Lalit Mohan Tribune News Service

The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has put on hold the repair and maintenance of houses earmarked for allotment to CISF personnel at its Nangal township. The move comes after the state Assembly on Friday passed a resolution against the deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the BBMB projects.

Last month, the board, in a letter issued to its officials at Nangal, had earmarked houses in CC, HH, H, GG and DD blocks of the township for allotment to CISF personnel. The board employees already residing there were asked to vacate those houses. They were promised accommodation in other parts of the township.

Orders were issued to the officials concerned to get those houses vacated and issue tenders for their repair and maintenance. Family accommodation was to be provided to 142 personnel in the township, including one commandant, two assistant commandants, three inspectors, eight sub-inspectors, 20 assistant sub-inspectors, 35 head constables and 73 constables. The remaining CISF personnel were to be accommodated at Talwara township. However, the move has now been put on hold.

Meanwhile, partner states Haryana and Rajasthan continue to support the move to deploy CISF personnel at various BBMB projects. The board was yet to take a final decision on the issue, sources said. The maintenance work of houses earmarked for CISF personnel had been put on hold fearing budget misuse objections by Punjab.

The Punjab Government, having 52 per cent share in the BBMB, contributes budget accordingly. However, it has decided not to contribute budget for the CISF deployment. The Union Home Ministry had asked the BBMB to pay Rs 7.5 crore as charges for deploying 296 CISF personnel.

In 2021, the Punjab Government had given assent for the CISF deployment. However, in May this year, there was a row over water sharing with Haryana. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann led a dharna of his party workers at the Nangal Dam till May 20. The BBMB authorities were not allowed to release extra water to Haryana from the Punjab share. While the controversy was going on, the Union Home Ministry okayed the CISF deployment and asked the BBMB to deposit Rs 7.5 crore as charges.

National Conference says leaders put under house arrest 

Authorities on Sunday sealed all roads leading to Martyrs’ Graveyard in the Nowhatta area of the old city, even as the ruling National Conference claimed that several of its leaders have been placed under house arrest.

Police and central paramilitary forces were deployed in strength at all entry points leading to Srinagar city as there were apprehensions of law and order problems on the occasion of Martyrs Day.

Only vehicles of officials and security forces were allowed to cross the barricades set up at the entry points, officials said.National Conference (NC) had applied to the District Magistrate Srinagar, seeking permission to pay homage to the martyrs of July 13, 1931.

However, the district administration refused to grant permission.

“The District Administration Srinagar has denied permission to all applicants intending to proceed towards Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta on July 13, 2025 (Sunday),” the Srinagar Police said in a public advisory posted on X.

The police said that the public is advised to comply with these instructions and refrain from violating the orders issued by the district administration.

“Any violation of these orders shall invite strict legal action under relevant provisions of law,” the police warned.The NC termed the denial of permission “deeply unfortunate.” NC chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said that July 13 is not a routine date.

“It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of dignity, justice, and rights,” Sadiq said on X.Sadiq further said the people of Kashmir will continue to “honour their martyrs” peacefully, with dignity, and with unwavering resolve.

July 13 used to be a public holiday in Jammu and Kashmir before the reorganisation of the erstwhile state into two Union territories in August 2019. However, the administration dropped the day from the list of gazetted holidays in 2020.

On the day, mainstream political leaders used to visit the “martyrs’ graveyard” to pay homage to the Kashmiris who fell to the bullets of the Dogra army while protesting against the rule of the Maharaja.

Meanwhile, Sadiq in a fresh post on X claimed that several party leaders have been placed under house arrest.“Since last night, I like many of my colleagues, including the party leadership at Gupkar, the Advisor to the Chief Minister, and a majority of sitting MLAs have been locked inside my home,” he said.

He said this is not just unfortunate but a deliberate attempt to suppress remembrance and deny the right to honour the martyrs of July 13.“Such actions are not only unnecessary they are unjustified, deeply insensitive, and reveal a troubling disregard for history,” he added.

MoD/ Armed Forces

1. The Indian Army has intensified operations in the Jammu region by sealing traditional infiltration routes to prevent the movement of 40–50 Pakistani terrorists operating in forested areas south of the Pir Panjal range. Amidst the Amarnath Yatra, a large-scale manhunt is underway across multiple districts, including Rajouri, Poonch, and Udhampur, to dismantle terror networks. Enhanced surveillance with night patrols, drones, and elite units is being used to dominate high-altitude areas and deny terrorists safe havens_Pnr.
2. Assam Rifles seized methamphetamine tablets worth ₹112.40 crore during a patrol in Mizoram’s Champhai district near the Myanmar border. Two individuals carrying rucksacks at Zokhawthar village fled into the Tiau river and escaped to Myanmar. The 3.33 lakh tablets were believed to be intended for distribution in Champhai. The consignment was handed over to Mizoram Police for further investigation_AA, Hindu.
3. Although recruitment of Nepali Gorkhas into the Indian Army has halted due to changes in the Agnipath scheme, retired Gorkha soldiers continue to serve as a vital link between India and Nepal. Ahead of Kargil Vijay Diwas, an Indian Army team visited Nepal to honour the families of 18 Nepali Gorkha soldiers who were martyred in the Kargil War. The team presented mementos and paid respects, reinforcing the deep historical and emotional ties. Despite Nepal’s reservations over Agnipath, the Indian Army maintains outreach and gratitude towards Gorkha families, symbolising continued respect and connection_NBT(Hindi).
4. The black box of the Indian Air Force Jaguar fighter jet that crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu district on 9 July has been recovered. The crash occurred near Bhondu and Siphawali Rohi villages shortly after takeoff, and both pilots were killed. A high-level search operation involving teams from Delhi, Gujarat, and Suratgarh was launched to find the wreckage. This was the third Jaguar crash this year; previous crashes occurred in Gujarat on 2 April and Ambala on 7 March. The Air Force is planning to phase out the aging Jaguar fleet by 2031, replacing it with advanced aircraft like the Tejas Mk-1A_NBT(Hindi).
5. A French firm, UnseenLabs, detected a Chinese research vessel operating covertly in the Bay of Bengal with its identification system switched off, raising concerns of strategic intent. The vessel’s activities, including seafloor mapping and submarine corridor identification, suggest military objectives beyond scientific research. While Indian defence sources downplayed concerns, stating the vessel was outside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone and under naval monitoring, the report noted many Chinese research ships are linked to military purposes. Of 64 active vessels, over 80% are suspected of dual-use roles, aligned with China’s goal of expanding undersea domain awareness_AA.

National Security

6. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing a World Bank report, highlighted that inequality in India is rapidly declining, placing the country among the world’s most equitable nations. Speaking at the Rozgar Mela, where over 51,000 job letters were distributed, he attributed India’s progress to equality, democracy, and demography. Modi emphasised youth empowerment, job creation through welfare schemes, and economic growth, noting that India’s income inequality is lower than major economies like the US and UK. He also mentioned India’s rising global stature in manufacturing, technology, and digital sectors, supported by schemes like PM Surya Ghar Yojana and the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme_HT, FE, AA, IE, Pnr.
7. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the success of Operation Sindoor as a testament to India’s military strength and national growth, likening it to the 1971 war. Addressing BJP workers in Lucknow, he praised the precision of the operation against terrorist camps in Pakistan. He also credited Prime Minister Modi for India’s economic rise from 11th to 4th place globally since 2014 and predicted India would become the third-largest economy within a few years. Singh emphasised that India’s progress is rooted in cultural and spiritual values, not expansionism_HT.
8. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will visit China next week to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers’ meeting in Tianjin on July 15. In addition to the SCO meet, he will hold bilateral talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, focusing on normalising ties, supply chain issues, and the boundary dispute. This marks Jaishankar’s first China visit since the 2020 Ladakh border standoff. The visit follows recent India-China engagements aimed at resolving tensions, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit and plans for continued dialogue through the Special Representatives mechanism. China currently chairs the SCO_MP, AA, IE, Pnr.
9. The Srinagar district administration denied the National Conference (NC) permission to visit the graveyard of 22 people killed on July 13, 1931, during Dogra rule, citing security concerns. NC leaders, including Farooq Abdullah, had planned to pay tribute at Naqshband Sahib. The police issued a public advisory barring entry to the Nowhatta area on July 13, 2025. The NC criticised the decision, calling it unfortunate and stressing the historical importance of the date, which was removed from J&K’s list of public holidays after the 2019 reorganisation_HT, Hindu, ET.
10. Twenty-three Maoists, including members of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army and a key guard commander of top leader Madvi Hidma, surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district, carrying a collective bounty of ₹1.18 crore. Since 2024, over 1,450 Maoists have surrendered, driven by the state’s surrender policy, increased police presence, and disillusionment with Maoist ideology. Those who surrender receive ₹50,000 and skill training. A day earlier, 22 more Maoists, including a DVCM member with a bounty of ₹37.50 lakh, had surrendered in Narayanpur_IE, AA, Statesman.
11. The Dalai Lama commenced a month-long spiritual visit to Ladakh, arriving in Leh to a warm and devotional welcome by monks, nuns, and devotees. Marking his first visit since 2023, he was received with traditional ceremonies and prayers. Events include teachings on ‘The Thirty-Seven Practices of a Bodhisattva’ and an Avalokiteshvara Empowerment. The Ladakh Buddhist Association called the visit a blessing, while his office reaffirmed that only Tibetans can decide his successor, countering China’s claims. His visit also aims to promote peace, compassion, and the Nalanda tradition amidst growing global interest in Tibetan affairs_Statesman.
12. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in its 2024 annual report, reaffirmed that Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism remains a core concern. The MEA criticised Pakistan for failing to act against UN-designated terrorists and for supporting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir through infiltration, narcotics smuggling, ceasefire violations, and anti-India propaganda. It also highlighted Pakistan’s use of military-grade equipment and tunnels by terrorists, indicating a state-backed ecosystem. India has raised these issues at various international forums, urging Pakistan to take verifiable steps and adhere to its 2004 commitment against using its territory for terrorism_Statesman, ET.

