Contents

1. National .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 137

2. International ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 142
3. Science & Technology ....................................................................................................................................................................... 146
4. Appointment & Resignations ......................................................................................................................................................... 147
5. Awards & Recognition ...................................................................................................................................................................... 152
6. Books & Author ................................................................................................................................................................................... 155
7. Important Days.................................................................................................................................................................................... 155
8. Obituaries .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 160
9. Ranks & Reports.................................................................................................................................................................................. 160
10. Sports....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 161
11. Summits And MOUs ........................................................................................................................................................................... 164
12. Banking & Economy .......................................................................................................................................................................... 164

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 NATIONAL
Indian Government’s Stake Sale in State-Run Companies Falls Short in 2023/24
 The Indian government aimed to raise funds through the sale of stakes in state-run companies in the fiscal year
2023/24.
 The achieved amount of 165 billion rupees fell short of the internal target by about 9%, reaching $1.98 billion.

UP Leads with Most GI-Tagged Products

 The northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has taken the lead in having the highest number of Geographical Indication
(GI) certified products in the country.
 With the recent addition of 15 new products, Uttar Pradesh now boasts a total of 69 GI-tagged products, surpassing
Tamil Nadu’s 58.

Vedanta’s BALCO: First Indian Company Certified with ASI Performance Standard
 Chhattisgarh-based Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a unit of Vedanta Aluminium, has achieved the
Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance Standard V3 Certification.
 The certification recognizes BALCO’s adherence to 11 principles and 62 criteria across three sustainability pillars:
Environment, Social, and Governance.

Record Growth in Indian Defence Exports: A Milestone Achievement

 MoD announced that India’s defence exports surged to a record Rs 21,083 crore in the fiscal year 2023-24, marking a
remarkable growth of 32.5% from the previous year.

Bundelkhand Wheat Variety Gets GI Tag

 The indigenous wheat variety from the Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh, locally known as Kathiya Gehu, has been
granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This is the first farm produce from Uttar Pradesh to receive this
honor.
 Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leader in acquiring GI tags, becoming the first state to achieve a remarkable 69 GI tags.

India to Establish First Privately Managed Strategic Petroleum Reserve by 2029-30

 India is embarking on establishing its first privately managed strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) by 2029-30.
 It’s aligning with models seen in countries such as Japan and South Korea.
 India plans to construct two new SPRs, including an 18.3 million barrels facility in Padur, Karnataka, and a 29.3 million
barrels SPR in Odisha.

Excavation Unearths 5,200-Year-Old Harappan Settlement in Kachchh, Gujarat

 In a collaborative project involving researchers from Kerala University and various other institutions, a significant
archaeological excavation has revealed a 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement at Padta Bet, near Khatiya village in
Kachchh district, Gujarat.

Manohar International Airport in Goa Launches Digi Yatra System

 The Manohar International Airport in Mopa, Goa, has become the 14th airport in India to launch the Digi Yatra system.
 The Manohar International Airport is the second international airport in Goa, after the Dabolim airport, which is a civil
enclave in a military airbase.

Mansukh Mandaviya’s Plan to End Urea Imports by 2025

 India aims to halt urea imports by the end of 2025 by boosting domestic production and promoting alternative
fertilizers.
 This is in response to the nation’s significant reliance on imports, which currently satisfy around 30% of its annual urea
demand.
 Urea production has risen steadily, reaching 284.95 lakh tonnes in 2022-23.

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 The PM-PRANAM scheme, launched in 2023, incentivizes states and UTs to promote alternative fertilizers and balanced
fertilizer usage.

Sagar Kavach 2024: Coastal Security Exercise in Lakshadweep Islands

 A two-day coastal security exercise called Sagar Kavach 01/24 was conducted off the Lakshadweep Islands from April 1-
2, 2024.
 The exercise involved the participation of all maritime security agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard,
Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, and other security agencies.

Innovative Election Initiative: Punjab Launches ‘Booth Raabta’ Website

 Punjab’s Malerkotla district has introduced the ‘Booth Raabta’ website. Spearheaded by District Election Officer and
Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Pallavi, this platform, accessible via boothraabta.com.

Indian Coast Guard Inaugurates Aquatic Centre at Mandapam, Tamil Nadu

 Indian Coast Guard Director General Rakesh Pal inaugurated the Indian Coast Guard Aquatic Centre at ICGS Mandapam
near Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, as part of his four-day visit to the maritime force’s bases in Tamil Nadu, Andhra
Pradesh, and Puducherry.

Miraj’s Sitars and Tanpuras Awarded Geographical Indication Tags

 The small town of Miraj in Maharashtra’s Sangli district is known for its craftsmanship in making musical instruments,
particularly sitars and tanpuras.

Tri-Service Planning Conference: Parivartan Chintan

 The inaugural Tri-Service Planning Conference, dubbed ‘Parivartan Chintan,’ convened in New Delhi on April 8, 2024,
orchestrated by the Ministry of Defence.
 Chief of the Indian Army, General Manoj Pande; Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhary of the Indian Air Force; and Admiral
R. Hari Kumar of the Indian Navy were among the representatives.

India Secures Second Overseas Port: Sittwe Agreement Approved by MEA

 In a strategic move to bolster its maritime presence and enhance regional connectivity, India has gained operational
control over the Sittwe Port in Myanmar, following approval from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
 The agreement allows India Ports Global (IPGL), a company fully owned by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways, to manage the entire port on the Kaladan River, marking India’s second overseas port acquisition after
Chabahar in Iran.

Sangeet Natak Akademi Organizes ‘Shakti – A Festival of Music and Dance’ in Shaktipeeths
 The Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) is organizing the festival ‘Shakti – A Festival of Music and Dance’ from April 9 to 17,
2024. The festival is celebrated in seven different Shaktipeeths (sacred sites) across the country.

Indian Army Conducts Anti-Tank Guided Missile Training Exercise in Sikkim

 In a significant training endeavor, the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army executed a rigorous Anti-Tank Guided Missile
(ATGM) exercise in Sikkim, operating at an altitude of 17,000 feet.

Gopi Thotakura: First Indian Pilot to Embark on Space Tourism with Blue Origin
 Gopi Thotakura is making history as the first Indian pilot to venture into space as a tourist, joining Blue Origin’s NS-25
mission.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi Makes History with Newsweek Cover Feature"
 "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on track to create a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister
since Indira Gandhi to be featured on the cover of Newsweek. In an extensive interview, PM Modi delved into a wide
range of subjects, including China, economic reforms, the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Quad alliance, and the
significance of democracy in India."

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"India Extends Support to Nepal with Ambulance and School Bus Donations"
 In a gesture of solidarity and support, India has donated 35 ambulances and 66 school buses to various organizations in
Nepal, bolstering infrastructure in the crucial sectors of health and education. Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen
Srivastava, officiated the handover ceremony alongside Finance Minister Barshaman Pun.

The government told e-commerce to remove Bournvita and similar drinks from the 'health drinks' category
 The government has directed all e-commerce platforms to remove drinks like Bournvita from the health drinks category
on their portals.
 "National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), a statutory body constituted under section (3) of the
Commission of Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act 2005 after its inquiry under Section 14 of CRPC Act 2005
concluded that there is no 'health drink' defined under FSS Act 2006, rules and regulations submitted by FSSAI and
Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd," the Commerce and Industry Ministry said in an advisory to all e-commerce companies.

India achieved a record addition of 18 GW in renewable energy capacity during FY24.

 In the fiscal year 2023-24, India recorded an unprecedented addition of 18.48 GW in renewable energy capacity,
marking a remarkable 21% increase from the previous year's 15.27 GW, as per the Ministry of New & Renewable
Energy's recent data.
 There is a need to add at least 50 GW of renewable energy capacity annually for the next six years to meet the ambitious
target of 500 GW of renewables by 2030.

Guwahati's Bihu performance sets Guinness World Record

 Assam's groundbreaking accomplishment was marked by its entry into the Guinness Book of World Records, with more
than 11,000 dancers and drummers captivating audiences with the traditional ‘Bihu’ dance and ‘dhol’ performances at a
single location. This historic event took place at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati, organized as part of the State
Government’s endeavor to establish a new world record in the Guinness Book.
About Assam:
Chief Minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Capital: Dispur
Folk Dance: Bihu
Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria

MRF solidifies its position as the 'second strongest tyre brand globally'
 MRF has been positioned as the second-strongest global tyre brand, as revealed in a recent report by Brand Finance, a
U.K.-based brand valuation consultancy. The assessment considered multiple criteria, with MRF excelling in several
areas, including being the world's second fastest-growing tyre brand. Garnering an impressive score of 83.2 out of 100,
MRF attained a AAA- brand rating. Notably, the report recognized MRF as the most valuable Indian tyre brand and the
sole Indian tyre manufacturer within the top 10 rankings. Moreover, MRF demonstrated commendable performance in
the Sustainability Perception Value category, underlining its commitment to environmental responsibility.
About MRF:
Founder: K. M. Mammen Mappillai
Founded: 1946, Chennai
Headquarters: Chennai

Kerala adopts Water Budget to tackle summer water shortage for the first time
 Kerala, known for its abundant rivers, streams, and backwaters, experiences lush greenery due to ample rainfall.
However, certain areas still suffer from severe water scarcity in summers. To address this, the state has introduced a
pioneering Water Budget system, the first of its kind in India. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan unveiled the details
of the initial phase, covering 94 grama panchayats across 15 block panchayats.
About Kerala:
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
Official bird: Great hornbill
Governor: Arif Mohammed Khan

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Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan

Jyotiraditya Scindia is scheduled to inaugurate India Steel 2023 at the Mumbai

 India Steel 2023 is set to commence at the Mumbai Exhibition Centre in Goregaon, Mumbai, on April 19th, with Union
Minister of Steel Jyotiraditya Scindia leading the inauguration. This event is organized jointly by the Union Ministry of
Steel, the Department of Commerce under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and FICCI (Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry).
Mangrove Pitta bird found in Odisha
During a groundbreaking census in Odisha's Bhitarkanika region, forest officials spotted 179 Mangrove Pitta birds
renowned for their vivid colors. These unique avians are only found in the mangrove forests of Bhitarkanika in Odisha and
Sundarbans in West Bengal. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has designated the species as "Near
Threatened" after evaluation.
About Odisha:
Founded: 1 April 1936
Area: 155,707 km²
Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik
Capital: Bhubaneswar

Central Government Committee on LGBTQ+ Community Welfare

 In the landmark Supriyo Chakraborty vs. Union of India Case 2023, the Special Marriage Act of 1954 was challenged for
its exclusion of same-sex marriages, citing a violation of Article 14 of the fundamental rights.
 The committee, chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, comprises six members including secretaries from key
ministries.

India’s Commitment To Debris Free Space Missions

 During the 42nd Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) annual meeting, ISRO Chairman S.
Somanath unveiled India’s commitment to realizing debris-free space missions by 2030. This pledge is in harmony with
worldwide endeavors to guarantee the sustainability of space exploration. Chairman Somanath emphasized ISRO’s
robust plan for space exploration and utilization, underscoring the significance of sustainability in forthcoming
missions.
About ISRO:
Headquarters: Bengaluru
Founded: 15 August 1969
Founder: Vikram Sarabhai

The Indian Navy conducted the 'Poorvi Leher' mega exercise to test maritime preparedness
 The Indian Navy recently executed the 'Poorvi Leher' mega drill along the East Coast to evaluate operational protocols
and readiness against maritime security threats in the area. This comprehensive exercise involved the active
participation of naval vessels, submarines, aerial assets, and specialized naval units.

