BRICS Summit Highlights Division Among Members as Dollar Challenge Remains Elusive

At the recent BRICS summit, experts voiced skepticism regarding the group’s potential to challenge the dominance of the US dollar, primarily due to the persistent divisions between its key players, China and India. Jim O’Neill, the former Goldman Sachs chief economist who coined the term "BRIC" in 2001, stated that as long as these two nations remain at odds, the notion of a cohesive BRICS economic alliance is "for the fairies."

During the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed to project an image of resilience, asserting that Western efforts to isolate Russia over the Ukraine conflict have failed and emphasizing Russia’s growing ties with other emerging Asian powers. O’Neill criticized the gathering, viewing it more as a symbolic event where countries like Russia and China can assert their independence from Western influence rather than a functional global economic entity.

The BRICS group, which has expanded to include South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE, claims to represent 45% of the world’s population and 35% of its economy—largely driven by China’s economic strength. O’Neill acknowledged the group’s potential but noted that their lack of clear objectives over the past 15 years has hindered any substantial progress or collaboration.

Putin remarked that over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, but O’Neill cautioned that adding new members would complicate decision-making and collaboration even further. He emphasized that any efforts to create a BRICS currency would be heavily reliant on China, downplaying the contributions of Russia and Brazil.

As discussions at the summit included the potential for an alternative international payment platform to circumvent Western sanctions, O’Neill challenged the viability of such initiatives. He pointed out that despite long-held discussions about the need for alternatives to the dollar, actual commitment from member nations has been lacking.

The tensions between China and India, particularly following border conflicts, were brought to the forefront during the summit. However, both nations’ leaders pledged to enhance cooperation, marking their first formal talks in five years. Despite this, economic analyst O’Neill stated that significant progress would only come when the two nations genuinely strive to resolve their differences and work collaboratively rather than continue to confront one another.

Reflecting on the broader challenges of global governance, O’Neill noted that major issues, including climate change and healthcare crises, cannot be addressed without the involvement of both Western powers and emerging economies. As the BRICS summit concluded, the path forward for this coalition appears rife with complexities, underscoring the challenges of uniting diverse interests within its membership to present a credible alternative to Western economic influence.

Jammu and Kashmir Police Identify Foreign Terrorists in Ganderbal Attack

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have unveiled photographs of two foreign terrorists believed to be behind the recent tragic attack on a workers’ camp in Ganderbal district. The assault occurred on Sunday evening, leaving seven individuals dead, including six non-local workers and a local doctor, while four others sustained injuries. The release of the images follows a review of CCTV footage recorded within the camp at Gagangir.

Investigations into the attack are ongoing, with over 40 individuals already questioned by authorities. A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), led by a senior official, has visited the site of the attack and collected crucial evidence related to the incident.

The victims were employees of APCO Infrastructure, which is engaged in the construction of a tunnel designed to improve access to the Sonamarg tourist resort, making the road from Srinagar to Sonamarg an all-weather route. The project is anticipated to bolster the local economy and create employment opportunities for local youth.

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Roads and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and former Chief Ministers Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, and Ghulam Nabi Azad.

In response to the tragedy, the Lieutenant Governor has sanctioned ex gratia relief for the families of the victims, while APCO Infrastructure has pledged ₹25 lakh in immediate assistance to support those impacted by the attack.

Indian Army to Host Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, Focusing on National Security and Economic Development

The Indian Army is preparing to host the highly anticipated second edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, a two-day international seminar taking place from Thursday. This flagship event aims to foster discussions on integrating security dynamics into both national and international policymaking.

According to an official statement, the dialogue will provide a prominent platform for military leaders, policymakers, strategic thinkers, and security specialists to collaborate on vital issues concerning national security and development, ultimately shaping a secure and thriving future for India.

The opening day of the seminar is set to feature discussions centered on the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, emphasizing how nations are forging strategic partnerships while balancing their national interests with global objectives. Notably, a panel session will delve into the impact of evolving global power structures on India’s strategic positioning, underscoring the increasing significance of alliances and multilateral cooperation in today’s polarized world.

Another key session, titled "Economic Development Strategies & National Security Imperatives," will explore the intricate connections between economic growth and national security. Panelists are expected to discuss strategies for aligning economic policies with national security goals, highlighting how India can utilize its expanding economic strength to bolster its global standing.

The second day of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue will be marked by special addresses, including one from S. Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, who will discuss the critical importance of India’s growing space sector. Additionally, Ruchira Kamboj, the former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, will provide insights on India’s evolving status in a multi-polar world and the necessity of robust diplomatic measures to protect national interests.

The dialogue will culminate with a closing address from Lt Gen N.S. Raja Subramani, the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, who will summarize the key takeaways from the event and reaffirm the Indian Army’s commitment to realizing a secure, prosperous, and developed India by 2047.

