* The formal documents for the agreement, including protocols for aircraft and weapons packages, were exchanged between high-ranking Indian and French defense officials.
* Key figures present at the signing included the Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Navy Vice-Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, and Vice-Admiral Thoerry Mathou.
* Several associated Government-to-Business agreements were also finalized as part of the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA).
* The initial competition involved 54 jets and two contenders: the Dassault Aviation's Rafale-M and Boeing's F-18 Super Hornet.
* The Rafale-M was declared the winner in July 2023.
* The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) had proposed developing an indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) based on their experience with the Naval Light Combat Aircraft.
* As per the contractual terms of the current agreement, deliveries will commence 37 months from the date the contract was signed and will be completed within 66 months.
* The Indian Navy will enhance its carrier-based air power with the induction of these advanced fighter jets.
* The operational experience with the Rafale-M may inform future naval aviation procurement decisions.
Addressing Extremism: Reflections on Pahalgam and the Path Forward
Background:
* The serene landscape of Pahalgam, once known for its peaceful meadows, has been marred by the spillover of violence, affecting innocent lives and disrupting familiar activities like picnics and cricket.
* There's a growing realization that addressing the root causes of this issue is crucial and extends beyond mere border security.
* The problem is described as multifaceted, stemming from a void created by poverty, broken homes, and inadequate schooling, making vulnerable individuals susceptible to radical ideologies.
* The current environment is characterized by divisive rhetoric and heightened scrutiny, extending even to educational settings.
The situation now:
* The focus needs to shift towards understanding and countering the underlying factors that contribute to the problem, such as neglected emotional well-being, educational deficits, and community vigilance.
* It's argued that solutions imposed externally or through heavy-handed security measures alone are insufficient.
* There's a call for a comprehensive approach that involves educational reform, community engagement, and addressing the psychological impact of the conflict.
* The importance of incorporating critical thinking and diverse perspectives into the curriculum is highlighted to equip children to navigate challenging narratives.
* Community-level interventions, involving local leaders, mental health professionals, and even reformed individuals as mentors, are seen as vital in identifying and guiding at-risk youth.
* The need for adequate resources for counseling and rehabilitation programs is emphasized, suggesting that current provisions might be insufficient or purely punitive.
* Examples of successful community-based initiatives, like those in Telangana and Kerala focusing on tribal welfare and panchayat strengthening, offer potential models.
* The role of technology, including mobile platforms for education and countering misinformation, is acknowledged, but access and responsible use are critical.
* Empowering local educators, sports coaches, and community leaders through training and resources is seen as essential for fostering positive change.
Way forward:
* The primary focus should be on preventing the next generation from embracing extremism.
* This requires a shift towards nurturing emotional well-being, providing quality education, and strengthening community bonds.
* Governments need to prioritize providing de-radicalization tools that extend beyond surveillance and incorporate educational and psychological support.
* Funding should be directed towards grassroots initiatives and empowering local figures who can act as positive influences.
* The approach should be rooted in education and community engagement rather than solely relying on military or security solutions.
* The aim is to cultivate a generation equipped with critical thinking skills and resilience against extremist ideologies.
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NEWS in SHORTS
Missing BSF Constable: Wife Leaves Pathankot
Five days after BSF constable P.K. Sahu went missing after inadvertently crossing into Pakistan, his wife Rajani left Pathankot to seek higher official intervention. There's been no sign of him, and Pakistan hasn't responded to the BSF.
Murmu Presents Padma Awards to 71 Honorees
President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards on 71 distinguished individuals, including four Padma Vibhushan, for their exceptional contributions. Noteworthy recipients included filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, and hockey player P.R. Sreejesh.
SC Notice on OTT Content
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the government regarding a petition seeking regulation of "obscene, indecent, and objectionable" content on OTT platforms, citing concerns about children's access and the need for appropriate measures.
UN Statement on Pahalgam Attack
Despite China's efforts to "cool down" the situation, the UN Security Council strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, indirectly referencing Pakistan's role. India maintains Pakistan's involvement in cross-border terrorism, while Pakistan calls for a neutral investigation.
Rajnath Meets PM Modi Amid LoC Tension
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met PM Modi to discuss the LoC situation and India's response to the Pahalgam attack. Ceasefire violations by Pakistan continue, and India has taken measures, including a NOTAM for air traffic. The Indian Army received new anti-armour and air defence systems.
Tourism as a Weapon Against Terror in Kashmir
Bollywood stars and tour operators are promoting Kashmir as a safe destination after the Pahalgam attack. The government is urging countries to lift travel advisories, emphasizing that tourism can be a powerful tool against terrorism and support the local economy.
Russia Demands Recognition of Annexed Ukrainian Regions for Talks
Russia stated its readiness for direct negotiations with Ukraine but insisted that Ukraine must recognize Russia's claims over five annexed regions, including Crimea, as a prerequisite for resolving the conflict.
Everest Permits Issued
Nepal has permitted 402 climbers, including 74 women, from 53 countries to scale Mount Everest this year. 41 expeditions have been approved, slightly fewer than last year's 414 permits.
Global Military Spending Rises
Cumulative global military expenditure reached $2.7 trillion in 2024, marking a 3.4% increase. This is the steepest year-on-year rise since the Cold War, with increases across most regions.
India to Buy Rafale Jets
India has signed a deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale fighter jets for ₹45,000 crore. The purchase, approved by the cabinet, aims to modernize India's military.
Iran Port Explosion Toll Rises
The death toll from the massive explosion at the Shahid Rajaei port near Bandar Abbas has reached 46, with hundreds injured. The fire continued to burn for days.
Youth for De-radicalization Program
Over 100 youth leaning towards banned international terror organizations have been identified in Tamil Nadu and subjected to a de-radicalization program by the state police.
