India-Bangladesh Border Fencing Dispute
Why in News?
- The ongoing border fencing dispute between India and Bangladesh has recently intensified. The Ministry of External Affairs of India has reaffirmed its dedication to existing agreements regarding the border. This commitment follows Bangladesh's summoning of India's High Commissioner in Dhaka, where serious concerns were raised about the activities of the Border Security Force (BSF). Tensions flared when the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) attempted to stop the construction of barbed wire fencing along the international border in the Malda district of West Bengal. This dispute has deep roots, owing to the complexities surrounding the India-Bangladesh border.
Key Takeaways
- The India-Bangladesh border extends approximately 4,096.7 km, making it India's longest land border with any neighboring country.
- Historical events, particularly the Partition, contribute to the intricate nature of the border.
- The 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities place restrictions on constructing defense structures within 150 yards of the zero line.
Additional Details
- Recent Incidents: In Malda, the BSF, working with the Central Road Works Department, initiated the erection of a single row fence (SRF) in Kaliachak No 3 block. The BGB intervened, asserting that this action violated the bilateral agreement. Similar tensions were noted in Cooch Behar, where villagers aimed to erect fencing to protect their crops from cattle crossing from Bangladesh.
- Importance of Fencing: The BSF argues that fencing is essential for curbing cross-border crime. Former officials state that the SRF is intended to manage animal movement and prevent illegal activities. The BSF clarifies that the fencing lacks defensive capabilities, contrasting it with structures like concrete walls or bunkers, which Bangladesh perceives as threats.
- Negotiation Challenges: Negotiations between the BSF and BGB have often encountered misunderstandings. Bangladesh's objections to the SRF stem from two primary concerns: adherence to the 1975 agreement and the inconvenience caused to local residents. The BSF has attempted to clarify the non-defensive nature of the SRF, yet Bangladesh remains skeptical.
- Current Status of Fencing: As of 2023, approximately 3,141 km of the India-Bangladesh border is fenced. Challenges persist, including objections from villagers, geographical obstacles, and ongoing negotiations with Bangladesh. Notably, over 900 km of the border is riverine, making fencing impractical. In these areas, the BSF depends on its water wing for security.
- Future Implications: The ongoing negotiations and incidents are likely to influence the future of border security and bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh. The complexities of the border, alongside historical agreements, will continue to present challenges for both nations.
This ongoing dispute underscores the delicate nature of India-Bangladesh relations and highlights the need for effective dialogue to address the concerns of both nations regarding border security and local residents.
National Turmeric Board Set Up in Nizamabad
Why in News?
- The National Turmeric Board was inaugurated on January 14, 2025, by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, in New Delhi. This significant event coincided with nationwide celebrations, marking a new chapter in the support of turmeric farmers and the enhancement of the turmeric industry in India.
Key Takeaways
- The board aims to improve the welfare of turmeric farmers and boost exports.
- It will focus on research, development, and the promotion of superior turmeric varieties.
- The headquarters is strategically located in Nizamabad, a key region for turmeric cultivation.
Additional Details
- Objectives of the National Turmeric Board: The primary goal is to support turmeric farmers across 20 states, enhancing productivity and ensuring quality while promoting research and development. Additionally, the board will raise awareness about the health benefits and diverse applications of turmeric.
- Composition of the Board: Shri Palle Ganga Reddy has been appointed as the first Chairperson. The board comprises representatives from various ministries, exporters, and producers’ bodies, ensuring comprehensive representation from states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
- Turmeric Production in India: In the 2023-24 season, turmeric was cultivated over 3.05 lakh hectares, yielding around 10.74 lakh tonnes. India contributes over 70% of global turmeric production, showcasing its agricultural significance. The country is home to 30 distinct varieties of turmeric, each with unique properties.
- Focus on Export and Trade Enhancement: The board aims to increase the export of turmeric and related products. In the previous fiscal year, India exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric valued at about 226.5 million USD, with initiatives to explore international markets.
- Research and Development Initiatives: The National Turmeric Board will prioritize the research and development of innovative turmeric products, collaborating with stakeholders to enhance cultivation techniques and product offerings.
