The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a plea seeking a ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) practiced within the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community. The court issued a notice to the Centre and the Ministry of Law and Justice, acknowledging the NGO’s argument that FGM is not an essential part of Islam and violates children’s rights.  NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea to ban practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) or female circumcision prevailing in Muslims, specially Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community and issued notice to Centre and ministry of law and justice seeking their response.A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna & R Mahadevan issued notice on a PIL filed by NGO Chetna Welfare Society which alleged that the practice was not an essential part of Islam and it amounted to violation of rights of children who are forced to undergo FGM. Senior advocate Shashi Kiran and lawyer Sadhana Sandhu, appearing for the organisation told the court that various agencies including WHO, UN agencies and human-rights bodies have repeatedly called for states to prevent, criminalise and eliminate FGM as medical evidence showed that short-term and long-term physical and psychological harms are caused due to it.”It is further submitted that there is not any independent law specifically banning this. The act itself falls under multiple offences relating to causing hurt under BNS, such as sections 113, 118(1), 118(2), and 118(3). Even in Pocso Act, touching the genitalia of a minor for non-medical reasons is a violation. It is submitted that WHO has classified FGM as a gross violation of human rights of girls and women. It violates the fundamental guarantees provided by Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Furthermore, FGM is a serious health concern as it can cause infections, problems relating to childbirth, and other severe physical impairments. In Dec 2012, UNGA adopted a unanimous resolution which called for elimination of FGM,” the petition said.It said approximately 75% of women of the community put their daughters to the barbaric practice of FGM and pleaded the court to intervene to put to end the practice. The petitioner said several countires including US, UK, Australia, and several African countries have banned FGM but India does not have a specific law banning FGM. “Dawoodi Bohras are a religious denomination within Shia Islam. They are the most well-known Muslim community in India to practice FGC, known as Khatna in the community – a ritual that many Islamic scholars around the world do not endorse. While the Quran does not sanction FGC, Daim al-lslam, a religious text followed by this community, does endorses the practice,” the petition said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCyclone Ditwah Approaches India: Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh Brace For Impact’Op Sindoor Was Just A Glimpse Of Future Theatre Commands’: Air Marshal Ashutosh DixitPM Modi Unveils World’s Tallest Bronze Statue Of Lord Ram In South GoaIndia Says US Trade Deal Is ‘Only Matter Of Time’ As Tariffs Reshape Bilateral Trade NegotiationsPM Modi Joins Over 1 Lakh Devotees In Mass Bhagwat Gita Recitation At Udupi EventIndia’s Updated Quake Map Warns Entire Himalayan Arc Faces Major Risk, Forcing Urgent Safety Reforms’They Are Ours, We’ll Prove It’: Pakistani Leader’s Absurd Claim On ‘Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan’Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Monsoon Fury Slams Sri Lanka With At Least 56 Dead And Dozens MissingViral Video: Stage Crashes During UP Wedding As BJP Leaders Gather To Greet Bride & GroomIndia-Russia Summit Dates Out As PM Modi, Putin Review S-400, Su-57 And Global Security Challenges123PhotostoriesRebellious lovers who break every rule to define love in Bollywood moviesAnkita Lokhande reveals she is returning to Laughter Chefs season 3; Krushna Abhishek says ‘We will celebrate Christmas with our Bhauji’4 simple exercises that can help relieve foot pain from diabetic neuropathyGirija Oak Godbole: Surprising facts about the ‘blue saree girl’ you didn’t knowFrom Pythons to Koalas: 5 sleepyhead animals that nap their way through most of the day2 effective drinks to control blood sugar naturally and how to make them at homeRanbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt to Randeep Hooda: Actors who disappeared with their rolesFrom Saraayah to Sipaara: A look at 2025 Bollywood baby names and their meanings5 countries with zero airports, yet travellers make it in for the experienceSobhita Dhulipala to Shanaya Kapoor: 5 breathtaking celeb looks of the day123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingSaquon BarkleyLaMelo BallDonald TrumpDana WhiteAyesha CurryFuzzy ZoellerJammie BookerMarcus FolignoCalgary FlamesVanessa Bryant

