The decades-old Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan has entered a fresh legal and diplomatic dispute after an international arbitration tribunal ruled that the agreement remains in force, despite India's decision to place it in abeyance. The ruling, issued by the Court of Arbitration at The Hague on August 31, has been rejected by India, which has questioned the tribunal's jurisdiction and maintained that the proceedings have no legal standing from New Delhi's perspective. Pakistan, meanwhile, has welcomed the decision and argued that the treaty continues to govern water-sharing arrangements between the two countries.
The latest disagreement centres on the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has raised objections over aspects of the projects, arguing that their design and operation could affect flows into Pakistan. India has maintained that the projects are permitted under the treaty and has defended its right to develop hydropower on the western rivers within the agreement's provisions.
Signed in 1960 with the involvement of the World Bank, the Indus Waters Treaty divided the six major rivers of the Indus basin between the two countries. India received the primary rights over the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas and Sutlej — while Pakistan received the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. India was nevertheless allowed certain uses of the western rivers, including hydroelectric generation, subject to technical conditions.
The agreement remained in operation despite wars and repeated diplomatic crises between India and Pakistan. Disputes over hydroelectric projects, however, have repeatedly tested the treaty's interpretation. The current legal battle became particularly complicated because India and Pakistan have pursued different mechanisms for resolving their disagreements. Pakistan supported arbitration through a Court of Arbitration, while India has backed the use of a Neutral Expert process. The existence of parallel proceedings has been a major source of disagreement between the two sides.
The situation changed dramatically in 2025 after India announced that it was placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the Pahalgam terror attack. New Delhi linked the decision to its wider security concerns and called for action against cross-border terrorism. Pakistan rejected India's position and continued to maintain that the treaty remained legally binding.
The recent Hague ruling has therefore failed to resolve the central disagreement. Instead, it has highlighted a deeper question over whether an international tribunal can make decisions concerning the treaty when one of the parties does not recognize its jurisdiction. India has said it does not accept the tribunal's authority, while Pakistan continues to rely on the treaty and international dispute-resolution mechanisms. This leaves the two countries with sharply conflicting positions on both the substance of the water dispute and the legal process being used to address it.
The dispute carries significant importance for both sides. Pakistan depends heavily on the Indus river system for agriculture, drinking water and its wider economy. India, meanwhile, has strategic and economic interests in expanding hydropower generation in Jammu and Kashmir and has increasingly emphasized the need for greater control over its water resources.
The continuing disagreement also comes at a time when India-Pakistan relations remain deeply strained. As a result, what began as a technical dispute over the design of hydroelectric projects has evolved into a broader confrontation involving water security, national sovereignty, international law and bilateral relations. The future of the Indus Waters Treaty now remains uncertain. Unless the two countries find a mutually acceptable way to address their differences, the legal dispute surrounding the treaty could continue to complicate one of the most important and sensitive aspects of India-Pakistan relations.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
India has cleared defence procurement proposals worth approximately ₹1.1 lakh crore, giving a major push to military modernisation while placing a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a wide range of equipment and systems for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. One of the most significant aspects of the latest approvals is that around 98 per cent of the procurement is expected to be sourced from Indian industry, according to the Defence Ministry.
The decision comes as the government continues to strengthen its focus on self-reliance in defence production and reduce dependence on imported military equipment. The latest approvals cover systems required for surveillance, mobility, electronic warfare, battlefield engineering and specialised military operations. For the Indian Army, the approved acquisitions include Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear reconnaissance vehicles, High Mobility Vehicles, Self-Propelled Mechanical Mine Layers, Advanced Light Helicopters, Trawl Tanks and the Sarvatra Bridge System. These systems are expected to strengthen the Army's ability to operate in difficult terrain while improving troop mobility, battlefield engineering and preparedness against specialised threats.
The CBRN reconnaissance vehicles will provide troops with the ability to detect and identify hazardous contamination and mark affected areas. Mobility and bridging equipment will help military formations negotiate challenging terrain and improve operational movement. The Indian Navy is also set to receive new capabilities under the package. The DAC has approved the procurement of Arudhra radars for naval air stations, which will strengthen surveillance and airspace monitoring around naval facilities. The council has also cleared proposals relating to the design, development and procurement of Marine Gas Turbines for naval applications.
The development of marine propulsion technology within India is particularly important for the Navy because propulsion systems are among the most critical components of modern warships. Greater domestic capability in this area could help reduce dependence on foreign technology and suppliers over the longer term.
