Tag: national security

Special Occasion

Pulwama: Remembering the Day That Shook a Nation

Tanisha Cardozo

On February 14, 2019, what began as a routine convoy movement along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway turned into one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent Indian history. A suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force in Pulwama, killing 40 personnel.

The attack sent shockwaves across India. Images of smoke rising from the highway flooded television screens. Families waited anxiously for confirmation. The country watched in grief as coffins draped in the tricolour arrived in hometowns across states.

Responsibility for the bombing was claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed, escalating already fragile tensions between India and Pakistan. In the days that followed, India carried out airstrikes in Balakot, marking a significant shift in its response to cross-border terrorism. The episode triggered diplomatic offensives, international scrutiny and a renewed debate over national security strategy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed that the sacrifice of the soldiers would not go unanswered. Across the country, candlelight vigils were held. Schools observed moments of silence. Social media turned into a space of collective mourning and solidarity.

For many Indians, Pulwama became more than a headline. It became a reminder of the human cost of conflict. Behind every uniform was a son, a husband, a father, a friend. The stories of the fallen — their dreams, their families, their everyday lives — resonated deeply with citizens who had never met them but felt the loss personally.

Years later, the attack continues to influence security policies in Jammu and Kashmir and shape India’s counterterrorism posture. It also remains a solemn marker in the national calendar — a day of remembrance.

As each anniversary passes, the questions remain complex, the geopolitics layered and the emotions raw. But one sentiment endures: the resolve to honour those who lost their lives in service of the nation.

Pulwama is not just a place on the map. For millions, it is a memory of grief, unity and unwavering tribute.

National

PM Modi Unveils ₹100 Coin and Stamp Honouring RSS Centenary; Bharat Mata Features on Currency for First Time

Tanisha Cardozo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the historic centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) by unveiling a special ₹100 coin and a commemorative postal stamp in New Delhi. In a moment that blends symbolism with national sentiment, the coin features Bharat Mata seated on a lion in varad mudra, with swayamsevaks bowing before her — the first time Bharat Mata has been depicted on Indian currency since independence.

Speaking at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, PM Modi praised the RSS for its 100-year journey of selfless national service, discipline, and dedication. The commemorative stamp captures a significant historical moment — RSS swayamsevaks participating in the 1963 Republic Day Parade, showcasing their commitment to India’s unity and strength.

Addressing the audience, the Prime Minister spoke with urgency and conviction about emerging demographic challenges to India’s social harmony and security. He stated that infiltrators causing demographic shifts pose a significant threat to India’s internal cohesion. Recalling his recent address from the Red Fort, he reiterated the launch of the “Demographic Mission” to counteract this growing concern.

He emphasized, “Unity in diversity has always been India’s soul. If this strength is broken, India will weaken.” Stressing that the RSS’s foundation on Vijayadashami was no coincidence, PM Modi tied the organization’s origin to the festival’s deep-rooted symbolism — the triumph of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and light over darkness.

The Prime Minister also paid homage to RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, calling him a visionary of national service whose ideals continue to guide generations. “It is the fortune of our generation that we witness the centenary year of the Sangh,” he said, congratulating millions of swayamsevaks for their commitment and sacrifices.

Founded in 1925 in Nagpur, the RSS was created as a volunteer-led organisation with a focus on cultural awareness, service, discipline, and social responsibility. Over the decades, it has grown into one of India’s most influential and widespread socio-cultural organisations.

The unveiling of the coin and stamp not only commemorates the legacy of the RSS but also reinforces the government’s emphasis on cultural identity, unity, and national service as central themes in the journey ahead. As India reflects on the past century, the message from the Prime Minister was clear: staying alert, united, and committed to the nation’s core values is the need of the hour.

Events in Goa

Goa Police Hackathon 2025 to Launch with 36 Teams Tackling 9 Real-World Policing Challenges

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Police will officially launch the third edition of its Hackathon on 1st September 2025, inviting students from across the state to craft innovative tech solutions to real-world policing challenges. The event is expected to witness the enthusiastic participation of 36 teams, each taking on one of 9 carefully crafted problem statements related to law enforcement, crime detection, and civic safety.

As the role of technology in policing continues to expand—from data analytics to surveillance and cybercrime response—Goa Police aims to forge meaningful collaborations between young innovators and the law enforcement ecosystem. This Hackathon will not just target students from IT backgrounds; it will remain open to all disciplines, encouraging cross-functional approaches to problem-solving in public safety.

The process will begin with online registration and abstract submission, with a deadline set for 8th September 2025 at 11:59 PM. Each team, consisting of 2 to 4 members, will be required to submit a two-page abstract outlining their selected problem statement, proposed tech solution, core features, rationale for selection, and any relevant experience. Teams shortlisted based on this abstract will be announced by 14th September 2025.

These finalists will then participate in an intense, round-the-clock Hackathon session scheduled from 7:00 PM on 19th September to 7:00 PM on 21st September 2025. Over the 48-hour sprint, teams will develop working prototypes and present their solutions to a jury comprising police officials, tech experts, and civic leaders.

Each of the 9 problem statements will carry a cash prize of ₹50,000. More importantly, winning ideas may stand a chance to be developed further and implemented in real policing workflows, making this not just a competition but a potential gateway to real-world impact.

