National News

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

• In a remarkable display of preparedness, the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army recently conducted an extensive Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) training exercise in the challenging terrain of Sikkim, situated at a staggering altitude of 17,000 feet.
• This exercise witnessed the participation of Missile Firing Detachments hailing from both Mechanized and Infantry Units of the Eastern Command.
• The primary focus of the exercise was to simulate live firing scenarios against dynamic and stationary targets, closely mimicking actual battlefield conditions.
• Such rigorous training endeavors underscore the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to maintaining combat readiness and operational efficiency even in the most demanding environments.

International News

Former Pakistan PM Yousuf Raza Gillani Elected as Senate Chairman

• The political landscape of Pakistan recently witnessed a significant development as former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani, alongside Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Syedal Khan Nasir, secured their positions as the Senate chairman and deputy chairman, respectively.
• This electoral outcome bears implications not only for Pakistan's domestic affairs but also for its diplomatic engagements on the international stage.
• Gillani's ascension to the position of Senate chairman adds another chapter to his illustrious political career, shaping the trajectory of Pakistan's legislative landscape.

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

• In a historic appointment that reverberates across diplomatic circles, Lindy Cameron, an eminent alumna of Oxford University and former CEO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, has been bestowed the honor of becoming the first woman high commissioner to India.
• This landmark decision not only reflects the UK's commitment to gender inclusivity but also symbolizes a new chapter in the enduring bilateral relations between the UK and India.
• Cameron's distinguished credentials and profound understanding of cybersecurity issues position her as a formidable envoy, poised to strengthen the multifaceted ties between the two nations.

Appointments News

Sushil Sharma Appointed CMD of SJVN Limited

• The appointment of Sushil Sharma as the Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of SJVN Limited heralds a new chapter in the organization's leadership landscape.
• Endorsed by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel following a meticulous selection process, Sharma's elevation underscores his stellar track record and visionary leadership within the organization.
• With his extensive experience and strategic acumen, Sharma is poised to steer SJVN Limited towards greater heights of excellence and innovation in the realm of power generation and infrastructure development.

Former Revenue Secretary Tarun Bajaj to Head US-India Tax Forum

• The appointment of former Revenue Secretary and seasoned bureaucrat Tarun Bajaj as the head of the US-India Tax Forum signifies a significant milestone in fostering bilateral economic cooperation between the two nations.
• Bajaj's wealth of experience and nuanced understanding of fiscal policies position him as a key architect in shaping the discourse surrounding tax reforms and cross-border investments.
• As the steward of the US-India Tax Forum, Bajaj is poised to facilitate constructive dialogue and foster synergies that benefit both economies, thereby bolstering the strategic partnership between the United States and India.

Asian Wrestling Championship Highlights: Udit's Silver, Abhimanyu and Vicky's Bronze Triumphs

• India witnessed commendable performances at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2024 held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
• Among the standout achievements was Udit, a 19-year-old wrestler, clinching the silver medal in the fiercely contested men’s 57kg category.
• Additionally, Abhimanyu and Vicky secured bronze medals in their respective weight divisions, contributing significantly to India’s medal tally on the inaugural day of the championship.

JNU's Historic Triumph in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) achieved a historic milestone by claiming the top spot in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.
• This remarkable feat not only underscores JNU’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence but also elevates India's stature in the global education arena.
• The achievement resonates as a testament to India's burgeoning influence on the world stage of higher education.

Science and Technology

Collaborative Efforts: US and Japan's Lunar Exploration Endeavors

• In a collaborative effort aimed at bolstering economic and defense ties, President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced plans to integrate Japanese astronauts into future NASA lunar missions under the Artemis program.
• This strategic move not only signifies a deepening partnership between the United States and Japan but also heralds a new chapter in lunar exploration, with potential implications for scientific discoveries and technological advancements.

Chandrayaan-4: ISRO's Vision for Advancing Lunar Exploration

• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath unveiled ambitious plans for Chandrayaan-4, the next phase of India’s lunar exploration endeavors.
• With a targeted launch in 2040, Chandrayaan-4 represents a significant leap forward in India’s quest to unravel the mysteries of the moon.
• This mission sets the stage for India's ambitious goal of landing an astronaut on the lunar surface by 2040, symbolizing a pioneering stride in the nation's space exploration journey.

Important Days

Commemorating International Day of Human Space Flight

• Every April 12, the International Day of Human Space Flight pays homage to the monumental journey of humanity into space.
• Established by the United Nations General Assembly on April 7, 2011, this day serves as a poignant reminder of mankind's indomitable spirit of exploration and discovery.
• It celebrates the historic milestone of Yuri Gagarin's pioneering spaceflight on April 12, 1961, which marked the dawn of the space age.

Raising Awareness on World Parkinson’s Day

• April 11 marks World Parkinson’s Day, an annual observance dedicated to increasing awareness about Parkinson’s disease—a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide.
• This day serves as a platform to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living with Parkinson’s, as well as their caregivers and families.
• Through advocacy and education, World Parkinson’s Day aims to foster understanding, support, and research efforts towards finding a cure for this complex condition.