Shompen tribes in Andaman & Nicobar Islands vote for the first time
 Shompen tribe members in Andaman and Nicobar Islands cast their votes for the first time for the lone Lok Sabha seat
in the union territory. They voted at polling station 411, known as 'Shompen Hut', and took selfies at a designated cut-
out saying "I vote for sure", created by the Election Commission of India.

The 34th Seng Khihlang Festival ended in Wahiajer, Meghalaya

 The 34th Seng Khihlang festival, an esteemed occasion for followers of the Khasi Indigenous Faith, recently concluded in
Wahiajer, Meghalaya. Commencing on April 19, 2024, the festival honored the unity and customs of the indigenous
community. Central to this annual assembly was the symbolic interchange of the Monolith, a treasured ceremony
symbolizing the enduring unity among believers. This year, the revered Monolith was brought to Wahiajer from Seng
Khasi Shaid Shaid, situated in the West Khasi Hills.

Thrissur Pooram 2024, the largest temple festival, was celebrated

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 Kerala, in southern India, is celebrated for its diverse blend of religions, landscapes, rituals, and histories, creating a
vibrant tapestry of culture. Amongst this rich diversity, the Thrissur Pooram festival shines as a significant
representation of Kerala's profound cultural heritage.

Satellite data shows growing glacial lakes in Indian Himalayas

 The Himalayan Mountains, termed the "Third Pole" for their extensive glaciers, are undergoing notable shifts due to
global climate changes. Glacial melting creates and expands lakes, raising risks such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods
(GLOFs). Monitoring these transformations is crucial albeit challenging, aiding in understanding environmental effects
and mitigating potential hazards.
 CSIR HQ unveils India's biggest Climate Clock for Earth Day
 To mark Earth Day, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) revealed India’s largest Climate Clock at its New
Delhi headquarters. This move highlights CSIR’s dedication to raising awareness about climate change and its negative
consequences.

Karnataka and Gujarat lead India’s clean energy transition, says report
 A recent report by the IEEFA and Ember assesses India’s state-level progress in transitioning to clean electricity.
Karnataka and Gujarat lead, while states such as Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh are behind,
highlighting the need for more efforts in renewable energy integration and decarbonization.
The Indian Historical Records Commission introduces a new logo and motto
 The Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) was founded in 1919 as the primary advisory entity for archival
affairs in India. It acts as a national platform for creators, custodians, and users of records, offering guidance to the
Government of India on record management and their utilization in historical research. The IHRC is overseen by the
Union Minister of Culture.
IAF Successfully Tests Air-Launched Ballistic Missile
 The Indian Air Force (IAF) reached a notable achievement with the successful testing of a new variant of an air-launched
medium-range ballistic missile. This missile, named ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2, underwent testing from a Su-30 MKI
fighter jet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Only 8% women candidates in first two Lok Sabha phases
 Only eight percent of the total 2,823 candidates in the first two phases of the Lok Sabha elections were women,
highlighting a significant gender bias issue, according to political activists who suggest that discussions about women's
empowerment lack substance. The first phase saw 135 women candidates, while the second phase had 100, totaling 235
women candidates across both phases.
Village Defence Guard member killed in J&K gunfight
 An unidentified exchange of fire between gunmen and a Village Defence Guard member resulted in the member's death
on Sunday morning in Panara village, located in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir.
Nainital Forest Fire
 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Saturday that Indian Army and Air Force helicopters
are aiding in containing forest fires in the state. The fires, which have ravaged for more than 36 hours, have now
reached Nainital, causing substantial damage to green cover. Additionally, a large fire erupted in the Ladiyakata region
of the Nainital Air Force Centre on Friday, persisting for over 36 hours and spreading rapidly through dense
mountainous forests.

Government awards IREDA Navratna status

 The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), a public sector entity, has been awarded the prestigious
'Navratna' status by the government, as per a recent filing with stock exchanges. This elevates the total count of
Navratna PSEs (Public Sector Enterprises) in India to 17.
Drone farming to double by FY25, gaining a big boost
 Industry estimates suggest that the current utilization of drones in agriculture stands at around 3,000, a number
projected to exceed 7,000 by FY25. The government's emphasis on promoting drones for tasks like crop mapping,
analysis, and applying nutrients and pesticides has manufacturers anticipating a substantial surge in demand for these
UAVs in the coming years.

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 INTERNATIONAL
International Year of Millets 2023: A Recap
 The International Year of Millets (IYM) 2023, concluded with a closing ceremony held at the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome, Italy, on March 29th, 2024.
 The event served as a platform to assess the accomplishments and insights gained from the year-long
celebration.
 In March 2021, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2023 as the International Year of Millets
following a proposal by India, supported by over 70 countries.

Indian Engineering Exports Surge: UAE, Russia, and Saudi Arabia Lead the Way
 India’s engineering exports soared by 15.9% year over year in February 2024, marking the third consecutive month of
growth and reaching a record high of $9.94 billion for the fiscal year 2023–2024.
 Out of 34 engineering panels, 28 reported higher exports in February 2024, with notable growth in various sectors.

Germany Legalizes Recreational Cannabis

 On April 1, 2024, Germany became the largest European Union (EU) nation to legalize recreational cannabis use.
 Under the new law, adults over 18 are now permitted to carry up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and cultivate up to three
marijuana plants at home.
 Germany joins Malta and Luxembourg as countries with the most liberal cannabis laws in Europe.

Abdel Fattah al-Sisi Sworn in for Third Term as Egyptian President

 Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, 69, has commenced his third term as the leader of the nation, extending his
tenure until 2030.
About Egypt:
Capital: Cairo
Currency: Egyptian Pound
Official language: Arabic
Prime minister: Mostafa Madbouly

Zimbabwe Declares State of Disaster over Devastating Drought

 Zimbabwe, along with Zambia and Malawi, has declared a state of disaster due to a severe drought sweeping across
southern Africa.
 President Emmerson Mnangagwa cited an “El Nino-induced drought” causing below-normal rainfall, affecting over 80%
of the country.

Romania Unveils World’s Most Powerful Laser

 A research center in Romania has revealed the world’s most potent laser, based on the groundbreaking inventions of
Nobel Physics Prize winners Gerard Mourou and Donna Strickland.
 The heart of this groundbreaking laser lies in Chirped-Pulse Amplification (CPA) technology, developed by Mourou and
Strickland.

Peter Pellegrini Wins Slovakia Presidential Elections: Pro-Russia Stance Solidified

 In Slovakia’s recent presidential election, Peter Pellegrini emerged victorious, reinforcing the pro-Russian stance of
Prime Minister Robert Fico’s government.

U.S. and Britain Forge Alliance to Enhance AI Safety

 The United States and Britain have joined forces to bolster the safety measures surrounding artificial intelligence (AI)
amidst concerns over upcoming advanced AI iterations.
 Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and British Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan signed the memorandum of
understanding in Washington.

India Lifts Export Restrictions on Essential Goods for Maldives amid Diplomatic Strain

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 India has removed export restrictions on essential commodities for the Maldives, including items like eggs, potatoes,
onions, rice, wheat flour, sugar, and dal, for the fiscal year 2024-25.
 India has emerged as the Maldives’ significant trade partner, with bilateral trade reaching $973.37 million in 2022-23,
up from approximately $740 million in the previous fiscal year.

China Surpasses India as Largest Importer of Russian Crude

 China has surpassed India as the primary importer of Russian crude oil via sea routes, with China importing 1.82 million
barrels per day (bpd) in March compared to India’s 1.36 million bpd.
 In March, China imported 1.82 million bpd of Russian crude by sea, exceeding India’s 1.36 million bpd.

111-Year-Old John Alfred Tinniswood Becomes World’s New Oldest Man

 Guinness World Records (GWR) has shared a video of the world’s oldest living man, 111-year-old John Alfred
Tinniswood, from England.

Briton, nicknamed ‘Hardest Geezer’, becomes first person to run length of Africa
 British national Russ Cook, known as the “Hardest Geezer,” has successfully completed a challenging trek that took him
over 352 days to finish.
 During his journey, he covered more than 10,000 miles, passed through 16 countries, and took over 19 million steps.

Simon Harris Becomes Ireland’s Youngest Prime Minister

 Simon Harris, aged 37, has been elected as Ireland’s youngest-ever prime minister, succeeding Leo Varadkar who
resigned last month.

India-Kazakhstan to Enhance Counter-Terror Cooperation in Response to Moscow Attacks

 In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Moscow, believed to be perpetrated by extremists from Central Asia
potentially influenced by Pakistani seminaries, India and Kazakhstan convened in Astana to bolster their collaboration
against terrorism.

UK’s First Woman High Commissioner to India: Lindy Cameron

 Lindy Cameron, a distinguished Oxford University alumna and former CEO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre,
has been appointed as the first woman high commissioner to India.

US, Japan Announce Plans to Send Japanese Astronaut to Moon

 In a joint announcement, President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida revealed that Japanese
astronauts will join future NASA lunar missions as part of the Artemis program.

India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK 2024: Strengthening Bilateral Relations

 The fifth edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK is set to commence on April 15, 2024, in
Termez District, Uzbekistan.
 The fourth edition of the joint military exercise took place on February 20 last year at the Foreign Training Node,
Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand.

Russia’s Successful Angara-A5 Rocket Test Launch

 Russia successfully tested its Angara-A5 space rocket for the first time on April 11, 2024.
 The test launch was conducted from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East of Russia.
About Russia:
Capital: Moscow;
Currency: Russian Ruble;
Prime Minister: Mikhail Mishustin;
President of Russia: Vladimir Putin.

"The Complex Dynamics Driving the Israel-Iran Conflict"

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Source: Business standard
 "The ongoing confrontation between Israel and Iran transcends a simple interstate conflict, embodying a nuanced
interaction of power dynamics and ideological discord arising from a deeper struggle-the collision between the 'Deep
State' and Islamist factions in the Middle East. Originating in the early 20th century, this conflict has been molded by
pivotal historical events, evolving power dynamics, and profound ideological disparities, significantly influencing the
historical trajectory of the Middle East."

The United States and Japan are partnering to send a Japanese astronaut on a lunar mission to the Moon
 President Joe Biden has declared that Japanese astronauts will partake in forthcoming National Aeronautics and Space
Administration (NASA) lunar missions, highlighting strengthened bonds between the United States (US) and Japan.
 In the future, two Japanese astronauts will join NASA's lunar missions, and one of them will become the first non-
American to land on the Moon.
About United States:
President: Joe Biden
Capital: Washington, D.C
Currency: U.S. dollar

About Japan:
Prime Minister: Fumio Kishida
Capital: Tokyo
Currency: Japanese yen
Nepal has joined as a founding member of the International Big Cats Alliance
 Nepal has been established as one of the founding members of the International Big Cats Alliance. At the alliance's
launch under India's leadership, Minister for Energy Shakti Bahadur Basnet presented the letter declaring Nepal's
founding member status to Indian Minister for Forest and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav.
About Nepal:
Capital: Kathmandu
Prime minister: Pushpa Kamal Dahal
Currency: Nepalese Rupee

Syria has recently gained recognition as the world's largest narco-state, as reported

Source: Mint
 Syria has reportedly attained the status of the world’s largest narco-state, primarily deriving its foreign currency income
from manufacturing and exporting Captagon, an immensely addictive amphetamine often dubbed as the “poor man’s
coke.” As per Collins Dictionary's classification, Syria qualifies as a narco-state due to the substantial involvement of
narcotics trade, particularly Captagon, which contributes over 90 percent to its foreign currency revenue, defining a
significant portion of its economy.
About Syria:
President: Bashar al-Assad
Prime Minister: Hussein Arnous
Capital: Damascus
Currency: Syrian pound

India inaugurated its 16th Visa Application Center (VAC) in Kushtia

Source: New Delhi Times

 High Commissioner Pranya Verma inaugurated the 16th Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Kushtia, Bangladesh.
The opening ceremony was graced by Mahbubul Alam Hanif, a Member of Parliament representing Kushtia-3. The IVAC
aims to enhance convenience and accessibility for residents of Kushtia and neighboring areas applying for Indian visas.
About Bangladesh:
Capital: Dhaka

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Prime minister: Sheikh Hasina
Currency: Bangladeshi Taka

The India-Russia Business Dialogue 2023 kicked off in New Delhi

 The inaugural session of the "India-Russia Business Dialogue" 2023 convened in New Delhi on April 17th, with the
presence of S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, and Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia. At this
event, representatives from Russian and Indian businesses gathered to discuss strategies for strengthening practical
cooperation between the two nations, with a focus on initiatives such as the Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC).
About Russia:
Capital and largest city: Moscow
Official and national language: Russian
President: Vladimir Putin
Prime Minister: Mikhail Mishustin

India Delivers First Batch of BrahMos Missiles to Philippines

 In a significant move reflecting the deepening military cooperation between India and the Philippines amid rising
tensions in the South China Sea.
 India has successfully delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines.
 This delivery marks the fruition of a $375 million deal signed in January 2022.

