The HAL TEJAS, India’s domestically developed light combat fighter, has experienced a long and difficult journey since its conception in the early 1980s. The program is often criticised and described as being “grounded for 33 years,” reflecting the extended timeline between its approval and operational readiness.
This perception originates from the project’s formal approval in 1983, when it was intended to replace the ageing MiG-21 fleet. Even by 2026, however, the aircraft has yet to achieve complete operational maturity. Although TEJAS completed its first flight in 2001 and received initial operational clearance in 2015, ongoing issues involving production delays, engine dependency, and avionics integration have contributed to the impression of slow progress.
The program was initiated by the Aeronautical Development Agency, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited serving as the manufacturing partner. The objective was to create a lightweight, multi-role fighter featuring a delta-wing design. However, international sanctions imposed after India’s 1998 nuclear tests significantly disrupted foreign technological cooperation, forcing engineers to develop critical systems domestically, including flight control software and radar.
Initially budgeted at ₹560 crore, the project’s cost rose dramatically to over ₹13,000 crore by 2015. This escalation was largely driven by dependence on imported components, including the GE F404 engine, which powers the aircraft. Engine limitations have been among the most significant challenges. Without an indigenous engine, TEJAS continues to rely on imported F404-IN20 engines, while the more powerful F414 engine, planned for future MK-2 variants, remains years away from full domestic production. Supply delays from foreign manufacturers have further slowed aircraft production, affecting the Indian Air Force’s ability to address squadron shortages.
Weight increases during development also created major engineering challenges. Early prototypes exceeded design weight targets, requiring structural modifications. Landing gear problems emerged as another concern, particularly in late 2024, when landing gear failures led to the temporary grounding of TEJAS aircraft, including operational, prototype, and naval versions. Engineers later redesigned the system, reducing weight and improving compatibility with upgraded MK-1A models.
Compared to other fighter programs worldwide, TEJAS experienced an unusually long development timeline. It took roughly 30 years from approval to initial operational service, while aircraft such as the F-16, Rafale, Gripen, and Su-27 reached operational status in significantly shorter periods. These delays were largely due to technological complexity, funding limitations, and external restrictions.
Public scrutiny intensified following a crash involving a TEJAS prototype during a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show in 2025. The incident raised questions regarding performance, reliability, and weapons integration, particularly when compared with other contemporary fighters such as Pakistan’s JF-17 and China’s J-10C. A 2015 report by India’s national auditor highlighted multiple performance shortcomings affecting combat effectiveness, including limited range and payload capacity compared with larger fighters such as Rafale and Su-30MKI. However, TEJAS offers advantages in agility, lower operating costs, and suitability for light combat roles.
Production rates have also remained slower than expected. The first operational squadron was established in 2016, but expansion has lagged behind projections. By 2026, fewer than 50 aircraft were in service, far below the number required to fully replace the MiG-21 fleet. Strategic considerations further complicate the program. With neighbouring countries rapidly modernising their air forces, TEJAS plays a key role in India’s push for defence self-reliance. However, export efforts have faced setbacks due to concerns over production speed and operational maturity.
Future upgrades aim to improve the aircraft’s capabilities. The MK-1A version includes advanced radar, improved avionics, and weight reductions. The MK-2 variant is expected to feature a more powerful engine and increased payload capacity, positioning it closer to medium-weight fighters. Nevertheless, development timelines continue to shift, with key milestones delayed beyond initial expectations. Despite setbacks, TEJAS represents a significant technological achievement. Its advanced fly-by-wire system, composite airframe, and multi-role flexibility demonstrate India’s growing aerospace capabilities. While technical challenges and delays have slowed progress, the program continues to evolve.
Ultimately, TEJAS cannot be considered a failure. It is operational and continues to improve, though it remains constrained by production limitations and engine dependence. Its long-term success will depend on resolving these issues and accelerating development, determining whether it can fully realise India’s ambitions for aerospace independence.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is gearing up for a high-profile trip to the US capital next week, set to join President Donald Trump's inaugural Board of Peace meeting focused on stabilizing Gaza and beyond. Meanwhile, India is taking a measured approach, carefully reviewing a similar invitation from Washington amid complex regional dynamics.