The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a plea seeking a ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) practiced within the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community. The court issued a notice to the Centre and the Ministry of Law and Justice, acknowledging the NGO’s argument that FGM is not an essential part of Islam and violates children’s rights. NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea to ban practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) or female circumcision prevailing in Muslims, specially Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community and issued notice to Centre and ministry of law and justice seeking their response.A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna & R Mahadevan issued notice on a PIL filed by NGO Chetna Welfare Society which alleged that the practice was not an essential part of Islam and it amounted to violation of rights of children who are forced to undergo FGM. Senior advocate Shashi Kiran and lawyer Sadhana Sandhu, appearing for the organisation told the court that various agencies including WHO, UN agencies and human-rights bodies have repeatedly called for states to prevent, criminalise and eliminate FGM as medical evidence showed that short-term and long-term physical and psychological harms are caused due to it.”It is further submitted that there is not any independent law specifically banning this. The act itself falls under multiple offences relating to causing hurt under BNS, such as sections 113, 118(1), 118(2), and 118(3). Even in Pocso Act, touching the genitalia of a minor for non-medical reasons is a violation. It is submitted that WHO has classified FGM as a gross violation of human rights of girls and women. It violates the fundamental guarantees provided by Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Furthermore, FGM is a serious health concern as it can cause infections, problems relating to childbirth, and other severe physical impairments. In Dec 2012, UNGA adopted a unanimous resolution which called for elimination of FGM,” the petition said.It said approximately 75% of women of the community put their daughters to the barbaric practice of FGM and pleaded the court to intervene to put to end the practice. The petitioner said several countires including US, UK, Australia, and several African countries have banned FGM but India does not have a specific law banning FGM. “Dawoodi Bohras are a religious denomination within Shia Islam. They are the most well-known Muslim community in India to practice FGC, known as Khatna in the community – a ritual that many Islamic scholars around the world do not endorse. While the Quran does not sanction FGC, Daim al-lslam, a religious text followed by this community, does endorses the practice,” the petition said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCyclone Ditwah Approaches India: Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh Brace For Impact’Op Sindoor Was Just A Glimpse Of Future Theatre Commands’: Air Marshal Ashutosh DixitPM Modi Unveils World’s Tallest Bronze Statue Of Lord Ram In South GoaIndia Says US Trade Deal Is ‘Only Matter Of Time’ As Tariffs Reshape Bilateral Trade NegotiationsPM Modi Joins Over 1 Lakh Devotees In Mass Bhagwat Gita Recitation At Udupi EventIndia’s Updated Quake Map Warns Entire Himalayan Arc Faces Major Risk, Forcing Urgent Safety Reforms’They Are Ours, We’ll Prove It’: Pakistani Leader’s Absurd Claim On ‘Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan’Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Monsoon Fury Slams Sri Lanka With At Least 56 Dead And Dozens MissingViral Video: Stage Crashes During UP Wedding As BJP Leaders Gather To Greet Bride & GroomIndia-Russia Summit Dates Out As PM Modi, Putin Review S-400, Su-57 And Global Security Challenges123PhotostoriesRebellious lovers who break every rule to define love in Bollywood moviesAnkita Lokhande reveals she is returning to Laughter Chefs season 3; Krushna Abhishek says ‘We will celebrate Christmas with our Bhauji’4 simple exercises that can help relieve foot pain from diabetic neuropathyGirija Oak Godbole: Surprising facts about the ‘blue saree girl’ you didn’t knowFrom Pythons to Koalas: 5 sleepyhead animals that nap their way through most of the day2 effective drinks to control blood sugar naturally and how to make them at homeRanbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt to Randeep Hooda: Actors who disappeared with their rolesFrom Saraayah to Sipaara: A look at 2025 Bollywood baby names and their meanings5 countries with zero airports, yet travellers make it in for the experienceSobhita Dhulipala to Shanaya Kapoor: 5 breathtaking celeb looks of the day123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingSaquon BarkleyLaMelo BallDonald TrumpDana WhiteAyesha CurryFuzzy ZoellerJammie BookerMarcus FolignoCalgary FlamesVanessa Bryant

NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea to ban practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) or female circumcision prevailing in Muslims, specially Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community and issued notice to Centre and ministry of law and justice seeking their response.A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna & R Mahadevan issued notice…

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UP LT Grade Admit Card 2025: Download AYUSH Lecturer Kaya Chikitsa and Shalya Tantra Hall Tickets Online UP LT Grade Admit card 2025: The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has released the admit card for the UP LT Grade Teacher Recruitment 2025. Candidates appearing for the AYUSH Lecturer posts in Kaya Chikitsa and Shalya…

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Sandeep Pathak (ANI image) NEW DELHI: BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak on Sunday said that he has not received any information about the FIR filed against him and he is waiting to get a copy to respond to it. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Pathak said: “TV channels are reporting that two FIRs have been lodged against me. However, I have not received any such information so far. I was waiting to get a copy of the FIR so that I could respond to it. It would not be surprising if any FIR has been lodged against me by misusing political power. All those who have worked with me know that I work with integrity. I worked with honesty and integrity when I was with AAP, and now that I have joined the BJP, I will continue to work in the same way.” This comes after Punjab Police had registered two FIRs against him under non-bailable sections days after he switched from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP as part of a group of MPs merging with the ruling camp in the Upper House.The political controversy intensified after BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders strongly criticised the FIRs, calling them an act of ‘political vendetta’ and misuse of police machinery in Punjab.Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma accused the AAP government of misusing the police to target opponents.In a post on X, Sharma said, “There is no law in Punjab; now, political vendetta is in effect. Bhagwant Mann and Kejriwal’s fear exposed. The fact that a non-bailable FIR was registered against Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak ji in Punjab as soon as he left AAP and joined BJP clearly shows that Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann are using the police as a political weapon.BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said there were serious questions over the state’s law and order situation and accused the Punjab Police of focusing on political actions instead of addressing governance issues.Shiromani Akali Dal general secretary Bikram Singh Majithia also alleged selective targeting of former AAP allies, questioning why only leaders who changed parties were facing legal action.Meanwhile, security was tightened outside Sandeep Pathak’s residence in Delhi, with police personnel deployed and barricades put up as a precautionary measure.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDiljit Dosanjh Confronts Khalistan Supporters at Calgary Concert, Explains KBC AppearanceDelhi Approves ₹48,000 Crore Metro Expansion Plan To Connect Outer Regions With City CoreVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement Gaps123PhotostoriesFrom six stunning balconies with spectacular views to a lobby with three private lifts, Siddharth Nigam offers a glimpse into his luxurious homeWhy Chennai’s Anna Salai1.5-km flyover section is a big relief for commutersBengaluru’s Namma Metro Pink Line enters crucial testing phase ahead of launch: What you need to know10 common behaviours that quietly ruin first impressionsWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and more123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Sandeep Pathak (ANI image) NEW DELHI: BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak on Sunday said that he has not received any information about the FIR filed against him and he is waiting to get a copy to respond to it. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Pathak said: “TV channels are reporting that two FIRs have been lodged against me. However, I have not received any such information so far. I was waiting to get a copy of the FIR so that I could respond to it. It would not be surprising if any FIR has been lodged against me by misusing political power. All those who have worked with me know that I work with integrity. I worked with honesty and integrity when I was with AAP, and now that I have joined the BJP, I will continue to work in the same way.” This comes after Punjab Police had registered two FIRs against him under non-bailable sections days after he switched from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP as part of a group of MPs merging with the ruling camp in the Upper House.The political controversy intensified after BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders strongly criticised the FIRs, calling them an act of ‘political vendetta’ and misuse of police machinery in Punjab.Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma accused the AAP government of misusing the police to target opponents.In a post on X, Sharma said, “There is no law in Punjab; now, political vendetta is in effect. Bhagwant Mann and Kejriwal’s fear exposed. The fact that a non-bailable FIR was registered against Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak ji in Punjab as soon as he left AAP and joined BJP clearly shows that Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann are using the police as a political weapon.BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said there were serious questions over the state’s law and order situation and accused the Punjab Police of focusing on political actions instead of addressing governance issues.Shiromani Akali Dal general secretary Bikram Singh Majithia also alleged selective targeting of former AAP allies, questioning why only leaders who changed parties were facing legal action.Meanwhile, security was tightened outside Sandeep Pathak’s residence in Delhi, with police personnel deployed and barricades put up as a precautionary measure.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDiljit Dosanjh Confronts Khalistan Supporters at Calgary Concert, Explains KBC AppearanceDelhi Approves ₹48,000 Crore Metro Expansion Plan To Connect Outer Regions With City CoreVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement Gaps123PhotostoriesFrom six stunning balconies with spectacular views to a lobby with three private lifts, Siddharth Nigam offers a glimpse into his luxurious homeWhy Chennai’s Anna Salai1.5-km flyover section is a big relief for commutersBengaluru’s Namma Metro Pink Line enters crucial testing phase ahead of launch: What you need to know10 common behaviours that quietly ruin first impressionsWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and more123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Sandeep Pathak (ANI image) NEW DELHI: BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak on Sunday said that he has not received any information about the FIR filed against him and he is waiting to get a copy to respond to it. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Pathak said: “TV channels are reporting that…

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TL;DR: Driving the newsGlobal arms revenues surged to an all-time high of 9 billion in 2024, up 5.9% in real terms, according to the latest SIPRI Top 100 ranking. While Europe and the US drove most of the increase, Asia and Oceania stood out as the only region to post a decline—largely due to a dramatic drop in Chinese arms company revenues, the SIPRI report said. Zoom inIndia, though still far from being a global arms giant, posted a quiet but steady 8.2% increase in combined revenues across its three Top 100 companies. In sharp contrast, Chinese arms revenues fell 10%, a setback tied to a wave of high-profile corruption scandals and major contract delays that rattled Beijing’s defense establishment.India’s steady climbIndia’s three Top 100 firms-Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders-together pulled in .5 billion in arms revenue in 2024, up from .9 billion in 2023.BEL led the growth with a 24% revenue jump, hitting .47 billion. The boost came from domestic orders, particularly in radar systems and electronic warfare equipment, both prioritized in India’s military modernization drive.HAL, India’s top-ranked defense firm at rank 44 globally, earned .81 billion, a marginal 0.3% decrease from the previous year. The company faced delivery lags, but remained a cornerstone supplier to the Indian Air Force and Navy.Mazagon Dock, focused on naval shipbuilding, recorded .23 billion in arms revenue, with a 9.8% year-on-year increase, thanks to continued submarine and destroyer production.Why it mattersIndia is pressing ahead with its “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) campaign in defense production. While not grabbing global headlines, its incremental gains highlight an emerging industrial base that could challenge traditional suppliers over time.