Discover Milky Way’s Second-largest Known Black Hole

 Recently, European astronomers achieved a significant breakthrough by discovering the largest known stellar black
hole within our Milky Way galaxy. Dubbed as ‘BH-3’, this astronomical giant possesses a mass 33 times greater than that
of our Sun and is situated at a relatively close distance of just 2,000 light-years from Earth.
 The revelation of ‘BH-3’ came about through observations made by the Gaia Space Observatory, an advanced mission
operated by the European Space Agency (ESA). Launched back in 2013, the Gaia telescope has been specifically
engineered to meticulously map the positions, movements, and attributes of countless celestial objects with
unparalleled precision.
IMF team to visit Pak next month to negotiate new bailout package
 Muhammad Aurangzeb, Pakistan's Finance Minister, has announced that an upcoming IMF team will visit Islamabad
next month to discuss a new long-term bailout package. This negotiation aims to secure a staff-level agreement for the
financially challenged country by mid-July. After his week-long trip to Washington, the minister shared that the details
of the new International Monetary Fund program will be defined later. Dawn News quoted Aurangzeb saying, “We will
begin delving into the specifics of the program by mid-May.”
Bhutan leads Earth Day with Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference
 Bhutan is taking the lead on Earth Day 2024 with the Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference. Its objective
is to raise $1 billion within ten years, focusing on conserving crucial tiger habitats essential for biodiversity and the
livelihoods of millions of people.

Prabowo Subianto named Indonesia's President-Elect amid controversy

 The electoral commission of Indonesia has formally announced Prabowo Subianto as the president-elect. This decision
came after the country's highest court dismissed challenges to his overwhelming win, which were filed by two other
presidential candidates. Subianto, who is presently the defense minister, obtained 58.6% of the votes, totaling over 96
million ballots. This figure is more than double the number of votes received by each of his competitors.

India’s IFSCA and Kuwait’s CMA signed an MoU for information sharing
 On Tuesday, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait hosted the second edition of the India-Kuwait Investment Conference.
Additionally, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding to exchange information on technologies and
innovation in the financial and regulatory sectors.
 The conference was held with the support of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC), Union of Investment
Companies (UIC) and Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).
Air India broadens its collaboration with Japan’s ANA

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 Air India and All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan's largest airline, have established a codeshare partnership. Effective from
May 23, 2024, this agreement enables passengers of both airlines to seamlessly combine flights between India and Japan
with a single ticket.
About Japan:
Capital: Tokyo
Prime Minister: Fumio Kishida
Currency: Japanese yen

China Launches Shenzhou-18 Crew to Tiangong Space Station

Source: The economic times

 In the latest advancement of China’s space program, the Shenzhou-18 mission saw the successful launch of a three-
member crew aboard the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft.
 The Shenzhou-18 spacecraft, dubbed the “Divine Vessel,” lifted off atop a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan
Satellite Launch Centre.

Rajnath Singh: Talks with China smooth, India won't yield

 Rajnath Singh, the Defence Minister, stated that discussions between India and China are progressing smoothly in a
positive atmosphere, affirming India's firm stance. He is currently in Ahmedabad campaigning for BJP candidates in the
Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing India's enhanced military strength and its commitment to fostering friendly relations
with neighboring nations.

Shehbaz Sharif appoints Ishaq Dar as Deputy PM of Pakistan

 Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strategically appointed Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as the Deputy Prime
Minister of the country with immediate effect, as reported by Samaa TV.

India's Chinese import bill has risen 2.3 times in 15 years and is expected to increase further
 India's imports from China surged to over $101 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, a substantial increase from
approximately $70 billion recorded in 2018-19. According to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI),
the country's share of industrial goods imports from China has escalated from 21% to 30% over a span of 15 years. The
GTRI report anticipates a significant rise in Chinese imports in the forthcoming years. Notably, goods imported from
China have witnessed a growth rate 2.3 times faster than India's overall imports during the same 15-year period.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

India’s First AI-Based Film ‘IRAH’ Trailer Unveiled
 Amidst the growing buzz around Artificial Intelligence (AI), the trailer and song launch event for India’s first
Hindi film on this subject, “IRAH,” took place in Mumbai.
 Produced by Big Films Media and directed by Sam Bhattacharjee, “IRAH” is set to hit theaters nationwide on
April 4th, 2024, through Iamplex Digital Theatrical Distribution.

WHO Launches CoViNet: A Global Network for Coronaviruses

 The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced CoViNet, a global initiative aimed at enhancing the detection,
monitoring, and assessment of coronaviruses worldwide.
 CoViNet expands upon the existing WHO COVID-19 reference laboratory network to encompass a broader spectrum of
coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and potential novel strains of public health concern.
 CoViNet leverages the expertise of 36 laboratories from 21 countries across all six WHO regions.

DRDO successfully conducted a flight test of the new generation ballistic missile called ‘Agni-Prime
 The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and India’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC) have
successfully conducted a flight test of the new generation ballistic missile called ‘Agni-Prime’.
 The test occurred at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off Odisha’s coast.
 Agni-P, also known as Agni-Prime, is a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) developed by DRDO.

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About DRDO
Founded: 1958;
Headquarters: DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi;
Agency executive: Sameer V. Kamat, Chairman, DRDO.

Enhancing Air Defence Capabilities: Indian Army Inducts Akashteer System

 The Indian Army has commenced the induction of the indigenous Akashteer system.
 This automated air defence control and reporting system, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) Launches India’s First Privately-Built Sub-Metre Resolution Surveillance
Satellite
 Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), in collaboration with Satellogic, has successfully launched India’s inaugural private
sector-built sub-metre resolution earth observation satellite, TSAT-1A.
 The collaboration between TASL and Satellogic resulted in the successful launch of TSAT-1A from the Kennedy Space
Center, Florida, aboard Elon Musk’s SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on April 7.

Indian Army Enhances Air Defence with Igla-S MANPADS

 The Indian Army has bolstered its Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) capabilities with the acquisition of Igla-S
Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) from Russia.

ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 Mission Awarded the Prestigious John L. “Jack” Swigert, Jr. Award for Space Exploration
 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s Chandrayaan-3 mission team has been awarded the 2024 John L.
“Jack” Swigert, Jr. Award for Space Exploration by the US-based Space Foundation.
 The Chandrayaan-3 mission, launched by ISRO on July 14, 2023, was a groundbreaking achievement for India.

GUJCOST Designated as Nodal Centre for ISRO’s START Programme

 GUJCOST has been appointed as the Nodal Centre for ISRO’s START programme, aimed at nurturing aspiring scientists
and engineers in the field of space science and technology.
 Under the START programme, GUJCOST will conduct live classes, acting as the central hub for knowledge dissemination.
 The inaugural online programme, titled “Exploration of Solar System,” invites registrations until April 19.

Chandrayaan-4: ISRO Chief Somanath Shares Plans for Next Moon Mission in 2040
 Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath has revealed that the upcoming phase of the Chandrayaan
project is in progress.
About ISRO:
Founder: Vikram Sarabhai;
Headquarters: Bengaluru;
Founded: 15 August 1969;
Chairman: Sreedhara Somanath.

India’s Commitment to Debris-Free Space Missions by 2030

 At the 42nd Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) annual meet, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath
announced India’s pledge to achieve debris-free space missions by 2030.
 Additionally, plans for India’s own space station, ‘Bharatiya Antriksh Station,’ by 2035 are underway.

APPOINTMENT & RESIGNATIONS

Joyshree Das Verma Becomes New President of FICCI Ladies Organisation
 Joyshree Das Verma has taken over as the 41st National President of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) for the
year 2024-25.
 FLO is the oldest women-led and women-centric business chamber of South East Asia.

Moushumi Basu Takes Over as New President of JNU Teachers Association

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 Moushumi Basu, a professor at the School of International Studies, has been appointed as the next JNUTA
president.
 The teachers’ body has appointed Meenakshi Sundriyal and Pradeep K Shinde as vice-presidents of JNUTA.

Ms Sheyphali Sharan Takes Charge as Principal Director General, Press Information Bureau
 Ms Sheyphali B. Sharan has assumed charge as the Principal Director General, Press Information Bureau, upon the
superannuation (retirement) of Shri Manish Desai.

Veteran Dealmaker Atul Mehra Joins Axis Capital as MD & CEO

 Axis Capital has appointed Atul Mehra as the new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
 The market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of
two firms – Kross and Saraswati Saree Depot.

Santosh Kumar Jha Appointed as New CMD of Konkan Railway Corporation

 Santosh Kumar Jha, an Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS) officer of the 1992 batch, will assume the role of Chairman
and Managing Director (CMD) of the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. (KRCL) on April 1, 2024.
 Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. (KRCL) is a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Railways.

Sanjay Nayar Appointed as New ASSOCHAM President

 The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), a prominent industry chamber, has
appointed Sanjay Nayar as its new President.
 Nayar has replaced Ajay Singh, the Co-Founder of SpiceJet airline, whose tenure has ended.
 He was the former Chief Executive of KKR India, a leading investment firm.

Tata International Appoints Rajeev Singhal as MD

 Tata Group’s global trading and distribution arm, Tata International, has announced the appointment of Rajeev Singhal
as its new Managing Director (MD).
 Singhal’s appointment to the new position is effective from April 1, 2024.
 He succeeds Anand Sen, who superannuated (retired) on March 31, 2024.

EC Ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana to Urge Youth to Vote

 The Election Commission of India (ECI) has roped in popular actor Ayushmann Khurrana to encourage the youth to
exercise their franchise in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
About Election Commission of India:
Formed: 25 January 1950;
Headquarters: New Delhi;
Chief Election Commissioner of India: Rajiv Kumar.

Rakesh Mohan Appointed to World Bank Economic Advisory Panel

 The World Bank Group has appointed former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) deputy governor Rakesh Mohan as a member
of its Economic Advisory Panel.
 This panel will be chaired by Lord Nicholas Stern, the IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government at the London
School of Economics.
 World Bank Group Chief Economist Indermit Gill will co-chair the panel.
About World Bank:
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States;
Founded: July 1944, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, United States;
President: Ajay Banga;
Founders: John Maynard Keynes, Harry Dexter White;
CFO: Anshula Kant.

Meenesh Shah Elected as Chairman of NCDFI

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 The National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India Ltd. (NCDFI), the national-level apex dairy cooperative, has elected
its new Board of Directors.
 In the elections held, Dr. Meenesh Shah was unanimously chosen as the new Chairman of the organization.

