India Roundup: Illegal residency, Putin to visit India, increased power consumption
Indian-Mauritius Navy relations
The 15th Annual Training Programme conducted by the Indian Navy in Mauritius marks a significant advancement in the relationship between the two nations, aimed at enhancing interoperability between their armed forces. India News Network reports that the training, which utilises sophisticated diving and underwater technology provided by India's Marine Commando and Diving Mobile Training Team, is crucial for elevating the operational capabilities of the Mauritius Police Force in maritime special operations. By incorporating scenario-based drills focused on counter-piracy and hostage crisis management at sea, this initiative exemplifies a continued commitment to maritime security and strategic partnership, which dates back to 1948. The involvement of India's Ministry of External Affairs highlights ongoing collaborative projects, reinforcing economic and cultural ties through infrastructure initiatives and agreements like the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement signed in 2021. Overall, the training programme serves to bolster regional stability and cooperative diplomacy within the Indian Ocean Region.
Illegal residency in India
In a separate legal development, Bengaluru police have charged 17 Pakistan nationals with illegal residency in India under false identities, encapsulated in a comprehensive 1,200-page chargesheet. Originating from a family arrested on September 29, the group has been accused of multiple crimes, including forgery and cheque fraud, with connections to the Mehdi Foundation International (MFI). Investigations led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) concluded that the individuals were not implicated in any broader conspiracy beyond their unlawful stay, Hindustantimes reports. Despite seeking bail amidst fears of deportation and subsequent persecution if returned to Pakistan, these individuals have also pursued asylum in non-Muslim countries, highlighting the complex humanitarian aspects of international residency laws.
India re-elected to the UN Peacebuilding Commission
India's recent re-election to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) for the term 2025-2026 underscores its longstanding commitment to global peace efforts since the PBC's establishment in 2005. As a founding member, India has played a pivotal role in UN peacekeeping, advocating for comprehensive recovery strategies in post-conflict environments. Deploying around 6,000 personnel globally, India prioritises sustainable recovery and innovative financing within peace processes, with a distinct emphasis on the integration of women and marginalised groups. According to the Indian News Network, this latest re-election further solidifies India's influence in international cooperation aimed at addressing intricate challenges in global peacebuilding, reinforcing the PBC's mission for sustainable peace for future generations.
Putin to visit India
In a significant diplomatic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit India in early 2025, representing his first visit since the commencement of the Ukraine-Russia conflict in 2022. This upcoming visit is anticipated to further enhance bilateral relations, with both leaders reaffirming their dedication to regular annual meetings. The strong rapport developed through previous interactions, particularly in 2024, has been exemplified by PM Modi receiving Russia's highest civilian award, indicative of their robust diplomatic engagement. The Financial Express reports that the visit is poised to be a crucial milestone in deepening the strategic partnership between India and Russia.
India’s power consumption increases
On the economic front, India's power consumption exhibited a notable increase of 5.14%, amounting to 125.44 billion units in November 2023 compared to the previous year. Average power usage peaked at 119.30 GW, and peak demand rose to 207.42 GW, albeit slightly elevated from previous data. According to the Business Standard, the overall growth, although slower than anticipated, was attributed primarily to warmer weather conditions, diverging from usual winter demand trends particularly observed in Northern India. Despite the tempered growth metrics, ongoing robust commercial and industrial activities, coupled with a drop in ambient temperatures, suggest a steadfast expectation for continued energy consumption in the near future.