Through this initiative, Goa Police reaffirms its commitment to building smarter, tech-enabled law enforcement practices. From tackling cybercrime and digital forensics to enabling predictive policing and intelligent surveillance, the Hackathon will serve as a testing ground for tomorrow’s policing solutions.

By engaging students directly, Goa Police hopes to inspire a culture of civic-tech collaboration, where the next generation of coders, analysts, and innovators take part in shaping safer communities.

Final presentation and award ceremony details will be announced soon. Goa Police invites all eligible students to participate in this mission-driven opportunity to use their skills for public good and contribute to the future of law enforcement in India.

International

Blaise Metreweli Named First Woman Chief of MI6 in Historic Appointment

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London, July 30, 2025 — In a groundbreaking moment for British intelligence, Blaise Metreweli has been appointed as the 18th Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6), marking the first time a woman will lead the organization in its 116-year history.

Her appointment, effective October 1, 2025, was confirmed by the UK government and praised by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who called it “a milestone at a time when the UK faces unprecedented global challenges.”

A Trailblazer in Tech and Intelligence

Metreweli currently heads MI6’s technology and innovation division, known internally as “Q”—a nod to the gadget-master in the James Bond universe. In this role, she has championed AI-driven surveillance tools, cyber intelligence advancements, and digital tradecraft that have become essential in countering global espionage threats.

She brings 25 years of service in British intelligence, including high-level roles in MI5 and operational deployments across the Middle East and Europe.

Breaking the Glass Ceiling in British Intelligence

While MI5 and GCHQ—the UK’s domestic and cyber intelligence agencies—have had female leaders before, MI6 had remained a male-led institution since its founding in 1909. Metreweli’s appointment shatters that precedent and sets a new tone for leadership in the intelligence community.

A Background Built for Modern Threats

Metreweli studied anthropology at the University of Cambridge, is fluent in Arabic, and is widely regarded for her ability to combine cultural intelligence with cutting-edge technology. Her work has significantly advanced MI6’s ability to counter emerging threats, including state-sponsored cyberattacks from adversaries like Russia and China.

In a statement, she said:

“I am proud and honored to lead my Service. MI6 plays a vital role in protecting the UK alongside MI5 and GCHQ. I look forward to guiding our people through the evolving landscape of global threats with the innovation and integrity that our mission demands.”

Endorsements Across the Board

Her predecessor, Sir Richard Moore, praised her as a “highly accomplished intelligence officer” and “a leading thinker in the application of technology to security.” Her peers describe her as strategic, forward-thinking, and deeply respected across both UK and allied agencies.

What This Means Going Forward

Metreweli’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era of modernization and inclusion at MI6. At a time when hybrid warfare, cyber espionage, and global instability are reshaping the geopolitical landscape, her appointment reflects a conscious pivot toward innovation and diversity in national security.

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Indian Coast Guard Celebrates 49th Raising Day: A Legacy of Maritime Excellence

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The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is poised to celebrate its 49th Raising Day on February 1, 2025, marking nearly five decades of dedicated service to the nation. Since its inception in 1977, the ICG has evolved from a modest force of seven surface platforms to a formidable maritime security service with 151 ships and 76 aircraft.

A Commitment to Maritime Security

The ICG’s motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), embodies its unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime zones. With a vast coastline of 7,516 kilometers, the ICG ensures round-the-clock vigilance and monitoring, deploying between 55 to 60 surface platforms and 10 to 12 aircraft daily. This persistent presence supports secure sea lanes for international maritime trade and plays a crucial role in promoting the sustainable development of India’s blue economy.

The ICG’s impressive track record is a testament to its dedication and expertise. Some notable achievements include:

  • Life-Saving Missions: Over 11,730 lives saved since its inception, with 169 rescues in the past year alone.
  • Anti-Smuggling Efforts: Contraband worth INR 52,560.96 crores seized in the last year, including a record-breaking 6,016 kg of narcotics in the Andaman Sea.
  • Disaster Response: Successful rescue operations during Cyclone ASNA in Gujarat, flood relief in Gujarat and Wayanad, and complex medical evacuations in challenging conditions.
  • Environmental Protection: Active role in environmental protection, conducting national and regional exercises to strengthen preparedness for maritime environmental disasters.

Modernization and Infrastructure Development

The ICG is committed to self-reliance and modernization, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” initiative. Recent developments include:

  • Procurement of Advanced Assets: Acquisition of air cushion vehicles, next-generation patrol vessels, and upgraded communication systems to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Infrastructure Development: Construction of over 1000 meters of jetty, boosting operational facilities, and establishment of new facilities, such as the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Chennai and the Coast Guard Air Enclave in Puducherry.

Embracing Technology

The ICG has also leveraged technology to enhance its operational capabilities:

  • Automation of Service Healthcare Administration (ASHA) App: Streamlining medical examinations and managing e-health records for ICG personnel.
  • Digital Coast Guard Initiative: Setting up a Tier-III Data Centre to further improve technological infrastructure.

As the Indian Coast Guard celebrates its 49th Raising Day, it is clear that the service has come a long way since its humble beginnings. With its commitment to maritime security, self-reliance, and modernization, the ICG continues to play a vital role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and promoting the nation’s blue economy.