Wipro Appoints New CEO: Srinivas Pallia

 Wipro, the IT giant, has announced the resignation of its CEO, Thierry Delaporte.
 In his place, the company’s Board of Directors has appointed Srinivas Pallia as the new Chief Executive Officer and
Managing Director, effective April 7, 2024.
About Wipro:
Founder: M.H. Hasham Premji;
Owner: Azim Premji;
Headquarters: Bengaluru;
Founded: 29 December 1945, India.

Former Judge Najmi Waziri to Head Committee for Delhi Forest Protection
 The Delhi High Court has appointed former judge Najmi Waziri to lead a committee focused on safeguarding the forests
in the national capital.
 The Court modified its earlier order, issued on December 21, 2023, to nominate Justice Waziri to chair the committee.

IPS Officer Love Kumar Appointed as IG in Special Protection Group

 Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Love Kumar has been appointed as the Inspector General (IG) in the Special
Protection Group (SPG) for a period of two years, according to an official notification issued by the Department of
Personnel and Training (DoPT).

Centre Appoints Manoj Panda as New Finance Commission Member

 Manoj Panda, renowned economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, has been appointed as a
full-time member of the Sixteenth Finance Commission by the Centre.

Harendra Singh Appointed as Coach of Indian Women’s Hockey Team until 2028 Olympics
 Former Indian hockey player and Dronacharya awardee Harendra Singh has been selected by Hockey India as the coach
of the senior national women’s hockey team. He will replace Janneke Schopman.

Sushil Sharma Appointed CMD of SJVN Limited

 The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel has recommended Sushil Sharma for the position of Chairman &
Managing Director (CMD) of SJVN Limited.

Former Pakistan PM Yousuf Raza Gillani Elected as Senate Chairman

 Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Syedal Khan
Nasir have been elected as Pakistan’s Senate chairman and deputy chairman, respectively.

Sachidananda Mohanty Appointed as Member, University Grants Commission (UGC)

 Sachidananda Mohanty has been appointed as a Member of the University Grants Commission (UGC) for a period of
three years with immediate effect.
About UGC:
Founded: November 1956;
HQ: Delhi.

Jagjit Pavadia Re-elected to International Narcotics Control Board

 India has been elected to several key bodies at the United Nations.
 This includes a significant victory by its nominee, Jagjit Pavadia, who was re-elected for a third term to the International
Narcotics Control Board (INCB).
 Jagjit Pavadia was re-elected to the INCB by secret ballot for a third term, from March 2025 to 2030.

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About International Narcotics Control Board:
Headquarters: Vienna International Centre (Vienna, Austria);
President: Jallal Toufiq;
Founded: 1968.

"Senior IPS Officer Anurag Kumar Assumes Role as Joint Director of CBI"

Source: PSU Watch

 "In a notable development within India's law enforcement domain, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has
endorsed the appointment of senior IPS officer Anurag Kumar as the Joint Director of the Central Bureau of
Investigation (CBI). This decision, effective immediately, reflects the government's trust in Kumar's leadership and
capabilities to fulfill this pivotal role."

Kristalina Georgieva secures a second term as IMF Chief before Spring Meetings
 The IMF's Executive Board has selected Kristalina Georgieva for a second consecutive 5-year term as IMF Managing
Director, starting from October 1, 2024.
 The announcement was made just before IMF and World Bank spring meetings in Washington next week, which are
expected to draw thousands of delegates, observers and journalists from the fund’s 190 member countries.
About IMF :
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States
Managing Director: Kristalina Georgieva
Membership: 190 countries (189 UN countries and Kosovo)

Senior bureaucrat Vandita Kaul has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Posts
 In a noteworthy development, Vandita Kaul, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in financial services and
banking, has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Posts. She will succeed Vineet Pandey upon his
superannuation.
About India Post:
Established: 1 October 1854
Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
India Post is an Indian government-operated postal system in India and is the trade name of the Department of Post under
the Ministry of Communications.

Sekhar Rao is now the interim MD and CEO of Karnataka Bank

Source: The Economic times
 Karnataka Bank, headquartered in Mangaluru, has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to appoint
Sekhar Rao, the bank’s executive director, as the interim Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD and CEO).
The interim appointment is effective for three months from April 15, 2023, or until a regular MD and CEO are appointed,
whichever occurs first. This transition follows the conclusion of Mahabaleshwara M S's term as the bank’s MD and CEO
on April 14, 2023.
About Karnataka Bank:
Founded: 18 February 1924
Headquarters: Mangaluru
Tata Electronics appoints Randhir Thakur as CEO & MD
 The Tata Group has appointed Dr. Randhir Thakur as the CEO and Managing Director of Tata Electronics Pvt Ltd (TEPL)
to enhance its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, aiming to outpace competitors in the nation's flourishing
precision machining sector. Until recently, Dr. Thakur held a position at Intel, a global leader in electronic chip and
circuit manufacturing, serving as the President of Intel Foundry Services. With his extensive experience in the
manufacturing domain, Dr. Thakur is poised to lead TEPL into a new era of innovation and growth.

Nalin Prabhat Appointed as Director-General of NSG

 Nalin Prabhat, a Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director-
General of the National Security Guard (NSG).

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Subhash Chopra appointed as chairman of Delhi election management committee
 The Congress on Sunday appointed Subhash Chopra as the chairman of the 18-member election management and
coordination committee for the Lok Sabha election in Delhi. Deepak Babaria, the Delhi in-charge at the All India
Congress Committee, said that the appointment had the backing of the party’s top leadership.
CRPF ADG Nalin Prabhat has been appointed as the NSG chief
 Senior IPS officer Nalin Prabhat appointed as Director General of NSG, currently serving as Additional Director General
in CRPF. Approved by ACC until August 31, 2028. Previously, NSG's additional charge was held by SSB chief Daljit Singh
Chawdhary. ACC also approved the appointment of Intelligence Bureau Additional Director Sapna Tewari as Special
Director in the agency.
Citroen India appoints MS Dhoni as brand ambassador
 French automaker Citroen has appointed cricketing legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni as its brand ambassador to bolster its
presence and awareness in the Indian market. This strategic move by the Stellantis Group aims to establish a strong
foothold and enhance its brand identity in the competitive Indian passenger vehicle market.
OpenAI Appoints Pragya Misra as Its First Employee in India
 OpenAI has welcomed Pragya Misra as its inaugural team member in India, naming her the head of government
relations. This comes during the nation's ongoing elections, crucial for shaping AI regulations in the world's most
populous country. Misra's role centers on leading OpenAI's public policy affairs and partnerships, with a focus on
government relations and regulatory frameworks.
About OpenAI:
Founded: December 11, 2015
Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States
CEO: Sam Altman
Chairman: Bret Taylor

Hans Chuang: SMG APJ General Manager

 Hans Chuang is now the SMG General Manager for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ), based in Taiwan. He will lead Intel's
operations in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on revenue growth, creating new opportunities, and enhancing
relationships with partners and customers.
Santhosh Viswanathan: VP and MD-India Region
 Intel has acknowledged India's fast economic growth by establishing it as a separate region in its SMG organization.
Santhosh Viswanathan, leveraging his expertise, has been named Vice President and Managing Director for the India
region to enhance value and customer-centric initiatives.
Intel CEO: Patrick P. Gelsinger
Intel Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States;
Intel Chairperson: Omar Ishrak.

Gita Sabharwal from India is now the UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia

 António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, has named Gita Sabharwal from India as the new UN Resident Coordinator
in Indonesia. Sabharwal began her role on Monday, bringing almost thirty years of experience in development, aiding
climate transition, sustainable peace, governance, and social policy. She also focuses on using digital technology and
data to speed up the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Naima Khatoon shatters glass ceiling as first female AMU Vice-Chancellor
 President Droupadi Murmu has made history by appointing Professor Naima Khatoon as the first female Vice-
Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), shattering a century-old barrier. This move, perceived as a part of the
BJP government's efforts to connect with Muslim women, comes just before the second phase of the Lok Sabha election.

FSIB recommends MDs for SBI and Indian Bank

 The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended candidates for the positions of Managing Director
(MD) at State Bank of India (SBI) and Indian Bank. Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh has been proposed for SBI MD, while
Asheesh Pandey has been recommended for Indian Bank MD.

Narsingh Yadav is now the Chair of WFI's Athletes Commission

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 The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has fulfilled the requirements set by the United World Wrestling (UWW), the
international governing body for wrestling. To lift WFI's suspension, UWW mandated the establishment of an Athletes
Commission within the federation to address wrestlers' grievances.

Arun Alagappan Appointed Executive Chairman of Coromandel International

Source: Times of India
 Coromandel International Ltd. (CIL), a leading provider of agri-solutions, has announced a significant leadership
transition.
 Arun Alagappan, the former Executive Vice Chairman, has been appointed and re-designated as the Executive Chairman
of the company.

Arvinder Singh Lovely steps down as Delhi Congress chief.

 Party officials announced that Arvinder Singh Lovely, the Delhi Congress president, has resigned from his position. In his
resignation letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Lovely mentioned the alliance with Delhi Chief Minister
Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party for the 2024 Lok Sabha election as one of the factors contributing to his resignation.

Sunil Kumar Yadav (IRS) is the new Director at the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
 The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has added Sunil Kumar Yadav, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
officer, to its leadership team as the new Director.

Sarvadanand Barnwal named Director in Department of Land Resources

 Sarvadanand Barnwal, a 2010 batch Indian Statistical Service (ISS) officer, has assumed the role of Director in the
Department of Land Resources. This appointment, effective from Friday, April 26, 2024, was authorized by the
Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT).

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Vineet Jain Honoured with ENBA Lifetime Achievement Award 2023
 Vineet Jain, the managing director of the Times Group, received the prestigious Exchange4Media News
Broadcasting Awards (ENBA) Lifetime Achievement Award 2023 for his significant contributions to Indian
television news.

Professor Meena Charanda Honoured with ‘International Culture Award’ 2024

 Professor Meena Charanda, Principal of Kalindi College, Delhi University, has been awarded the prestigious
‘International Culture Award’ for the year 2024.
 Prof. Charanda received this honour in recognition of her remarkable work in the field of education and social
service.

Dr. Karthik Kommuri Honoured at National Fame Awards 2024

 In recognition of his efforts, Dr. Kommuri was felicitated with the Distinguished Overseas Dental Specialist
(Orthodontics and Orofacial Pain) title at the National Fame Awards 2024, held at The Club in Mumbai.

SJVN Awarded for Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility

 SJVN Limited, a leading public sector undertaking, has been honored with two prestigious awards at the 15th CIDC
Vishwakarma Awards 2024.
 The awards were given by the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) in recognition of SJVN’s remarkable
contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR).

GAIL Wins 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Award for Barauni – Guwahati Pipeline
 GAIL (India) Limited has been honored with the prestigious 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Award in the ‘Achievement Award
for Best Construction Projects’ category for its remarkable accomplishment in the Barauni – Guwahati Natural Gas
Pipeline project (BGPL).

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Aleksei Navalny and Yulia Navalnaya Honoured with Freedom Prize
 The late Russian dissident Aleksei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, will receive the Freedom Prize of the Media
from a leading German forum, the Ludwig Erhard Summit.
 The Freedom Prize has been awarded to other prominent figures, including Russian politician Garry Kasparov in 2023
and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the past.

Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni Honored with American President’s Volunteer Award 2024
 The American President’s Volunteer Service Award was established in 2003 during George Bush’s presidency.
 The award is given to individuals who have provided at least 500 hours of voluntary service in the United States.
 Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni has become the first Indian monk to be honoured with the American President’s Gold
Volunteer Service Award.

