VK Singh doubtful over HAL capability

PUNE: Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh on Wednesday raised questions over the "capability and condition" of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) amid the Congress' claim that the Modi government denied the defence PSU an offset contract in the Rafale deal. Talking to reporters here, the minister defended the Rafale deal, saying the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France was necessary to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities.