Accused had changed identity, worked at juice plant while absconding

A sacked Army Captain, who changed his identity and started working in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, has finally landed in the police net after four years and sent to jail by a court here.

The DGP Punjab had constituted a Special Investigation Team comprising two officers of SP rank working in Fazilka district to trace and arrest Tomar.

The accused was continuously changing his locations and absconding after the Punjab and Haryana High Court upheld his arrest in September 2022.

It had directed the DGP to file an affidavit explaining the delay in his arrest by April 6, 2026.

The SIT reportedly succeeded in tracing Tomar from an online payment for an LPG refill.

The ex-Capt used to make online payments for LPG refill from his new bank account using the old PAN identity while working at a juice processing plant in Chhindwara district in MP.

City-1 police arrested Tomar and brought him to Abohar on Sunday. Police said that Tomar, a native of Kanpur, was posted as a Captain in the Abohar Military Station.

His wife, Shweta Singh, had died by hanging in the residential quarters here in 2013. On the statement of the deceased’s father, Ram Naresh, a case of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide was registered against Tomar and his parents. Army had placed Sandeep under suspension.

During the hearing of the case, the court of Additional District Judge at Fazilka on July 23, 2014 held Sandeep Tomar guilty of killing his wife, Shweta Singh, subjecting her to cruelty and voluntary causing grievous hurt.

He spent five years in Ferozepur jail before being granted bail, but after the High Court upheld his sentence and ordered him to surrender, he went absconding.

Under the revised rates, five-seater vehicles will pay Rs 70, and 6–12 seater vehicles will pay Rs 110, as per the previous charges

Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday announced the rollback of the recent increase in entry tax for vehicles in the border areas, following widespread protests.

Under the revised rates, five-seater vehicles will pay Rs 70, and 6–12 seater vehicles will pay Rs 110, as per the previous charges. The proposed hike had increased the tax to Rs 130 for both categories.

The Chief Minister stated that confusion over the issue was being deliberately spread, even though the increase was nominal for most vehicle categories. Additionally, residents living within five kilometers of the toll will be provided special passes.

The remarks come as tensions in West Asia remain high, with no immediate signs of de-escalation despite ongoing diplomatic outreach by regional and global stakeholders

Ujwal Jalali Tribune News Service

Amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, Iran on Tuesday claimed that the US and Israel have failed to meet their objectives even after 30 days of sustained hostilities, asserting that its doctrine of self-reliance has ensured resilience under pressure.

Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, said the country’s strategic approach — shaped under the leadership of Ali Khamenei — has prioritised indigenous development despite years of sanctions.

“Self-reliance, resistance, and indigenous development are enduring legacies that have helped Iran achieve a prominent global position in sectors such as nanotechnology, biotechnology and aerospace,” he said in a post on X.

Fathali asserted that this framework has translated into battlefield resilience, claiming that “the world’s military powers, even after 30 days of an unjust war against us, have failed to achieve their objectives”.

The remarks come as tensions in West Asia remain high, with no immediate signs of de-escalation despite ongoing diplomatic outreach by regional and global stakeholders.

Iran has consistently maintained that its military and technological capabilities are domestically driven, enabling it to sustain prolonged confrontation. The statement underscores Tehran’s effort to project strategic endurance and technological self-sufficiency as central to its response in the current conflict.

Iran-Israel War LIVE Updates: Trump urges countries to go to Strait of Hormuz and ‘just take it’

Tents at a temporary encampment for displaced people, amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as the US-Israel conflict with Iran continues, in Beirut in Lebanon on Monday. Image credit/Reuters

Washington: President Donald Trump on Tuesday urged countries that did not help in the US-Israeli strikes on Iran to buy American oil and go to the Strait of Hormuz and “just TAKE it”.

Trump singled out Britain and France as unhelpful in the month-long war that has roiled global markets, driven up energy prices and seen Iran effectively close oil tanker traffic through the Strait.

“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.

“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us.