"Harvard Honors Avantika Vandanapu as South Asian Person of the Year"

Source: E-buzz
 In a remarkable achievement, Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu, best known for her role as Karen Shetty in
the 2024 musical comedy “Mean Girls,” has been honored with the prestigious “South Asian Person of the Year” award
by Harvard University. This accolade recognizes Vandanapu’s outstanding contributions to the arts and her role in
promoting South Asian representation in global media.

Nandini Gupta clinches the title of Femina Miss India World 2023
 In a recent grand ceremony, Nandini Gupta from Rajasthan was crowned as Femina Miss India World 2023, marking her
victory in the 59th edition of the beauty pageant. The first runner-up was Shreya Poonja from Delhi, while the second
runner-up was Thounaojam Strela Luwang from Manipur. The event was graced with dazzling performances by Kartik
Aaryan and Ananya Panday, and it was hosted by Manish Paul and Bhumi Pednaker. Nandini Gupta is set to represent
India at the 71st Miss World pageant, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates.
About Nandini Gupta:
Born: 13 September 2003 (age 20 years), Kota
Education: Lala Lajpat Rai College of Commerce and Economics, St. Paul's Senior Secondary School
Height: 1.78 m
Title: Femina Miss India World 2023

Raj Subramaniam received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award

Source: Business standard

 Raj Subramaniam, CEO of FedEx and an Indian-American, received the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award,
the highest civilian recognition from India for individuals of Indian descent. Due to travel restrictions, he was awarded
by India’s Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, at a ceremony held at India House.
About Raj Subramaniam:
Born: 14 September 1967
Education: Syracuse University (1987–1989)
Organization: FedEx

Utsa Patnaik Wins Malcolm Adiseshiah Award 2023

 Utsa Patnaik, a highly esteemed economist with recognition at both national and international levels, has been selected
as the recipient of the esteemed Malcolm Adiseshiah Award 2023. This award is an annual honor presented by the
Malcolm & Elizabeth Adiseshiah Trust, acknowledging exceptional social scientists chosen by a national-level jury from
the submitted nominations. The award ceremony, where the recipient will be presented with a citation and a cash prize
of ₹2 lakh, is slated to take place in Chennai. The specific date for the ceremony will be announced by the Trust shortly.
Notably, in 2022, the award was conferred upon the Indian economist Prabhat Patnaik.

Kaushik Rajashekara Honored with International Fellowship by the Engineering Academy of Japan

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 Kaushik Rajashekara, a distinguished professor at the University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering, has been
elected as an International Fellow of the prestigious Engineering Academy of Japan.
 In 2022, Rajashekara received the prestigious Global Energy Prize, considered the most coveted prize in the field of
international energy.

Deepika Soreng Honoured with Asunta Lakra Award

 Deepika Soreng, the promising forward of the India Women’s Hockey Team, has been honoured with the prestigious
Hockey India Asunta Lakra Award for Upcoming Player of the Year during the Hockey India 6th Annual Awards 2023.

Deepika Soreng Honored with Asunta Lakra Award

 Deepika Soreng, a talented forward of the India Women’s Hockey Team, has been bestowed with the esteemed Hockey
India Asunta Lakra Award for Upcoming Player of the Year at the Hockey India 6th Annual Awards 2023. This accolade
acknowledges her exceptional performance and promising potential as an emerging star in the sport. Notably, the year
2023 marked a significant milestone in Deepika’s hockey journey as she made her debut for the Indian team during the
Women’s Junior Asia Cup.

Pavuluri Subba Rao awarded Aryabhatta Award for astronautics contributions

 Pavuluri Subba Rao, Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Ananth Technologies, receives the Aryabhatta Award from the
Aeronautical Society of India for his significant contributions to promoting astronautics in India.

Mohammed Salem won at World Press Photo 2024

 Mohammed Salem is a Palestinian photographer who works for the news agency Reuters. In 2024, he won a very
important award called the World Press Photo of the Year award. The World Press Photo award is a prestigious
international competition for photojournalists (photographers who capture news events).

2024 Laureus World Sports Awards announced

 The 2024 Laureus Sports Awards in Madrid were a grand celebration of top athletes and their remarkable
achievements. The event honored several sporting icons who have made a lasting impact in their respective fields.
Novak Djokovic, the world's top-ranked tennis player, made history by winning the Laureus World Sportsman of the
Year award for the fifth time.

Randeep Hooda Receives Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award

 At Mumbai's Dinanath Mangeshkar Natyagrih, a distinguished event honored actor Randeep Hooda with the Lata
Deenanath Mangeshkar Award. This recognition celebrates his significant impact on Indian cinema, particularly his role
in the film "Swatantrya Veer Savarkar".
About Randeep Hooda:
Born: 20 August 1976 (age 47 years), Rohtak
Spouse: Lin Laishram (m. 2023)
Parents: Ranbir Hooda, Asha Hooda

T.N. CM Stalin rewards chess grandmaster D. Gukesh with ₹75 lakh

 On Sunday, April 28, 2024, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin presented a ₹75 lakh incentive to chess prodigy D.
Gukesh, who emerged as the youngest victor of the recently concluded FIDE Candidates tournament held in Canada.

 Mr. Stalin handed over the cheque to the grandmaster in the former’s camp office in Chennai , in the presence of Tamil
Nadu’s Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development Udhayanidhi Stalin and the chess player’s parents.
Gina Justus from Sharjah wins Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award regionally
 Gina Justus, an English High School teacher at the Sharjah Girls Branch in the UAE, has won the regional title for the
MENA region at the 2024 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards. This accolade recognizes her exceptional mentorship
and commitment to charity work.
Sana, the AI anchor from India Today Group, excels at Global Media Awards

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 Sana, the AI-powered news anchor created by the India Today Group, has garnered significant acclaim at the esteemed
International News Media Association (INMA) Global Media Awards in London. This pioneering AI innovation has won
two prestigious awards, establishing itself as a leader in AI-driven journalism.

Alok Shukla secures the esteemed Goldman Environmental Prize for 2024
 Alok Shukla, an acclaimed environmental activist and convener of Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan, has been chosen for the
esteemed 2024 Goldman Environmental Prize. This award, also dubbed as the "Green Nobel Prize," recognizes
grassroots environmental leaders globally for their remarkable efforts in environmental preservation.

BOOKS & AUTHOR

Sam Pitroda’s New Book ‘The Idea of Democracy’
 Renowned author Sam Pitroda has written a new book titled ‘The Idea of Democracy’, which explores the current state
of democracy and its potential challenges in countries like India and the United States.
 Pitroda has also served as the founder and first Chairman of India’s Telecom Commission.

Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai releases "Heavenly Islands of Goa" book
Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai of Goa is on a literary journey to showcase the state's abundant natural heritage through
captivating books. His recent work, "Heavenly Islands of Goa," reflects his commitment to preserving and promoting
Goa's lesser-known aspects.

EAM Jaishankar Receives Book ‘India’s Nuclear Titans’

Source: Telangana today

 External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar received a copy of the book ‘India’s Nuclear Titans,’ edited by Soumya Awasthi
and Shrabana Barua.
 The book traces the evolution of India into a nuclear state while highlighting the pivotal roles played by renowned
figures like Homi Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, Abdul Kalam, and K. Subrahmanyam, among others.

"The Winner’s Mindset" by Shane Watson

In "The Winner’s Mindset," Watson offers insights and strategies that helped him overcome fears and achieve success in
cricket. Although not a conventional autobiography, the book serves as a compelling self-help guide, providing a peek
into the mindset essential for reaching new heights.

IMPORTANT DAYs
India Celebrates National Maritime Week 2024
 On March 29, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the ‘Merchant Navy Flag’, pinned on his
lapel by Secretary T.K. Ramachandran of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
 This marked the beginning of the National Maritime Week celebrations, which span from March 29 to April 5.
 National Maritime Week is celebrated to honour the services of seafarers and commemorate a proud moment
in India’s maritime history.

World Autism Awareness Day 2024: 2nd

 World Autism Awareness Day is on April 2nd every year. It aims to raise awareness and support for people with autism.
The theme for 2024 is “Empowering Autistic Voices.”
 The United Nations established World Autism Awareness Day in 2007.

Prevention of Blindness Week 2024, 1st to 7th April

 Many people around the world suffer from blindness or vision problems. To address this, the Indian government has
declared April 1 to April 7 as Prevention of Blindness Week.
 In 1960, Jawaharlal Nehru and Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur started the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness.
 The theme for Prevention of Blindness Week 2024 is decided by the World Health Organization (WHO), the
International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

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United Nations Observes International Mine Awareness Day on 4th April
 The United Nations Observes International Mine Awareness Day on 4th April.
 The theme for International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action 2024 is ‘Protecting Lives, Building
Peace’.
 The idea for a Mine Awareness Day was first proposed by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1980.

NATO Celebrates 75 Years of Collective Defense

 The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is marking its 75th anniversary this year.
 The alliance, founded in 1949, will hold a special event in Brussels, Belgium to commemorate this milestone.
 NATO was originally founded by 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, and several Western European
nations.
About NATO:
Secretary-General: Jens Stoltenberg;
Founded: 4 April 1949, Washington, D.C., United States;
Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium.

260th Raising Day of Army Medical Corps

 The Army Medical Corps (AMC) celebrated its 260th Raising Day on 03rd April 2024. Raised in the year 1764.
 The Chief of Army Staff, Gen Manoj Pande, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, attended an event
in New Delhi.
About Army Medical Corps:
Founded: 3 April 1943;
Corps Lieutenant: General Daljit Singh.

National Maritime Day 2024

 National Maritime Day is observed annually on April 5 in India.
 On April 5, 1919, the first Indian commercial ship, SS Loyalty, embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom, breaking
the British monopoly on sea routes.
 The theme for National Maritime Day 2024 is “Navigating the future: safety first!”

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2024

 Every year on April 6th, the world celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP).
 The global theme for IDSDP 2024 is “Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies”.

World Health Day 2024: Celebrating the Right to Health

 World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7th, the founding date of the World Health Organization (WHO).
 In 2024, the theme for World Health Day is “My Health, My Right”.
 The World Health Organization was established on October 24, 1945 as part of the United Nations’ efforts to promote
global peace, security, and better living conditions for all.
About World Health Organization (WHO):
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland;
Founded: 7 April 1948;
Director General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

National Library Day 2024: 6th April

 National Library Day is celebrated every year on April 6th. On this day, people come together to celebrate the important
role that libraries and librarians play in our society.

National Handmade Day 2024: 6th April

 National Handmade Day is an annual celebration held on the first Saturday of April, which this year falls on April 6,
2024.

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 The theme for National Handmade Day 2024 is ‘Buy a Handmade Product’.

National Safe Motherhood Day 2024

 National Safe Motherhood Day, observed annually on April 11th, is a crucial occasion to highlight the importance of
maternal health and well-being.
 The official theme for National Safe Motherhood Day 2024 has not yet been announced.

World Homeopathy Day 2024: Celebrating the Power of Natural Healing

 World Homeopathy Day is observed on April 10th every year. The theme for World Homeopathy Day 2024 is
“Homeoparivar: One Health, One Family.” Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that believes in the power of
tiny homeopathic substances to cure the symptoms of a condition.

Pune Celebrates Yoga Mahotsav Ahead of International Yoga Day

 The ‘Yoga Mahotsav’ was held in Pune, Maharashtra, to mark the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga.
Organized by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and the National Institute of Naturopathy, Ministry of Ayush.