Imdt Neighbourhood

13. As Pakistan’s month-long UNSC presidency nears its end, it plans to hold an open debate on global unresolved disputes, aiming to pass a resolution promoting peaceful settlement mechanisms. Though the real intent is to spotlight Kashmir, Islamabad is unlikely to name J&K directly to avoid a veto. The resolution will likely be broad to avoid objections. Pakistan also plans a separate event to enhance cooperation between the UN and OIC. Most UNSC members, except China, still consider Kashmir a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan_TOI.
14. The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) has claimed responsibility for 84 coordinated attacks across Balochistan during 9–11 July, calling it the successful conclusion of “Operation Baam.” According to their spokesperson, the strikes targeted Pakistani military personnel, intelligence operatives, and key infrastructure_TOI.
15. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif dismissed rumours that President Asif Ali Zardari would be removed and replaced by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, calling the claims baseless. He affirmed that Munir never sought the presidency and reiterated the strong relationship among himself, Zardari, and Munir, centred on Pakistan’s progress. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also denounced the speculation as a malicious campaign, allegedly driven by hostile foreign elements. Zardari, elected in 2023 for a five-year term, continues to hold office, while Munir’s tenure as Army Chief was extended to five years last year_MP, TOI.
16. Pakistan and Russia have signed an agreement to restore and modernise the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Karachi, originally built with Soviet help. The deal, signed at the Pakistan Embassy in Moscow, aims to revive steel production and marks a new phase in bilateral cooperation. China was also in the race for the project. Pakistan’s special assistant to the PM, Haroon Akhtar Khan, noted that the partnership reflects shared history and a joint commitment to industrial growth_AA.
17. Saima Wazed, daughter of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina and WHO’s South-East Asia Regional Director, has taken indefinite leave amid legal troubles. Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission has filed cases against her for fraud, forgery, and abuse of power. Questions have also been raised over her appointment, with allegations of using her mother’s influence and providing false academic information. WHO has not explained her leave, and Catharina Boehme is currently serving in her place_Hindu.