- Future Directions for the Turmeric Sector: The board intends to coordinate efforts with government departments and agencies to promote overall development in the turmeric sector, focusing on trade opportunities and the health benefits associated with turmeric.
The establishment of the National Turmeric Board marks a pivotal development in the support of turmeric farmers and the enhancement of the turmeric sector in India. With focused objectives and a dedicated composition, the board is set to drive productivity, quality, and export growth while fostering research and awareness of turmeric's health benefits.
Question for Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st January 2025)
Try yourself:
What is the primary objective of the National Turmeric Board?Explanation
- The National Turmeric Board aims to support turmeric farmers across 20 states, enhance productivity, ensure quality, and promote research and development.
Report a problem
Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary ESZ
Why in News?
- The Government of India has recently designated eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) around the Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Mandi district. This initiative is intended to counteract the negative impacts of urbanization and development on the sanctuary, which covers an area of 29.94 square kilometers and was established in 1962 to safeguard wildlife.
Key Takeaways
- The sanctuary is situated in the Himalayas and features a variety of forest ecosystems at altitudes ranging from 1,800 to 3,400 meters.
- The ESZ encompasses 43 villages from the Nachan and Karsog Forest Divisions, aiming to minimize harmful human activities while promoting sustainable practices.
- Activities such as commercial mining, large hydropower projects, and deforestation are prohibited under ESZ regulations.
- The management of the ESZ follows a core and buffer model to balance wildlife conservation and local community needs.
Additional Details
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: The initiative seeks to mitigate conflicts between humans and wildlife, as well as issues related to deforestation. Grazing, poaching, and the collection of forest resources are identified threats to the sanctuary.
- The flora and fauna of the sanctuary include diverse forest types, such as alpine pastures and mixed coniferous forests, with notable species like the Snow Leopard, although sightings require verification.
- The establishment of the ESZ impacts local communities by imposing restrictions on certain activities but aims to protect the ecological balance, which is vital for both wildlife and local livelihoods.
The implementation of eco-sensitive zones around the Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary represents a crucial step in conserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainable development. This initiative not only seeks to protect wildlife but also aims to engage local communities in conservation efforts.
State Revenue Dependency Trends
Why in News?
- Recent trends indicate that Indian States have become increasingly dependent on financial transfers and grants from the Central government. This shift has raised concerns regarding the sustainability of State finances and their capacity to generate independent revenue.
Key Takeaways
- From FY16 to FY25, Central transfers constituted 23-30% of State revenues, up from 20-24% in the early 2000s.
- States' own tax revenue has remained below 50% of total revenue for over a decade, a decline from the 2000s when it often exceeded this level.
- Non-tax revenue is expected to fall below 24% in FY25, marking a 25-year low.
- State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) has risen from 15% of total revenue in FY18 to roughly 22%.
- Central grants now account for approximately 65-70% of non-tax revenue, showing increased reliance on Central support.
- Many States face challenges in efficient tax collection, with efforts often being sporadic and insufficient.
- The ratio of own tax revenue to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has declined in several States, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Experts express concerns that stagnant tax revenue may limit States' fiscal capabilities, consequently affecting economic growth and demand.
Additional Details
- Rise in Central Transfers: The significant increase in Central transfers, now accounting for a larger share of State revenues, raises important questions about the financial autonomy of States.
- Decline in Own Tax Revenue: States have struggled to maintain their own tax revenue levels, indicating a need for improved tax strategies and mobilization efforts.
- SGST's Impact: The growth of SGST has been crucial for maintaining revenue levels, suggesting that States rely heavily on this new tax mechanism.
- Increased Central grants highlight a trend of dependency that may affect long-term fiscal health.
The increasing reliance on Central transfers and the decline in own tax revenues highlight critical challenges for Indian States, emphasizing the need for enhanced fiscal measures and strategies to ensure sustainable economic growth.
PMLA Bail Controversy
Why in News?
- On January 17, 2025, the Supreme Court of India reviewed the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) interpretation of bail conditions in relation to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The case centered around Shashi Bala, a teacher accused of involvement in a money laundering scam, which raised significant discussions regarding the legal provisions for women in similar cases.
Key Takeaways
- The PMLA was enacted to combat money laundering and allows for the confiscation of properties linked to such crimes.
- Bail conditions under Section 45 of the PMLA are stringent, requiring the accused to demonstrate their innocence and low likelihood of reoffending.
- Exceptions exist for women, minors, and the infirm, allowing for bail at the discretion of the Special Court.
- The Supreme Court's recent ruling emphasizes the need for accurate legal understanding and application.
Additional Details
- PMLA Overview: The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, established in 2002, defines money laundering offenses and specifies penalties, including imprisonment and fines. It mandates financial institutions to report suspicious transactions.
- Shashi Bala Case: Shashi Bala was accused of assisting in a money laundering operation linked to Rasheed Naseem of Shine City Group, involving an estimated ₹800-1000 crore. After her arrest in November 2023, the Allahabad High Court denied her bail, citing her connections to the principal accused.
- Supreme Court Ruling: On January 15, 2025, the Supreme Court granted bail to Bala, challenging the ED's interpretation of women’s statutory exceptions under the PMLA.
- Legal Precedents: The Delhi High Court previously granted bail to Preeti Chandra in 2023, reinforcing that the PMLA does not discriminate among women in its application of bail exceptions.
- Concerns Over PMLA: Critics of the PMLA argue that its broad definition of "proceeds of crime" may lead to misuse and that the burden of proof on the accused is excessively heavy, raising issues of fairness.
- Recent Amendments: Amendments to the PMLA aim to clarify the definition of "proceeds of crime" and establish money laundering as a distinct offense, reflecting changes in international standards.
- Reforms and Suggestions: Proposals for reforming the PMLA include reassessing the burden of proof, refining definitions, enhancing oversight of the ED, and ensuring public education on the law's implications.
- Judicial Perspectives: The judiciary has highlighted the importance of personal liberty when considering bail, emphasizing that individual rights should be carefully weighed against stringent laws like the PMLA.
The recent developments surrounding the PMLA and the Supreme Court's ruling have sparked vital discussions about the balance between legal enforcement and individual rights, particularly concerning vulnerable groups such as women. Ongoing reforms and public discourse will be essential to addressing the complexities involved in the application of this law.
Question for Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st January 2025)
Try yourself:
Which Act was enacted to combat money laundering and allows for the confiscation of properties linked to such crimes?Explanation
- The Prevention of Money Laundering Act was established in 2002 to combat money laundering and allows for the confiscation of properties linked to such crimes.
Report a problem
|
Test: Weekly Current Affairs: January 15th to 21st
|
Start Test
|
9th Anniversary of Startup India Mission
Why in News?
- As of January 17, 2025, the Startup India mission is celebrating its ninth anniversary, highlighting its significant achievements in fostering entrepreneurship throughout the country. The initiative has notably transformed the startup landscape, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities, thanks to various government funding initiatives and the emergence of a supportive private investment ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
- The mission has mobilized substantial capital through government funding, notably through the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS).
- India has grown to possess the world's third-largest startup ecosystem, with over 159,000 startups as of January 2025.
- Startups are recognized for their role in addressing major societal challenges.
- Women entrepreneurs are increasingly supported through government initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurship Platform.
- Upcoming events, such as the Startup Mahakumbh in April 2025, aim to showcase the country's entrepreneurial talent.
Additional Details
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS): Administered by SIDBI, this fund has facilitated a total of Rs 13 trillion in funding, enabling startups to grow and innovate.
- Startup Ecosystem Expansion: The startup ecosystem has expanded from approximately 500 startups in 2016 to 159,157 startups, generating around 1.72 million direct jobs.
- Impact on Society: Startups serve as catalysts for change by tackling issues such as sustainability, healthcare, and digital transformation, thereby contributing to societal advancements.
- Women in Entrepreneurship: The Women Entrepreneurship Platform is a government initiative designed to empower women-led startups by providing essential resources and opportunities.
- Upcoming Events: The Startup Mahakumbh, scheduled for April 2025, is anticipated to be the largest startup gathering, featuring 2,500 startups and showcasing India's entrepreneurial spirit.
- PRABHAAV Factbook: Recently launched, this factbook documents the growth of the startup ecosystem from 2016 to 2024, providing insights into achievements and regional developments.
- Bharat Startup Grand Challenge: This initiative invites innovative solutions across 75 sectors, offering cash prizes, funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to encourage collaboration between industry leaders and startups.