President of India Inaugurates Homoeopathy Symposium on World Homoeopathy Day

 The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated a two-day Homoeopathy Symposium organized by the
Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy in New Delhi on World Homoeopathy Day (April 10, 2024).
 The theme of the symposium, “Empowering Research, Enhancing Proficiency,” is highly relevant in the 21st century.

World Parkinson’s Day 2024:

 World Parkinson’s Day is observed annually on April 11 to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease, a
neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.
 The date is chosen to mark the birthday of Dr James Parkinson, the British physician who first described the symptoms
of the disease in his groundbreaking essay, ‘An Essay on the Shaking Palsy,’ published in 1817.

World Chagas Disease Day 2024

 The World Health Organization (WHO) observes World Chagas Disease Day every April 14th to raise awareness about
the neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people, especially in Latin America.
 The 72nd World Health Assembly dedicated this day to the disease in 2019.
 In 2024, the theme for World Chagas Disease Day is “Tackling Chagas disease: detect early and care for life”.
About WHO:
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Founded: 7 April 1948

Ambedkar Jayanti 2024:

 Ambedkar Jayanti 2024, celebrated on April 14, commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar.
 BR Ambedkar, born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.

105 Years of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

 The Amritsar Massacre, also known as the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, remains one of the darkest episodes in India’s
struggle for independence.
 On April 13, 1919, General Dyer ordered his soldiers to open fire on an unarmed gathering in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar,
leading to hundreds of deaths and injuries.
 In 2024, India observes 105th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

April 15: Pohela Boishakh

Source: Hindustan Times

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 The first day of the Bengali calendar is called Poila Boishakh, often referred to as Bangla Noboborsho. It is observed on
April 14 in Bangladesh and April 15 in the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Assam (Barak Valley),
according to the lunisolar calendar. The Bengali business class begins its fiscal year on this day as well.
 About West Bengal :
 Founded: 1947
 Area: 88,752 km²
 Chief minister: Mamata Banerjee
 Capital: Kolkata

World Hemophilia Day 2023 observed on 17th April

World Hemophilia Day is commemorated annually on April 17th to raise awareness about hemophilia and other
inherited bleeding disorders. The day was initiated in 1989 by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) as a tribute
to the birthday of WFH founder Frank Schnabel. Its purpose is to educate the public about hemophilia disease and
advocate for better treatment and support for individuals affected by bleeding disorders.

World Heritage Day 2023 was celebrated on April 18th

Source: News18
On April 18th, World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed globally.
This day aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage, including historical structures,
landmarks, and archaeological sites. It encourages people to appreciate the diversity of global heritage and actively
participate in its conservation and protection. Each year, World Heritage Day focuses on a specific theme related to
cultural heritage. In 2022, the theme was "Heritage and Climate," while in 2023, it shifted to "Heritage Changes."

World Liver Day 2023 Observed globally on 19 April

It is observed on 19 April to spread awareness about the diseases related to the liver. The liver is the second largest
organ in the body. After the brain, it is also the second most complex organ in the body. It performs various crucial
functions associated with digestion, immunity, metabolism, and the storage of nutrients within the body.

National Civil Service Day 2024- Honouring the Steel Frame of India
 National Civil Service Day is celebrated annually on April 21st in India. This year, the theme for National Civil Service
Day 2024 is yet to be announced.
 The first ever National Civil Services Day in India was celebrated on April 21, 2006. It was recognized to commemorate
the first Home Minister of India – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Celebration of the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav

 On the auspicious occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will tomorrow inaugurate the 2550th
Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at 10 AM at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
 Prime Minister Modi will release a commemorative stamp and coin and also address the gathering on the occasion.
 Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar, illuminated the path of peaceful co-existence and universal brotherhood
through Jain principles like Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya
(Chastity) and Aparigraha (Non-attachment).
National Civil Service Day 2024: 21 April
 National Civil Service Day is commemorated annually on April 21st to acknowledge and appreciate the diligent efforts of
civil servants across diverse departments and organizations. This observance serves to recognize their pivotal role in
ensuring the effective functioning of the administrative machinery. Following Independence, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel
famously described civil servants as the "steel frame" of India, underscoring their indispensable contribution to nation-
building. He officially proclaimed that National Civil Service Day would be an annual occasion to honor the invaluable
contributions of civil servants to the nation. The inaugural National Civil Services Day in India was celebrated on April
21, 2006, marking the beginning of this meaningful tradition.

22 April- World Earth Day

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 World Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 annually, marks the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. It
emphasizes the vital need to preserve Earth, our sole habitat supporting life, fostering awareness about its importance.

World Book and Copyright Day 2024, celebrating books and copyright
 World Book and Copyright Day, observed annually on April 23rd, aims to promote reading, books, and copyright
protection. This global celebration honors authors and encourages reading while highlighting the significance of
safeguarding the rights of writers and publishers.
April 23- Hanuman Jayanti
 Hanuman Jayanti, a Hindu festival, marks the birth of the revered Hindu deity and devoted follower of Lord Rama.
Celebrated in most Indian states, the festival occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Chaitra.

National Panchayati Raj Day: April 24th annually

 National Panchayati Raj Day, observed each year on April 24th, marks the inception of India's Panchayati Raj system.
Introduced through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1993, this decentralized governance model aims to
empower Gram Panchayats as local self-governing bodies at the village level.

World Immunization Week 2024 is observed from April 24 to 30

 World Immunization Week is observed annually from April 24 to 30, focusing on raising awareness about vaccination's
vital role in protecting against preventable diseases and showcasing humanity's achievements in immunization, notably
eradicating smallpox and near-defeating polio.
World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25th
 World Malaria Day on April 25 raises awareness about preventing, treating, and controlling the mosquito-borne disease
prevalent in tropical regions. It highlights global efforts towards eradicating malaria and promoting a healthier world.
World Intellectual Property Day
 This annual celebration on April 26 was established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2000. It
aims to increase awareness of the impact of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and designs on everyday life, highlighting
the role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation and creativity.
April 26th is observed as International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day in 2024.
 On April 26th each year, we mark International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day, dedicated to honoring the
victims of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster and promoting awareness of this tragic incident. The explosion at the
Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union, on April 26, 1986, released a significant
radioactive cloud, affecting around 8.4 million people with harmful nuclear radiation.

World Veterinary Day 2024 Observed on 27th April

Source: Nagaland Post

 This year, World Veterinary Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The theme for 2024 is “Veterinarians are
Essential Health Workers,” highlighting the vital role veterinarians play in safeguarding public health and promoting the
well-being of animals and the environment.
 The World Veterinary Association (WVA) established World Veterinary Day in 2000, and it was first celebrated on April
29 of that year.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2024: April 28

 World Day for Safety and Health at Work, celebrated annually on April 28th worldwide, aims to promote global efforts
in preventing occupational accidents and diseases.
29 April - International Dance Day
April 29, observed annually as World Dance Day, serves as a reminder to governments, politicians, and institutions to
recognize the significance of dance

Celebrating India's Healthcare Initiative - Ayushman Bharat Diwas 2024.

 Ayushman Bharat Diwas, observed on April 30 every year, aims to raise awareness about the Ayushman Bharat Yojana
and its objectives. This year, it falls on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, as established by the government to emphasize the
scheme's goal of improving access to affordable and quality healthcare services, particularly for the underprivileged.

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 OBITUARIES
Veteran Actress Barbara Rush Passes Away at 97
 Barbara Rush, a Golden Globe-winning actress, embarked on her journey in the entertainment industry in the 1950s.
 Her breakthrough role came in 1954 with the science-fiction film “It Came from Outer Space,” which earned her the
Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer.

World’s Oldest Man, Juan Vicente Pérez, Dies at 114

 He was alive for 114 years. Now that Pérez has passed away, the title of “world’s oldest man” is expected to go to a 112-
year-old man from Japan named Gisaburo Sonobe.

Legendary Cinematographer Gangu Ramsay Passes Away at 83

 Gangu Ramsay, the second-eldest son of FU Ramsay, passed away in Mumbai. He was 83 years old.
 Gangu Ramsay was a renowned cinematographer and filmmaker who was part of the iconic Ramsay Brothers banner.

Former New Zealand Legspinner Jack Alabaster Passes Away at 93

 New Zealand Cricket (NZC) took to social media to announce the demise of former legspinner Jack Alabaster, who
passed away.

Father of Indian psychoanalysis Sudhir Kakar passed away at 85

 Sudhir Kakar, India’s leading psychoanalyst known for his unparalleled understanding of Indian men and women, died
at 85.

About Sudhir Kakar:

 Sudhir Kakar was a novelist and author in the fields of cultural psychology and the psychology of religion.
He had been a lecturer at Harvard University, Senior Fellow at the Centre for Study of World Religions at Harvard, and
visiting professor at the universities of Chicago, McGill, Melbourne, Hawaii and Vienna.

RANKS & REPORTS

India Ranks Second in Hepatitis B and C Cases Worldwide
 The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) 2024 Global Hepatitis Report reveals that India is second only to China in the
number of Hepatitis B and C infections, with 3.5 crore cases.

JNU Tops QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: A Landmark Achievement for India
 Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has secured the top position in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024,
reaffirming its status as India’s premier academic institution.

Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024: Unveiling the State of Global Startup Ecosystem
 In 2024, the global unicorn landscape witnessed significant developments and challenges, as outlined in the Hurun
Global Unicorn Index.
 While the United States maintained its lead with 703 unicorns and China followed with 340, India ranked third with 67
unicorns.

India Overtakes China in Digital Services Exports: Key Findings from WTO Report
 In 2023, India emerged as a frontrunner in digital services exports, surpassing China, as outlined in the World Trade
Organisation (WTO) report.
 The report highlights significant growth in digitally delivered services globally, with India’s exports reaching $257
billion, marking a 17 percent increase from the previous year.

World Cybercrime Index Unveiled: Russia and Ukraine Top List

 A newly developed World Cybercrime Index sheds light on the origins and prevalence of cybercrime across the globe.
 Russia and Ukraine emerge as the top two hubs of cybercrime, according to the index.

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 India secures the 10th position, scoring notably in impact, professionalism, and technical skills.

Prestigious John Dirks Gairdner Global Health Award for Dr. Gagandeep Kang
 Dr. Gagandeep Kang, an Indian researcher, has been awarded the 2024 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award
for her achievements in global health research.

Top Indian Banks in Asia-Pacific Region: S&P Global Report

 According to a recent report by S&P Global, three Indian banks—State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank—
have secured positions among the top 50 banks in the Asia-Pacific region based on their assets.

SPORTS
Novak Djokovic Becomes the Oldest World No. 1 in ATP Rankings History
 Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, continues to break records on the ATP Tour. As of this week, he
begins his 419th week as the World No. 1, extending his huge record.
 On Sunday, April 9, 2024, Djokovic will surpass Roger Federer’s record and become the oldest World No. 1 in ATP
Rankings history at the age of 36 years and 321 days.

Maharashtra Men’s and Women National Kho Kho Champion

 Maharashtra team emerged as the undisputed champion at the 56th National Kho Kho Championship 2023-24, clinching
both the men’s and women’s titles.
 The championship was held at Delhi’s Karnail Singh Stadium and the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium.

Bindyarani Devi Wins Bronze, Mirabai Chanu Qualifies for Paris Olympics 2024 at IWF World Cup
 The IWF World Cup 2024 was held in Phuket, Thailand from March 31 to April 11, 2024.
 The event was organized by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).
 The IWF is the world governing body for men’s and women’s weightlifting, with 193 member countries.
 It is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, and its current president is Mohamad Hassan Jaloud.