The Indian Air Force will receive equipment aimed at enhancing its operational capabilities, including a Ground-Based Multi-Purpose Jammer. The electronic warfare system is intended to improve India's ability to counter hostile radar and electromagnetic threats. The latest procurement decisions also include measures aimed at improving secure access and identification systems within the armed forces. An interoperable radio-frequency identification-based smart-card system has been approved to replace existing paper-based identity cards, passes and permits.
The government's decision to source almost the entire procurement package from Indian industry is expected to provide a substantial boost to the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem. Domestic companies, including major defence manufacturers and smaller suppliers, could benefit from increased demand for military electronics, radars, vehicles, helicopters, propulsion systems and other specialised equipment.
The approvals are also aligned with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, under which India has been seeking to build domestic capabilities across the defence supply chain. In recent years, the government has increasingly used domestic procurement to encourage Indian companies to invest in manufacturing, research and development and advanced defence technologies.
The ₹1.1 lakh crore figure should not be interpreted as contracts already awarded. The Acceptance of Necessity is an important initial step in the defence acquisition process and allows individual procurement proposals to move ahead. Further stages, including technical evaluation, commercial negotiations and contract signing, will determine when the equipment is actually ordered and delivered.
The latest DAC approvals nevertheless underline the government's intention to link military modernisation with the expansion of India's domestic defence industry. As the armed forces seek newer technologies and greater operational capabilities, the growing role of Indian manufacturers could help create a stronger defence production base while supporting the country's long-term goal of reducing import dependence. With nearly 98 per cent of the newly approved procurement expected to come from Indian industry, the latest decision marks another significant step towards building a more self-reliant defence sector while equipping India's armed forces with modern military capabilities.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday said Delhi Police have arrested all eight people allegedly involved in the assault that led to the death of 54-year-old Manipuri musician and music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh in South Delhi. He said the investigation is being pursued quickly and that a strong chargesheet will be filed to ensure those found responsible face strict punishment.
Calling the incident deeply distressing, Rijiju said he had spoken with senior Delhi Police officials, including the IGP of the South Delhi range, the DCP and the Joint Commissioner of the Special Police Cell dealing with matters concerning the Northeast community. He said the police have also met Singh’s family and assured them of action in the case.
According to the minister, all eight individuals allegedly connected to the incident have been arrested. He said police have collected information about their backgrounds and found that the accused worked at local dhabas and as delivery workers. The dispute, he said, reportedly began late at night over loud music and noise before escalating into a physical confrontation.
Singh, who was from Manipur, was reportedly at his home in Kilokari village in the Ashram area when he objected to shouting and disturbances allegedly involving delivery workers and dhaba employees outside his residence. Police said the situation escalated after Singh came downstairs to raise his objection, following which he was allegedly assaulted with punches and blows. After the attack, Singh’s son Yaiphaba took him to Holy Family Hospital for medical treatment. Despite efforts to treat him, the musician later died from the injuries he had sustained in the alleged assault.
Rijiju said Delhi Police have assured him that the chargesheet would be submitted to the court shortly. While he referred to a timeline of around two weeks at one point, he also said police had indicated that the legal paperwork could be completed within a shorter period in an effort to speed up the judicial process. He stressed that the chargesheet must be comprehensive and supported by strong evidence.
“The chargesheet has to be watertight,” Rijiju said, adding that the punishment should be severe if the accused are found guilty. He said the death had resulted from an altercation that took place late at night and that the police acted quickly after Singh’s son contacted the police control room. Although some of the suspects had reportedly left the area, police were able to trace and arrest them.
The Union minister also responded to criticism from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, urging political leaders not to turn the incident into a political controversy. Rijiju said the immediate priority should be justice for Singh and appropriate legal action against those responsible. He also emphasised that people from the Northeast are Indian citizens and should receive the same protection and support as anyone else living in the capital.
Rijiju further pointed to the role of the North-East Special Police Cell within the Delhi Police, saying the mechanism has been established to respond quickly to incidents involving people from the region. He said the authorities remain in contact with the Northeast community and that the system is intended to ensure prompt intervention when complaints are received.
Singh’s death has sparked concern within the Manipuri and wider Northeast community in Delhi. As the investigation progresses, the focus will now be on the evidence collected by police, the individual roles of those arrested and the charges included in the final chargesheet. The courts will ultimately determine the guilt of the accused based on the evidence presented during the legal proceedings. Arrangements are being made to take Singh’s mortal remains to Manipur. His death has left his family, friends and members of the music community mourning, while authorities face pressure to ensure that the investigation is completed swiftly and that the case proceeds through the judicial system without delay.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh received a warm reception from members of the Indian diaspora after arriving at his hotel in Colombo on Tuesday, marking the beginning of his three-day official visit to Sri Lanka. Singh arrived in the Sri Lankan capital with a high-level delegation for discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in the areas of defence and maritime security.
