1. India and China make ‘progress’ on pending LAC issues in eastern Ladakh
2. President Murmu visits Siachen Base Camp in Ladakh, interacts with Army troops
3. PM Modi launches 3 Param Rudra supercomputers to enhance weather, climate computing
4. L69, G4 countries seek urgent reform of UNSC
5. BRICS countries recognize group’s importance for multipolarity: Jaishankar

What Else

1. Indian Embassy in Beijing asks Indian Nationals to Register with Mission
2. NIA Arrests Key ULFA (I) Suspect in Planting IEDs at Multiple Places Across Assam on Aug 15
3. NIA Conducting Searches in J&K’s Reasi and Rajouri on Shiv Khori Terror Attack Case
4. Bangladesh: ‘Ice has started to melt’
5. Bangladesh army chief strongly backs interim govt, eyes elections within 18 months
6. Bangladesh: Yunus holds Key bilateral talks with many leaders US, EC, Dutch PM at UNGA
7. China wants to make solar panels in Bangladesh
8. In A 1st, China Operates all 3 Aircraft Carriers at Once, Near Japan, Taiwan
9. China’s Nuclear Submarine Sinks Near Wuhan Shipyard, Raising Concerns About Its Naval Capabilities
10. Nepal Prime Minister Oli holds talks with Bangladesh’s chief adviser in New York

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India and China make ‘progress’ on pending LAC issues in eastern Ladakh

• India and China have made “significant progress” in resolving their border disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
• The two nations are exploring a solution that considers their pre-April 2020 positions and addresses issues in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Key Developments:
• Troop Redeployment: Indian troops may regain access to previously blocked patrolling points along the LAC.
• Diplomatic Talks: The 31^st Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs talks were held in Beijing, with Indian military representatives in attendance.
• Military Talks: The 22^nd round of Corps Commanders’ level talks will soon take place to discuss troop deployment and timelines.
• Confidence-Building Measures: Local commanders meet to avoid clashes, and winter stocking for additional troops continues.
• Border Infrastructure: Development will proceed as planned to prepare for potential contingencies.
• Remaining Issues:
• Legacy Issues: Depsang Plains and Demchok remain unresolved, with Indian troops blocked from accessing certain patrol points.
• Militarization: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that 75% of disengagement problems have been resolved, but border militarization remains a concern.
• Overall, progress has been made, but some issues persist, requiring continued diplomatic and military efforts to resolve. (more)
• China’s Defence Ministry issued a statement stating that China ‘agrees’ to maintain dialogue to reach a resolution that is acceptable to both sides at an early date.

President Murmu visits Siachen Base Camp in Ladakh, interacts with Army troops

• President Droupadi Murmu made a historic visit to the Siachen Base Camp in Ladakh on Thu, interacting with Indian Army troops stationed there.
• This marked her 1^st visit to Siachen and 2^nd to Ladakh after her previous trip was canceled due to bad weather in Oct 2023.
• As the supreme commander of the armed forces, President Murmu expressed her pride in the troops’ bravery, acknowledging that all citizens salute their selflessness.
• The Siachen Glacier, situated in the Karakoram Range, holds the distinction of being the world’s highest military-occupied region, secured by the Indian Army since April 1984 under Operation Meghdoot.
• Acknowledging Bravery: President Murmu praised the troops’ selflessness and bravery.
• Historic Significance: Siachen Glacier is the world’s highest military-occupied region, secured by India since 1984. (more)

PM Modi launches 3 Param Rudra supercomputers to enhance weather, climate computing

• Param Rudra is India’s latest indigenous supercomputer, inaugurated by PM Modi, marking a significant milestone in India’s technological advancement and self-reliance.
• Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) at Rs 130 crores, Param Rudra is designed to tackle complex computational challenges.
• Param Rudra is named after the fierce avatar of Lord Shiva, with key features:
• Processing Power: Accelerates research and development in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics.
• Deployment: 3 supercomputers were deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata to support cutting-edge scientific research.
• Applications: Supports studies in physics, cosmology, earth sciences, material science, and atomic physics.
• Impact: Enhances India’s meteorological forecasting capabilities, benefiting agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.
• Contributes to solving real-world problems in healthcare, renewable energy, and climate change mitigation.
• Bolsters India’s position in the global supercomputing arena, aligning with the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision. (more)