Bilquis Mir: The First Indian Woman on the Paris Olympics Jury
 Bilquis Mir, a canoeist from Jammu and Kashmir, is set to make history as the first woman from India to represent the
country as a jury member at the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris.

Max Verstappen of Red Bull Dominated the Japanese Grand Prix

 Triple world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull dominated the Japanese Grand Prix, leading a one-two finish for his
team alongside teammate Sergio Perez.
 Verstappen was back to his best after a brake issue in the previous race in Australia saw him retire.

Sri Lankan Star Kamindu Mendis and England’s Maia Bouchier Crowned ICC Players of the Month
 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named Sri Lankan cricketer Kamindu Mendis as the ICC Men’s Player of the
Month for March 2024.
 On the women’s side, England’s Maia Bouchier has been awarded the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for March 2024.
About ICC Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates;
Founded: 15 June 1909;
CEO: Geoff Allardice;
Chairman: Greg Barclay.

Asian Wrestling Championship: Udit Bags Silver, Abhimanyu and Vicky Claim Bronze Each
 India’s 19-year-old Udit won the silver medal in the men’s 57kg category at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2024 in
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
 Abhimanyou (men’s 70kg) and Vicky (men’s 97kg) also won the bronze medals in their respective weight divisions to
take India’s tally to three medals after the opening day of the competition.

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The Arjun-Jeevan duo has secured the Challenger crown
 In the finals of the $82,000 Challenger tennis tournament held in Cuernavaca, Mexico, the third-seeded duo of Arjun
Kadhe and Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan defeated the second-seeded team of Piotr Matuszewski and Matthew Romios with a
score of 7-6(5), 6-4 to clinch the doubles title.
 The champion team collected $4665 and 75 ATP points.
 The runners-up got $2700 and 50 points.
Kagiso Rabada sets record for fastest 100 IPL wickets
 In a match between Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans at IS Bindra Stadium, Kagiso Rabada made history by claiming his
100th wicket in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This feat made him the fastest bowler to achieve this milestone, doing
so in just 64 IPL matches. Rabada, known for his right-arm pace bowling, surpassed the previous record held by Lasith
Malinga, who reached the 100-wicket mark in his 70th match. The pivotal wicket leading to Rabada's achievement was
that of Wriddhiman Saha.
About Kagiso Rabada:
Born: 25 May 1995 (age 28 years), Johannesburg, South Africa
Current teams: Punjab Kings (Cricket Bowler)
Parents: Mpho Rabada, Florence Rabada
Height: 1.91 m

Rohit Sharma becomes 2nd player after MS Dhoni to play 250 matches in IPL
 Rohit Sharma, the former captain of the Mumbai Indians, etched his name in the annals of Indian Premier League (IPL)
history by becoming only the second player to feature in 250 IPL matches.
 The only player ahead of him in terms of IPL appearances is the iconic MS Dhoni, who has graced the tournament with
256 matches.

Max Verstappen wins first Chinese Grand Prix

 Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing showcased sheer dominance at the eagerly anticipated Chinese Grand Prix, securing
a decisive victory and extending his lead in the 2024 World Championship. His win in this Formula One race, the first in
China in five years, was characterized by leading from start to finish, leaving no room for doubt about his performance.
Gukesh Etches Name in Chess History as Youngest Challenger
 Indian chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh, at only 17 years old, achieved a historic milestone by winning the FIDE
Candidates tournament. This victory makes him the youngest-ever challenger in the history of the World Chess
Championship and the first teenager to claim this prestigious tournament title.

Casper Ruud won Barcelona Open; Rybakina clinched Stuttgart Open

 Casper Ruud, ranked World No. 6, secured a remarkable victory by defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP Barcelona
Open 500 singles final. Ruud's 7-5, 6-3 victory marked a significant milestone in his professional career, earning him his
largest trophy yet.

Top 10 IPL wicket-takers from Chahal to Bumrah

 In the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), many bowlers have made their mark with exceptional performances.
As the 2024 IPL progresses, let's explore the top 10 bowlers with the most wickets in the tournament. Yuzvendra
Chahal, the crafty leg-spinner of the Rajasthan Royals, leads the pack as the highest wicket-taker in IPL history.

T20 World Cup ambassador Usain Bolt optimistic about cricket in USA
 Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has been appointed as the official ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World
Cup, hosted by the West Indies and the United States from June 1 to 29. Bolt, renowned as the fastest man alive, brings
his cricket passion and worldwide appeal to energize the tournament and expand the sport's reach.

Yuvraj Singh Named ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Ambassador

Source: India Today

 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the appointment of Indian cricket legend Yuvraj Singh as an
ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

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 The announcement comes with just 36 days remaining until the highly anticipated global event for T20 cricket
commences.

Sana Mir Named Ambassador of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier

Source: Crictracker
 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the appointment of Pakistan cricket legend Sana Mir as the
ambassador for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier.
 The Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier will witness 10 teams battling it out for two coveted spots at the ICC Women’s
T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh.

Yakshagana Exponent Subrahmanya Dhareshwar Passes Away

Source: The Hindu

 The world of Yakshagana, a traditional theatre form of Karnataka, has lost a towering figure.
 Subrahmanya Dhareshwar, a senior and well-known Yakshagana ‘bhagavatha’ (background singer), passed away in
Bengaluru. He was 66 years old.

Indian athletes excel at 21st U-20 Asian Athletics Championship 2024

 India's athletes maintained their remarkable medal streak at the 21st U-20 Asian Athletics Championship 2024 as
Harshit Kumar secured a gold medal in the fiercely contested Hammer throw event. His exceptional throw of 66.7
meters earned India another prestigious gold at the championship.

Velavan Senthilkumar of India wins Batch Open Squash

 Velavan Senthilkumar of India clinched his eighth Professional Squash Association Tour title by winning the Batch Open
Challenger tournament. In the final, he defeated French player Melvil Scianimanico with scores of 11-6, 11-9, 11-6. This
victory marked Senthilkumar's 12th appearance in a Professional Squash Association final. Ranked 58th globally, he
also triumphed over Hong Kong's Andes Ling in the semifinals with scores of 11-2, 11-1, 11-6 in just 22 minutes.

MS Dhoni Sets New IPL Record in CSK’s Dominant Win

 The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) clinched a commanding 78-run victory against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on
Sunday, which could influence the course of both teams' 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) journeys. This decisive win
notably improved CSK's net run rate, moving them to the third position in the league rankings. Conversely, SRH faced
their second consecutive loss, dropping to the fourth position.
About MS Dhoni:
Born: 7 July 1981 (age 42 years), Ranchi
Spouse: Sakshi Dhoni (m. 2010)
Parents: Pan Singh Dhoni, Devaki Devi
Awards: Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2008)

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 SUMMITS AND MOUS
UAE’s Masdar to Host World Future Energy Summit
 Masdar, the UAE’s prominent clean energy company, is set to host the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) from April
16 to 18 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
 The UAE Consensus agreed at COP28.
 Masdar aims to achieve a renewable energy portfolio capacity of 100GW by 2030.

EU-India Collaboration: Driving Innovation in EV Battery Recycling

 The European Union (EU) and India have embarked on a collaborative effort to nurture startups in the field of Electric
Vehicle (EV) battery recycling.
 This initiative is a direct outcome of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) announced in April 2022, aimed
at enhancing cooperation in clean and green technologies.

PhonePe Partners with eSewa, HAN Pokhara to Promote UPI in Nepal

 PhonePe, in collaboration with eSewa and the Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) Pokhara, is set to promote UPI during
the Fewa New Year Festival in Nepal.

BANKING & ECONOMY

Microsoft and OpenAI Unveil $100 Billion ‘Stargate’ AI Supercomputer
 Tech giants Microsoft and OpenAI have revealed plans to construct an unprecedented artificial intelligence
supercomputer known as “Stargate.”

MGNREGS Wage Rates Revised: Hikes Range between 4-10%

 The Union rural development ministry announced the revision of wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Scheme on March 27, following clearance from the Election Commission amidst the ongoing Lok
Sabha polls and the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in force.
 Haryana boasts the highest wage rate for unskilled workers at Rs 374 per day.
 Conversely, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have the lowest wage rates at Rs 234.

RBI Data Reveals: Credit Cards Breach 100 Million Mark in India
 As of December 2023, India witnessed a surge in credit card usage, with the total number crossing the 100 million mark.
 In December 2023, the total number of outstanding credit cards reached 97.9 million, with a record addition of 1.9
million cards during the month alone.

UPI Ends FY24 with Record Transactions Worth ₹199 Lakh Crore
 Unified Payments Interface (UPI) concluded FY24 on a remarkable note, achieving new milestones in transaction
volume and value during March 2024.
 UPI transactions are expected to surpass 100 crore transactions per day by FY27, according to a report by PwC India.

SEBI Unveils SCORES 2.0: Enhancing Investor Complaint Redress System

 The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched SCORES 2.0, an upgraded version of its Complaint
Redress System (SCORES), to strengthen mechanisms for addressing investor complaints.

‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Norm Implemented

 The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag‘ norm, which aims to
prevent the use of a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a particular vehicle.
 This new norm has come into effect from April 1, 2024.

World Bank Raises India’s Growth Projection: FY24 GDP at 7.5%

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 The World Bank has revised India’s GDP growth projection for FY25 to 6.6%, indicating a moderate yet steady growth
trajectory.
 FY25 growth projection raised to 6.6% by the World Bank, reflecting a slight increase of 20 basis points.

PepsiCo’s Investment in Ujjain: A Game-Changer for Madhya Pradesh

 PepsiCo India announces a massive investment of ₹1,266 crore to establish a cutting-edge flavour manufacturing facility
in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
 Scheduled to commence operations in the first quarter of 2026.

India to Build First Commercial Crude Oil Strategic Storage

 India aims to bolster its strategic petroleum reserves (SPRs) by constructing its first privately managed storage facility
in partnership with a private company by 2029-30.

Adani Green Energy Ltd Surpasses 10,000 MW Operating Portfolio: Leading India’s Renewable Energy Sector
 Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL) has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 10,000 MW of renewable energy
capacity in its operational portfolio.
 AGEL has commissioned 2,000 MW of solar capacity at the Khavda solar park in Gujarat.
 This makes AGEL the first company in India to exceed the 10,000 MW mark in renewable energy capacity.

Government Approval of Onion Export to Friendly Countries

 In response to requests from friendly nations including Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Mauritius, and
Bhutan, the Indian government has granted approval for the export of onions.
 India, a significant global exporter of onions, had enforced a ban on onion exports in December 2023.
 India has agreed to export 50,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh, 550 tonnes to Bhutan, 3,000 tonnes to Bahrain, 1,200
tonnes to Mauritius, and 14,400 tonnes to the United Arab Emirates.

RBI Monetary Policy, Repo Rate to Remain Steady for Seventh Time
 RBI Monetary Policy Committee has decided by majority 5:1 to keep policy rates unchanged, Governor Shaktikanta Das
announced on April 5.

It is the first bi-monthly monetary policy of 2024-25. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor also announced MSF &
Bank rates to continue to be at 6.75%. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor has kept the policy rate unchanged at
6.5 per cent.

RBI Imposes Penalties on IDFC First Bank and LIC Housing Finance
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed monetary penalties on two financial institutions – IDFC First Bank and LIC
Housing Finance – for non-compliance with various regulations.
 The RBI has imposed a penalty of ₹1 crore on IDFC First Bank for non-compliance with certain directions on ‘Loans and
Advances – Statutory and Other Restrictions’.

RBI Postpones Implementation of New Rules for Exchange-Traded Forex Derivatives

 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has deferred the implementation of new regulations governing exchange-traded forex
derivatives to May 3.
 The RBI rules by closing positions before April 5.
 India’s bond markets in global indexes from June onwards.