“The combined arms revenues of the three Indian companies in the Top 100 increased by 8.2 per cent to .5 billion on the back of domestic orders,” the SIPRI report said.China’s disrupted marchXi’s purge tableThe picture in China couldn’t be more different. For the first time in years, China’s eight arms producers in the SIPRI Top 100-previously hailed as key enablers of President Xi Jinping’s military modernization push-lost major ground. Combined revenues fell by 10% to .3 billionThe steepest fall came from NORINCO, China’s primary land systems manufacturer, which saw its revenue plunge 31% due to corruption scandals and leadership upheaval.CASC, China’s aerospace and missile systems leader, dropped 16% following delays in military satellite programs and the removal of its president amid graft allegations.Even AVIC, the country’s biggest defense company, slipped 1.3%, hampered by delays in aircraft deliveries.“A host of corruption allegations in Chinese arms procurement led to major arms contracts being postponed or cancelled in 2024,” said Nan Tian, director of the SIPRI military expenditure and arms production programme.Between the linesChina’s top-down, state-controlled defense sector may be big-but its opacity leaves it vulnerable to internal shocks. Political purges tied to Xi’s sweeping anti-corruption campaign disrupted procurement and leadership pipelines across several top defense firms.Only two of China’s eight arms producers recorded revenue growth-CSSC, the shipbuilding powerhouse, was one, rising 8.7%, aligned with China’s naval buildup in the South China Sea. India’s slow, state-driven growth might lack flash, but it also avoids the internal disarray seen in Beijing. Its procurement is transparent, aligned to strategic plans, and largely free of major political scandal.China, meanwhile, is still far ahead in sheer scale but vulnerable to top-level instability.The big picture: Asia’s arms balance shiftsWhile China dragged down the region’s total, other Asian powers picked up slack:South Korean arms producers rose 31% to .1 billion, driven by booming exports.Japan posted the largest jump in Asia: a 40% increase in arms revenues across five firms, reaching .3 billion, reflecting Tokyo’s shift toward proactive defense spending amid regional tensions. Global context: Arms race acceleratingUS firms remain the backbone of the global arms industry. The 39 American companies in the Top 100 generated 4 billion in arms revenues in 2024, a 3.8 per cent increase that leaves them with just under half of global Top 100 sales. Lockheed Martin alone booked .7 billion, while RTX, Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics each sat comfortably above  billion.Yet the American giant is struggling to turn money into timely capability. Programmes such as the F-35 fighter, the Columbia-class nuclear submarine and the Sentinel ICBM are all running late and over budget. Lockheed’s F-35 deliveries in 2024 were delayed by an average of 238 days per aircraft, and the programme’s projected sustainment costs have ballooned towards .6 trillion over its life. Northrop’s Sentinel programme has breached US cost-growth thresholds by around 80 per cent versus its original estimate. SIPRI’s Xiao Liang warns that “The delays and rising costs will inevitably impact US military planning and military spending… This could have knock-on effects on the US government’s efforts to cut excessive military spending and improve budget efficiency.” In plain terms, even as the US spends more, it risks getting less capability per dollar.European producers surged by 13%, reaching 1 billion, as countries rearm in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine.Russia and the Middle East: War economies and new hubsRussia’s corporate footprint in the SIPRI Top 100 remains surprisingly small—just two entities, Rostec and United Shipbuilding Corporation—but their combined arms revenues jumped 23 per cent in 2024 to an estimated .2 billion. Domestic demand linked to the Ukraine war more than offset shrinking exports. Russian plants have ramped up output of artillery shells, missiles and armoured vehicles; SIPRI