National News

Pune Celebrates Yoga Mahotsav Ahead of International Yoga Day

• Pune, Maharashtra, recently celebrated the 'Yoga Mahotsav' to mark the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga.
• Hosted by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and the National Institute of Naturopathy under the Ministry of Ayush, the event garnered immense participation from thousands of individuals.
• Commencing at 6.00 AM on April 7th, attendees enthusiastically engaged in the practice of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), reflecting the escalating popularity of Yoga.

India Secures Second Overseas Port: Sittwe Agreement Approved by MEA

• In a strategic maneuver aimed at fortifying its maritime presence and augmenting regional connectivity, India has gained operational control over the Sittwe Port in Myanmar.
• This acquisition follows approval from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The agreement empowers India Ports Global (IPGL), a wholly-owned entity of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, to oversee the management of the entire port situated on the Kaladan River.
• Notably, this marks India’s second overseas port acquisition, following the successful venture in Chabahar, Iran.

International News

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

• John Alfred Tinniswood, a remarkable 111-year-old individual from England, has recently been recognized by Guinness World Records (GWR) as the world’s oldest living man.
• In a video shared by GWR, Tinniswood imparts his insights into longevity and offers valuable advice to others seeking a fulfilling life.

China Surpasses India as Largest Importer of Russian Crude

• China has surpassed India as the foremost importer of Russian crude oil transported via sea routes.
• Statistics indicate that China imported approximately 1.82 million barrels per day (bpd) in March, eclipsing India's import volume of 1.36 million bpd.
• This shift can be attributed to India's decreased imports owing to sanctions and escalating prices.

Appoinments News

Centre Appoints Manoj Panda as New Finance Commission Member

• The appointment of Manoj Panda to the Sixteenth Finance Commission fills a crucial vacancy, enabling the commission to initiate its mandate.
• Panda, an esteemed economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, assumes the role of a full-time member, bringing his expertise to the forefront of financial deliberations.

Defence News

Tri-Service Planning Conference: Parivartan Chintan

• The inaugural Tri-Service Planning Conference, aptly named 'Parivartan Chintan,' recently convened in New Delhi under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence.
• This landmark event, held on April 8, 2024, was orchestrated to foster jointness and integration among the Indian Armed Forces.
• The conference assumes significance, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing endeavors to establish unified theatre commands, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and synergy across military domains.

Indian Army Enhances Air Defence with Igla-S MANPADS

• In a strategic move to bolster its Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) capabilities, the Indian Army has acquired Igla-S Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) from Russia.
• This procurement, which is part of a larger deal comprising 120 launchers and 400 missiles, marks a significant upgrade over obsolete systems, enhancing the nation's air defence prowess.

Awards News

Aleksei Navalny and Yulia Navalnaya Honoured with Freedom Prize

• The late Russian dissident Aleksei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, are set to receive the Freedom Prize of the Media from the prestigious Ludwig Erhard Summit, a prominent German forum.
• This accolade, bestowed annually upon individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to freedom of expression, dialogue, and democracy, recognizes the couple's unwavering commitment to these principles.

Science and Technology News

TASL Launches India’s First Privately-Built Sub-Metre Resolution Surveillance Satellite

• Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), in collaboration with Satellogic, has achieved a remarkable milestone by launching India’s inaugural privately-built sub-metre resolution earth observation satellite, TSAT-1A.
• This landmark accomplishment heralds a new era in India’s space exploration endeavors, empowering the nation with advanced surveillance capabilities crucial for various applications.

Miscellaneous News

Gangaur Festival 2024: Date, Rituals, & Festival Significance

• The vibrant Gangaur Festival, celebrated fervently across Rajasthan, commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri).
• Rooted in ancient traditions, Gangaur holds profound cultural significance, symbolizing the joy and auspiciousness associated with marital bliss.
• The festival's rituals and festivities epitomize the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, drawing participants from far and wide to partake in its exuberant celebrations.