Indian Ocean

On April 2, the US President declared a national economic emergency and introduced sweeping new tariffs aimed at rebalancing America’s trade relationships. But while political leaders and analysts debated, the internet had other ideas. Turns out, humans weren’t the only ones caught in the tariff crossfire. One target in Trump’s global trade crackdown was so unexpected.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India's role in maintaining peace and stability in the indian ocean Region amid China's strategic presence. The Indian Navy's launch of the 'indian ocean ship (IOS) Sagar' underscores India's commitment to secure navigation and shared interests. With a diverse crew visiting various ports, it reflects India's dedication to collective security and prosperity.

Indian Navy is committed to preventing dominance by any nation in the indian ocean Region through its military and economic strength. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlights India's efforts for peace, stability, and free navigation, emphasizing the Navy's role in protecting interests without compromising sovereignty.

India will open a new naval base for nuclear submarines and warships in Andhra Pradesh next year. Upgrades to the Karwar base in Karnataka are also ongoing. The new and upgraded facilities aim to strengthen India's naval capabilities in the indian ocean Region, particularly in response to China's growing presence.

An Indian Navy vessel, INS Tarkash, intercepted a ship and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotic drugs while patrolling the Western indian ocean. The substances were handed over to local authorities for investigation, highlighting the Navy's dedication to combating maritime crime.

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Sri Lanka to enhance defence ties and cooperation in energy, trade, and connectivity. The visit marks his first engagement with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka. China's growing influence in the indian ocean region has heightened the significance of closer India-Sri Lanka relations.

India signed its first ever MoU for defence cooperation with Sri Lanka to strengthen military ties. PM Narendra Modi's visit also saw agreements on energy inter-connectivity and developing Trincomalee as an energy hub. Additionally, India announced debt restructuring and reduced interest rates on loans, showing support for Sri Lanka’s economic and social development.

India, UAE, and Sri Lanka have signed an agreement to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub, during PM Modi’s visit to Colombo. The project will involve a multi-product pipeline and utilization of an old oil tank farm. The collaboration is seen as a strategic move to counter China’s growing influence in Sri Lanka.

Isro confirmed the successful re-entry of the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) into Earth’s atmosphere, impacting the indian ocean on April 4, 2025. Launched as part of the SpaDeX mission, POEM-4 hosted 24 payloads and undertook key experiments, enhancing debris mitigation and sustainable space operations as part of the Debris Free Space Mission (DFSM).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a 21-point plan at the Bimstec summit to boost regional connectivity, trade, and security. Proposals include a feasibility study on local currency trade and UPI connectivity. Modi emphasized enhanced security cooperation, disaster management, and the establishment of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre and Bimstec Chamber of Commerce.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Sri Lanka led to a tripartite agreement involving the UAE to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub. The project aims to enhance Sri Lanka's energy security and economy. This move counters China's significant investments in the region.

The Banaras Literature Festival, a three-day event, featured engaging discussion sessions with actor Jameel Khan and actress-singer Ila Arun sharing personal insights. Highlights included a captivating performance by the band indian ocean and exhibitions showcasing artwork from various artists, delighting the audience.

The French-made omni-role fighter jets have proven their mettle in various conflict zones around the world. Here’s how Rafale-M can boost the Indian Navy’s capability to counter China’s growing footprint in the indian ocean Region

In an unexpected move, President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on US trading partners, amusingly including the uninhabited Heard and McDonald Islands of Australia. This decision sparked online satire and drew a mixed reply from Australia, with the tariffs affecting other territories like Norfolk Island more severely.

The Trump administration implemented extensive tariffs globally, impacting markets and prompting international backlash. In a surprising twist, online penguin memes emerged after Trump included uninhabited Australian territories home to penguins in the tariffs. The move, part of a broader tariff hike, has spurred worldwide scrutiny and reactions.

US President Donald Trump’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs revealed discrepancies between the displayed charts and the White House annexure. The White House has now amended the annex to match the lower rates initially shown. The revised rates will impact numerous countries with differential tariffs being applied from April 5.

India's Cabinet Committee on Security has approved a nearly Rs 64,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for INS Vikrant. The agreement includes 22 single-seat and four twin-seat trainers, along with weapons and support. Delivery is expected within 37 to 65 months.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma condemned Bangladesh advisor Muhammad Yunus's claim of Bangladesh being the 'guardian' of the indian ocean for India's northeastern states. Yunus suggested Bangladesh as a key gateway for the region, inviting China to expand its presence.

White House has revised downward to 26% the reciprocal tariff on India from an initially published 27%. Several countries experienced their rates varying slightly before final rates were confirmed.

US President Donald Trump has approved the UK-Mauritius deal over the Chagos Islands, allowing Britain to transfer sovereignty while leasing Diego Garcia for a 99-year term. The deal is nearing finalisation after months of US discussions. Criticism surrounds the potential £18 billion cost and geopolitical implications. However, UK officials ensured no expense to US taxpayers.