Balasore: The Odisha government relocated over 10,000 residents from 10 villages in preparation for a missile test scheduled for Wednesday, highlighting India’s expanding military capabilities and its implications for regional security. The relocation was conducted to clear the area surrounding the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, where the missile launch is set to occur.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is ready to conduct the missile test from launch pad number 3 at the ITR. The Balasore district administration has facilitated the temporary evacuation of 10,581 people from the nearby villages, located within a 3.5 km radius of the launch site.
This missile test has raised concerns among local villagers over inadequate compensation for the evacuation, and more broadly, criticisms have emerged about India’s role in fueling a regional arms race. The test is viewed by some critics as a step that could further destabilize the already tense security situation in South Asia.