Extended Neighbourhood

18. The US is pressing Japan and Australia to clarify their roles in the event of a US-China war over Taiwan. Pentagon official Elbridge Colby has been discussing this with both countries’ defence officials. The request surprised Tokyo and Canberra, as the US itself hasn’t guaranteed military defence of Taiwan. Meanwhile, Australian PM Anthony Albanese visited China to strengthen trade ties amid high geopolitical tensions_TOI.
19. Satellite images confirm that an Iranian missile strike on Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base hit a US geodesic dome used for secure communications. The Pentagon acknowledged the attack, noting minimal damage as aircraft had been evacuated beforehand. The dome, part of a $15 million Modernised Enterprise Terminal system, was destroyed, but surrounding infrastructure remained largely intact. US officials stated the base remains fully operational, and the strike did not escalate into a wider conflict_IE.
20. US President Donald Trump has announced 30% tariffs on goods from the European Union and Mexico, effective from 1 August, citing Mexico’s role in drug trafficking and trade imbalances with the EU. The move, part of Trump’s 2024 campaign strategy, targets 24 countries and the 27-member EU bloc. While the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) exempts some goods, Mexico and the EU have criticised the tariffs as unfair and damaging to supply chains. The EU warned of economic disruption and vowed to continue negotiations. The tariffs follow earlier duties, including a 25% levy on Mexican goods and a 20% EU tariff in April_HT, FE, AA, IE, Hindu.
21. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the United States has resumed military aid shipments to Ukraine after a temporary and unexpected suspension last week. In a video address, he confirmed the renewed supply and ongoing military cooperation with the US, particularly through General Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. The Pentagon had earlier halted deliveries of air-defence missiles and artillery shells_AA.
22. Russian drone and missile strikes killed at least six people across Ukraine, including in Chernihtsi, Dnipropetrovsk, and Sumy regions, and wounded dozens more in Lviv, Kharkiv, and other areas. Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting 319 drones and 25 cruise missiles, while jamming 258 decoys. Russia launched 597 drones and 26 missiles overnight, continuing a surge in long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Lutsk near the Polish border. Poland scrambled jets in response. The stepped-up bombing campaign has dimmed hopes for resolving the ongoing war_MP, AA, IE, TOI.
23. During a visit to North Korea, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned the US, South Korea, and Japan against forming military alliances targeting Pyongyang. Lavrov, meeting his North Korean counterpart Choe Son Hui in Wonsan, accused the trio of escalating tensions through joint military drills and arms buildup. He defended North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, attributing them to self-defence. Choe reaffirmed North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s war in Ukraine and described the two countries’ relationship as an “invincible alliance.” The growing Russia–North Korea military cooperation has alarmed Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo_HT, MP, Pnr, Hindu.
24. Ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel in Gaza are reportedly stalled due to Israel’s insistence on keeping troops in the territory. Discussions in Doha have hit a roadblock over Israel’s proposed withdrawal map, which Palestinians claim involves redeployment rather than genuine withdrawal. Hamas has rejected Israel’s terms, which include maintaining military presence in over 40% of Gaza and displacing residents. Meanwhile, fresh Israeli airstrikes killed at least 28 Palestinians, including children, in central Gaza_HT, IE.
25. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran will cooperate with the IAEA but access to bombed nuclear sites poses security and safety concerns. A new law requires Supreme National Security Council approval for inspections. While Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, it will only accept deals allowing uranium enrichment and excluding missile issues. Iran criticised IAEA’s recent declaration of treaty violations and is considering future talks with the US cautiously. Reports of Russian support for a uranium enrichment ban were denied by Iran_HT, IE, AA.

India’s Advanced Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) Exemplary Mission Mode Success: Defence Ministry

Pakistan’s Military Operations In Waziristan Bring Devastation, Tribal Jirga Condemns State Violence

1965 Indo Pak War | Western Command | Untold Story | First hand Account | Gen VN Sharma

Paste FASTag at right spot, else NHAI will blacklist it

Indigenous Astra missile tested successfully

Not even a glass pane broken: NSA rebuts reports on damage by Pak

Sqn Ldr from Rohtak among pilots killed in Churu jet crash 

Explainer: Why SC has overruled EC & included Aadhaar in Bihar electoral roll revision

Army extends support in flood-hit areas of Mandi

Operation Sindoor shakes Indo-Pacific: How Pakistan defeat exposed Chinese weapons

Gunmen kill 9 bus passengers from Pakistan’s Punjab in Balochistan

The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) project is being hailed as a landmark achievement in India’s pursuit of defence self-reliance and artillery modernisation. Developed by the DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, the ATAGS is a 155mm/52 calibre howitzer designed to replace older, less capable artillery guns in the Indian Army’s arsenal.

