Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav 2025, celebrated in Agartala, Tripura, brought together tribal and Bengali communities in a vibrant display of culture and tradition. The festival honored Garia Puja and welcomed the Bengali New Year with rituals, performances, and communal harmony.

Key Highlights:

• Celebrated on April 21–22, 2025, at Swami Vivekananda Maidan in Agartala.
• Inaugurated by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha.
• Garia Puja: Tribal festival seeking blessings for prosperity, centered around the worship of Lord Garia.
• Borsho Boron: Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh) marked with cultural performances and traditional festivities.
• Featured tribal dances, music, food stalls, and art exhibitions.
• Promoted unity and cultural integration between tribal and Bengali communities.
• Organized by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, Tripura.

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group and Padma Bhushan awardee, was honoured with the prestigious Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2025 on April 24 in Mumbai.
The award was presented by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, recognizing Birla's significant contributions to India's growth and development.

Key Highlights:

• Kumar Mangalam Birla received the award at the Deenanath Mangeshkar Auditorium in Mumbai on the 83rd Memorial Day of Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar.
• Birla expressed pride in being associated with the legacy of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar and emphasized the honor’s special significance.
• The Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award was instituted in 2022 to honor individuals making exemplary contributions to the nation, society, and the arts.
• Previous recipients of the award include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, singer Asha Bhosale, and actor Amitabh Bachchan.
• The 2025 ceremony also honored Shraddha Kapoor, Sunil Shetty, Sachin Pilgaonkar, Sonali Kulkarni, and violinist Dr. N Rajam for their contributions to Indian cinema and classical music.
• Under Birla's leadership, the Aditya Birla Group has expanded to over 40 countries, with a 33-fold increase in turnover and more than 60 successful acquisitions.

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary founder of the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), was honored with the prestigious Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award in Kokrajhar, Assam. The award ceremony took place on April 18, 2025, coinciding with the 166th birth anniversary of Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma. 

This recognition celebrates his outstanding contributions to education and social empowerment, aligning with the values upheld by the award's namesake.

Key Points

• The award ceremony was held in Kokrajhar, Assam, to honor Dr. Samanta's contributions.
• Dr. Achyuta Samanta was conferred the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award 2025 for his contributions to education and social empowerment.
• The award was presented to Dr. Samanta, founder of KIIT and KISS, for his transformative work in education and philanthropy.
• Dr. Samanta founded KIIT and KISS, which provide high-quality education and free services to underprivileged tribal children.
• The award included a citation, memento, and Rs.1 lakh cash prize, recognizing Dr. Samanta's significant impact.
• Dr. Samanta donated the entire Rs.1 lakh cash prize back to the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Trust to support its initiatives.

About Achyuta Samanta

Dr. Achyuta Samanta is a renowned educationist and philanthropist, best known for establishing KIIT and KISS. KIIT is a globally recognized institution offering quality education, while KISS is the world's largest free residential educational institute for tribal children. His initiatives have empowered thousands of underprivileged students, providing them with opportunities for a better future. Dr. Samanta's dedication to education as a tool for social transformation has earned him national and international acclaim.?

About the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award

The Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award is an esteemed recognition instituted by the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Trust. It honors individuals who have made significant contributions to education, social empowerment, and community development. The award is named after Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma, a revered spiritual leader and social reformer of the Bodo community, often referred to as the "Mech Gandhi of Assam." 

On April 21, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration during the 17th Civil Services Day celebrations at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. 

Civil Services Day is celebrated annually on April 21 to honor the commitment and service of India’s civil servants. The awards recognize exceptional and innovative work by districts and government organizations across the country.

Key Highlights:

Award Categories: Recognitions were given under Holistic Development of Districts, Aspirational Blocks Programme, and Innovation categories.

Notable Recipients: Poshan Tracker Application – Honored for its innovative use of data in child nutrition.

Rama Block, Jhabua (MP) – Lauded for implementation of key rural development schemes.

Koraput District (Odisha) – Recognized for comprehensive district development.

Uttar Pradesh IAS Officers – Awarded for outstanding administrative leadership.

Award Package:

Includes a trophy, scroll, and Rs.20 lakh incentive for development projects.

Selection Process:

14 awardees were chosen from over 1,500 nominations through a rigorous evaluation process.

The event highlighted the role of civil servants in driving impactful governance and encouraged replication of best practices nationwide.

Renowned Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal will be posthumously honoured at the 25th edition of the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), scheduled to take place from June 20 to 22, 2025.

The tribute celebrates his remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and his influence on generations of filmmakers.

Key Points:

• NYIFF 2025 will honour Shyam Benegal’s legacy with a dedicated segment in the festival lineup.
• A 4K restored version of Benegal’s iconic 1976 film Manthan will be showcased. The restoration was recently premiered at Cannes Classics 2024.
• The festival will also feature screenings of Kennedy by Anurag Kashyap and Little Thomas by Kaushal Oza.
• The event will conclude with an after-party at Chatti, a trendy Manhattan venue known for Kerala cuisine.
• NYIFF is the oldest Indian film festival in North America, committed to promoting Indian independent cinema and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.

About Shyam Benegal 

Shyam Benegal was an Indian film director, screenwriter and documentary filmmaker. Often regarded as the pioneer of parallel cinema, he is widely considered as one of the greatest filmmakers post 1970s. He has received several accolades, including eighteen National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award and a Nandi Award.

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has appointed Dr. Ajay Bhushan Pandey as Vice President of Investment Solutions, effective April 2025. In this role, he will oversee three key departments: Sectors, Themes and Finance Solutions (STF); Sustainability and Fiduciary Solutions (SFD); and Portfolio Management (PMD) .

Key Highlights:

• Dr. Pandey brings over three decades of experience in public policy and infrastructure development.
• He previously served as India's Finance Secretary and CEO of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
• His leadership was instrumental in initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN).
• At AIIB, he will focus on enhancing investment strategies and promoting sustainable infrastructure projects across the region.