As the nation navigates complex security challenges and global dynamics, the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s strategic framework for the future.

NIA Court Sentences Second Accused in Pakistan-Backed Espionage Case

A special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has convicted Rajakbhai Kumbhar, a key figure in a defense espionage case with Pakistani ties, to rigorous imprisonment. The ruling was delivered by a Lucknow-based court in Uttar Pradesh. Kumbhar, hailing from the West Kachchh district of Gujarat, is the second individual sentenced in this high-profile case.

Under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Kumbhar received a maximum sentence of six years in prison, along with a monetary fine. The NIA confirmed that all sentences will run concurrently, but noted that an additional month of imprisonment would be imposed for each charge if Kumbhar fails to pay the fines.

The case initially came to light when the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, registered charges against another accused, Md Rashid from Chandauli district in Uttar Pradesh. Rashid was found to be in contact with agents of the Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), allegedly passing sensitive photographs that included images of critical military locations and Indian Army movements. These sensitive visuals were reportedly captured using his mobile device.

The NIA took over the investigation in April 2020, subsequently filing charges against Rashid in July of the same year. A supplementary chargesheet against Kumbhar was submitted in February 2021. The agency’s inquiry established that Kumbhar conspired with Rashid and ISI agents to orchestrate terrorist activities and to obscure their anti-India operations.

According to the NIA’s statement, “Rajakbhai had facilitated Rashid by providing funds in exchange for the sensitive photographs, which Rashid had sent to ISI agents,” highlighting the coordinated efforts to compromise India’s security.

This conviction underscores the ongoing battle against espionage and terrorism in the region, as authorities continue to clamp down on such nefarious activities.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth Visits National Defence Academy, Inspiring Future Military Leaders

Khadakwasla, Pune – In a significant visit to the National Defence Academy (NDA), Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, Army Commander of the Southern Command, took the time to engage with both current cadets and the esteemed institution itself. This visit, occurring shortly after he assumed command on July 1, 2024, underscored the crucial role of the NDA in cultivating future leaders of the Indian Armed Forces.

During his tour, Lt Gen Seth explored key areas of the academy, including the training fields, cadets’ mess, Sudan Block, and Santosh Gupta Hall. His observations of the rigorous training regimens and disciplined environment reaffirmed the NDA’s commitment to excellence in military education.

A poignant part of the visit was Lt Gen Seth’s return to Foxtrot Squadron, a unit where he once trained as a cadet. Sharing his personal experiences and memories from his time at the NDA made a lasting impact on the current cadets, whom he encouraged to embrace their training with vigor, highlighting its importance in their development as future military leaders.

Lt Gen Seth is a highly decorated officer with a career that includes leadership roles in the 98 Armoured Brigade, Counter Insurgency Uniform Force, and 21 Corps, along with instructional positions at the NDA and the School of Armoured Warfare. His presence and shared experiences serve not only as a source of inspiration but also as a testament to the lasting legacy of the NDA in shaping India’s military leadership.

This visit by Lt Gen Seth reinforces the enduring significance of the NDA in producing capable officers for the Indian Armed Forces and fosters a deeper connection between the academy and its distinguished alumni.

Madhya Pradesh Man Complies with High Court Order Following Pro-Pakistan Slogan Incident

In a notable development stemming from a recent court ruling, Faizan, a man accused of raising pro-Pakistan slogans, visited the Misrod police station on Tuesday to fulfill the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s directive. Following specific guidelines issued by the court, Faizan saluted the national flag 21 times while chanting the slogan "Bharat Mata ki Jai.”

This act of compliance was carried out on the fourth Tuesday of the month, as mandated by the high court. Misrod police station in-charge Manish Raj Bhadoriya confirmed to the Press Trust of India (PTI) that the event was video-recorded in the presence of media representatives. A compliance report detailing Faizan’s actions will be submitted to the high court, and this activity is set to continue throughout the duration of his trial.

In an interview with PTI after the event, Faizan, also known as Faizal, expressed remorse for his previous actions, describing the creation of pro-Pakistan reels as a significant mistake. He stressed that “nobody should go against the country,” urging his friends to refrain from similar behavior.

Faizan was arrested in May under section 153B of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses statements prejudicial to national integration. The case emerged after he was recorded shouting pro-Pakistan slogans in a video, an act that authorities say threatens to promote enmity between different groups and prejudices national harmony.

Justice D.K. Paliwal of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, in an order dated October 15, emphasized the need for Faizan to develop a sense of responsibility and pride for his country, in light of his past conduct. The court’s directive aims to instill a renewed sense of patriotism in the defendant, reflecting the serious nature of his actions against national interests.