The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has introduced the ‘Rakshita’ bike ambulance, a compact and affordable emergency response vehicle designed to provide quick medical assistance in areas where traditional ambulances cannot reach. Built for narrow streets, disaster-hit locations, and challenging operational zones, the vehicle focuses on faster casualty evacuation during critical situations.

Developed by DRDO’s Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) in partnership with Skylane Power Solution, the Rakshita was originally designed for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Around 21 units were inducted into CRPF operations, especially in remote and Maoist-affected regions, before the technology attracted attention from hospitals and civilian emergency services.

The bike ambulance is equipped with a specially developed casualty evacuation seat made from high-strength alloys. The ergonomic design includes an adjustable headrest, lumbar support, movable armrests, and a reclining feature that allows the patient to be positioned comfortably during transportation. The seat can also be converted into a stretcher, offering flexibility during rescue operations.

For enhanced patient safety, the Rakshita includes a head immobilisation system, secure harness arrangements, and adjustable footrests. The vehicle carries essential medical equipment such as a compact oxygen cylinder, IV fluid support, splints, medicines, and a first-aid kit. A built-in telescopic IV stand further improves convenience for medical responders.

A major feature of the Rakshita is its integrated health monitoring system, which tracks vital parameters including oxygen levels, ECG readings, and other physiological data. These details can be transferred through Bluetooth to nearby medical centres, allowing doctors to prepare for treatment before the patient reaches the hospital. Designed for quick movement through crowded areas, the ambulance comes with sirens and emergency flashing lights. Its small size makes it especially useful in flood zones, disaster-affected regions, urban lanes, and remote locations where regular ambulances face mobility challenges.

Priced at around ₹3.5 lakh, the Rakshita costs significantly less than a conventional ambulance, making it a practical option for security forces, hospitals, and emergency response organisations. Its low cost, advanced features, and mobility highlight DRDO’s focus on developing indigenous solutions for India’s unique healthcare and rescue requirements. By combining speed, affordability, and medical support capabilities, the Rakshita bike ambulance aims to reduce delays in emergency care and ensure that critical assistance reaches patients within the crucial golden hour.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Economic Times.

The 23rd edition of the Multilateral Joint Military Exercise Khaan Quest 2026 is being conducted at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The exercise also commemorates the 20th anniversary of one of the world’s major peacekeeping training exercises, with more than 1,000 personnel from 18 nations taking part, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 40 personnel from a battalion of the JAT Regiment along with members of other Arms and Services, is participating in extensive joint peacekeeping exercises alongside international forces. Conducted under the framework of the United Nations mandate, the exercise focuses on improving interoperability, coordination, communication, and collective responses during challenging operational situations.

During the drills, Indian troops are undergoing training in various tactical operations, including checkpoint management, area patrolling, cordon and search operations, crowd control measures, protection of UN facilities, humanitarian support for civilians, combat medical assistance, and evacuation of casualties. The Indian contingent is also taking part in the “Women, Peace and Security” segment of the exercise, which promotes gender-inclusive peacekeeping practices, civilian protection, community involvement, and a more inclusive approach in conflict and post-conflict regions.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the exercise serves as a valuable opportunity for participating forces to share their experiences, strategies, and operational methods related to peace support missions. Training together in a multinational environment enables troops to strengthen trust, coordination, and preparedness for future UN peacekeeping deployments.

With India’s long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, including the participation of women peacekeepers, the Indian Army contingent is demonstrating professionalism, discipline, and operational capability. Exercise Khaan Quest 2026 highlights India’s continued role in supporting global peace, stability, and international cooperation. The exercise is being held from June 20 to July 3 at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar. It brings together military forces from various countries to enhance cooperation and interoperability in peace support operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

The exercise began in 2003 as a bilateral initiative between the United States and Mongolian Defence Forces. From 2006 onwards, it expanded into a multilateral peacekeeping exercise and has since evolved into a major international training platform. The participation of the Indian Army reflects India’s commitment to global peace efforts and its growing defence partnership with Mongolia.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from MinistryofDefence.

Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tarkash departed from Port Louis, Mauritius, on 22 June 2026 after completing its scheduled port visit, as the warship continued its operational deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region. According to an official statement, the crew of INS Tarkash took part in several engagements during the visit, including a friendly but competitive volleyball match and specialised professional training sessions for personnel of the Mauritius National Coast Guard.

The naval ship was also opened for public visitors on 21 June 2026, attracting nearly 450 people from the Indian diaspora and the local community. The interaction helped strengthen the longstanding cultural and people-to-people connections between India and Mauritius. During the visit, INS Tarkash Commanding Officer Captain Rohit Mishra held meetings with Mauritius Police Commissioner Rampersad Sooroojebally and India’s High Commissioner to Mauritius Anurag Srivastava, the release stated.