In conclusion, the Startup India mission's ninth anniversary not only marks a significant milestone in promoting entrepreneurship but also reflects the crucial role startups play in driving innovation and societal progress across India.
Sri Lanka to Receive Largest FDI from China
Why in News?
- Sri Lanka is poised to receive its largest foreign direct investment (FDI) from China, totaling $3.7 billion for the construction of an oil refinery. This investment coincides with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's visit to China and is a significant component of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, the project has raised alarms regarding potential debt traps and geopolitical tensions in the region, especially concerning India's interests.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka's agreement with China's Sinopec involves the construction of a refinery with a capacity of 200,000 barrels per day.
- The project aims to satisfy domestic fuel requirements while generating foreign currency through exports.
- The location of the refinery near the strategic Hambantota port raises regional security concerns.
- India perceives increased Chinese influence in Sri Lanka as a threat to its own interests in the Indian Ocean.
Additional Details
- Investment Overview: Sinopec will oversee the construction of the refinery, with a focus on meeting local fuel demand and enabling export opportunities.
- Geopolitical Context: The refinery's proximity to Hambantota port, which has been leased to China for 99 years, exacerbates regional tensions and raises alarms for India.
- Debt Trap Concerns: Sri Lanka's financial challenges, particularly from Chinese loans, have led to fears of losing control over assets, as exemplified by the Hambantota port deal.
- India's Counter Strategies: In response, India has proposed its energy projects, including a $1.2 billion fuel pipeline to Trincomalee, and is actively involved in the fuel market in Sri Lanka.
- Sinopec's Market Strategy: The company aims to establish a stronghold in the Sri Lankan market by emphasizing domestic sales and expanding its fuel distribution network.
- Sri Lanka’s Balancing Act: The government is attempting to maintain a balanced relationship with both China and India, involving various agreements with India to augment cooperation.
- Historical Context: The economic crisis in 2023 led Sri Lanka to default on $46 billion in foreign debt, highlighting the risks associated with reliance on Chinese investments.
The ramifications of this substantial investment will significantly influence Sri Lanka's economic landscape and its geopolitical positioning in the Indian Ocean region. The leadership will need to carefully navigate its relationships with both China and India to ensure a stable future.
Green Hydrogen Challenges Ahead
Why in News?
- The recent increase in announcements for green hydrogen projects has not resulted in effective implementations, as highlighted by a study from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. Despite ambitious targets set by various stakeholders, only a small number of announced projects have been successfully launched, revealing significant challenges within the sector.
Key Takeaways
- In 2023, 190 green hydrogen projects were monitored globally, with only 0.3 GW of the expected 4.3 GW capacity installed, leading to a success rate of merely 7%.
- Delays are prevalent, with 86% of projects announced in 2021 not being realized as scheduled.
- The pipeline of announced projects has surged to 422 GW since 2021, primarily driven by Europe, followed by Australia and Central/South America.
Additional Details
Key Challenges:The low success rate can be attributed to three main factors:
- Rising electrolyser costs
- Lack of offtake agreements
- Insufficient supportive policies
To realize these projects, global subsidies of approximately US$ 1.3 trillion are necessary, which surpass current financial commitments. The absence of carbon pricing complicates achieving these ambitious goals.
- Technological Advancements: The production of green hydrogen heavily depends on renewable energy sources. Innovations in electrolysis and storage technologies are crucial for achieving cost-effective production and broader adoption.
- Sectoral Applications: Green hydrogen has the potential to decarbonize various sectors, including agriculture and transport, providing alternatives to fossil fuels, such as powering farm equipment and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
- Infrastructure and Safety Concerns: Establishing robust infrastructure for the production, storage, and distribution of hydrogen is essential. Safety protocols are critical due to hydrogen's flammability, ensuring secure handling and utilization.
- India’s Green Hydrogen Initiatives: The National Hydrogen Mission aims to make India a global leader in green hydrogen, introducing measures like consumption mandates for key industries and developing dedicated hydrogen hubs.
- Way Forward Strategies: Advancing green hydrogen involves reducing production costs through innovative technologies. There is a need for regulatory incentives and coordinated efforts among stakeholders to build a sustainable supply chain, along with increasing awareness and capacity building for broader adoption.