India is poised to sign a landmark defense agreement with France, acquiring 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for the Indian Navy. Valued at approximately Rs. 63,000 crore, this deal is set to enhance India's maritime defense capabilities, particularly for operations aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

Key Points

• The deal includes 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat Rafale-M jets, equipped with advanced avionics and weapons systems tailored for carrier-based operations.
• This acquisition will replace the aging MiG-29K fleet and strengthen the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Deliveries of the jets are expected to begin in 2028–29, with all aircraft set to be handed over by 2031–32.
• The signing ceremony will be attended by Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and French Ambassador Thierry Mathou, with both countries’ Defence Ministers participating remotely.

The deal highlights the growing defense collaboration between India and France and is crucial for enhancing India's maritime defense capabilities.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is conducting 'Exercise Aakraman' in the central sector, involving its Rafale and Su-30 fighter aircraft. The exercise focuses on complex ground attack missions and electronic warfare drills, simulating operations in diverse terrains, including plains and mountainous regions.

Key Points

• This drill comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack.
• The exercise aims to enhance the IAF's operational readiness and offensive capabilities.
• The exercise features Rafale and Su-30 fighter jets, known for their advanced technology and combat capabilities.
• Objective of the exercise is to simulate real combat scenarios, improving the IAF's preparedness for high-intensity warfare situations.

In response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the Border Security Force (BSF) has scaled down the daily Beating Retreat ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border and two other locations in Punjab.

Key Points:

• The BSF has suspended the customary handshake between Indian and Pakistani border guards during the retreat ceremony. ?
• The border gates at Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadki remained closed during the ceremony. ?
• The BSF stated that these measures reflect India's serious concern over cross-border hostilities and reaffirm that peace and provocation cannot coexist. ?
• The decision to scale down the ceremony is part of India's broader response to the Pahalgam attack, which included the closure of the Attari-Wagah border and suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. ?
• The scaled-down ceremonies continue with heightened security measures, including quick response teams and anti-drone technology. ?

In a significant demonstration of its indigenous defense capabilities, the Indian Navy successfully test-fired a medium-range surface-to-air missile (MR-SAM) from the INS Surat warship in the Arabian Sea. This milestone underscores India's commitment to enhancing its maritime defense infrastructure.

Key Points

• The Indian Navy conducted a successful test of the MR-SAM aboard the INS Surat, a guided-missile destroyer, in the Arabian Sea.
• The MR-SAM system is a product of India's indigenous defense development efforts, highlighting the nation's growing self-reliance in military technology.
• The test was conducted amidst heightened regional tensions, demonstrating India's readiness to bolster its defense posture.
• INS Surat, commissioned in January 2025, is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and advanced network-centric capabilities, with 75% indigenous content.
• The successful test enhances India's maritime defense capabilities, contributing to regional security and stability.

On April 22 and 23, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted its inaugural air show in Patna, Bihar, commemorating the birth anniversary of 1857 freedom fighter Veer Kunwar Singh. The two-day event, organized jointly by the Ministry of Defence and the Bihar government, featured captivating aerial displays by the IAF's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and the Akash Ganga skydiving unit.

Key Highlights:

• The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team performed high-precision maneuvers with nine Hawk-132 jets, while the Akash Ganga skydiving team honored Veer Kunwar Singh with a dramatic flag-bearing descent.
• Over 40 schools participated, and citizens gathered in large numbers along JP Ganga Path to witness the patriotic spectacle.
• Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy CMs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha were in attendance, reinforcing the cultural and historical importance of the event.
• Patna was designated a no-fly zone during the event, with drones banned to ensure public safety.
• The show served both as a tribute to a national hero and a display of IAF’s aerial prowess, inspiring patriotism and awareness among the youth.

This event symbolized more than just aviation skills—it celebrated heritage, valor, and the power of remembrance.

On April 21, 2025, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) was officially inaugurated at Ballard Pier by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. This state-of-the-art facility, developed under the Cruise Bharat Mission, positions Mumbai as a premier hub for global cruise tourism.

Key Features:

• MICT is designed to handle up to 1 million passengers annually, accommodating approximately 10,000–15,000 travelers daily. 
• The terminal can simultaneously dock five cruise ships, each up to 300 meters in length with an 11-meter draft. 
• Spanning over 415,000 square feet, MICT features 72 check-in and immigration counters, 22 elevators, 10 escalators, and parking space for over 300 vehicles. 
• The terminal boasts maritime-inspired architecture with rose gold accents and wave-shaped seating, reflecting Mumbai's coastal heritage. 
• Commercial Spaces: Upper floors are designated for sea-view cafes, retail stores, and dining zones, enhancing the terminal's appeal as a lifestyle destination. 

Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent landed at Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to partook in Exercise Desert Flag-10, according to an official statement by the Ministry of Defence.

Key Points

• IAF participates in the premier multinational air combat exercise with its largest contingent so far, fielding MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft.
• The exercise is scheduled to be held between April 21 - May 8, 2025.
• The exercise aims to undertake complex and diverse fighter engagements, with the exchange of operational knowledge and best practices with some of the most capable Air Forces in the world.
• Participation in such exercises enhances mutual understanding and interoperability and strengthens military cooperation among the participating nations. 

What is Exercise Desert Flag?

Exercise Desert Flag is a multinational exercise being hosted by the UAE Air Force, with participating contingents from the Air Forces of Australia, Bahrain, France, Germany, Qatar Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Korea, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, and the United States in addition to the Indian Air Force.  

The Indian Navy’s warship INS Sunayna has embarked on a strategic visit to Mauritius as part of India's commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.  The Ship has docked at Nacala Port in Mozambique on Thursday, April 17, 2025. 

This visit highlights India's proactive naval engagement in East Africa and island nations to ensure regional peace and capacity-building. The visit underlines New Delhi’s efforts to foster strong naval diplomacy and regional security partnerships.

Key Highlights:

• INS Sunayna is undertaking this visit to boost defense cooperation and reinforce maritime security partnerships with Mauritius.
• During its stay, the ship will engage in various activities including joint naval exercises, professional exchanges, and community outreach programs.
• The visit aims to support Mauritius in strengthening its maritime capabilities through training interactions and technical support.
• The mission reflects India’s broader SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, which emphasizes regional cooperation and mutual trust.
• The deployment of INS Sunayna showcases the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties between India and Mauritius.
• The Indian Navy’s presence in Mauritius contributes to maintaining peace, stability, and rule-based order in the Indian Ocean Region.

