National News

India’s Tree Cover Loss Since 2000: Insights from Global Forest Watch

• According to data from the Global Forest Watch, India has witnessed a substantial loss in tree cover since the turn of the millennium, with a staggering 2.33 million hectares affected.
• This loss encompasses a combination of natural phenomena and human activities, posing serious implications for the country's carbon equilibrium and the broader issue of climate change.

International News

Kuwait’s New Prime Minister: Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah

• Following the resignation of Sheikh Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Emir has appointed Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah as the new Prime Minister.
• Born in 1952, Sheikh Ahmad brings with him a wealth of experience in both finance and governance, having previously served in various ministerial roles.

Appointments News

BharatPe Appoints Nalin Negi as Chief Executive Officer

• BharatPe, a prominent player in India's fintech landscape, has officially named Nalin Negi as its Chief Executive Officer.
• Negi's elevation to this role comes after serving as the company's interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer for a period of 15 months, during which BharatPe underwent significant organizational changes.

SPACE India named Sanjana Sanghi as its Brand Ambassador

• SPACE India, established in 2001 with the aim of integrating Astronomy and Space Science into the country's school curriculum, has appointed Sanjana Sanghi as its Brand Ambassador.
• The organization has been pivotal in demystifying space science and fostering an interest in astronomy among over 1.5 million students across 1,000 schools.

Economy News

IMF Raises India’s GDP Forecast and Global Growth Projection for 2024-25

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2024-25 upwards by 30 basis points to 6.8%, attributing it to robust domestic demand.
• Although slightly below the Indian government's forecast of 7%, this projection underscores the nation's economic resilience.
• Additionally, the IMF has increased its global growth projection for 2024 by 10 basis points to 3.2%, indicative of the world economy's ability to withstand various challenges.

Introducing CDP-SURAKSHA: Revolutionizing Horticulture Subsidies

• The Indian government has launched CDP-SURAKSHA, a pioneering digital platform aimed at enhancing the efficiency of subsidy distribution to horticulture farmers under the Cluster Development Programme (CDP).
• This initiative comes at a time when the horticulture sector plays a significant role in India's agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA), with consistent growth observed in crop production over the years.

Business News

Mahindra Susten’s ₹1,200 Crore Hybrid Renewable Energy Project in Maharashtra

• Mahindra Susten, a subsidiary of the Mahindra Group, has ventured into the hybrid renewable energy sector with a significant project worth ₹1,200 crores in Maharashtra.
• This project combines 101 MW wind energy capacity with 52 MW solar capacity, aiming to produce 460 million kWh of clean energy while offsetting 420,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

Awards News

World Economic Forum names Nykaa’s Adwaita Nayar as a 2024 Young Global Leader

• Adwaita Nayar, co-founder of Nykaa and CEO of Nykaa Fashion, has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a ‘2024 Young Global Leader’.
• This prestigious accolade acknowledges Nayar's impactful contributions as an entrepreneur and change-maker, cementing her position among the world's most influential young leaders.

Ram Charan Honored with an Honorary Doctorate in Literature from Vels University

• Vels University in Chennai bestowed an honorary doctorate in literature upon renowned Indian actor Ram Charan in a distinguished ceremony.
• This recognition celebrates Charan's significant achievements in the realm of cinema and his profound influence on audiences worldwide.

Sports News

Dharamsala to get India’s first ‘hybrid pitch’

• The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium in Dharamshala has introduced India's inaugural 'hybrid pitch', marking a pioneering advancement in the sport.
• This state-of-the-art technology promises to revolutionize cricket matches, with future international and IPL games set to be played on this innovative surface.

Important Days

World Hemophilia Day 2024, Date, History, and Theme

• World Hemophilia Day is observed annually on April 17th to raise awareness about hemophilia, a rare inherited bleeding disorder.
• This year's theme, "Equitable access for all: recognizing all bleeding disorders," underscores the importance of ensuring inclusive access to treatment and support for individuals with various bleeding disorders. Explore the history and significance of this vital health observance.