“The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” He also criticised France for not letting planes carrying military supplies to Israel fly over French territory. Reuters

Trump says nations upset by high fuel prices should ‘go get your own oil’

March 31, 2026 5:12 pm

Dubai: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said nations upset by high fuel prices should “go get your own oil” as Iran maintains its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz. Trump expressed his frustration towards allies that have been unwilling to help the US reopen the critical passageway in a social media post. “Go get your own oil,” Trump wrote. He also said they should buy from the US because “we have plenty”. His comments in a social media post on Tuesday came as average US gas prices shot past USD 4 a gallon. AP

China says three of its ships crossed Strait of Hormuz; thanks ‘relevant parties’

March 31, 2026 5:07 pm

Beijing: China on Tuesday said three of its ships carrying oil supplies have passed through the Strait of Hormuz and thanked “relevant parties” for facilitation and coordination. “After coordination with relevant parties, three Chinese ships recently transited the Strait of Hormuz. We express appreciation for the assistance of relevant parties,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a media briefing here without naming Iran, which is currently controlling the movement of oil shipments from the Gulf crossing the Strait. Iran is demanding international recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz and waters nearby are an important route for international goods and energy trade. China calls for an immediate end to hostilities to restore peace and stability in the Gulf, Mao said. This is the first time China, a large importer of Iranian oil for years despite US sanctions, spoke of its ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz amid reports that Iran is permitting the Chinese ships to cross the Strait in view of the close strategic ties. PTI

Gas prices soar past USD 4 for gallon of regular in US, highest since 2022

March 31, 2026 1:27 pm

US gas prices jumped past an average of USD 4 a gallon for the first time since 2022 as fuel prices continue to soar worldwide amid the Iran war.

European shares on track to snap 8-month winning streak as Mideast conflict weighs

March 31, 2026 1:25 pm

European stocks inched up on Tuesday as investors drew some comfort from hopes of de-escalation in the Middle East war, but the benchmark index was still set for its sharpest monthly decline since 2020 amid supply-chain disruptions.

3 Chinese ships pass through Strait of Hormuz, says Chinese ministry

March 31, 2026 1:22 pm

Three Chinese ships have recently passed through the Strait of Hormuz and China appreciates the assistance provided by the relevant parties, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

Pakistani foreign minister to discuss Iran during China visit

March 31, 2026 12:49 pm

China’s foreign minister and his Pakistani counterpart will discuss the situation in Iran during the latter’s visit to China on Tuesday, China’s foreign ministry said. The two countries have similar positions on major international and regional issues, a spokesperson for the ministry said in a press briefing.

Peacekeepers killed in Lebanon as Israel battles Hezbollah

March 31, 2026 12:47 pm

The UN Security Council planned to convene an emergency session Tuesday after officials said three peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had been killed in less than 24 hours.

Eyes on Kharg Island as more US assault troops head to region

March 31, 2026 12:47 pm

Trump has said this week that “great progress is being made” in talks with Iran to end military operations. But he said if a deal is not reached “shortly,” and if the Strait of Hormuz is not immediately reopened, the US would broaden its offensive by “completely obliterating” power plants, oil wells, Kharg Island and possibly even desalination plants.

The US has also sent a contingent of 2,500 Marines to the region, and another is on its way, while ordering 1,000 paratroopers to the theatre as well. Trump has openly talked about the possibility of trying to seize Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub, and Iran has accused the US of using diplomacy to stall until more troops can be brought in.

Israel, US launch new wave of strikes on Iran

March 31, 2026 12:46 pm

Israel and the US launched a new wave of strikes on Iran, hitting Tehran in the early morning hours.

Iranian launches new attacks on Gulf neighbours and hits oil tanker in Dubai waters

March 31, 2026 12:44 pm

Spot prices of Brent crude, the international standard, hovered around USD 107 a barrel in early trading, up more than 45% since the war started Feb 28 when the US and Israel attacked Iran.

Sri Lanka raises electricity tariffs, issues strict energy conserving guidelines

March 31, 2026 12:38 pm

Sri Lanka has decided to increase electricity prices with effect from April 1, the power authorities said.