The project exemplifies a successful collaboration between the Indian Army, DRDO, and both private and public sector firms, notably Bharat Forge Limited and TATA Advanced Systems Limited, who are responsible for manufacturing and supplying 307 ATAGS units and 327 high-mobility 6×6 gun towing vehicles under contracts valued at approximately ₹6,900 crore.

Initiated in 2012, the ATAGS project moved from design to induction in just 12 years, a rapid timeline for such a complex system. The system boasts a maximum firing range of 48 km and can be deployed in under 90 seconds, offering a significant leap in battlefield firepower, precision, and flexibility.

Key Features And Capabilities:

Exceptional Range And Firepower: ATAGS boasts a maximum firing range of up to 48 km, placing it among the longest-range towed artillery systems globally. It can deliver precise, long-range strikes, enhancing India’s tactical depth and ability to hit targets deep inside enemy territory.

Rapid Deployment: The system can be deployed in just 85–90 seconds, allowing for quick response and repositioning on the battlefield, a crucial advantage in modern, fast-moving combat scenarios.

Rapid Rate of Fire: ATAGS can sustain a firing rate of 6–8 rounds per minute and supports advanced firing modes such as Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI). In burst mode, it can fire five rounds in 60 seconds or 10 rounds in 2.5 minutes.

All-Terrain, All-Weather Capability: Designed for deployment across all terrains—from the deserts of Rajasthan to the icy heights of Siachen—the gun is engineered to operate in extreme temperatures and challenging environments.

Automation And Modern Electronics: The gun features an all-electric drive for maintenance-free operation, automated loading, and advanced fire control systems. Its sophisticated electronics enable precision targeting and seamless integration with the Indian Army’s Artillery Combat Command and Control System (ACCCS).

Shoot-And-Scoot Mobility: The system’s mobility, including a self-propulsion capability via an auxiliary power unit (APU), allows it to quickly fire and relocate, reducing vulnerability to enemy counter-battery fire.

Strategic And Operational Impact:

Indigenous Manufacturing: With over 70% indigenous content, ATAGS marks a significant step in India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Artillery Modernisation: The induction of ATAGS will replace vintage artillery pieces, modernising the Army’s firepower and operational readiness. The first regiment of 18 guns is expected to be inducted within a year of the first product model test, with a total order of 307 guns and 327 towing vehicles signed for ₹6,900 crore.

Export Potential: India has already secured export orders for ATAGS, underlining its growing reputation as a global defence supplier.

Its advanced features include an all-electric drive for gun laying and ammunition handling, making it low-maintenance and highly reliable across diverse terrains, from mountainous regions to deserts. The gun’s indigenous content exceeds 80%, underscoring India’s growing capability to design, develop, and produce sophisticated defence technology domestically.

The ATAGS project is a flagship of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and fostering strategic independence. Its successful development and upcoming induction not only enhance the Indian Army’s operational readiness and deterrence capabilities but also position India as a potential exporter of advanced artillery systems.

The Defence Ministry has described ATAGS as an “exemplary Mission Mode success,” highlighting its role in spearheading the modernisation of India’s artillery regiments and strengthening the country’s defence industrial base through public-private partnership.

ATAGS is set to be a game-changer for India’s defence, offering unmatched range, firepower, and flexibility. Its ability to operate in all terrains and weather conditions, combined with advanced automation and rapid deployment, will substantially bolster the Indian Army’s artillery capabilities and operational effectiveness.

Agencies

The recent grand jirga of the Mehsud tribe in Upper South Waziristan marks a significant moment of collective resistance against Pakistan’s ongoing military operations in the region. Convened in Makin tehsil and drawing thousands of participants from across South and North Waziristan, the jirga brought together a diverse cross-section of tribal society, including elders, students, lawyers, journalists, and political figures.

Notably, elected representatives such as MPAs Asif Khan Mehsud and Ajab Gul Wazir, MNA Zubair Khan Wazir, former senator Saleh Shah, and leaders from major political parties, including the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), were present, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the widespread concern among the local population.