On April 21, 2025, the Indian government imposed a 12% provisional safeguard duty on certain flat steel imports for a period of 200 days. This measure aims to shield domestic steel producers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, from a surge in low-priced imports, primarily originating from China, South Korea, and Japan.

Key Points

India's Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system has achieved significant success in enhancing welfare delivery efficiency. According to a report by the Ministry of Finance, DBT has saved ?3.48 lakh crore by minimizing leakages and ensuring that subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries.

Key Highlights:

• DBT has saved Rs.3.48 lakh crore by eliminating middlemen and reducing duplication in welfare schemes.
• The number of beneficiaries has increased from 11 crore in 2013 to 176 crore, reflecting the system's broader reach.
• Subsidy allocations as a percentage of total government expenditure have decreased from 16% to 9%, indicating improved fiscal efficiency.
• The Welfare Efficiency Index has risen from 0.32 in 2014 to 0.91 in 2023, demonstrating better targeting and reduced wastage.

The Krishna River, a lifeline for southern India, is facing a severe drought, causing widespread agricultural losses, drinking water shortages, and escalating inter-state disputes over water sharing.

Key Points

• Rising temperatures have dried up the Krishna River earlier than usual, devastating crops in regions like Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Yadgir.
• Farmers are now reliant on government water tankers, which are arriving only once every 15 days.
• Karnataka has officially requested Maharashtra to release water from the Koyna and Varna reservoirs.
• Water-sharing tensions have intensified between Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
• Reservoirs in the Krishna Valley are less than half full, forcing authorities to prioritize drinking water supply.
• Climate change is expected to worsen drought frequency and intensity in the Krishna basin, threatening long-term water security.

On April 24, 2025, Union Health Minister JP Nadda launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign with the goal of eliminating both diseases from India by 2026.

The initiative is part of World Immunization Week and aims to strengthen vaccination coverage across the country.

Key Points:

• The campaign was launched virtually by Union Health Minister JP Nadda on April 24, 2025.
• It aims to eliminate measles and rubella from India by the year 2026.
• The initiative is part of the broader Universal Immunisation Programme, which offers two free MR vaccine doses at 9–12 and 16–24 months of age.
• As of 2024–25, MR vaccine coverage in India reached 93.7% (first dose) and 92.2% (second dose).
• From January to March 2025, 332 districts reported zero measles cases, and 487 districts had zero rubella cases.
• Awareness efforts include multilingual IEC materials such as posters, radio jingles, and educational films.

National Panchayati Raj Day is observed every year on April 24th to commemorate the constitutional recognition of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India.

It marks a significant step towards decentralization and strengthening grassroots democracy, empowering local governance bodies to participate directly in decision-making and development activities.

The main function will be organized in the august presence of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat, Jhanjharpur Block in  Madhubani District of Bihar. The Prime Minister will address Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Gram Sabhas across the country and also confer Special Category National Panchayat Awards 2025 on this occasion. 

Key Points:

• National Panchayati Raj Day is celebrated annually on April 24th to honor the establishment of Panchayati Raj through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992.
• The 73rd Amendment came into force in 1993, providing constitutional status to local self-governments in rural India.
• The day highlights the importance of empowering rural local bodies to ensure inclusive development and participatory democracy.
• In 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Panchayat leaders and emphasized the role of Panchayats in achieving the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj organized national-level programs showcasing innovations and best practices from various Panchayats.
• The celebration reiterates the government's commitment to strengthening democracy at the grassroots and achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) through empowered Panchayats.

World Malaria Day 2025, observed on April 25, focuses on raising awareness about malaria and the need for renewed efforts to eliminate the disease.

The theme for 2025, “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” highlights the importance of reinvestment, innovation, and collective action to combat malaria globally.

Key Points:

Theme: The theme for World Malaria Day 2025 is “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” emphasizing the need for renewed global efforts.

Significance: The day serves to raise awareness about malaria and mobilize efforts to eliminate it by highlighting the importance of sustained investment, innovation, and political will.

Global Impact: In 2023, there were approximately 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 deaths worldwide, with the majority occurring in the WHO African Region.

Focus Areas: The theme calls for reinvestment in proven interventions, reimagining strategies for malaria control, and reigniting collective action across communities and governments.

On April 22, 2025, the world commemorated the 55th anniversary of Earth Day under the theme "Our Power, Our Planet," emphasizing the global push towards renewable energy and environmental sustainability.?

Key Highlights:

• The 2025 Earth Day theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," calls for a global commitment to triple renewable energy generation by 2030, uniting communities, governments, and industries in the fight against climate change. ?
• Over a billion individuals across 192 countries participated in various activities, including tree planting, clean-up drives, educational workshops, and advocacy campaigns, showcasing a collective effort to protect the environment. ?
• In Central Ohio, community events focused on environmental sustainability and conservation, featuring volunteering opportunities with Green Columbus, tree planting at Quarry Trails Metro Park, educational plant walks at Franklin Park Conservatory, and a weekend celebration at the Columbus Zoo. ?
• Earth Day 2025 also served as a moment of reflection on the environmental movement's progress and the need for inclusivity, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic issues and ensuring that marginalized communities are integral to environmental justice efforts. ?

National Civil Services Day is observed every year on April 21 to celebrate the dedication and contributions of civil servants in India's development.

The day commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s iconic 1947 address to IAS officers, where he called them the “steel frame of India.”

This year's theme “Empowering Citizens through Efficient and Transparent Governance,” highlights the focus on citizen-centric, accountable administration. 

Key Highlights

• Recognizes civil servants’ role in governance, policy implementation, and public service.
• Prime Minister’s Awards are presented for excellence in public administration.
• Nationwide events such as seminars, discussions, and exhibitions are held.

History

The date commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s historic address on April 21, 1947, to the first batch of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers at Metcalfe House, New Delhi. In his speech, he described civil servants as the “steel frame of India”, crucial to the unity and integrity of the country. The Government of India officially began observing this day in 2006.

The World Bank has cut India’s GDP growth forecast for the financial year 2025-26 to 6.3%, down from 6.7% projected earlier. The update was released as part of the Bank’s latest South Asia Development Update.

The revision follows concerns over global economic uncertainty and its likely impact on investment and trade.

Comparative Forecasts

• International Monetary Fund (IMF): The IMF also reduced India's growth projection for FY26 to 6.2%, down from its earlier estimate of 6.5%. 
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI): The RBI's estimate remains at 6.5% growth for FY26, slightly higher than the projections by the World Bank and IMF. 

Regional Context

The World Bank's report indicates that growth projections have been broadly reduced across South Asia, with the region expected to grow at 5.8% in 2025. This reflects a broader trend of economic challenges in the region, influenced by global headwinds and domestic vulnerabilities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced India's ambitious target to increase steel production capacity to 300 million tons by 2030, positioning the sector as a cornerstone of the nation's economic growth and infrastructure development.

Key Points:

• India's steel production capacity is targeted to reach 300 million tons by 2030, up from 179 million tons in FY24. ?
• The government aims to boost per capita steel consumption from 98 kg to 160 kg by 2030. ?
• Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik expressed confidence in achieving the 300 million tons capacity goal. ?
• To support this growth, coking coal imports are expected to rise from 58 million tons to 160 million tons by 2030. ?
• The government has implemented a temporary 12% tariff on certain steel imports to protect the domestic industry. ?
• Prime Minister Modi emphasized the need for the steel industry to adopt new technologies and processes to achieve these targets. ?

Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS), a joint venture between Air India and Singapore-based SATS Ltd, has inaugurated the AISATS BLR Logistics Park at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), Bengaluru. Developed with an investment of Rs.200 crore, this 8-acre facility is among the largest on-airport logistics parks in South India.

Key Highlights:

• The logistics park comprises three distinct buildings, including a two-level main warehouse offering over 240,000 sq. ft. of Grade A space designed for freight forwarders, express courier operators, and logistics firms. ?
• An 11,000 sq. ft. public bonded warehouse allows importers and OEMs to securely store and manage their cargo shipments under Customs bond. ?
• A 24,000 sq. ft. office block is dedicated to Customs House Agents, logistics companies, and support services. ?
• The facility includes shared general warehouse space and cold storage on a pay-per-use basis, catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). ?
• The AISATS will provide trucking services to ensure economical and seamless cargo movement between the logistics park and the airport's cargo terminals, located 3 km apart. ? ?

Kempegowda International Airport

Kempegowda International Airport, India's third-busiest airport, handles 40% of South India's air cargo volumes and recorded its highest-ever annual cargo tonnage of 502,480 metric tonnes in FY25. The airport aims to handle 1 million metric tonnes of cargo annually by 2030. ?
This development is expected to bolster Bengaluru's position as a major logistics and trade hub, providing world-class infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies to facilitate efficient cargo movement and drive growth for local businesses. ?

President Droupadi Murmu arrived at Vatican City to represent India at the state funeral of Pope Francis. Accompanied by senior ministers, she paid homage to the late Pope and will attend the funeral ceremony, which brings together global leaders and dignitaries to honor Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion and service.

Key Points:

• President Droupadi Murmu has reached Vatican City to attend the funeral of Pope Francis.
• She is accompanied by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State George Kurian, and Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza.
• President Murmu paid tribute to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, where his body was laid in state.
• The funeral ceremony is scheduled for April 26, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square with attendance from world leaders.
• The Government of India declared a day of state mourning on April 26, flying the national flag at half-mast.
• Pope Francis, admired globally for his humility and advocacy for the marginalized, passed away at the age of 88.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed heartfelt condolences, praising Pope Francis’s deep affection for humanity and India.

Pakistan has issued a maritime warning for a surface-to-surface missile test in the Arabian Sea near Karachi between April 24–25, 2025. The move comes amid rising tensions with India following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Points:

• The missile test will take place in Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone, close to the Karachi coast.
• It follows India's diplomatic steps in response to the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people.
• India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and SAARC visa exemptions for Pakistani nationals.
• Intelligence agencies in India are monitoring the situation closely as a potential provocation.
• The terror attack was linked to Pakistan-backed group Lashkar-e-Taiba via its proxy, TRF.

On April 23, 2025, in a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the Secretary General of the Muslim World League (MWL), during his visit to Jeddah. Saudi Arabia.

The meeting aimed to promote interfaith dialogue, strengthen India-Saudi Arabia ties, and foster global peace through cooperation and understanding.

Key Highlights:

• PM Modi and Dr. Al-Issa discussed promoting global peace and understanding between religions.
• He strongly condemned the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and offered deepest condolences on the innocent lives lost.
• Dr. Al-Issa appreciated India’s cultural diversity and its inclusive approach toward all communities.
• Both leaders emphasized cooperation against terrorism and extremism.
• The meeting boosts India’s engagement with the Islamic world, especially with influential bodies like the MWL.
• They stressed empowering youth through education and intercultural dialogue.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance arrived in India on Monday, April 21, 2025, for a four-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing trade negotiations between the two nations. 

Key Highlights

• Vice President Vance met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in defense, emerging technologies, climate action, and regional security.
• Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific. The leaders explored avenues to deepen military-to-military ties and co-development of defense technologies.
• Talks also emphasized strengthening economic relations. VP Vance promoted increased U.S. investment in India’s tech and manufacturing sectors, encouraging joint ventures and supply chain resilience.
• With a focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductor development, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation through tech exchanges and joint R&D initiatives.
• Vice President Vance’s visit signals continuity in U.S. foreign policy toward India, reinforcing the two countries' shared democratic values and mutual strategic interests. It also sets the stage for deeper collaboration across sectors vital to global stability and growth in the 21st century.
• The visit marks a new chapter in U.S.-India relations, reaffirming both nations' roles as key partners in shaping a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific future.

Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, a distinguished figure in India’s space exploration history, passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 84. His contributions to India's space program, particularly during his tenure as the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), revolutionized the country's space exploration capabilities. Dr. Kasturirangan also played a pivotal role in the creation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, significantly influencing India's educational landscape.

