Vandana Suryavanshi, Returning Officer for Mumbai North West, rejected EVM hacking allegations, clarifying that Electronic Voting Machines are standalone systems with no communication capability. Accusations arose following claims that a mobile phone was used to unlock an EVM at a counting center. Suryavanshi emphasized that EVMs do not require OTPs for operation and labelled the hacking charges as false. An FIR was filed against a relative of MP Ravindra Waikar and a poll officer over phone misuse at the counting center, but officials assured robust safeguards and transparency during the election process.

Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi will assume the role of Chief of the Army Staff on June 30, succeeding Gen Manoj Pande. With a distinguished 40-year military career, Lt Gen Dwivedi has held key positions such as Vice Chief of Army Staff, Northern Command head, and Director General Infantry. A decorated officer, he received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal. A graduate of Sainik School Rewa, the National Defence College, and the US Army War College, he brings extensive strategic and operational expertise to his new role.

The Indian government announced Lt General Upendra Dwivedi as the next Chief of the Army Staff, effective June 30. He will succeed General Manoj Pande, becoming the 30th Army Chief. Lt Gen Dwivedi, a National Defence Academy and Indian Military Academy alumnus, has held numerous key positions, including Vice Chief of Army Staff, Northern Army Commander, and Director General of Infantry. Commissioned in 1984 into the 18 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, he brings over 39 years of experience in the Northern and Western theatres to his new role.

The T4 rifle, developed by Jindal Defence in partnership with Brazil's Taurus Arms, has successfully completed rigorous trials conducted by the Indian Army. This significant achievement positions the T4 as a strong candidate in a major procurement process to supply 425,000 rifles to the armed forces. The rifle's robust design, modularity, and precision were key factors in its successful testing. The T4's potential selection aligns with India's 'Make in India' initiative, aiming to modernize military equipment while boosting indigenous production capabilities.

China has deployed six J-20 stealth fighter jets near the India border in Sikkim, according to satellite images. These advanced jets, stationed at a Tibetan airport, boast stealth technology, supersonic speed, and cutting-edge sensors. The Indian Air Force is aware of the deployment, which comes as India develops its own stealth fighter program. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations. The J-20 is China's most advanced combat aircraft, and its presence near the border is a show of military strength.

A gunbattle broke out between terrorists and security forces in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday, a day before the Lok Sabha election vote count. The encounter began when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Nehama area, acting on a tip about a terror hideout. Terrorists fired upon the forces, triggering the gunfight. No casualties have been reported so far. The exchange of fire is ongoing, with police and security forces on the job. This comes after two terrorists were killed in a similar encounter in Kulgam on May 7.

A security review at BrahMos Aerospace HQ in Delhi uncovered unaccounted weapons, including a rocket launcher, an INSAS light machine gun, and high-explosive mortar rounds. The probe began in late 2021 after suspicions arose about former CEO Dr. Sudhir Mishra removing confidential documents. Weapons were found in stores linked to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and near the reception. CCTV footage was manipulated. BrahMos reported the findings to DRDO, which sent the items to Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune. Key questions about the investigation and the origins of the weapons remain unanswered.

India successfully test-fired the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from an Indian Air Force Su-30 jet near Odisha. The missile, designed domestically, aims to neutralize enemy assets. The test validated key systems including propulsion and guidance, meeting all objectives. Data from tracking instruments confirmed the missile's performance. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended DRDO, IAF, and industry for the achievement, highlighting RudraM-II's significance as a force multiplier.

HAL shares are in the spotlight as India and France start talks for a ₹50,000-crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. The jets will be used on the Indian Navy's carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. A high-level French team, including Dassault and Thales officials, will meet Indian Defence Ministry representatives on May 30. The negotiations aim to finalize the deal by the end of the financial year. HAL shares closed down 2.53% at ₹5,012 on Tuesday. The Indian Navy seeks quick completion and induction of these aircraft into its fleet.

Amid Indian Navy warships' docking in Manila, Philippines, the country shows interest in India's Advanced Light Helicopter, marking a potential defense deal. The visit underscores mutual interests in maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific amidst tensions with China. Indian-built helicopters and warships gain traction as Philippines confronts Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. The move follows India's vocal stance against Chinese expansionism, strengthening strategic alliances in the region. With escalating maritime tensions, Philippines seeks partnerships with nations like India to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific.