The Prime Minister of India recently laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This gesture paid tribute to Ethiopia’s historic victory in the 1896 Battle of Adwa, a landmark event symbolising resistance against colonialism and the defence of national sovereignty.

About the Battle of Adwa

The Battle of Adwa was fought on 1 March 1896 near Adwa in present-day Ethiopia. It was the decisive and concluding battle of the First Italo–Ethiopian War (1895–1896).

Background of the Conflict

• The war arose from Italy’s imperial ambitions in Africa, as part of the wider “Scramble for Africa” by European colonial powers.

• Italy sought to bring Ethiopia (then known as Abyssinia) under its colonial control.

• Ethiopia resisted these attempts to preserve its political independence and sovereignty.

Forces Involved

• The Ethiopian Empire, led by Emperor Menelik II, fielded an army of around 100,000 soldiers.

• The Italian forces comprised approximately 17,000 troops.

• Despite inferior weaponry in some areas, Ethiopian forces displayed superior strategy, coordination, and mobilisation.

Outcome of the Battle

• The Ethiopian army inflicted a decisive defeat on the Italian forces.

• Italy was forced to abandon its attempt to colonise Ethiopia.

• The victory ensured Ethiopia’s continued independence at a time when most of Africa was under colonial rule.

Historical Significance

• The Battle of Adwa marked the first major defeat of a European colonial power by an African army during the colonial era.

• It became a powerful symbol of African resistance, unity, and self-determination.

• The victory inspired anti-colonial movements across Africa and the African diaspora.

Later Developments

• Ethiopia remained independent until 1935, when Italian dictator Benito Mussolini launched a renewed invasion, leading to the Second Italo–Ethiopian War.

• Initially, Ethiopia resisted largely on its own, with some support from anti-fascist volunteers from the United States and other countries.

• In 1940, Italy entered World War II against Great Britain.

• By 1941, British forces, along with Ethiopian resistance fighters, successfully expelled Italian forces from Ethiopia, restoring its independence.

Conclusion

The Battle of Adwa stands as a defining moment in world history, symbolising the successful defence of sovereignty against colonial aggression. The Indian Prime Minister’s tribute at the Adwa Victory Monument highlights the enduring global significance of this battle and reinforces shared values of freedom, resistance to oppression, and respect for historical struggles.

Google has achieved a major breakthrough in quantum computing through its Quantum Echoes experiment, significantly improving our understanding of quantum information behaviour. Although the experiment does not involve breaking encryption, it has reignited global discussions on Q-Day, encryption security, and the urgent need for quantum-safe systems.

Key Highlights

• Quantum Echoes is a fundamental physics experiment, not a cryptographic attack.

• It highlights the future risk of Q-Day and the threat of “harvest now, decrypt later”.

• A large technological gap still exists between present quantum computers and those capable of breaking encryption.

• Global institutions are accelerating the shift toward post-quantum cryptography (PQC).

• In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has advised early migration to quantum-safe systems.

What is Google’s Quantum Echoes Experiment?

The Quantum Echoes experiment is a fundamental physics study conducted on Google’s 65-qubit Willow quantum processor. Its objective is to observe how quantum information scrambles and then refocuses inside a complex, entangled quantum system, a process described as a quantum echo.

Scientific Technique Used

Researchers used an advanced measurement tool called the Out-of-Time-Order Correlator (OTOC). In this method, the quantum system is given a small disturbance, its evolution is then reversed, and scientists measure how much information returns as an echo. This helps quantify information scrambling, a key property of quantum systems.

Understanding the Concept of Q-Day

Q-Day refers to the future point when quantum computers become powerful enough to break public-key encryption systems. While this would not immediately expose all digital secrets, data encrypted today could be stored and decrypted later, a threat known as “harvest now, decrypt later”.

Why Current Encryption is Vulnerable

Most online communication relies on RSA-2048 encryption, which is based on the difficulty of factoring very large prime numbers. Quantum computers using Shor’s algorithm can factor these numbers exponentially faster than classical computers, making such encryption systems theoretically breakable.

Existing Technology Gap

To break RSA-2048 encryption, a quantum computer would require approximately 20 million physical qubits and about 8 hours of stable computation. Current quantum processors, such as Google’s Willow and IBM’s Condor, have only a few hundred noisy qubits. Truly fault-tolerant quantum computers with millions of logical qubits are still 5–8 years away.