Bonds under water, dollar is king

March 31, 2026 10:46 am

The threat of inflation has led investors to ramp up expectations for rate hikes across major central banks this year, which in turn hammered bonds. The Federal Reserve is now expected to keep rates on hold this year, compared with more than 50 basis points worth of easing priced in prior to the start of the war.

Brent crude set for record monthly gain; shares tentative as Iran war rages

March 31, 2026 10:45 am

Oil prices were set for a record monthly rise on Tuesday while Asian shares were headed for their steepest fall in six years, capping a tumultuous month as the war in the Middle East stoked fears of higher inflation and slower growth.

China, Hong Kong stocks set for worst month in over 2 years on Middle East unrest

March 31, 2026 10:40 am

China and Hong Kong stocks extended losses on Tuesday and were on track for their worst monthly loss since the beginning of 2024, as positive manufacturing data failed to offset investor caution over the Middle East conflict.

Oil, war top financial markets worry list for an uncertain 2nd quarter

March 31, 2026 10:37 am

Battered financial markets enter the second quarter significantly exposed to war headlines, a backdrop that could prompt a bigger retreat for equity markets while a hefty selloff in bonds could tempt buyers back. Even if a resolution to the conflict boosts near-term sentiment, damage inflicted on Middle East energy infrastructure and higher for longer oil prices will still hurt economic growth and drive up inflation, investors expect.

New Trump threat to oblierate Iran energy, oil plants

March 31, 2026 10:34 am

Soon after Baghaei’s remarks, Trump said the U.S. was in talks with a “more reasonable regime” to end the war in Iran, but also issued a new warning over the Strait of Hormuz.

Troops deploy as talks continue

March 31, 2026 8:34 am

Attacks by both sides is showing no signs of easing, with fears of a wider conflict growing.

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Lieutenant General Pushpendra Pal Singh is scheduled to take over the reins of the Western Command on April 1

Vijay Mohan Tribune News Service

Stating that the Western Command has taken huge strides in all spheres, Lt Gen Manoj Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, said that during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, the formations under the command performed exceedingly and were able to counter all hostile actions by Pakistan.

“Post-Operation Sindoor, we continue to remain prepared for any contingency and are inducting new equipment. We are fabricating drones in-house at our own workshops on a mass scale and also developing counter-drone technologies to enhance our capabilities,” he said while speaking to the media on the eve of his retirement after about 40 years of service.

Lieutenant General Pushpendra Pal Singh, a decorated Special Forces officer presently serving as the Vice Chief of Army Staff at Army Headquarters, is scheduled to take over the reins of the Western Command on April 1.

The Western Command has also been actively involved in rendering aid to civil authorities during times of natural calamities like the recent floods in Punjab, and the Army continues to get whole hearted support from the state government as well as the local populace, Lt Gen Katiyar said.

The Command’s focus has also been on improving the facilities for all serving personnel, their families and veterans. “There is greater impetus to improve the habitat, schools and colleges as well as the hospitals,” he said.

Commissioned into the 23rd Battalion of the Rajput Regiment in June 1986, Lt Gen Katiyar has served across diverse and challenging operational environments, including the Siachen Glacier, the Line of Control and the Line of Actual Control.

Prior to assuming charge of the Western Command on July 1, 2023, he held several key appointments of strategic importance, including Director General of Military Operations at the Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army) and General Officer Commanding 1 Corps, a strike formation, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing operational preparedness and force integration.

An alumnus of Sainik School, Ghorakhal, National Defence Academy, Kharakvasla and the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, he is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and the National Defence College. He is also a Distinguished Graduate of the National War College, United States and has served as an instructor with the Indian Military Training Team in Bhutan.

Lt Gen Katiyar has been decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for distinguished service. He also held the appointment of Colonel of the Rajput

NK Gian Singh, Victoria Cross being received by his Regiment :vedio

Ambushed” Untold Story Army by Lt Gen Harwant Singh

Seychelles Hosts Tri-Service India Drill in ‘Friendship’ Exercise Lamitiye 2026

DRDO Awards Paras Defence ₹80 Crore Contract For Advanced Air Defence Optics

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Iran-Israel war LIVE Updates: Open Hormuz or will destroy power plants, Trump threatens Iran

During a military training course in Mhow, India, the 1962 war with China broke out. My course was cancelled, and everyone returned to their units. However, I received special orders to stay put and await further instructions. Two days later, my posting to Jammu and Kashmir arrived – with immediate reporting required.