L69, G4 countries seek urgent reform of UNSC

• The G4 countries (India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan) are pushing for urgent UN Security Council (UNSC) reform as the UN turns 80 next year. They demand:
• More permanent and non-permanent seats for developing countries
• Better representation for Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America
• Urgent text-based negotiations
• Greater Global South representation (more)
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized these reforms at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting, highlighting the need for:
• UN reform to maintain international peace and stability
• Robust international financial architecture
• Comprehensive WTO reforms (more)
• Among P5 members, USA, UK, France, and Russia have already supported India’s bid.
• S Jaishankar Meets Russian FM After PM’s Meeting With Zelensky In New York Jaishankar had a ‘productive week’ at the 79^th UNGA in New York, meeting with several counterparts from around the world.
• Which includes counterparts of  Russia, Sergey Lavrov;  New Zealand, Winston Peters; Greece, Giorgos Gerapetritis; UK, David Lammy, along with delegates from Kazakhstan, Morocco, and Switzerland, among others
• Belgium: Jaishankar’s meeting with PM Alexander De Croo focused on manufacturing and technology cooperation, as well as the situation in Ukraine. (more)

BRICS countries recognize group’s importance for multipolarity: Jaishankar

• EAM S. Jaishankar recently met with his BRICS counterparts on the sidelines of the 79^th UNGA to reaffirm the group’s significance in a multipolar world.
• BRICS, which originally consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE since the start of this year.
• Reforming Multilateralism: The group emphasized the need to reform multilateral institutions to strengthen development.
• Sustainable Development Goals: Discussions centered around achieving SDG targets, addressing debt, promoting fair trade, and alleviating poverty.
• Global Diversity and Multipolarity: Jaishankar highlighted BRICS’ significance in promoting global diversity and multipolarity.
• Jaishankar noted that each grouping, including Quad, BRICS, and SCO, represents a different facet of India’s interests and activities.
• BRICS, in particular, was formed to give non-Western countries a fair hearing in global affairs. (more)

Indian Embassy in Beijing asks Indian Nationals to Register with Mission

• The Indian Embassy in Beijing has announced that all Indian nationals living in China need to register with them for smoother consular services.
• This registration is mandatory for services like passport renewal, document attestation, police clearance certificates, and birth or marriage registration.
• Registration Process: Register on the website: (https://www.eoibeijing.gov.in/indian_national_registration)
• Alternatively, scan the QR code available on the website
• Upon registration, you’ll receive a downloadable PDF document containing your name, passport number, and registration number
• Important: Keep the registration document safe, as you’ll need to attach it with all future applications for consular services. Failure to do so may delay service delivery.
• For any queries or concerns, you can reach out through their contact information: (Ph) +86-10-8531 2500/2501/2502/2503  or cons.beijing@mea.gov.in (more)

NIA Arrests Key ULFA (I) Suspect in Planting IEDs at Multiple Places Across Assam on August 15

• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Girish Barua, alias Gautam Baruah, a key accused in the ULFA-I (United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent) case, for planting IEDs in Assam. Key Details:
• Arrested in Bengaluru, where he was hiding.
• Case registered in September regarding IED placements across Assam.
• ULFA-I’s armed protest against India’s Independence Day celebrations.
• Barua is part of a group that placed IEDs in North Lakhimpur district.
• NIA court granted transit remand; produced before Guwahati court.
• Investigations ongoing. (more)

NIA Conducting Searches in J&K’s Reasi and Rajouri on Shiv Khori Terror Attack Case