The ship also organised a yoga session for Mauritius National Coast Guard personnel on 21 June to mark the International Day of Yoga 2026, highlighting cooperation and shared participation between the two maritime partners. The visit reflected the strong and historic relationship between India and Mauritius while reaffirming New Delhi’s focus on strengthening maritime cooperation, regional stability, and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

The development comes after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s high-level visit to Mauritius in April, which focused on healthcare cooperation, diplomatic engagements, and regional discussions aimed at further deepening bilateral ties. A key highlight of Jaishankar’s visit was the inauguration of Mauritius’ first dedicated renal transplant unit at Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in Port Louis. The facility was described as a significant step in improving the country’s healthcare infrastructure and as another example of India’s long-term development partnership with Mauritius.

While inaugurating the unit, Jaishankar said the project represented an important achievement for patients and families in Mauritius, describing it as both a healthcare milestone and a humanitarian initiative. In a post on X, he said the new facility would enhance access to advanced medical treatment for kidney patients and further strengthen the health partnership between the two nations. He also reiterated India’s commitment to global cooperation, noting that Mauritius remains an important partner in India’s vision of a connected and inclusive global community.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

An Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally was conducted at Tangdhar under the aegis of Shakti Vijay Brigade with the objective of strengthening outreach, resolving grievances, and spreading awareness about various welfare schemes for veterans, Veer Naris, widows, and their dependents. The event saw active participation from the veteran community, including 154 Ex-Servicemen, 4 Veer Naris, and 25 widows. Representatives from multiple organisations and departments such as the Veterans Cell, ECHS Baramulla, JAK LI and JAK RIF Record Offices, civil administration, police, forest, employment, banking institutions, and education offices were also present. They interacted with participants, addressed their issues, and guided them regarding available welfare measures and government schemes.

During the rally, speakers paid tribute to the sacrifices and service of veterans and reaffirmed their commitment to their welfare. They highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including ESM rallies, Veer Nari meets, ECHS clinical camps, artificial limb camps, outreach programmes for Veer Mata-Pita, and the SPARSH data migration drive.

Participants were also informed about recent improvements such as the empanelment of additional hospitals under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) in the Kashmir Valley to enhance healthcare access. Veterans and families were encouraged to make full use of these welfare schemes and approach relevant authorities for timely grievance redressal.

They were further urged to contribute to nation-building by mentoring youth, raising awareness against drug abuse, and promoting peace and social harmony. As part of the programme, scholarships were awarded to 25 widows, 4 Veer Naris, and 10 meritorious students from ESM families for their academic and extracurricular achievements by Mrs. Sheela Yadav, wife of Brigadier Dharmendra Yadav, SM, Station Commander Tangdhar. In addition, five distinguished Ex-Servicemen were felicitated for their contributions to community development and nation-building.

Addressing the gathering, Brigadier Dharmendra Yadav reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to the welfare of veterans, Veer Naris, and their families. He outlined various welfare initiatives and assured continued support in resolving their concerns. He also encouraged veterans to guide the younger generation, fight drug abuse, strengthen social harmony, and remain alert against misinformation and anti-national influences.

The rally concluded with an interactive session between the Station Commander and veterans, allowing for direct engagement and discussion, followed by a group photograph marking the occasion and the enduring bond between serving personnel and veterans. The event underscored the Indian Army’s continued dedication to honouring veterans and ensuring their dignity, welfare, and active participation in nation-building.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Amid rising tensions in the U.S.–Israel–Iran conflict, airlines are diverting flights away from major Middle East routes that connect Asia and Europe. This shift raises the question: could new aviation hubs emerge beyond established centers like Dubai and Doha? How might this affect ticket costs, cargo transport, and the broader landscape of global air travel? Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman explore these issues with Shantanu Gangakhedkar, Principal Consultant and Commercial Aviation Lead at Frost & Sullivan.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Whether it is issuing military threats toward Colombia and Cuba, suggesting the takeover of Greenland from Denmark, or capturing oil tankers in European and Caribbean seas, Donald Trump’s actions are forcing global leaders into constant crisis management. His renewed brand of American imperialism is reshaping international politics at a rapid pace. Jonathan Freedland discusses this shifting global landscape with Pulitzer Prize–winning author Anne Applebaum, examining what lies ahead in a world being rapidly transformed by the decisions of the US president.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

The United States’ confiscation of a sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker represents a significant escalation, denounced by Caracas as “international piracy.” Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman examine the underlying strategic signal the Trump administration is sending to Latin America in the context of China’s expanding influence, alongside Ross Feingold, Head of Research at Caerus Consulting. They assess whether this aggressive move qualifies as a justified national security action, whether it accomplished its intended objectives, and how neighbouring countries have responded in the immediate aftermath.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

On September 3, China held its largest military parade to date in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event featured tens of thousands of soldiers, along with hundreds of aircraft, ground vehicles, and advanced weaponry. More than just a show of military might, the parade was intended as a symbol of deterrence, national solidarity, and a display of Xi Jinping’s authority in a period of global uncertainty. Andrea Heng discussed the significance of the event with Dr. Mustafa Izzuddin, Senior International Affairs Analyst at Solaris.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.