57 Companies Responsible for 80% of World’s Carbon Emissions

 According to a report released by the think tank ‘InfluenceMap’, just 57 companies are responsible for 80% of the
world’s carbon emissions from fossil fuels and cement over the past seven years.

HDFC Bank Becomes First Private Bank to Open Branch in Lakshadweep

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 Private lender HDFC Bank has opened a branch at Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep, making it the only private sector
bank to have a presence in the Union Territory.
About HDFC Bank:
CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan (27 Oct 2020)
Founded: August 1994, Mumbai;
Headquarters: Mumbai.

Adani Green Energy Builds World’s Largest Renewable Energy Park in Khavda, Gujarat
 Adani Green Energy Limited, an Adani Group company, is building the world’s largest renewable energy park in Khavda,
Kutch district of Gujarat.
 According to Vineet Jain, Managing Director of Adani Green Energy, the total capacity of the Khavda plant will be 30 GW.

MUFG to Acquire 20% Stake in HDB Financial Services, Valuing at $9-10 Billion Pre-IPO
 In a significant move, Japan’s MUFG is set to purchase a 20% stake in HDB Financial Services, a subsidiary of India’s
HDFC Bank.
 Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ (MUFG) is making a significant investment by acquiring a substantial stake in HDB
Financial Services.

Ashneer Grover Ventures into Fintech with ZeroPe Medical Loan App
 Ashneer Grover is the co-founder and former managing director of the fintech company BharatPe.
 After his high-profile exit from BharatPe in 2022, Grover has now ventured into the fintech space again with a new app
called ZeroPe.

"IPPB Rolls Out Service Charges for AePS Transactions"

Source: Mint
 India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has implemented service charges for Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS)
transactions, effective from June 15, 2022. AePS is a bank-led model allowing online financial transactions at Point of
Sale (PoS) terminals through Aadhaar authentication, enabling various banking services.
"RBI Rejects Two More Applications for Small Finance Bank Establishment"

Source: Times now

 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rejected two more applications for setting up small finance banks: Dvara Kshetriya
Gramin Financial Services Private Limited and Tally Solutions Private Limited.
Dvara Kshetriya Gramin Financial Services applied for a small bank licence in April 2021 whereas Tally Solutions had
applied in August 2021.
About RBI :
Established: 1 April 1935
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Pakistan Tops Asia with Highest Cost of Living and 25% Inflation Rate: Asian Development Bank"
 The Asian Development Bank (ADB), based in Manila, reported that Pakistan's inflation rate is projected to reach 25% in
the current fiscal year (2024), which is the highest among all Asian countries.
 With this inflation rate, Pakistan has become the most expensive nation in Asia, surpassing its previous status as the
highest in South Asia.
 The ADB's Asian Development Outlook forecasts a 15% inflation rate for Pakistan in the next fiscal year, which remains
the highest among 46 countries.
About ADB:
Established: 1966
Headquarters: Manila, Philippines
President: Masatsugu Asakawa

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Membership: 68 members, including 49 regional members (countries in Asia and the Pacific) and 19 non-regional members
(countries outside the region)
Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has introduced a premium payment option through WhatsApp
 The prominent private life insurer, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, has partnered with Meta (formerly Facebook) to launch
premium payment options on WhatsApp.
About Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance:
Founded: 2001
Headquarters: Pune, Maharashtra
MD & CEO : Tarun Chugh

SBI re-launches the 400-day 'Amrit Kalash' retail term deposit scheme
 State Bank of India (SBI), India's largest lender by assets, has reintroduced its retail term deposit scheme, Amrit Kalash.
The scheme features a special tenor of 400 days, offering an interest rate of 7.6% for senior citizens and 7.1% for others.
Initially launched on February 15, 2023, and valid until March 31, 2023, the scheme has been reintroduced to provide
customers with another chance to benefit from SBI's attractive interest rates.
About SBI:
Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara
Headquarters: Mumbai
Founded: 1 July 1955

The Rupee Vostro Account system facilitates foreign banks to transact in Indian rupees with domestic banks

Source: Times of India

 The Rupee Vostro Account system is a financial arrangement that allows foreign banks to transact in Indian rupees with
domestic banks. The term "vostro" originates from the Latin phrase "in nostro vostro," meaning "in our account, in your
account." Here, the domestic bank is the "vostro" bank, and the foreign bank is the "nostro" bank. Regulated by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), this system enables foreign banks to maintain accounts with domestic banks, streamlining
trade and investment activities in India. It provides a secure and transparent platform for foreign banks to conduct
rupee transactions without needing a local branch in India.
About RBI:
Established: 1 April 1935
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor: Shaktikanta Das

RBI imposes Rs.60.3 lakh penalty on five co-operative banks

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has levied penalties totaling Rs. 60.3 lakh on five co-operative banks for violating various
regulatory norms. Among these, Rajkot Nagarik Sahakari Bank faced a penalty of Rs. 43.30 lakh for non-compliance with RBI
directives related to 'ban on loans and advances to directors and their relatives, and firms/concerns in which they are
interested', 'prohibition on opening saving bank accounts in the names of certain bodies/organizations', and 'maintenance of
deposit accounts'. Furthermore, The Kangra Co-operative Bank (New Delhi), Rajdhani Nagar Sahkari Bank (Lucknow), and
Zila Sahakari Bank, Garhwal (Kotdwar, Uttarakhand) were each penalized Rs. 5 lakh by the central bank. Additionally, the
District Co-operative Bank (Dehradun) incurred a penalty of Rs. 2 lakh.
About RBI:
Established: 1 April 1935
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor: Shaktikanta Das

India’s outward FDI declined 39% to $28.64 billion in FY24

In the fiscal year ending March 2024, India's overseas direct investment (FDI) saw a significant decline of 39% to $28.64
billion, as per RBI data. This decline is notable compared to the $46.96 billion FDI recorded in the previous fiscal year. Out of
the total FDI, $9.62 billion was invested through the equity route, constituting about 34% of the total financial commitment
in FY2024. Additionally, loan commitments decreased from $7.73 billion to $5.24 billion in the same period.

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Indian companies also issued overseas guarantees amounting to $14 billion in FY2024, lower than the $20.09 billion issued
in FY2023. It's noteworthy that the highest outward FDI in FY2024 was observed in March.
About RBI:
Established: 1 April 1935
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor: Shaktikanta Das

RBI approves Cred for payment aggregator operations

 Bengaluru's fintech unicorn Cred has secured provisional approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for its Payment
Aggregation (PA) business. Upon securing final approval, Cred will be able to diversify its services, extending beyond
credit card bill payments to encompass merchant payments, placing it alongside companies such as Razorpay.
About Cred:
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: Bangalore, Karnataka, India
CEO: Kunal Shah

About RBI:
Established: 1 April 1935
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Ashok Leyland and South Indian Bank collaborate for dealer financing solutions
 South Indian Bank has entered into an agreement with Ashok Leyland Limited to finance their dealers through the
Bank’s dealer finance program.
 Under this collaboration, the Bank will offer exceptional finance options to Ashok Leyland Limited's dealers.
 This partnership is geared towards assisting Ashok Leyland Limited's dealer partners in optimizing vehicle inventory
funding.
About Ashok Leyland:
Founded: 7 September 1948
Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Owned by: Hinduja Group

About South Indian Bank:

Founded: 1929
Headquarters: Thrissur, Kerala, India
MD & CEO: P. R. Seshadri
Tagline: Experience Next Generation Banking

SBI closed at Rs.766.1 with 2.6% monthly returns

 Yesterday, the State Bank of India closed at Rs.766.1, showing a 3-month return of 21.33%. This significant growth
reflects positive market sentiment towards the bank's performance, benefiting investors.
About SBI:
Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara
Headquarters: Mumbai
Founded: 1 July 1955

Razorpay, Airtel Payments Bank launch UPI Switch, revolutionizing payments

 Razorpay and Airtel Payments Bank have launched the UPI Switch, a pioneering cloud-based infrastructure set to
transform digital payments. This innovative solution aims to boost success rates by 4-5% and process up to 10,000
transactions per second (TPS), providing businesses with unparalleled efficiency and scalability.
BharatPe introduces BharatPe One, revolutionizing payments

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 BharatPe introduces BharatPe One, an all-in-one payment device reshaping digital transactions. This innovative product
combines POS, QR, and speaker features into a single device, offering unmatched convenience for both merchants and
customers.

RBI issues new guidelines for ARCs starting April 24, 2024
 The RBI has released a detailed master direction for asset reconstruction companies (ARCs), effective from April 24,
2024. These guidelines seek to improve the regulatory framework for ARCs, ensuring their financial stability and
efficacy in handling distressed assets.
Tata Power Solar partners with Indian Bank to boost rooftop solar installations
 Tata Power Solar Systems Limited (TPSSL) and Indian Bank have joined forces to promote solar rooftop systems in
residential properties. This collaboration intends to provide financing solutions for installations under the Pradhan
Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana scheme, including support for 3-10 KW installations under the regular scheme.
About Indian Bank:
Founded: 15 August 1907
Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
MD & CEO: Shanti Lal Jain

RBI restricts Kotak Mahindra from online customer onboarding and new credit card issuance
 The RBI has instructed Kotak Mahindra Bank to halt the process of acquiring new customers via its online and mobile
banking platforms. According to the RBI's statement, issued under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the
directive also includes suspending the issuance of new credit cards.
About Kotak Mahindra Bank:
Founder: Uday Kotak
Founded: 21 November 1985
Headquarters: Mumbai
CEO: Ashok Vaswani

Adani’s Vizhinjam Port Approved as India’s First Transshipment Hub

Source: The Economic times

 Adani Group’s Vizhinjam Port in Kerala has received approval from the government to operate as India’s inaugural
transshipment port.
 Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) initiated the Vizhinjam transshipment project in 2015, with a
planned completion by 2019.

RBI Directs Talkcharge to Cease PPI Operations and Refund Balances

Source: Business Standard

 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed Talkcharge Technologies to halt the issuance and operation of its
Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) or wallets.

S&P Global Ratings: Banks may need to slow loan growth in FY25.
According to S&P Global Ratings, Indian banks are expected to maintain strong credit growth, profitability, and asset quality
in the current fiscal year due to robust economic growth. However, they may need to reduce their loan growth as deposit
growth, particularly in retail deposits, is not matching the pace. In the Asia-Pacific 2Q 2024 Banking Update, S&P Global
Ratings Director SSEA Nikita Anand stated that the sector's credit growth is anticipated to moderate to 14% in FY25 from
16% in FY24 if deposit growth remains sluggish
Sensex and Nifty trade strong; bank stocks gain over 1%
 The Sensex and Nifty, India's benchmark indices, are showing strong trading trends. The Sensex has risen by 585.13
points to reach 74,315.29, while the Nifty has gained 120 points, reaching 22,539.95. Analysts expect a short-term
alignment with global markets and stress the importance of ongoing results on individual stocks. Arvinder Singh Nanda
from Master Capital Services Ltd highlights that the market's future depends on critical domestic and global economic
data, such as India's fiscal deficit, Q4FY24 results, and indicators like China's PMI and Euro Zone's CPI.

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RBI's Guidelines for Voluntary Conversion of Small Finance Banks into Universal Banks
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released guidelines for the voluntary conversion of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) into
Universal Banks, effective immediately. These guidelines, titled "Guidelines for 'on-tap' Licensing of SFBs in Private
Sector," dated December 5, 2019, outline the pathway for SFBs to transition into universal banks.
About RBI :
Established : 1 April 1935
Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Governor : Shaktikanta Das

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