• The National Investigation Agency is conducting searches in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Reasi districts in connection with the Shiv Khori Terror Attack Case.
• This case involves a deadly attack on June 9 that claimed nine lives and injured over 40 pilgrims returning from the Shiv Khori temple.
• The attack was carried out by Lashkar terrorists during PM Modi’s third swearing-in ceremony.
• Following the incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs handed over the case to the NIA on June 17.
• So far, one person, Hakam Khan of Rajouri, has been arrested for allegedly providing logistical support to the terrorists. Multiple NIA teams have been searching locations in Rajouri and Reasi since morning, but details are still pending.
• Previously, on June 30, the NIA conducted searches at five locations linked to hybrid terrorists and their overground workers in Rajouri. (more)

[Neighborhood]

Bangladesh: ‘Ice has started to melt’

• The Bangladesh Nationalist Party believes that relations with India are thawing after the student-led uprising that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
• BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir described the improvement as “the ice has started to melt” following a meeting with Indian HC Pranay Verma.
• The BNP has historically been critical of some initiatives and agreements made with India during Hasina’s 15-year tenure.
• However, Alamgir assured India that if they came to power, they won’t allow separatist organizations to operate in Bangladesh.
• Key discussion points between Alamgir and Verma included:
• Water-sharing issues: Long-standing disputes over water resources.
• Border killings: Concerns over violence along the India-Bangladesh border.
• Trade imbalance: Addressing economic disparities between the two nations.
• Security concerns: India’s primary issue, with assurances from BNP to prevent separatist activities.
• The BNP also emphasized people-to-people relationships, understanding the pulse of Bangladesh’s people, and not relying solely on one party.
• Additionally, they’ve alerted units to ensure Hindu community safety ahead of Durga Puja celebrations from Oct 9-13.

Bangladesh army chief strongly backs interim govt, eyes elections within 18 months

• Bangladesh’s army chief, Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, has pledged to support the country’s interim govt, led by Yunus, to ensure free and fair elections within 18 months.
• Zaman assured Yunus of his full support, stating, “I will stand beside him. Come what may. So that he can accomplish his mission.”
• The army chief also emphasized the need for patience, suggesting a transition to democracy between a year and a year-and-a-half. Key Reforms:
• Judiciary Reform: Overhauling the judicial system to ensure impartiality.
• Police Reform: Restructuring the police force to prevent human rights abuses.
• Financial Institution Reform: Strengthening financial institutions to promote economic stability.
• The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Awami League have called for elections within three months, but Zaman’s timeline prioritizes stability and reform.
• With over 1,000 deaths in recent clashes, calm has returned to Dhaka, but some civil services remain dysfunctional. Zaman also addressed military reforms, promising to:
• Investigate Allegations: Probe wrongdoing by military personnel.
• Prevent Political Intervention: Keep the army apolitical.
• Distance from Politics: Potentially amend the constitution to reduce military involvement in politics.
• A 5-member commission will investigate reports of forced disappearances since 2009.
• Zaman’s commitment to reform and support for the interim govt aims to restore democracy and stability in Bangladesh. (more)

Bangladesh: Yunus holds Key bilateral talks with many leaders US, EC, Dutch PM at UNGA

• Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus had a productive day at the UNGA in New York, attending multiple high-level meetings.
• He met with European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen and Dutch PM Dick Schoof in separate bilateral talks, as well as International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim AA Khan KC. Key Meetings and Discussions:
• US Support: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured Bangladesh of US support for free and fair elections, economic stability, and reforms to attract foreign investment.
• Reform Agenda: Yunus and Blinken discussed building strong institutions to combat corruption, uphold media freedom, and protect human rights, including Rohingya refugees and minority communities.
• UN Support: UN Secy-General António Guterres reiterated support for Bangladesh’s transition and reform process, appreciating close UN-Bangladesh cooperation.
• Global Engagement: US President Joe Biden offered full US support to Bangladesh’s interim government, marking a new beginning in their relationship.
• These meetings highlight Bangladesh’s active participation in global diplomacy and its commitment to reform and rebuilding. (more, more)

China wants to make solar panels in Bangladesh

• China, the world’s largest solar power producer, is looking to invest in solar panel production in Bangladesh. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed this interest to Prof. Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s interim government chief adviser, during their meeting at the UN General Assembly in New York.
• China leads the world in renewable energy, with over 609,921 megawatts of installed solar power, while Bangladesh has only 603MW ¹. Bangladesh aims to generate 30% of its power from clean energy by 2030 and 40% by 2040.
• Key Takeaways from the Meeting:
• Increased Trade Ties: China will encourage cooperation between businesses to deepen trade and economic ties with Bangladesh.
• Zero-Tariff Access: Bangladesh will benefit from China’s decision to provide zero-tariff access to all goods from least-developed countries.
• Investment Opportunities: Chinese companies can invest in Bangladesh, leveraging its preferable market access to developed nations.
• This development marks a significant step in China-Bangladesh relations, with potential for growth in renewable energy, trade, and economic cooperation. (more)

In A 1^st, China Operates all 3 Aircraft Carriers at Once, Near Japan, Taiwan

• China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy has made history by operating 3 aircraft carriers – Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian – for exercises and tests concurrently for the 1^st time.
• This display comes just before the 12^th anniversary of Liaoning’s commissioning.
• China’s Aircraft Carriers:
• Liaoning (Type 001): A Soviet-era aircraft carrier commissioned in 2012, spotted near Taiwan and Japan.
• Shandong (Type 002): China’s first domestically built carrier, recently hosted night-time operation tests in the South China Sea.
• Fujian (Type 003): China’s largest and most advanced carrier, weighing 79,000 tons, with the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).
• Fujian is undergoing sea trials and will be the first conventional-energy-powered platform with EMALS. China is also building a fourth aircraft carrier, expected to be nuclear-powered, similar to Fujian.
• The state-sponsored media reports that the aircraft carrier program is accelerating, enhancing combat capabilities, and potentially changing maritime power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific (more)

China’s Nuclear Submarine Sinks Near Wuhan Shipyard, Raising Concerns About Its Naval Capabilities

• China’s naval ambitions have hit a roadblock after its newest nuclear-powered attack submarine, the Zhou-class, sank at a shipyard near Wuhan in late May or early Jun.
• This incident is a significant setback for China’s naval modernization efforts, particularly since the Zhou-class (a new generation of stealthy and efficient nuclear) submarines designed to enhance China’s undersea warfare capabilities.
• The submarine’s sinking while moored at the Wuchang shipyard raises concerns about construction quality and military operational protocols.
• Satellite images revealed unusual activity, including floating cranes, suggesting something went wrong.
• Salvage operations were underway by July, but the exact cause of the sinking remains unclear, along with potential casualties or whether the submarine carried nuclear fuel.
• Retired Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery considers losing the first vessel in a new class a “real setback” for China’s naval expansion.
• Delays in repairing this submarine could hinder future production, reflecting broader issues in China’s military development as it strives to catch up with US capabilities.
• Experts believe this incident may indicate China’s rapid naval modernization lacks adequate oversight and quality control.
• This setback could slow China’s progress toward achieving maritime parity with the US, particularly given the Pentagon’s focus on China’s shipbuilding industry as crucial to its military ambitions. (more)

Nepal Prime Minister Oli holds talks with Bangladesh chief adviser in New York

• PM KP Sharma Oli met with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the 79th UNGA in New York.
• They discussed enhancing Nepal-Bangladesh relations, focusing on:
• Energy Cooperation: Exporting 40MW of Nepal’s hydroelectricity to Bangladesh via India.
• Transit Cooperation: Allowing Nepalese goods access to Bangladesh through a transit route in India.
• Tourism: Boosting tourism between the two countries.
• Cultural Exchanges: Promoting cultural understanding and educational ties.
• Regional Cooperation: Collaboration in regional and multilateral forums.
• PM Oli also met with Alice Albright, CEO of Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), to discuss bilateral interests and MCC projects in Nepal.
• Additionally, he addressed climate change, calling for collective action to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C and delivering climate justice to vulnerable countries.

During his UNGA visit, PM Oli also attended a reception hosted by US President Joe Biden and visited the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. (more)