Key Points:

• Pioneering Space Scientist: Dr. Kasturirangan served as the Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003, overseeing key milestones such as the successful launch of India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, and the development of key launch vehicles like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: He was instrumental in the drafting of the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to make India’s education system more holistic, inclusive, and multidisciplinary. His work on NEP has helped shape the educational framework for the future generations of India.
• Awards and Recognition: Dr. Kasturirangan was honored with India’s highest civilian awards, including the Padma Shri (1982), Padma Bhushan (1992), and Padma Vibhushan (2000), for his exceptional contributions to space science and national development.
• Role in Academia: He was the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Central University of Rajasthan and served as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009, further influencing both the academic and policy spheres.
• Legacy in Space: Under his leadership, ISRO made substantial advances, including the successful launch of key satellites and the development of indigenous space technologies, cementing India’s place as a leading player in global space exploration.

About Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan

Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, born on October 24, 1940, in Kerala, was a renowned astrophysicist and the former Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003. He played a pivotal role in India’s space advancements, including leading the Chandrayaan-1 mission and developing key space launch vehicles like PSLV and GSLV. Dr. Kasturirangan also chaired the committee that created the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, shaping India’s education system. He was honored with prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for his contributions. His passing on April 25, 2025, marks the loss of a visionary leader who significantly impacted both India’s space exploration and educational reforms.

Campbell Wilson, the CEO and Managing Director of Air India, has announced his decision to step down as Chairman of Air India Express, the airline's low-cost subsidiary.

This move is part of a broader restructuring within the Tata Group's airline operations to enhance coordination and operational synergy between Air India and Air India Express.?

Key Points

• Nipun Aggarwal, the current Chief Commercial Officer of Air India, will take over as the Chairman of Air India Express.
• Captain Basil Kwauk, Air India's Chief Operations Officer, will replace Wilson on the Air India Express board, pending regulatory approvals.
• The leadership change is part of a strategy to improve coordination and operational synergy between Air India and Air India Express.
• Wilson will continue in his role as CEO and Managing Director of Air India, overseeing the performance of the Air India Group.

Muttayil Govinda Sankara Narayanan, renowned as M.G.S. Narayanan, passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 92. He was a distinguished historian who made significant contributions to the study of Kerala's ancient history, temple inscriptions, and social transformations.

Narayanan served as the Member Secretary and later Chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) and authored over 200 scholarly works, leaving a lasting impact on historical research in India.

Key Points

• He was born on August 20, 1932, in Ponnani, Kerala, and was widely regarded as a distinguished historian and educator.
• Narayanan authored over 200 books and articles, including 112 research papers published in national and international journals.
• He served as the Member Secretary and later Chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), contributing significantly to the development of historical research in India.
• Narayanan was affiliated with the University of Calicut, where he played a vital role in shaping the university’s academic and research direction.
• His research focused on Kerala’s ancient history, temple inscriptions, Brahmin settlements, and the social transformations in South India.
• Narayanan's scholarly work has had a profound influence on the study of South Indian history and has established a strong academic tradition in the field.

Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has been appointed as the first Indian brand ambassador for Dreame Technology, a global leader in smart home appliances. This collaboration aims to enhance Dreame's presence in the Indian market by promoting its range of intelligent cleaning and personal care solutions.

Key Points

• Kriti Sanon becomes Dreame Technology's first Indian brand ambassador, promoting smart home and personal care products.
• The partnership aims to boost Dreame’s presence in India, with plans to expand from 165 to 200 cities.
• Kriti will feature in Dreame’s digital, print, and television campaigns to strengthen brand visibility.
• Dreame plans to launch eight new products in India this year to meet rising demand for smart living solutions.

Bollywood actress Ananya Panday has been appointed as Chanel’s first-ever Indian brand ambassador, marking a historic moment in the luxury fashion industry.

The announcement was made on April 16, 2025, underscoring India's growing influence in global fashion.

Key Highlights:

• Ananya Panday is the first Indian to be named as Chanel's brand ambassador. 
• The appointment follows her attendance at Chanel's Spring/Summer 2025 show in Paris, fueling speculations about her association with the brand. 
• Chanel expressed that Ananya's values resonate with the brand, making her the perfect choice to represent the house. ?
• Ananya shared her excitement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent Chanel as its first-ever Indian brand ambassador. 

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and its first Latin American pontiff, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

The Government of India has declared a three-day State Mourning as a mark of respect to the Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, Pope Francis.

His death, resulting from a stroke followed by heart failure, occurred at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. Known for his humility and progressive reforms, his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from around the world. 

Key Points:

• Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. 
• He was the first Jesuit and first Latin American to serve as pope, elected in 2013. 
• His papacy emphasized social justice, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity within the Church. 
• The Vatican announced that his funeral will be held on April 26, 2025, at St. Peter's Basilica, with burial at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, honoring his wish for a modest interment. 
• A conclave to elect his successor is expected to convene between May 6 and May 12, 2025. 

Pope Francis's legacy as a humble and transformative leader continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has completed the breakthrough of India’s longest railway tunnel—Tunnel No. 8—on the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line, significantly enhancing connectivity in the Himalayan region.

Key Points

• The tunnel spans 14.57 kilometers between Devprayag and Janasu, making it India’s longest railway tunnel.
• The breakthrough was achieved using ‘Shakti,’ a 9.11-meter diameter Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), the largest deployed in the Himalayas.
• 10.4 km of the tunnel was built using TBM; the remaining 4.11 km was constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM).
• The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line is a 125 km project by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) to improve access across five Himalayan districts.
• The new line is expected to cut travel time from 7 hours to 2 hours, benefiting Char Dham pilgrims and boosting regional tourism.
• Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami praised the engineering milestone and its socio-economic impact.
• L&T is executing Packages 2 and 4 of the project, which include tunnel construction, bridges, and embankments.

India has made significant progress in reducing poverty over the past decade. According to a World Bank report, extreme poverty decreased from 16.2% in 2011–12 to 2.3% in 2022–23, lifting approximately 171 million people above the poverty line. 