Sharif, who received a personal invite from Trump, will land in Washington on February 18 alongside Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for the February 19 gathering at the US Institute of Peace. Pakistan's Foreign Office hailed the opportunity as a platform to advocate for Palestinian rights under UN resolutions, marking a swift acceptance that underscores Islamabad's bid to strengthen ties with the Trump administration. This comes after Trump's earlier praise for Pakistan's role in regional de-escalations, including last year's fragile India-Pakistan ceasefire, which he often credits to his direct interventions via tariff pressures.
In contrast, New Delhi confirmed receipt of the US invitation but offered no firm commitment. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated the proposal is under review, reaffirming India's longstanding support for peace in West Asia without specifics on participation. Sources suggest Delhi's hesitation ties into broader US expectations, such as limits on Russian oil purchases, even as trade pacts advance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has voiced general backing for Gaza reconstruction but appears wary of sharing the stage with Pakistan so soon after past tensions.
Launched by Trump at Davos last month, the Board of Peace—chaired by the US President—aims to guide Gaza's post-ceasefire rebuild, demilitarization, and governance following a UN-backed stabilization force. With about 27 nations on board, including key Arab states like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the initiative sidesteps traditional UN channels in favor of Trump's deal-maker style. Western holdouts like the UK and Germany have declined, highlighting divides in global buy-in.
The summit spotlights Trump's leverage over South Asia, where he has positioned himself as a mediator in India-Pakistan flare-ups. For Sharif, attendance could yield diplomatic wins and economic perks; for India, joining might boost its Middle East clout but risks awkward optics—or strained US relations if it opts out. As energy deals and security talks loom, all eyes are on whether New Delhi shifts stance before the meeting.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
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.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi met representatives of farm unions from across the country at the Parliament House complex on Friday. During the discussion, they talked about the need for a nationwide movement to oppose the interim trade agreement between India and the United States, while also stressing the importance of protecting the livelihoods of farmers and agricultural workers.
According to the Indian National Congress, farm leaders strongly objected to the agreement and expressed serious concerns about its potential impact on producers of crops such as corn, soybean, cotton, fruits, and nuts. Gandhi warned that the deal could allow increased agricultural imports, which might eventually affect more crops and harm domestic farmers.
Both Gandhi and the farm representatives agreed on the urgency of organizing a large-scale national campaign to resist the agreement and defend farmers’ incomes and rural employment. Among those present were leaders from groups such as the All India Kisan Congress, Bharatiye Kisan Mazdoor Union, BKU Krantikari, Progressive Farmers Front, BKU Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, and J-K Zamidara Forum.
The meeting followed Gandhi’s recent statement that he would continue supporting farmers despite possible legal or parliamentary action against him in the Lok Sabha. He also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing the government of pursuing policies harmful to farmers and national food security. In a video shared on X, Gandhi pledged to oppose any agreement that threatens farmers’ livelihoods or weakens the country’s agricultural stability.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.
Piyush Goyal accused Rahul Gandhi of misleading farmers about the India–US trade deal, saying their interests are fully protected. He added that key crops and sectors remain safeguarded and the agreement will boost exports and farmers’ incomes. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also called Gandhi’s claims baseless.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.
When Donald Trump returned to the White House last year, he pledged to eliminate what he called “woke” culture in America. From the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to the Smithsonian Institution and the Stonewall National Monument, his administration has sought to reshape American cultural institutions and historical narratives to reflect its own priorities. Jonathan Freedland and the Guardian’s Washington bureau chief, David Smith, examine how Trump’s efforts to recast history and culture in his own image could affect millions of Americans.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
At least nine people were killed and numerous others wounded in a mass shooting in the small British Columbia community of Tumbler Ridge. The violence began at a residence and continued at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where victims included both students and adults, making it one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history. The suspected shooter, an 18‑year‑old, was also found dead at the scene from what appeared to be a self‑inflicted injury. Authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat as they continue to investigate the motive and circumstances behind the attack.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian
Google has revealed plans for a significant increase in its AI investments in Singapore, featuring the launch of Majulah AI – a collection of training and innovation initiatives aimed at developing an AI-ready workforce. Daniel Martin speaks with Ben King, Managing Director of Google Singapore, about how these efforts will help Singapore achieve its goal of becoming an AI leader and accelerate AI adoption across the nation.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Keir Starmer’s prospects as prime minister took a hit after Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar demanded his resignation. While the cabinet continues to back him, his position appears secure—for the moment. Pippa and Kiran explore what could unfold next.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian
