Modi's space weapon announcement struggles for lift-off

India's PM criticised for making televised address about missile test during election campaign

India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, has announced the successful test of the country's first space weapon, an anti-satellite missile, in a surprise televised address in the middle of the election campaign.

The dramatic nature of the announcement - during a caretaker period when governments are restricted in what they promote - drew criticism alongside praise for India's space scientists.