Key Highlights:

• Rural and Urban Poverty Reduction: Rural poverty declined from 18.4% to 2.8%, while urban poverty decreased from 10.7% to 1.1%, narrowing the rural-urban poverty gap from 7.7 to 1.7 percentage points. 
• Transition to Lower-Middle-Income Status: Using the $3.65 per day poverty line, poverty rates dropped from 61.8% to 28.1%, lifting 378 million people out of poverty. Rural poverty decreased from 69% to 32.5%, and urban poverty from 43.5% to 17.2%. 
• Impact of Major States: In 2011–12, the five most populous states—Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh—accounted for 65% of India’s extreme poor. By 2022–23, these states contributed to two-thirds of the overall decline in extreme poverty but still represented 54% of the extremely poor population. 
• Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): The MPI, reflecting non-monetary poverty, decreased from 53.8% in 2005–06 to 16.4% by 2019–21, and further to 15.5% in 2022–23, indicating substantial progress in addressing various poverty dimensions beyond income. 
• Income Inequality Trends: While the consumption-based Gini index improved from 28.8 in 2011–12 to 25.5 in 2022–23, the World Inequality Database reported rising income inequality, with the Gini index for income increasing from 52 in 2004 to 62 in 2023. This suggests that wage gaps remain, with the top 10% earning 13 times more than the bottom 10% in 2023–24. 
• Employment Growth: Employment growth has outpaced the working-age population since 2021–22. Urban unemployment fell to 6.6% in the first quarter of FY24/25, the lowest since 2017–18. Notably, there has been a shift of male workers from rural to urban areas, while female employment in agriculture has increased. 

These statistics highlight India's substantial progress in poverty reduction between 2011 and 2023, while also underscoring ongoing challenges related to income inequality and employment.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has capped penalties for violations under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) at Rs. 2 lakh. This change aims to reduce the financial burden on individuals and businesses, replacing the previous system where penalties were calculated as a percentage of the violation amount.

Key Points

New Penalty Structure:

Previously, penalties for FEMA violations ranged from 0.30% to 0.75% of the violation amount. The RBI's new cap limits the maximum penalty to ?2 lakh per violation, regardless of the contravention's value. ?

Types of Violations Affected:

• The capped penalty applies to various contraventions, including:
• Failure to reinvest proceeds from the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) within 180 days.
• Exports not completed within one year of receiving advance payments.
• Gifting high-value shares to non-resident relatives without prior RBI approval.
• Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) sales without a valuation report.
• Non-repatriation of ODI sale proceeds within 90 days.
• Purchasing agricultural property by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).?

Rationale Behind the Decision:

The RBI stated that the cap would be applied based on the nature of the contravention, exceptional circumstances, and in the wider public interest. This approach aims to provide a more predictable and manageable compliance environment. ?

The Government of India has extended the tenure of T. Rabi Sankar as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for one more year, effective from May 3, 2025.

• This is his second one-year extension, following his initial appointment in May 2021 for a three-year term.
• The reappointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Sankar, a career central banker, joined the RBI in 1990 and has since held key positions across departments including debt management, foreign exchange, and fintech.
• During his tenure as Deputy Governor, he has played a significant role in the RBI’s digital currency initiatives, regulatory reforms, and modernization of the payment infrastructure.
• His continued presence is expected to support policy continuity and strengthen the central bank’s strategic goals.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated all banks in India to transition their official websites to the secure and exclusive '.bank.in' domain by October 31, 2025. This initiative is aimed at improving cybersecurity and protecting consumers from digital frauds.

Key Points

• All banks must complete the transition to the '.bank.in' domain by October 31, 2025.
• This move is designed to strengthen online security, prevent phishing attacks, and improve customer confidence in digital banking platforms.
• Only verified, licensed banks will be permitted to use '.bank.in', providing an added layer of legitimacy and trust.
• The IDRBT has been designated as the sole registrar responsible for managing domain registration and compliance.

What is '.bank.in'?

The .bank.in domain is a restricted, verified, and secure domain suffix that is exclusively reserved for licensed banks in India. Managed by the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), it ensures that only authorized banking institutions can register and use it, thus helping to distinguish genuine banking websites from fake or malicious ones.

Russia and China have officially strengthened their partnership to build a joint lunar research station. Aiming for completion by 2035, this project highlights a significant shift in global space alliances and ambitions beyond Earth.

Key Highlights:

• Russia’s Roscosmos and China’s CNSA (China National Space Administration) have agreed to jointly develop the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), targeting completion by 2035.
• The station will be located near the Moon’s south pole, an area believed to hold water ice and vital resources.
• The ILRS will focus on long-term scientific studies in lunar geology, astronomy, and life sciences.
• Both nations are inviting international partners to collaborate on the project.
• Analysts view this initiative as a strategic counterbalance to NASA’s Artemis program, reflecting a shift in global space leadership.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a 1,000-second ground test of an active-cooled scramjet engine, marking a major advancement in India's hypersonic technology development.

Key Points:

• DRDO successfully carried out a 1,000-second test of the active-cooled scramjet engine.
• The test marks a crucial milestone in India's efforts to develop hypersonic propulsion technology.
• The scramjet engine is essential for future reusable space launch systems and hypersonic cruise missiles.
• Active cooling technology used in the engine helps manage the extreme heat generated at hypersonic speeds.
• This achievement places India among the few countries working towards mastering scramjet technology.
• The breakthrough supports India’s broader ambitions in aerospace and defense innovation.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force is poised to become the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant milestone in India's space exploration journey.

Scheduled for late May 2025, Shukla will be part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a private spaceflight operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX.

Highlights

• Shukla has undergone extensive astronaut training in India, Russia, and the United States, including simulation exercises, survival training, and spacecraft systems operations.
• The mission is expected to last around 10 days and will involve scientific experiments and international collaboration aboard the ISS.
• The Axiom Mission 4 will be launched aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft from Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

About Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla 

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a decorated officer in the Indian Air Force with extensive experience in aviation and flight operations. Known for his discipline, technical proficiency, and leadership, he was selected as part of India’s astronaut training program and has since undergone rigorous international training. His inclusion in the Axiom Mission 4 underscores his expertise and India’s growing role in global space missions.

NASA astronaut Don Pettit marked a unique milestone on April 20, 2025, celebrating his 70th birthday by returning to Earth after a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This achievement makes him the oldest active-duty astronaut in NASA's history to complete a spaceflight.