cites reports of 1.3 million 152-mm shells produced in 2024, a more than fivefold increase over 2022.Where Russia is constrained, the Middle East is expanding. For the first time, nine companies from the region appear in the Top 100, with combined arms revenues of .0 billion, up 14 per cent where comparable data exist. Israeli firms alone generated .2 billion, a 16 per cent increase, fuelled both by the Gaza war and strong demand for uncrewed systems and missile defence worldwide.What’s next For India:Expect a continued push for domestic procurement and local manufacturing under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP).India may look to expand exports, especially to Africa and Southeast Asia, but lacks the global competitiveness of Korean or Israeli systems.For China:Beijing still accounts for around 13 per cent of total Top 100 arms revenues, and its shipyards and missile producers have been central to the rapid expansion of the PLA Navy and rocket forces over the past decade.But the 2024 rankings hint at a temporary pause or re-ordering in its modernisation drive just as tensions over Taiwan and in the South China Sea remain high.Recovery will depend on restoring procurement integrity, managing talent loss, and containing political fallout.For Asia:The regional arms race is far from over.The pivot from importing to building continues—but success will depend on supply chain resilience, governance, and geopolitical alignment.The bottom lineIndia is climbing slowly, but surely-fueled by trust in institutions, steady demand, and political will.China, long considered an unstoppable defense juggernaut, now faces turbulence not from outside threats, but from within.In the evolving landscape of Asian defense, discipline may matter more than dominance. And for now, India is playing the long game.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWoman Marries Boyfriend’s Corpse After Family Kills Him, Alleges Police Provoked BrotherMajor Twist In BrahMos Espionage Case As Higher Court Acquits Scientist Of Passing Defence SecretsRamaphosa Praises PM Modi’s Endorsement of South Africa Hosting G20 Summit, Counters Trump’s Claims‘Is There Any Law?’ Renuka Chaudhary Sparks Row After Bringing Stray Dog to ParliamentBSF IG Warns Of Looming Threat As 120 Terrorists Wait In PoK Despite Dip In Infiltration AttemptsPakistan Rages At UN After Criticism Of Munir’s Immunity Amendment Amid Fears Of Deeper MilitarismSheikh Hasina, UK MP Tulip Siddiq Convicted in Corruption Case, Raising Concerns Over Fair TrialsUP BLO Deaths Trigger Outrage As Families Blame Extreme SIR Stress While Officials Deny Any PressureThailand Pushes For India’s RCEP Entry, Urges Deeper Trade Ties, Joint Action Against CybercrimeKiren Rijiju, JP Nadda Slam Kharge Over Rajya Sabha Remarks On Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Exit123PhotostoriesGraduation quotes for your kids to celebrate their milestoneWhy Sadhguru recommends drinking Ginger Coriander Coffee (Sukku Coffee) every morningSamantha Ruth Prabhu and Raj Nidimoru to Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan: Actors who married directorsHow Samantha balances fitness with autoimmune myositis: A lesson in resilienceWords that heal: 7 motivational quotes to boost your mental health8 small fish that are fun and easy to care forLearning with clarity: 5 Lord Buddha quotes students can live byYour Strength and Weakness According To Your Date of BirthAstro-numerology December 2025; Sanjay B Jumaani’s predictions for each number (1-9)7 hill stations near Kerala for that much-needed winter break in December123Hot PicksParliament Winter SessionCyclone DitwahWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingAdin RossSunil GavaskarED SheeranDevajit SaikiaVirat Kohli RecordGisele BndchenKL RahulParliament SessionSmriti MandhanaAnthony Davis

TL;DR: Driving the newsGlobal arms revenues surged to an all-time high of $679 billion in 2024, up 5.9% in real terms, according to the latest SIPRI Top 100 ranking. While Europe and the US drove most of the increase, Asia and Oceania stood out as the only region to post a decline—largely due to a dramatic drop in Chinese arms company revenues, the SIPRI report said. Zoom inIndia, though still far from being a global arms giant, posted a quiet but steady 8.2% increase in combined revenues across its three Top 100 companies. In sharp contrast, Chinese arms revenues fell 10%, a setback tied to a wave of high-profile corruption scandals and major contract delays that rattled Beijing’s defense establishment.India’s steady climbIndia’s three Top 100 firms-Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders-together pulled in $7.5 billion in arms revenue in 2024, up from $6.9 billion in 2023.BEL led the growth with a 24% revenue jump, hitting $2.47 billion. The boost came from domestic orders, particularly in radar systems and electronic warfare equipment, both prioritized in India’s military modernization drive.HAL, India’s top-ranked defense firm at rank 44 globally, earned $3.81 billion, a marginal 0.3% decrease from the previous year. The company faced delivery lags, but remained a cornerstone supplier to the Indian Air Force and Navy.Mazagon Dock, focused on naval shipbuilding, recorded $1.23 billion in arms revenue, with a 9.8% year-on-year increase, thanks to continued submarine and destroyer production.Why it mattersIndia is pressing ahead with its “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) campaign in defense production. While not grabbing global headlines, its incremental gains highlight an emerging industrial base that could challenge traditional suppliers over time.“The combined arms revenues of the three Indian companies in the Top 100 increased by 8.2 per cent to $7.5 billion on the back of domestic orders,” the SIPRI report said.China’s disrupted marchXi’s purge tableThe picture in China couldn’t be more different. For the first time in years, China’s eight arms producers in the SIPRI Top 100-previously hailed as key enablers of President Xi Jinping’s military modernization push-lost major ground. Combined revenues fell by 10% to $88.3 billionThe steepest fall came from NORINCO, China’s primary land systems manufacturer, which saw its revenue plunge 31% due to corruption scandals and leadership upheaval.CASC, China’s aerospace and missile systems leader, dropped 16% following delays in military satellite programs and the removal of its president amid graft allegations.Even AVIC, the country’s biggest defense company, slipped 1.3%, hampered by delays in aircraft deliveries.“A host of corruption allegations in Chinese arms procurement led to major arms contracts being postponed or cancelled in 2024,” said Nan Tian, director of the SIPRI military expenditure and arms production programme.Between the linesChina’s top-down, state-controlled defense sector may be big-but its opacity leaves it vulnerable to internal shocks. Political purges tied to Xi’s sweeping anti-corruption campaign disrupted procurement and leadership pipelines across several top defense firms.Only two of China’s eight arms producers recorded revenue growth-CSSC, the shipbuilding powerhouse, was one, rising 8.7%, aligned with China’s naval buildup in the South China Sea. India’s slow, state-driven growth might lack flash, but it also avoids the internal disarray seen in Beijing. Its procurement is transparent, aligned to strategic plans, and largely free of major political scandal.China, meanwhile, is still far ahead in sheer scale but vulnerable to top-level instability.The big picture: Asia’s arms balance shiftsWhile China dragged down the region’s total, other Asian powers picked up slack:South Korean arms producers rose 31% to $14.1 billion, driven by booming exports.Japan posted the largest jump in Asia: a 40% increase in arms revenues across five firms, reaching $13.3 billion, reflecting Tokyo’s shift toward proactive defense spending amid regional tensions. Global context: Arms race acceleratingUS firms remain the backbone of the global arms industry. The 39 American companies in the Top 100 generated $334 billion in arms revenues in 2024, a 3.8 per cent increase that leaves them with just under half of global Top 100 sales. Lockheed Martin alone booked $64.7 billion, while RTX, Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics each sat comfortably above $30 billion.Yet the American giant is struggling to turn money into timely capability. Programmes such as the F-35 fighter, the Columbia-class nuclear submarine and the Sentinel ICBM are all running late and over budget. Lockheed’s F-35 deliveries in 2024 were delayed by an average of 238 days per aircraft, and the programme’s projected sustainment costs have ballooned towards $1.6 trillion over its life. Northrop’s Sentinel programme has breached US cost-growth thresholds by around 80 per cent versus its original estimate. SIPRI’s Xiao Liang warns that “The delays and rising costs will inevitably impact US military planning and military spending… This could have knock-on effects on the US government’s efforts to cut excessive military spending and improve budget efficiency.” In plain terms, even as the US spends more, it risks getting less capability per dollar.European producers surged by 13%, reaching $151 billion, as countries rearm in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine.Russia