Global Efforts Towards Quantum-Safe Security

The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has standardized post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms, including CRYSTALS-Kyber for encryption and CRYSTALS-Dilithium for digital signatures. Leading technology firms such as Google and Cloudflare are adopting hybrid encryption models that combine classical and quantum-resistant algorithms.

India’s Response to the Quantum Threat

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has urged financial institutions and organizations to transition to quantum-safe cryptographic systems before the end of the decade. However, most Indian digital infrastructure remains insufficiently protected against future quantum threats.

Significance of the Quantum Echoes Breakthrough

The Quantum Echoes experiment strengthens scientific understanding of quantum information dynamics, which is essential for building future fault-tolerant quantum computers. It also reinforces the urgency of upgrading cybersecurity frameworks today, even though Q-Day is not yet imminent.

Conclusion

Google’s Quantum Echoes breakthrough is a landmark achievement in quantum physics rather than an immediate cybersecurity threat. Nevertheless, it serves as a timely reminder that quantum progress is accelerating, and nations must prepare early by adopting post-quantum cryptographic systems to safeguard future digital security.

The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarthak), an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), recently made a port call at Chabahar, Iran. This visit reflects India’s expanding maritime diplomacy and its commitment to regional maritime security in the western Indian Ocean.

About ICGS Sarthak

ICGS Sarthak is a modern multi-mission Offshore Patrol Vessel built to carry out a wide range of coast guard and maritime security operations.

Construction and Commissioning

ICGS Sarthak is the fourth vessel in a series of five OPVs being constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited for the Indian Coast Guard. The ship was commissioned on 28 October 2021.

Design and Technical Specifications

The vessel is 105 metres long with a displacement of 2,450 tonnes. It is powered by two 9,100-kilowatt diesel engines, enabling it to achieve a maximum speed of 26 knots. The ship is equipped with advanced machinery, sensors, and weapon systems.

Advanced Onboard Systems

ICGS Sarthak features an Integrated Bridge System (IBS) and an Integrated Machinery Control System (IMCS). These systems allow centralized navigation, monitoring, and control, enabling the ship to operate efficiently as a command platform during missions.

Operational Roles and Capabilities

The ship is capable of conducting concurrent multi-mission operations. Its key roles include:

• Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.

• Combating maritime crimes such as smuggling and piracy.

• Protection and preservation of the marine environment.

• Enforcement of maritime laws within India’s maritime zones.

Base and Area of Operations

ICGS Sarthak is based at Porbandar in Gujarat and operates along India’s western seaboard. It functions under the operational and administrative control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (West).

Crew Composition

The ship has a crew strength of 11 officers and 110 personnel, ensuring sustained operational readiness at sea.

Significance of the Chabahar Port Call

The port call at Chabahar is significant as it strengthens India–Iran maritime engagement, enhances regional cooperation, and supports India’s strategic interests in the western Indian Ocean region. It also demonstrates the Indian Coast Guard’s role in maritime diplomacy beyond national waters.

Conclusion

ICGS Sarthak is a key asset of the Indian Coast Guard, combining advanced technology, multi-mission capability, and strategic reach. Its visit to Chabahar, Iran, underscores India’s growing maritime presence and commitment to secure, cooperative, and rules-based seas.

The Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development has informed the Lok Sabha that the BharatNet Project is being implemented in a phased manner to ensure broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) across the country.

About the BharatNet Project

The BharatNet Project is an ambitious initiative of the Government of India aimed at providing high-speed broadband connectivity to rural and remote areas. The project was approved in 2011 and is considered one of the largest rural telecom projects in the world. Initially, it targeted the connection of approximately 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across India.

Objectives of the Project

The primary objective of BharatNet is to provide unrestricted and non-discriminatory access to broadband connectivity for all telecom service providers. This enables mobile operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), cable TV operators, and content providers to deliver services such as e-health, e-education, e-governance, and digital services in rural India.

Implementing Agency

The project is being implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) incorporated in 2012 under the Companies Act, 1956. BBNL is responsible for the creation, operation, and maintenance of the BharatNet network.

Phased Implementation of BharatNet

In 2016, the Telecom Commission approved the execution of the project in three phases.