Having driven my car to Mhow, I had no choice but to take it back to Punjab, leave it there, and then travel on to J&K. Pressed for time, I decided to drive straight from Mhow to Delhi, a risky decision. One particularly dangerous stretch was between Gwalior and Agra, notorious for bandits and lawlessness.

Traveling alone at night through this area was foolish, but I pressed on in my trusty Hindustan-14. Around midnight, approaching a narrow pass through low hills, I found the road blocked by a fallen tree. It was an ambush. Turning back wasn’t an option.

As I stopped, armed men materialized, their faces hidden. They searched me for valuables, taking my watch and wallet before moving on to my car and luggage. However, things took an unexpected turn when someone announced a “Sardar” had arrived.

Every one pulled back a little and there appeared a sturdy young man with a large mustache. As he drew near, he suddenly sprung to attention and gave me a smart salute and said ‘Sahib Ji, tussee ethay ki kar rahey ho.’ (Sir what are you doing here!)

From his voice and his face, latter day mustache notwithstanding, I recognized him. He was my tank gunner and had been discharged after his seven-year tenure of engagement. Those days soldiers were discharged after seven years and given no pension.

I responded to his query and asked him,’ Nahar Singh toon aye ki kam pharya hai (Nahar Singh what is this work you have taken on.) He said, ‘Sahib Ji admi nu kuch na kuch taan karna chaheda hai, welay beth kaay vi ki karna hai.’ (Sir one must do, some or the other work and there is no point in sitting idle!)

I told him, ‘tenu aasi eh taan nahi sakhlaya’ (we did not train you for such activity.) “Sahib ji tohati ambush laney di sikhlai kam ahh rahi hai. Sadi ambush wich koe nuks hai!.” (Sir your training in laying an ambush is proving useful. Do you find any fault with our ambush.)

He responded with a loud chuckle. He addressed his gang and said. “Dekheya sadhi regiment de officer kiney deelair hun, ekelay he rat nu is sarak tay chal rahey hun.” (do you see how brave are the officers of our regiment. They travel alone on this road at night.)

I asked him if his wife knew what work he was doing. To this he answered “Sarian gallaan wife nu thorian dassidian hun.

Oh soch di hai kay main police da kam kar rahaan hain.” (You don’t disclose everything to your wife. She thinks I am working for the police). At this one of them interjected that, “Police whi ehhoo kam kardi hai.” (Police too does this sort of work).

This raised much laughter amongst them. Then he told his men not to just stand watching but to quickly make tea for the sahib. All my stuff was put back in the car, and my watch and wallet returned. After a cup of tea and much bonhomie and handshaking I took leave of Nahar Singh and his gang.

A story by Lt Gen Harwant Singh

India and Seychelles have launched the 11th edition of their biennial joint military exercise, Exercise Lamitiye 2026, underscoring deepening defence ties in the Indian Ocean region.

A tri-service contingent from the Indian armed forces departed New Delhi on Monday to participate alongside Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) troops from 9 to 20 March at the Seychelles Defence Academy.

The term ‘Lamitiye’ translates to ‘friendship’ in the Creole language, reflecting the exercise’s ethos of fostering camaraderie since its inception in 2001.

This year’s iteration marks a notable milestone as it features participation from all three branches of the Indian military for the first time. The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment, alongside elements from the Indian Navy—represented by INS Trikand—and the Indian Air Force, which has deployed a C-130 aircraft.

The exercise aims to bolster synergy and interoperability between the two militaries, particularly in sub-conventional operations within semi-urban environments. It also emphasises cooperation during peacekeeping missions, aligning with broader bilateral defence objectives.

Government contract consulting

Participants will engage in joint training, planning, and execution of tactical drills to neutralise potential threats in semi-urban settings. These drills will leverage new-generation equipment and technology, enabling both sides to showcase advanced capabilities.

The 12-day program encompasses a diverse range of activities, including field training exercises, combat discussions, case studies, lectures, and demonstrations. It will culminate in a two-day validation exercise to assess acquired skills and operational cohesion.

Beyond tactical proficiency, the exercise seeks to promote bilateral military relations by facilitating the exchange of skills, experiences, and best practices. This interaction is expected to enhance mutual understanding and reinforce jointness among the troops.

In the strategic context of the Indian Ocean, such initiatives gain added significance amid evolving regional security dynamics. Exercise Lamitiye strengthens India’s defence footprint in the archipelago nation, vital for maritime security and countering non-traditional threats.

The Indian contingent’s arrival in Seychelles signals the prompt commencement of activities, with both forces poised to derive substantial benefits from this platform for interoperability.

Veteran support services

Overall, the exercise will contribute immensely to developing shared operational perspectives, magnifying defence cooperation between India and Seychelles.

PTI

Paras Defence and Space Technologies has secured a significant contract from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), valued at approximately ₹80.28 crore inclusive of taxes. This order pertains to the development of a high-precision optical system tailored for air defence applications.

The announcement, made via an exchange filing on Monday, underscores the company’s growing role in India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The contract, awarded by DRDO under the Ministry of Defence, involves specialised development work on the optical system. Such systems are critical for modern air defence networks, enabling precise detection, tracking, and engagement of aerial threats.

This aligns with India’s push towards self-reliance in defence technologies, particularly in optronics and electro-optical systems that enhance situational awareness on the battlefield.

Paras Defence clarified in its filing that neither the promoters nor the promoter group holds any interest in the awarding entity. The order does not qualify as a related party transaction, ensuring transparency and compliance with regulatory norms. The execution timeline is set at 18 months from the date of the supply order, reflecting a structured approach to project delivery.

Investment in India

Financially, Paras Defence demonstrated robust performance in the December quarter. Net profit surged 21.3% year-on-year to ₹18.2 crore, up from ₹15 crore in the prior year. Revenue expanded by 24% to ₹106.4 crore, compared to ₹85.8 crore previously, driven by strong contributions from core segments.

EBITDA rose 19% to ₹26.3 crore, though the margin contracted slightly to 24.7% from 25.8%. This moderation stemmed from elevated total expenses, including higher finance costs and employee benefits, which partially offset operational gains.

Segment-wise, the Optics and Optronics Systems business shone brightly, with revenue climbing to ₹58.4 crore from ₹44.4 crore a year earlier. This segment’s growth is particularly noteworthy, as it directly ties into the new DRDO order and positions Paras as a key player in high-precision defence optics.

The Defence Engineering segment also advanced, posting ₹47.95 crore in revenue against ₹41.33 crore in the corresponding quarter last year. These figures highlight Paras Defence’s diversified portfolio and its ability to capitalise on India’s defence indigenisation drive.

This DRDO contract arrives at a pivotal moment for Paras Defence, which has been scaling up its capabilities in aerospace and defence domains. The company, listed on the stock exchange, has increasingly partnered with public sector undertakings and DRDO labs, contributing to projects in missiles, UAVs, and surveillance systems.

Defence expo coverage

High-precision optical systems like the one under development are vital for air defence platforms such as the Akash missile system or emerging integrated air defence networks. They incorporate advanced lenses, sensors, and stabilisers to function in harsh environments, providing real-time targeting data to command centres.

India’s defence sector has witnessed accelerated procurement and development under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat. Paras Defence’s order exemplifies how private firms are filling critical gaps left by traditional public sector entities, fostering innovation and faster timelines.

The 18-month execution period allows Paras to leverage its Bengaluru-based facilities, known for optics manufacturing. This could enhance the company’s technical expertise and open doors to follow-on orders or exports, aligning with India’s strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Looking ahead, this order strengthens Paras Defence’s order book, potentially improving investor sentiment despite the day’s share price dip. With a track record of quarterly growth and a focus on high-margin defence segments, the firm appears well-positioned amid rising geopolitical tensions and defence budgets.

Defence policy analysis

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