The Indian Army is steadily transforming into a data-driven, AI-enabled force, fully aligned with India’s vision of technological self-reliance and secure digital capability. At the India AI Summit 2026, the Army highlighted a range of indigenous AI solutions designed to deliver substantial value across both defence and civilian domains. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, situational awareness, and disaster response, while also strengthening national technological capabilities.

Major General VTS Varaich, ADG of Information Systems in the Indian Army, explained that the Army’s journey toward implementing AI and other core technologies began long ago and has been carefully planned over the years. Speaking to ANI, he emphasized that the adoption of AI is not just a technological exercise but a strategic approach aimed at improving the effectiveness of commanders and soldiers on the ground. He highlighted the importance of co-partnerships with Indian industry, stating that collaboration will help develop world-class solutions that enhance operational efficiency and serve the nation at large. Major General Varaich described the seminar as a significant achievement for Indian industry, noting that initiatives led by the Confederation of Indian Industry and SIDM demonstrate how AI can be leveraged to strengthen defence capabilities.

He further elaborated that the Army’s focus is not merely on acquiring technology but on implementing functional, mission-oriented solutions. With long-term vision, dedicated funding, and consistent efforts, the Army has established integrated networks that support multi-domain operations, encompassing land, air, and cyber domains. He stressed that the Army’s progress is driven by its will, commitment, and persistence rather than budget constraints, exemplified by the continuous implementation of public-private partnerships and various technology projects.

Addressing potential risks, Major General Varaich cautioned about challenges like deepfakes and highlighted ongoing work to ensure AI applications maintain accuracy above 99.5 percent through trust-based algorithms. This illustrates the Army’s balanced approach—adopting AI for operational and strategic advantage while safeguarding against misuse and cyber threats.

The Army’s AI initiatives are wide-ranging, covering education, training, situational awareness, disaster prediction, security, and logistics. Systems like AI-based assessment tools for training, geospatial situational awareness platforms, air-gapped AI cloud solutions for secure data handling, climatology prediction tools, facial recognition systems, mobile telemetry reporting platforms, driver fatigue detection devices, portable edge AI platforms, AI-enabled fleet monitoring systems, and deepfake detection and cybersecurity tools demonstrate the Army’s commitment to leveraging AI across multiple operational areas.

Together, these efforts signify a decisive shift toward a networked, AI-empowered ecosystem that enhances defence preparedness, disaster resilience, and national development. By integrating AI deeply into its operations, the Indian Army is positioning itself as a forward-looking, technologically advanced force, capable of achieving high operational efficiency while fostering strong collaboration with India’s technology sector to develop solutions that are globally competitive.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

In a brazen breach of trust, a deputy manager at a nationalized bank's Girinagar branch here has been arrested for allegedly stealing 2,780 grams of pledged gold ornaments valued at over Rs 3.5 crore to fuel his online betting habit. The scam came to light on February 5 when the branch's chief manager filed a police complaint after customers reported issues redeeming their gold collateral. Investigations revealed that 34-year-old Kiran Kumar had secretly accessed customer lockers, removed the gold, and pawned it at private lenders including Manappuram and Muthoot Finance to fund his gambling losses.

Girinagar police acted swiftly, apprehending Kumar who confessed to the theft during interrogation. So far, they've recovered around 700 grams of the stolen gold, but face hurdles as some finance companies are reluctant to cooperate fully. "We're ready to approach the courts if needed," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), Lokesh B. Jagalasar. Kumar, described as deeply addicted to online betting platforms, had been siphoning gold over several months without raising alarms until routine checks exposed the discrepancies.

This incident echoes past frauds, such as a 2023 case at Punjab National Bank where employees misused gold loans for personal gain. With India's gold loan market exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore as per recent RBI figures, experts are calling for enhanced audits, biometric locker access, and regular customer verifications to prevent insider threats.

Customers are advised to monitor loan statements closely and redeem portions periodically. DCP Jagalasar emphasized, "Vigilance is key—don't assume your gold is safe just because it's in a bank." Police continue their probe, with more arrests possible among the pawnbrokers involved. The bank has launched an internal inquiry to plug security gaps.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.

The Centre has told Parliament that 8,630 complaints were filed against sitting judges over the last decade. In a written response to a Lok Sabha question raised by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP Matheswaran V S, Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal stated that the office of the Chief Justice of India received these complaints between 2016 and 2025.