During the jirga, participants voiced unanimous outrage at the deteriorating law and order in the merged tribal districts, squarely blaming the state’s militarised policies for the repeated suffering of civilians. They highlighted a grim reality: targeted killings, kidnappings for ransom, and bomb blasts have become distressingly common, while ongoing military clashes with militants continue to displace innocent people.

The jirga strongly condemned indiscriminate mortar shelling, forced evacuations, and civilian casualties, labelling them as gross human rights violations and a betrayal of the state’s constitutional obligations. The participants argued that these actions have not only failed to bring peace but have also deepened the sense of alienation and trauma among the tribal communities.

A key resolution adopted by the jirga demanded an immediate halt to military operations and an end to the shelling of civilian areas. The resolution called for a shift towards a respectful, rights-based approach to engaging with the tribal population, emphasizing the need for dignity and inclusion. Speakers at the event accused the state of treating tribal citizens as perpetual suspects, despite their longstanding loyalty to Pakistan. They criticized the government for its persistent failure to provide basic security, education, and economic development, pointing to deserted markets, closed schools, and widespread psychological distress as evidence of the devastating impact of current policies.

The jirga’s demands were clear: tribal communities must be integrated into the national mainstream with dignity, and their voices must be included in key decision-making processes. The jirga warned that any further silence from the authorities would only deepen the people’s frustration and sense of injustice.

Concluding with a vow to continue peaceful resistance through constitutional means, the jirga nonetheless issued a firm warning that if legitimate demands continue to be ignored, the community’s patience may run out.

This jirga stands as a powerful indictment of Pakistan’s state policies in Waziristan, where military dominance has supplanted governance, and human rights have been sacrificed in the name of security. 

The collective outcry from the jirga underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in the state’s approach—one that prioritizes human rights, development, and genuine dialogue over force and suspicion. If the authorities fail to heed these calls, the region risks further destabilisation and alienation, with potentially far-reaching consequences for Pakistan’s social fabric and national unity.

Based On ANI Report

in a bid to enhance the efficiency and authenticity of electronic toll collection on national highways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has further strengthened its mechanism for identifying and blacklisting “loose” FASTags, also known as “tag-in-hand”, officials said on Friday.

The NHAI has directed all toll collecting agencies and concessionaires to immediately report such loose or improperly fixed FASTags, which are sometimes deliberately not affixed on vehicle windscreens. These loose tags pose serious operational challenges, including lane congestion, false chargebacks, misuse in closed-loop tolling systems and delays for other highway users.

“In view of upcoming initiatives like the annual pass system and multi-lane free flow tolling, it is critical to address the issue to ensure FASTag authenticity and system reliability,” an NHAI official said.

To streamline the process, the NHAI has set up a dedicated email identity through which toll collection agencies can report loose FASTags. Upon receiving reports, the authority will take immediate action by blacklisting or hotlisting the flagged FASTags.

According to the officials, with over a 98 per cent penetration rate, FASTag has revolutionised toll collection across India. However, NHAI officials said loose FASTags compromise the system’s integrity and could lead to inconvenience for genuine highway users.

“This initiative will help make toll operations more efficient, ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys for highway users,” the official said.

In a significant milestone for indigenous defence capabilities, the existing beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile ‘Astra’ was successfully tested today with an indigenously developed radio frequency (RF) seeker, fired from a Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) jointly conducted the flight-test off the coast of Odisha, the Ministry of Defence said.

“During the tests, two launches were carried out against high-speed unmanned aerial targets at different ranges. In both cases, the missiles destroyed the targets with pinpoint accuracy,” the ministry stated.

All subsystems performed as expected during the trials, including the RF seeker, which has been designed and developed by DRDO. The flawless performance of the Astra weapon system was validated using flight data captured by tracking instruments deployed during the test.

A radio frequency seeker is a critical guidance component in modern missiles. It enables autonomous target tracking — allowing the missile to independently locate and follow a target, a feature known as “fire-and-forget” capability.

The Astra BVRAAM (Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile) has a range exceeding 100 km and is equipped with a state-of-the-art guidance and navigation system. More than 50 public and private sector industries, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), have contributed to the successful realisation of the weapon system alongside various DRDO laboratories.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the IAF and the industry partners involved in the development of the indigenous RF seeker and successful execution of the tes