Key Points

• Pettit, along with Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, landed safely in Kazakhstan aboard the Soyuz MS-26 capsule at 6:20 a.m. local time.
• Their mission spanned 220 days, during which they orbited Earth 3,520 times and traveled approximately 93.3 million miles.
• This mission marked Pettit's fourth spaceflight, bringing his total time in space to over 590 days.
• While he is NASA's oldest active astronaut, the record for the oldest person in space remains with John Glenn, who flew at age 77 in 1998.

On April 22, 2025, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Microsoft announced the launch of the 'AI Careers for Women' initiative.

This collaborative program aims to empower 20,000 women from Tier-II and Tier-III towns across six Indian states by providing them with industry-aligned Artificial Intelligence (AI) training.

The 'AI Careers for Women' initiative represents a significant step toward bridging the gender gap in emerging technologies and fostering inclusive growth in India's digital economy.?

Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, emphasized the significance of the initiative.

Key Point

• The initiative will train 20,000 women in AI across six Indian states, focusing on Tier-II and Tier-III towns.
• A 240-hour AI curriculum will be delivered through 30 Centres of Excellence and 150 partner colleges.
• Training includes real-world projects, internships, and job placement support.
• The program aligns with the National Education Policy, offering credit-linked AI learning.
• Edunet Foundation is the implementation partner, ensuring collaborative execution.

On April 20, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the second autonomous docking of its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites, SDX-01 and SDX-02. This accomplishment underscores India's growing capabilities in advanced space technologies.

Highlights

• On April 20, 2025, ISRO completed its second autonomous docking of satellites SDX-01 and SDX-02 under the SpaDeX mission.
• A successful test followed on April 21, transferring power from one satellite to another to run a heater for 4 minutes.
• The mission began on December 30, 2024, placing both satellites in a 475 km orbit.
• Used the Bharatiya Docking System, featuring sensors, communication links, and autonomous intelligence.
• Paves the way for India's space station ambitions and supports the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program.
• India becomes the 4th country after the US, Russia, and China to demonstrate autonomous satellite docking.

India showcased its digital prowess at GITEX Africa 2025, held from April 14 to 16 in Marrakesh, Morocco. Led by Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, India's participation emphasized its commitment to global digital collaboration and innovation.

Key Highlights:

• India presented its scalable Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives, including Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), and DIKSHA, highlighting their adaptability for developing nations.
• Minister Chaudhary engaged in discussions on India’s experience in building inclusive, open-source digital systems, positioning the country as a catalyst for digital transformation in other developing economies.
• India’s emergence as a hub for AI talent was underscored, with a reported 33.39% year-on-year growth in AI hiring, reflecting the nation’s focus on nurturing an AI-driven ecosystem.
• Bilateral meetings with African ministers explored collaborations in AI, research, and capacity building, aiming to leverage India’s digital frameworks for inclusive growth across the continent.

India's active engagement at GITEX Africa 2025 reaffirmed its role as a global leader in digital innovation and skilling, offering adaptable solutions for nations pursuing resilient and inclusive digital economies.

In response to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken five major decisions aimed at intensifying diplomatic and strategic pressure on Pakistan.

These actions mark a significant escalation in India’s counter-terrorism response and reflect a hardening of its national security posture.

Key Points:

• India has suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, halting water-sharing cooperation.
• The Integrated Check Post at Attari, the key border crossing between India and Pakistan, has been closed.
• India has revoked the SAARC Visa Exemption for Pakistani nationals and asked those under it to leave within 48 hours.
• Pakistan’s Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in India have been expelled, and India will recall its own military advisors from Islamabad.
• Both countries will reduce diplomatic staff strength at their High Commissions from 55 to 30 personnel by May 1, 2025.

Five militants, armed with AK-47s and M4 carbines, targeted a group of tourists, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals and injuring over 20 others in Baisaran Valley, near the tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Points

• The assailants, reportedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed the attack .
• The Indian government swiftly condemned the attack and vowed severe retaliation against those responsible.
• India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a key water-sharing agreement with Pakistan, and expelled Pakistani diplomats.
• Pakistan, denying involvement, retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft.
• These actions have significantly escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy emerged victorious at the 2025 Pune FIDE Women's Grand Prix, edging out China's Zhu Jiner on tiebreaks after both concluded the tournament with 7 points out of 9.

This win propels Humpy to second place in the overall Grand Prix standings, enhancing her prospects for the 2026 Women's Candidates Tournament.

Key Points:

• Koneru Humpy defeated Bulgaria's IM Nurgyul Salimova in the final round, securing an unbeaten score of 7/9. 
• Both Humpy and China's Zhu Jiner finished with equal points, but Humpy clinched the title based on superior tiebreaks. 
• This victory awards Humpy 117.5 Grand Prix points, elevating her to second place in the overall standings behind Russia's Aleksandra Goryachkina. 
• The Pune leg was the fifth of six events in the 2024–25 FIDE Women's Grand Prix series, held from April 14 to 23. 
• Indian IM Divya Deshmukh secured third place with 5.5 points, ahead of GM Harika Dronavalli and IM Polina Shuvalova. 
• The top two players in the Grand Prix series will qualify for the 2026 Women's Candidates Tournament, which determines the challenger for the World Championship. 

Rohit Sharma has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the second Indian cricketer to surpass 12,000 runs in T20 cricket, following Virat Kohli. He reached this landmark during the IPL 2025 match between Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Key Points

Milestone Achievement:
Rohit Sharma reached the 12,000-run mark in T20 cricket during the IPL 2025 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, becoming the second Indian and eighth overall to achieve this feat. ?

Performance in the Match:
He scored a commanding 70 runs off 46 balls, including eight fours and three sixes, contributing to Mumbai Indians' seven-wicket victory. ?

Career Statistics:
As of this match, Rohit has accumulated 12,058 runs in 456 T20 matches at an average of 30.91, with eight centuries and 80 half-centuries. ?

Elite Company:
Other players who have surpassed 12,000 T20 runs include Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, David Warner, Alex Hales, and Jos Buttler. 

Indian shooter Simranpreet Kaur delivered a stellar performance at the 2025 Shooting World Cup in Lima, Peru, securing the silver medal in the women's 25m sports pistol event.