According to data provided by the Supreme Court, the complaints involved judges from the High Courts and the Supreme Court and included allegations such as corruption, sexual misconduct, and other serious wrongdoing. The MP had requested details about the complaints and the actions taken in each instance. However, the ministry did not clarify whether any disciplinary or corrective measures were taken. It explained that complaints against members of the higher judiciary are handled through an in house procedure.

Under this process, the Chief Justice of India and the Chief Justices of the High Courts are responsible for receiving and examining complaints against judges. The reply also noted that grievances submitted through the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System or other channels are forwarded to the Chief Justice of India or the relevant High Court Chief Justice for review. The ministry did not mention any plans to establish formal guidelines for proper recording, monitoring, or oversight of such complaints against judges of the constitutional courts.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.

M. K. Stalin announced on Friday that his government has deposited ₹5,000 each into the bank accounts of 1.31 crore women beneficiaries under the Kalaignar Women’s Entitlement Scheme, drawing criticism from opposition parties, which claimed the move reflected fear of electoral defeat. The Chief Minister also promised that the monthly assistance of ₹1,000 would be increased to ₹2,000 if his party, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), returns to power in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Stalin said the ₹5,000 amount had been credited directly to beneficiaries’ accounts to prevent any disruption to the scheme, amid concerns that attempts were being made to halt it due to the elections. He clarified that the payment covers assistance for February, March, and April, along with an additional ₹2,000 to help women manage expenses during the summer months. In a video message shared on social media, Stalin urged women to use the funds wisely for essential needs such as children’s education, medical expenses, and household requirements. He expressed confidence that the DMK would secure victory in the elections.

Reflecting on his tenure since assuming office in 2021, Stalin said his government had faced major challenges, including the pandemic and financial difficulties inherited from the previous administration led by the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). Despite financial constraints and criticism, the government successfully launched the Kalaignar scheme in September 2023, initially benefiting 1.13 crore women and later expanding to 1.31 crore beneficiaries.

He described the scheme as recognition of women’s contributions to society, noting that it has helped families cover daily expenses, healthcare, and education costs. Stalin also alleged that certain groups were attempting to block the scheme ahead of the elections, prompting his decision to release advance payments.

Opposition leaders strongly criticized the move. AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami said the announcement showed panic over possible electoral loss and dismissed it as an election-time tactic. Actor-politician Vijay questioned the timing of the special summer grant, while Tamilisai Soundararajan also condemned the decision, calling it politically motivated. T. T. V. Dhinakaran said the ruling party would face defeat regardless of such measures. DMK ally the Indian National Congress welcomed the announcement, stating that it would provide meaningful financial relief to poor and middle-class families and serve as recognition of women’s hard work and contribution.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.

The Barries have returned, and Angus Taylor has emerged victorious in the Liberal leadership contest, defeating Sussan Ley. Speaking on Friday afternoon, the newly elected leader stressed that he had no intention of becoming “One Nation lite,” but vowed to “close the door” to those who do not share “Australian values.” However, the leadership spill was not the only major development in Australian politics this week. Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry also examine the challenges facing Taylor, the growing momentum of One Nation, and the recent visit by Israeli president Isaac Herzog.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

In Destination Anywhere, Melanie Oliveiro speaks with dentist and author Vrushali Junnarkar, who shares her experiences of discovering the many attractions and natural retreats in Khandala, a charming hill station located in Maharashtra in central-western India. Frequently referenced in her novel The Campbell Gardens Ladies' Swimming Class, Khandala holds special significance for Junnarkar as she describes visits to the town’s historic fort, waterfalls, and caves. She also discusses traditional Maharashtrian street food and regional dishes that are rarely found in Singapore.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Karate standout Marissa Hafezan clinched Singapore's first gold in the sport at the SEA Games in 32 years. She defeated Vietnam's Nguyen Thi Dieu Ly 5-3 in the women's kumite under-55kg final to secure the historic victory. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman sit down with Marissa to learn more about her remarkable achievement. They also get an update on Team Singapore’s overall performance at the midpoint of the Games, featuring insights from Marissa Hafezan, SEA Games gold medallist and Singapore karate exponent, and Phil Goh, independent sports journalist.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Australia is introducing a first-of-its-kind law that blocks minors from using social media without a parent’s approval. Andrea Heng and Susan Ng discuss the debate with Professor Tama Leaver from Curtin University’s Internet Studies program: is this a vital measure to safeguard young people’s mental health, or an impractical policy that limits digital freedom?

Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.