and the Middle East: War economies and new hubsRussia’s corporate footprint in the SIPRI Top 100 remains surprisingly small—just two entities, Rostec and United Shipbuilding Corporation—but their combined arms revenues jumped 23 per cent in 2024 to an estimated $31.2 billion. Domestic demand linked to the Ukraine war more than offset shrinking exports. Russian plants have ramped up output of artillery shells, missiles and armoured vehicles; SIPRI cites reports of 1.3 million 152-mm shells produced in 2024, a more than fivefold increase over 2022.Where Russia is constrained, the Middle East is expanding. For the first time, nine companies from the region appear in the Top 100, with combined arms revenues of $31.0 billion, up 14 per cent where comparable data exist. Israeli firms alone generated $16.2 billion, a 16 per cent increase, fuelled both by the Gaza war and strong demand for uncrewed systems and missile defence worldwide.What’s next For India:Expect a continued push for domestic procurement and local manufacturing under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP).India may look to expand exports, especially to Africa and Southeast Asia, but lacks the global competitiveness of Korean or Israeli systems.For China:Beijing still accounts for around 13 per cent of total Top 100 arms revenues, and its shipyards and missile producers have been central to the rapid expansion of the PLA Navy and rocket forces over the past decade.But the 2024 rankings hint at a temporary pause or re-ordering in its modernisation drive just as tensions over Taiwan and in the South China Sea remain high.Recovery will depend on restoring procurement integrity, managing talent loss, and containing political fallout.For Asia:The regional arms race is far from over.The pivot from importing to building continues—but success will depend on supply chain resilience, governance, and geopolitical alignment.The bottom lineIndia is climbing slowly, but surely-fueled by trust in institutions, steady demand, and political will.China, long considered an unstoppable defense juggernaut, now faces turbulence not from outside threats, but from within.In the evolving landscape of Asian defense, discipline may matter more than dominance. And for now, India is playing the long game.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWoman Marries Boyfriend’s Corpse After Family Kills Him, Alleges Police Provoked BrotherMajor Twist In BrahMos Espionage Case As Higher Court Acquits Scientist Of Passing Defence SecretsRamaphosa Praises PM Modi’s Endorsement of South Africa Hosting G20 Summit, Counters Trump’s Claims‘Is There Any Law?’ Renuka Chaudhary Sparks Row After Bringing Stray Dog to ParliamentBSF IG Warns Of Looming Threat As 120 Terrorists Wait In PoK Despite Dip In Infiltration AttemptsPakistan Rages At UN After Criticism Of Munir’s Immunity Amendment Amid Fears Of Deeper MilitarismSheikh Hasina, UK MP Tulip Siddiq Convicted in Corruption Case, Raising Concerns Over Fair TrialsUP BLO Deaths Trigger Outrage As Families Blame Extreme SIR Stress While Officials Deny Any PressureThailand Pushes For India’s RCEP Entry, Urges Deeper Trade Ties, Joint Action Against CybercrimeKiren Rijiju, JP Nadda Slam Kharge Over Rajya Sabha Remarks On Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Exit123PhotostoriesGraduation quotes for your kids to celebrate their milestoneWhy Sadhguru recommends drinking Ginger Coriander Coffee (Sukku Coffee) every morningSamantha Ruth Prabhu and Raj Nidimoru to Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan: Actors who married directorsHow Samantha balances fitness with autoimmune myositis: A lesson in resilienceWords that heal: 7 motivational quotes to boost your mental health8 small fish that are fun and easy to care forLearning with clarity: 5 Lord Buddha quotes students can live byYour Strength and Weakness According To Your Date of BirthAstro-numerology December 2025; Sanjay B Jumaani’s predictions for each number (1-9)7 hill stations near Kerala for that much-needed winter break in December123Hot PicksParliament Winter SessionCyclone DitwahWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingAdin RossSunil GavaskarED SheeranDevajit SaikiaVirat Kohli RecordGisele BndchenKL RahulParliament SessionSmriti MandhanaAnthony Davis

TL;DR: Driving the newsGlobal arms revenues surged to an all-time high of $679 billion in 2024, up 5.9% in real terms, according to the latest SIPRI Top 100 ranking. While Europe and the US drove most of the increase, Asia and Oceania stood out as the only region to post a decline—largely due to a…

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