National News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Historic Feature on Newsweek Cover

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi to grace the cover of Newsweek.
• In a wide-ranging interview, PM Modi delved into various subjects including China, economic reforms, the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Quad alliance, and the pivotal role of democracy in India.

India Donates Ambulances and School Buses to Nepal

• In a gesture reflecting solidarity and support, India has generously donated 35 ambulances and 66 school buses to various organizations in Nepal, thereby bolstering critical infrastructure in the realms of health and education.
• The handover ceremony, officiated by Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava and Finance Minister Barshaman Pun, marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.

International News

The Deep State Struggle: Forces Behind the Israel-Iran Conflict

• The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran transcends mere geopolitical tensions; it represents a multifaceted struggle involving power dynamics and ideological disparities rooted in the clash between the "Deep State" and Islamist forces across the Middle East.
• Originating in the early 20th century, this conflict has been shaped by pivotal events, power dynamics, and ideological disparities, leaving an indelible mark on the region's history.

Appointments News

Senior IPS Officer Anurag Kumar Appointed as Joint Director of CBI

• In a noteworthy development within India's law enforcement arena, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has greenlit the appointment of senior IPS officer Anurag Kumar as the Joint Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
• This decision, effective immediately, underscores the government's confidence in Kumar's leadership and expertise to fulfill this pivotal role.

Justice Aniruddha Bose Appointed Director of National Judicial Academy

• Supreme Court Justice Aniruddha Bose assumes the mantle of Director of the National Judicial Academy (NJA) in Bhopal, succeeding a legacy of judicial excellence.
• This appointment, announced by Supreme Court Chief Justice DY Chandrachud during a ceremonial bench session on April 10, reinforces the NJA's mission to enhance judicial skills and streamline court administration under the apex court's guidance.

Books and Authors News

Salman Rushdie’s Memoir "Knife": A Harrowing Tale of Resilience and the Fight for Free Speech

• Renowned British-American author Salman Rushdie unveils his memoir "Knife," chronicling his harrowing ordeal of being stabbed at a public event in 2022 and his subsequent journey to triumph over adversity.
• Through this poignant narrative, Rushdie reaffirms his steadfast commitment to free speech, a cornerstone principle that has shaped both his life and literary legacy.

Ranks and Reports News

Plastic Overshoot Day Report: India’s Role in Global Plastic Mismanagement

• India finds itself among the top twelve countries contributing to 60% of the world’s mismanaged plastic waste, as per the recent Plastic Overshoot Day report published by Switzerland’s EA Earth Action.
• Despite boasting the lowest per capita plastic waste production globally, India is projected to generate a staggering 7.4 million tons of mismanaged plastic waste in 2024, a figure deemed alarmingly high by the report.

Awards News

Avantika Vandanapu Honoured as South Asian Person of the Year by Harvard

• Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu, renowned for her portrayal of Karen Shetty in the 2024 musical comedy “Mean Girls,” clinches the prestigious “South Asian Person of the Year” award from Harvard University.
• This recognition celebrates Vandanapu’s exceptional contributions to the arts and her pivotal role in advocating for South Asian representation on the global stage.

Important Days

India’s Quantum Leap Celebrated on World Quantum Day 2024

• April 14, 2024, marks World Quantum Day, a global initiative aimed at fostering awareness and appreciation for quantum science and technology.
• India, aspiring to emerge as a global leader in various realms of Quantum Science and Technology, witnesses significant strides with the launch of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023.

International Turban Day 2024, Celebrating Sikh Heritage and Values

• Annually observed on April 13th, International Turban Day commemorates the rich cultural and religious significance of the turban in Sikhism.
• This day serves as a platform to amplify awareness regarding the turban’s importance as a symbol of Sikh identity, fostering religious harmony and intercultural understanding.

Sports News

Rashmi Kumari Wins National Women’s Carrom Title For The 12th time

• Rashmi Kumari adds another illustrious chapter to her storied career by clinching her 12th National Carrom Championship title.
• The three-time World Champion displayed remarkable skill and resilience, triumphing over K Nagajothi in the women’s final with a scoreline of 25-8, 14-20, 25-20.