-Wing Extremism

Security forces eliminated five Maoists in Odisha

On 09 September, the joint teams of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Odisha police and the District Voluntary Force (DVF) has killed five Maoists, including three women in a gun-battle on the borders of Kalahandi and Kandhamal districts in Odisha. According to the report, Maoist activities declined considerably in Odisha in 2019 with just 14 incidents of Maoist-linked killings reported in which 19 deaths were reported. Of the 19 deaths, 10 were civilians who were killed by the Maoists over allegations of being a police informer.
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NIA arrested three people in Elgaar Parishad case

On 07 September, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested three folk artistes of an organisation alleged to be the “front” of the Communist Party of India (CPI) Maoist, in connection to the ElgaarParishad case. SagarGorkhe and Ramesh Gaichor were arrested after the NIA questioned them on 07 September, however, JyotiJagtap (a Marathi folk singer) was arrested from Pune on 08 September. The NIA is probing several people, including authors, academics, lawyers and rights activists for their alleged Maoist links and their purported role in the ElgaarParishad meeting.
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Khalistan-inspired Extremism

GoI attached assets of two Khalistani ‘terrorists’ under UA(P) Act

On 08 September, the Government of India (GoI) attached properties of two Khalistani terrorists—Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and Hardeep Singh Nijjar of pro-Khalistan movement –Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) group, under the Section 51A of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], 1967. Earlier on 01 July, the GoI had declared US-based Pannun and Nijjar as terrorists under the amended UA(P) Act. Subsequently, on 05 July, the government blocked 40 websites of SFJ. The organisation had earlier been declared an “unlawful association” by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the properties ordered to be attached include 57 kanals of land in Khankot in Amritsar, belonging to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, and 11 kanalsof land in Bhar village of Singhpura in Pillaur in Jalandhar, belonging to Nijjar.
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Police arrested two BKI terrorists from Delhi

After a brief exchange of fire on 07 September, police arrested two terrorists—Bhupenderaka Dilawar Singh (41 years-old) and Kulwant Singh (39 years-old), of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) from Burari-Majlis Park road in Delhi. "The arrested duo are hardcore supporters of Khalistan movement and were planning to execute targeted killings in various states of northern India on the directions of Pakistan’s Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI)—sponsored Khalistani leaders”, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) [Special Cell]—Sanjeev Kumar Yadav. Seven pistols with 45 cartridges, along with two Android-based smartphone containing incriminating videos and photographs related to Khalistan movement and their propagators were recovered from their possession.
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Islamist Extremism in India

NIA filed charge-sheet against five accused in IS-KP case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), on 02 September, filed a charge-sheet against five accused in connection with the Islamic State-Khorasan/Khurasan Province (IS-KP) case, at the Special NIA Court in Delhi. The charge-sheet has been filed under Sections 120B, 124A, 153A & 201 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Sections 13, 17, 18, 38, 39 & 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A] against Jahanzaib Sami (36 years-old) aka Dawood Ibrahim aka Xaibaka Abu Muhammed al-Hind aka Abu Abdulla, Hina Bashir Beigh (39 years-old), Abdullah Basith (26 years-old) aka Khattab Bhai aka Khattab Khurasani aka Bin Fulan, Sadiya Anwar Sheikh (20 years-old), and Nabeel Siddick Khatri (27 years-old).
The case was initially registered by Delhi Police Special Cell on 08 March 2020, after the arrest of Kashmiri couple - Jahanzaib Sami Wani and his wife Hina Bashir Beigh from their rented accommodation in Okhla Vihar, Jamia Nagar in Delhi. The NIA re-registered the case on 20 March and took up the investigation.
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Turkey supporting Islamic State’s network in India

The Indian intelligence agencies have carried out a security assessment and have found that Turkey, under the leadership of President Erdogan, has been involved in funding and supporting anti-India terror activities and Islamic organisations based in India. Indian security agencies have gathered inputs suggesting that Turkey-based handlers, with apparent support from the Ankara government, had facilitated a group of Indian terrorists in travelling to Syria and fight for the global terror network of Islamic State (IS). The recent arrests of IS terrorists in India re-established this fact, as they confessed to reaching Syria via Turkey and returning via the same route. Their admission into ISIS was facilitated by handlers based out of Turkey.
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Cyber, Information Warfare & Artificial Intelligence (Security Perspective)

Pakistan’s ISI and Military Intelligence embarked on IW against India

With the support China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and Military Intelligence (MI) wing has initiated the Information Warfare (IW) through social media platforms targeting India’s social fabric. A report generated by the Facebook talks about the how Pakistan’s government agencies are evolving on the social media platform to carry out Information Warfare targeting India. The IW capabilities of ISI have grown in the recent few years, because of the technical assistance provided by the PLA’s Strategic Support Force (SSF).
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AI in Cyber Security Market to Cross USD 101,763 Million Revenue by 2030

According to a report by the Prescient & Strategic (P&S) Intelligence, due to surge in the incidence of cyber-attacks in the United States (US), the global Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cyber security market would witness a high Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 25.7 per cent during 2020–2030, to reach USD 101,763.3 million by 2030, from USD 8,636.6 million in 2019. Virtual Payment and identity thefts, which make up for almost 55 per cent of all cybercrimes, lead to huge losses for companies and individuals, according to P&S Intelligence. Due to large companies strengthening their cybersecurity mechanisms with AI solutions, attackers are now targeting mid-sized companies, which is further driving the demand for AI-powered cybersecurity measures.
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