Phase I

Phase I focused on laying optical fibre cables to connect one lakh Gram Panchayats using existing infrastructure. This phase was completed in December 2017.

Phase II

Phase II expanded coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using a combination of optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies. This phase is being implemented with the support of state governments and private sector participation.

Phase III

Phase III aims to future-proof the BharatNet network by increasing bandwidth capacity, strengthening last-mile connectivity, and integrating 5G-ready infrastructure. The Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) forms an important component of this phase.

Amended BharatNet Program (ABP)

The Amended BharatNet Program was approved in August 2023 to improve the design, reliability, and sustainability of the network. It aims to provide optical fibre connectivity to 2.64 lakh Gram Panchayats using a ring topology, which enhances redundancy and reliability. It also provides optical fibre connectivity to non-Gram Panchayat villages on a demand basis. The program includes an IP-MPLS network, routers at Block and Gram Panchayat levels, 10 years of operation and maintenance, power backup facilities, and a Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS).

Significance of BharatNet

BharatNet plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide between urban and rural India. It strengthens Digital India initiatives, promotes e-governance, supports education and healthcare services, and enables economic development in rural areas.

Conclusion

The BharatNet Project is a key pillar of India’s digital infrastructure strategy. With its phased implementation and the introduction of the Amended BharatNet Program, the project aims to deliver reliable, scalable, and future-ready broadband connectivity to every Gram Panchayat, supporting inclusive and sustainable development across the country.

The Indian Navy has recently commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335, also known as the ‘Ospreys’, at INS Hansa, located at Vasco da Gama, Goa. This induction marks a significant enhancement of India’s naval aviation and maritime combat capability, particularly along the western seaboard.

About INS Hansa

INS Hansa is a major Indian Naval Air Station situated near Dabolim, Goa. It is the largest naval airbase in India and hosts several of the Navy’s premier air squadrons, playing a critical role in maritime air operations.

Location and Civil Aviation Role

The base includes a civil enclave, which operates as Dabolim Airport. This airport handles both domestic and international flights round the clock, making INS Hansa a unique example of joint military–civil aviation infrastructure.

Historical Background

INS Hansa was originally commissioned on 5 September 1961 at Sulur near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where it was co-located with the Indian Air Force’s Sulur Air Force Station. Following the liberation of Goa, the Indian Navy took over the Dabolim airfield in April 1962, and the naval air station was relocated to Dabolim in June 1964.

Capability Enhancements at INS Hansa

INS Hansa has seen several major capability additions over the years. In 2022, the Navy commissioned the second P-8I maritime patrol aircraft squadron, significantly strengthening shore-based fixed-wing maritime surveillance and anti-submarine operations. The Navy is also in the process of acquiring 15 MQ-9B Sea Guardian remotely piloted aircraft, which will provide persistent maritime surveillance and enhance Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).

Operational Significance

Although formally commissioned at Goa, the MH-60R helicopters have already demonstrated their operational effectiveness in Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25, and the Tri-Services Exercise 2025. This highlights their readiness and integration into frontline naval operations.

About the MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter

The MH-60R Seahawk is an all-weather, day-and-night capable, multi-role helicopter designed for operations from both naval ships and shore bases. It is one of the most advanced maritime helicopters in the world.

Role of INAS 335 (Ospreys)

INAS 335 is the second Indian Naval Air Squadron to operate the MH-60R Seahawk, following the commissioning of the first squadron at Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024. The squadron significantly enhances the Navy’s rotary-wing combat and support capabilities.

Operational Capabilities of MH-60R

The MH-60R is optimised for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), enabling the detection, tracking, and engagement of hostile submarines. It is also capable of Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) against enemy surface vessels. In addition, the helicopter supports Search and Rescue (SAR) and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions. It also performs Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), which improves logistics sustainment of naval forces at sea.

Strategic Importance

The induction of INAS 335 at INS Hansa substantially strengthens naval aviation capability on India’s western seaboard, a region of immense strategic, economic, and commercial significance. It enhances India’s ability to secure vital sea lanes and respond effectively to emerging maritime threats.

Conclusion

The commissioning of INAS 335 at INS Hansa marks a major milestone in the Indian Navy’s modernization of its maritime aviation forces. With advanced platforms like the MH-60R Seahawk, INS Hansa continues to serve as a critical hub for ensuring maritime security, surveillance, and operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region.