Billionaire industrialist Sanjiv Goenka's companies, part of the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, have invested Rs 664 crore in political funding since May 2019. Data shows Rs 564 crore spent through electoral bonds and Rs 100 crore via an electoral trust. The majority of funds went to the BJP. Investigations by the Enforcement Directorate and the CBI have been underway. Notably, a significant portion was spent during the high-stakes 2021 West Bengal elections. Goenka, known for diverse business interests, has a growing presence in renewable energy and sports ventures.

The Defence Ministry has finalized a ₹2,890 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the midlife upgrade (MLU) of the Indian Navy's 25 Dornier aircraft. This upgrade aims to enhance the aircraft's operational capabilities, including maritime surveillance and electronic intelligence. The project will involve modernizing avionics and sensors, contributing to increased maritime domain awareness. Additionally, the initiative is expected to generate significant employment opportunities over six and a half years. This development aligns with recent contracts for enhancing India's defence capabilities, including BrahMos missiles and MiG-29 aircraft engines.      

The Indian Army has established its inaugural Apache attack helicopter squadron in Jodhpur, strengthening its defense along the Pakistan border. Led by Lt Gen Ajay Suri, the squadron awaits the arrival of its first batch of desert-colored choppers by May, despite slight delays due to global security concerns. Procured from the US, these advanced helicopters signify India's commitment to enhancing military capabilities. Affectionately dubbed "tanks in the air," they will initially land at Hindon Air Force Station before deployment to Jodhpur. This strategic move underscores India's resolve to bolster its defense infrastructure in the face of regional challenges.

India solidifies defense ties with the US as the Biden administration sends the final Letter of Acceptance (LOA) for India's acquisition of 31 MQ9B Predator drones from General Atomics. Valued at nearly $4 billion, the classified LOA was dispatched this week, following India's initial letter of intent. The deal, facilitated through government channels, underscores deepening collaboration between the two nations. With the Indian Navy taking the lead, the acquisition will be scrutinized and forwarded to the Cabinet Committee on Security for approval. Analysts highlight the strategic significance, foreseeing the drones as a potent countermeasure in the Indo-Pacific region.

China, Russia, and Iran showcased military prowess with live-fire exercises in the Gulf of Oman, involving over 20 ships. Aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation, China contributed a guided-missile destroyer and frigate, Russia sent the cruiser Varyag, and Iran deployed frigates and fast-attack boats. The drills, now in their sixth year, coincide with heightened regional tensions, including the Israel-Hamas conflict. Iranian media highlighted the exercise's significance amid the volatile climate. Scheduled until Friday, the joint maneuver underscores the trio's commitment to regional peace and stability.

The Indian Navy is set to open its submarine doors to women, but challenges like crew management, privacy, and health concerns must be navigated. With plans for women to serve across ranks and departments, including in submarines, the Navy aims to bolster 'nari shakti'. However, issues like bunking, personal ablutions, and cultural adjustments in the confined space of submarines need addressing. Learning from other navies' experiences and careful planning could help overcome these challenges and ensure operational effectiveness during the transition period.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, joined by over 30 foreign delegates, observed the tri-service exercise 'Bharat Shakti' at Pokhran in Rajasthan. Describing it as the call of a 'new India,' Modi highlighted the roar of aircraft mid-air and ground valor displayed during the exercise. Emphasizing Pokhran's significance in India's self-reliance, belief, and self-pride, Modi witnessed the calibrated tactical use of niche technology by the armed forces. The exercise showcased indigenous weapon systems and platforms, demonstrating India's Aatmanirbharata initiative's prowess in land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains, including T-90 tanks, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

India achieves a breakthrough as the Agni-5 Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) missile, developed by DRDO over a decade, successfully completes its inaugural flight. Dr. V K Saraswat, former DRDO Director General, hails it as a game-changer, enhancing India's second-strike capability. The MIRV technology allows a single missile to deploy multiple warheads, increasing its "radius of influence" and acting as a "force multiplier." PM Narendra Modi expresses pride in DRDO's achievement, emphasizing the strategic importance of the indigenously developed Agni-5. The success is lauded as a significant step in bolstering India's geopolitical standing and military capabilities.          

The Indian Navy's advanced stealth frigate, Tushil, has commenced crucial sea trials in Russia despite delays linked to the Ukraine conflict. Tushil, constructed by Russia for India, began its sea trials on March 5, marking a milestone. These trials will rigorously test the vessel's performance and systems. Delays in delivery were caused by the war in Ukraine and supply chain challenges. Tushil is part of a contract for four frigates, with two being constructed in India. The frigate incorporates advanced stealth technology and a range of weaponry for enhanced naval capabilities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised DRDO scientists for the successful first flight test of the Agni-5 missile, named Mission Divyastra. Featuring Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, the missile enhances India's nuclear deterrence with a range of 5,500 to 5,800 kilometers. This development is crucial for bolstering defense against potential threats from the east. India's focus on strengthening the nuclear triad, enabling missile launches from land, air, and sea, shows its commitment to national security.