In conclusion, while the ambition for green hydrogen is significant, addressing the outlined challenges and ensuring proper infrastructure, policies, and technological advancements will be critical for successful implementation and the realization of climate targets.
Question for Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st January 2025)
Try yourself:
What is one of the main challenges hindering the successful implementation of green hydrogen projects?Explanation
- Rising electrolyser costs
- Lack of offtake agreements
- Insufficient supportive policies
Report a problem
1965 India-Pakistan War and the Strategic Importance of Haji Pir
Why in News?
- The 1965 India-Pakistan War is a significant conflict in the history of South Asia. Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the strategic advantages gained during this war were not fully leveraged in subsequent negotiations, which has contributed to ongoing infiltration issues between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- The war was primarily rooted in territorial disputes over Kashmir.
- Operation Gibraltar initiated by Pakistan aimed to incite local unrest in Kashmir but ultimately failed.
- India captured the strategically vital Haji Pir Pass, impacting military logistics.
- The war concluded with the Tashkent Declaration, leading to a ceasefire and the return of Haji Pir to Pakistan.
Additional Details
- Background of the War: The conflict began with escalated tensions over Kashmir, following Pakistan's Operation Gibraltar in August 1965, where soldiers infiltrated Kashmir disguised as locals to incite a rebellion.
- Key Battles and Strategies: Indian troops crossed the Line of Control, capturing Haji Pir Pass, which was crucial for controlling supply lines and enhancing military logistics.
- Operation Grand Slam: In response to Indian advancements, Pakistan launched an offensive on September 1, 1965, targeting Akhnoor, but faced strong counterattacks from Indian forces.
- Post-War Implications: The war resulted in a political setback for Pakistan, leading to a reassessment of military strategies on both sides.
- Legacy and Recognition: Local heroes like Mohammad Deen and Ghulam Din were honored for their contributions to the Indian effort, emphasizing civilian involvement in wartime scenarios.
The 1965 war not only shaped the military strategies of both India and Pakistan but also left a lasting impact on the geopolitical dynamics of the region, particularly regarding the control of strategic locations like Haji Pir.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) Update
Why in News?
- On January 20, 2025, the Ministry of Finance announced significant progress in food processing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). A total of 1,646 projects have been approved, focusing on the development of the agricultural and food processing sectors in India. These initiatives are anticipated to create numerous job opportunities and attract substantial investments.
Key Takeaways
- 1,646 projects sanctioned under PMKSY aimed at improving food processing.
- Total project valuation as of December 2024 is ₹31,830.23 crore.
- Expected private investment of ₹22,722.55 crore.
- Projected creation of 13.42 lakh jobs benefiting around 51.24 lakh farmers.
Additional Details
- About PMKSY: Launched to modernize food processing, reduce agricultural waste, and enhance supply chain efficiency through initiatives like Mega Food Parks and Integrated Cold Chains.
- PMFME Yojana: The PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Yojana provides support to small-scale enterprises. Since its inception in 2020-21, over 3.10 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and 1,14,388 individuals have received financial aid.
- Multi-Product Food Irradiation Units: The government plans to set up 50 multi-product food irradiation units, with 20 proposals currently being evaluated following an Expression of Interest issued in August 2024.
- PLI Scheme for Food Processing: Under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, 133 companies are involved, securing investments of ₹8,910 crore and disbursing ₹1,084 crore in incentives to eligible projects.
- Agro-Processing: This term refers to the transformation of agricultural products into consumable goods, playing a crucial role in increasing the value of raw materials and supporting the agricultural economy.
The advancements under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana highlight the government's commitment to boosting the agricultural sector and improving food processing capabilities in India. The initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in creating jobs, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and attracting investment to strengthen the economy.
|
Download the notes
Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st January 2025)
|
Download as PDF
|
ISRO Successfully Demonstrates Vikas Engine Restart Capability
Why in News?
- On January 21, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made significant progress by successfully demonstrating the restart capabilities of its Vikas liquid engine. This achievement is a vital step toward enhancing the reusability of launch vehicles, aligning with ISRO’s goals to advance space technology and expand commercial operations.
Key Takeaways
- The Vikas engine's restart capability enhances the reusability of launch vehicles.
- ISRO aims to leverage this technology for future space missions and commercial operations.
Additional Details
- Vikas Engine Overview: The Vikas engine is a hypergolic liquid-fuel rocket engine developed by ISRO, utilized in various launch vehicles such as PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3. The engine has evolved since its inception in the 1970s.
- Recent Testing Milestones: The successful test on January 17, 2025, involved a 60-second engine firing, a 120-second shutdown, and a subsequent restart for seven seconds. Previous tests in December 2024 had shorter shutdown durations.
- Engine Specifications: The Vikas engine utilizes Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) as fuel and Nitrogen Tetroxide (N2O4) as oxidizer, achieving a maximum thrust of 725 kN, with propellant loading varying between 40 tonnes and 55 tonnes.
- Types of Vikas Engines: Variants include the HTVE (High Thrust Vikas Engine) with 800 kN thrust for GSLV and the HPVE (High Pressure Vikas Engine) currently under development for future GSLV boosters.
- Throttling Tests: The first throttling test conducted in January 2023 achieved a 67% thrust level for 43 seconds, allowing for precise control during missions.
- Applications in Gaganyaan Mission: The Vikas engine is crucial for India's Gaganyaan mission, the nation's first manned space initiative, with successful high-thrust variant testing to ensure reliability under extreme conditions.
- Commercial Launch Operations: ISRO has initiated the L110 core liquid stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle for commercial purposes, launching the BlueBird Block-2 satellite as part of a commercial agreement, further solidifying ISRO's position in global space commerce.
The successful demonstration of the Vikas engine's restart capability not only showcases ISRO's technological advancements but also reinforces its commitment to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of future space missions.
Question for Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st January 2025)
Try yourself:
Which engine was successfully demonstrated by ISRO for its restart capability on January 21, 2025?Explanation
- The Vikas engine was successfully demonstrated by ISRO for its restart capability on January 21, 2025, marking a significant advancement in space technology.
Report a problem
Indian Army Pushes to Expand Pinaka MBRL Procurement
Why in News?
- The Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) represents a significant enhancement in India's artillery capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pinaka was conceived to replace older Soviet-era artillery systems. As of January 2025, it has garnered international interest, particularly from countries such as Armenia and France, highlighting its strategic importance. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi announced plans to sign two contracts for the Pinaka missile system before the end of the financial year on March 31, 2025. These contracts include one for high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition worth ₹5,700 crore and another for area denial munitions worth ₹4,500 crore.
Key Takeaways
- The Pinaka MBRL is crucial for enhancing India's artillery strength.
- International interest in the Pinaka system is growing, with Armenia being an early adopter.
- The Indian Army is set to finalize contracts totaling ₹10,200 crore for various Pinaka systems.
Additional Details
- Development and Specifications: The Pinaka was developed by DRDO's Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) during the late 1980s to replace the Grad BM-21 rocket launcher. The latest version has a range of 60 km, with future models aiming for up to 120 km. It can launch 12 rockets in just 44 seconds and is mounted on a Tatra truck for enhanced mobility.
- Operational History: The Pinaka was first deployed in the Kargil War in 1999, demonstrating its effectiveness in targeting enemy positions in difficult terrains. It has been inducted into multiple regiments of the Indian Army, especially those operating in high-altitude areas.
- International Interest: Armenia was the first to receive a lot of Pinaka systems in early 2025. There is also growing interest from countries in ASEAN, Africa, and Europe, which is expected to boost India's defense exports.
- Variants of Pinaka:The system includes various models:
- Pinaka Mk-1 – Range of 48 km.
- Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced – Range of 60 km.
- Pinaka Mk-II – Range of 90 km.
- Pinaka Mk-III – Under development with a projected range of 120 km.
- Operational Structure: Each Pinaka battery typically comprises six launchers capable of firing a total of 72 rockets, effectively neutralizing an area of 1,000 m x 800 m. Plans are in place to increase the number of operational regiments from 16 to 22 by 2028.
The Pinaka MBRL is set to become a cornerstone of India's artillery capabilities, enhancing the nation's firepower while minimizing the risk to soldiers. Its development underscores India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and the importance of international cooperation in military hardware.