Her remarkable achievement helped India secure a third-place finish in the overall medal tally, marking another significant milestone in Indian shooting sports.

Key Highlights:

• Impressive Silver Medal: Simranpreet Kaur demonstrated exceptional skill and precision, scoring 38 in the final round of the women's 25m sports pistol event. She secured the silver after a fierce competition, narrowly missing the gold to Jiang Ranxin of China, who won the gold with a score of 39.
• India's Performance: India finished third in the medal standings, showcasing the country's growing strength in competitive shooting.
• Competition Overview: The event, held in Lima, Peru, attracted top shooters from around the globe. Simranpreet's performance placed her among the world's best, reinforcing India's presence on the international shooting scene.
• Coach's Praise: Simranpreet’s coach expressed immense pride in her consistency and composure during the event. He praised her for maintaining focus under pressure and for her continuous improvement.

India's shooting team delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 ISSF World Cup held in Lima, Peru, from April 13 to 22. The country secured a total of 7 medals—2 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze—finishing third overall in the medal standings, trailing behind China and the United States.

Gold Medalists

• Suruchi Singh: Dominated the women's 10m air pistol event, clinching the gold medal.
• She also partnered with Saurabh Chaudhary to win the gold in the 10m air pistol mixed team event.

Silver Medalists

Manu Bhaker: Secured the silver in the women's 10m air pistol event.?

Arjun Babuta: Earned silver in the men's 10m air rifle event.?

Simranpreet Kaur Brar: Achieved silver in the women's 25m pistol event, marking her first World Cup medal. ?

Rudrankksh Patil & Arya Borse: Teamed up to win silver in the 10m air rifle mixed team event. ?
Olympics

Bronze Medalist
Saurabh Chaudhary: Contributed to India's medal tally with a bronze in the men's 10m air pistol event. ?

Indian shooters Arya Borse and Rudrankksh Patil clinched the silver medal in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima, Peru. They finished second, narrowly missing gold after a close final against Norway’s Jon-Hermann Hegg and Jeanette Hegg Duestad.

Key Highlights:

• Patil and Borse scored a combined 632.5, just 0.1 points behind the leaders, securing a spot in the final.
• Arya, making her senior World Cup debut, expressed pride in her learning journey. Rudrankksh, a former world champion, learned from an earlier technical error in the individual event.
• The silver adds to India’s growing medal tally, with two golds, three silvers, and one bronze, placing third overall behind China and the US.

This performance underscores India's rising prominence in international shooting sports.

India's 16-year-old shot putter, Nishchay, delivered an impressive performance at the 6th Asian U-18 Athletics Championship in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, securing the silver medal in the boys' shot put event. On the third day of the competition, he achieved a personal best throw of 19.59 meters, surpassing his previous record of 18.93 meters set just a month prior.

Key Highlights:

• The event took place at the 6th Asian U-18 Athletics Championship held in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
• Nishchay, a 16-year-old athlete from Haryana, represented India in the boys' shot put event.
• He clinched the silver medal with a remarkable throw of 19.59 meters.
• This throw marked a new personal best for Nishchay, beating his previous best of 18.93 meters.
• In addition to his shot put success, Nishchay also won a bronze medal in the discus throw with a 58.85-meter effort.
• His double podium finish added to India’s overall tally of 11 medals in the championship.
• India ended the tournament with one gold, five silver, and five bronze medals in total.
• Nishchay’s achievements highlight the growing strength of India’s young talent in field events.

Nishchay’s outstanding performances have reinforced India's rising profile in athletics and set a high benchmark for upcoming youth athletes.

The Government of Maharashtra has launched the Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering women by providing them with eco-friendly electric rickshaws.

Spearheaded by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the scheme seeks to promote women's self-reliance and sustainable urban transport across the state.

The Maharashtra State Wildlife Board has officially declared DPS Flamingo Lake, a 30-acre wetland in Navi Mumbai, as a conservation reserve. This significant move aims to protect the vital habitat for migratory flamingos and other aquatic birds, reinforcing the state's commitment to preserving urban biodiversity.

• The decision follows years of campaigning by organisations like NatConnect Foundation and the Navi Mumbai Environment Preservation Society (NMEPS), who staged protests and human chains after 17 flamingos died in 2023 due to blocked tidal inlets. Since then, authorities have reopened water channels and cleared 60% of the algae-choked lake, prompting the return of large numbers of flamingos.
• The Maharashtra State Wildlife Board has declared DPS Flamingo Lake as a conservation reserve to protect migratory flamingos and other bird species.
• Local environmental groups and government efforts helped restore the lake’s ecosystem, improving water flow and reducing ecological threats.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of India has launched the Sachet mobile app to deliver real-time disaster alerts and essential safety information.

Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2025, the app aims to boost disaster preparedness and reduce casualties through timely, location-based updates.

Key Points:

• Sends instant notifications for floods, cyclones, landslides, tsunamis, forest fires, storms, and lightning based on your location.
• Available in 12 Indian languages with translation and read-out options for better accessibility.
• Provides regular weather forecasts integrated with IMD updates.
• Includes 'Dos and Don’ts', emergency helplines, and control room numbers for quick access during crises.
• Ensures uninterrupted alerts even during network disruptions via satellite connectivity.
• Covers all 36 states and union territories in India.
• Free to download and use on both Android and iOS platforms.

Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh celebrated a milestone as cheetah Nirva gave birth to five healthy cubs. Nirva, brought from South Africa in 2022 under Project Cheetah, has strengthened hopes for the reintroduction of cheetahs into India after their extinction in the 1950s.

The event highlights the progress of India's ambitious cheetah restoration program and showcases the growing success of conservation strategies.

Key Points:

• This is the first time a litter at Kuno has genetic lineage mixing South African and Namibian cheetahs, an important step for genetic diversity.
• The birth raises the total cheetah population under the reintroduction project in India to 31.
• Conservationists will closely monitor the cubs to ensure their healthy growth and survival in the wild.
• The development reflects an improving habitat at Kuno National Park, offering a promising environment for cheetahs to thrive.
• The success strengthens India's global standing in large carnivore conservation projects.
• Future plans include gradual expansion of cheetah habitats across other suitable regions in India.