During his stay, the Defence Minister is expected to meet senior Sri Lankan leaders and officials to discuss a range of shared interests. Strengthening the two countries' longstanding defence relationship and expanding cooperation in the maritime domain are expected to feature prominently in the talks. Ahead of his departure, India's Ministry of Defence said Singh would engage with the Sri Lankan leadership on several issues of mutual interest and work towards further deepening the traditionally close relationship between the two countries. He is also scheduled to interact with members of the Indian community in Colombo.
Singh said he was looking forward to a productive engagement with the Sri Lankan leadership. He described Sri Lanka as an important partner for India under the Neighbourhood First policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, while also highlighting the longstanding historical and civilisational links between the two nations. India and Sri Lanka maintain broad-based relations spanning defence, maritime security, trade, economic cooperation and people-to-people ties. The partnership has gained additional momentum in recent years, including through India's support for Sri Lanka during its economic difficulties and its assistance following Cyclone Ditwah in 2025.
New Delhi had earlier announced a USD 450 million financial assistance package to support Sri Lanka's post-cyclone reconstruction efforts. The programme covers areas including transport infrastructure, housing, education, healthcare, agriculture and disaster-management capabilities. The latest visit also comes amid increased defence-to-defence engagement between the two countries. Earlier in August, Sri Lankan Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Damian Fernando visited India and held discussions with Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani.
During their meeting, the two sides reviewed existing defence cooperation and examined opportunities to expand joint military training and capacity-building initiatives. Regional security developments and ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership were also discussed. Fernando also met Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan during his India visit. The discussions focused on implementing commitments under the bilateral defence cooperation framework and enhancing maritime security cooperation.
The Indian Navy said both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and discussed cooperation in line with India's MAHASAGAR approach. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha said the relationship between New Delhi and Colombo has acquired greater momentum over the past two to three years. He pointed to the regular exchange of high-level visits as evidence of the expanding political engagement between the two countries.
Jha also stressed that defence and security remain important components of the bilateral partnership. He said Singh's visit would provide an opportunity to review ongoing defence initiatives, assess progress and explore ways to advance cooperation further. The High Commissioner further noted that Singh's visit should be viewed within the broader context of sustained political-level engagement between India and Sri Lanka, rather than as an isolated defence-related visit. With maritime security becoming increasingly important across the Indian Ocean, Singh's three-day visit is expected to provide another opportunity for India and Sri Lanka to reinforce their strategic partnership and expand cooperation in areas of shared interest.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to announce a major increase in EU investment in Greenland during her two-day visit to the Arctic territory. The proposed package will focus on critical minerals, satellite communications and renewable energy, as Europe seeks stronger economic and political ties with Greenland. Von der Leyen’s visit comes amid US President Donald Trump’s continued push for American control of Greenland, a move firmly opposed by Greenland and Denmark. The EU’s expanded engagement also reflects Greenland’s growing strategic importance as climate change opens new Arctic shipping routes and increases access to valuable natural resources.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Recent discussions between U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have failed to produce a major breakthrough. Daniel Martin speaks with Dr. Rohan Gunaratna, Professor of Security Studies at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, NTU, for further analysis of the developments.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Reform UK has suspended two senior party figures following an undercover investigation that allegedly showed them discussing ways to circumvent electoral rules governing overseas donations. The investigation, conducted by Channel 4 News in collaboration with investigative group Verbatim, was released just before Nigel Farage was due to deliver his speech at the party’s conference in Birmingham. The party has launched an internal investigation into James Orr, its head of policy, and Dan Jukes, a senior adviser to Farage, over their alleged conduct in the footage. Lucy Hough is joined by senior political correspondent Peter Walker to discuss the allegations, the party’s response and what the controversy could mean for Reform UK and Farage.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
As artificial intelligence transforms the job market and changes the skills employers are looking for, workers are increasingly faced with a key question: which skills are truly worth investing in? Cheryl Goh speaks with Chandler Morse, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Workday, about whether businesses are prioritising specialists or generalists, how employees can distinguish genuine workplace demand from AI hype, and the steps they can take to stay relevant as the job market evolves.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
As floods continue to affect communities across Nepal and Tibet, the Red Cross is assessing the urgent humanitarian needs, efforts to locate missing people and the difficulties involved in delivering assistance to hard-hit areas. Elakeyaa Selvaraji and Hairianto Diman also examine how the Singapore Red Cross’s S$50,000 humanitarian contribution will aid relief operations, the circumstances that could lead to a deployment in Nepal and how members of the public in Singapore can support the response. They discuss these issues with Benjamin William, Secretary General and CEO of the Singapore Red Cross.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
