National News

India to Build First Commercial Crude Oil Strategic Storage

• India is gearing up to reinforce its strategic petroleum reserves (SPRs) by embarking on the construction of its premier privately managed storage facility in collaboration with a private entity by the fiscal year 2029-30.
• This initiative marks a significant stride towards enhancing the nation's energy security.
• The establishment of the inaugural privately managed strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) by 2029-30 will empower the operator with the freedom to engage in trading activities involving all stored oil.

India’s First Gene Therapy For Cancer Launched

• In a landmark development in the realm of healthcare, India witnessed the launch of its maiden indigenous gene therapy for cancer.
• This groundbreaking treatment, named 'CAR-T cell therapy', was unveiled by the esteemed President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, at IIT Bombay on April 4, 2024.
• The advent of this innovative therapy heralds a new era in the fight against cancer, promising renewed hope for patients battling this formidable disease.

International News

Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi Sworn In For Third Term As Egyptian President

• Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, aged 69, has embarked on his third term as the nation's leader, extending his incumbency until 2030.
• Amidst grappling with economic adversities, Sisi has reiterated his commitment to prioritizing national interests and fulfilling the aspirations of the Egyptian populace for a progressive and democratic state.
• His tenure is poised to navigate Egypt through multifaceted challenges while steering the nation towards sustainable growth and prosperity.

Appointments News

Tata International Appoints Rajeev Singhal as MD

• Tata International, the global trading and distribution arm of the illustrious Tata Group, has announced the appointment of Rajeev Singhal as its newly appointed Managing Director (MD).
• Effective from April 1, 2024, Singhal succeeds Anand Sen, who gracefully retired from his position on March 31, 2024.
• This strategic leadership transition underscores Tata International's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in its global endeavors.

EC Ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana to Urge Youth to Vote

• In a bid to bolster youth participation in the democratic process, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has enlisted the support of acclaimed actor Ayushmann Khurrana.
• Khurrana features prominently in the ECI's campaign video aimed at galvanizing young voters to exercise their franchise in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.
• This collaborative initiative endeavors to foster a culture of active citizenship and civic engagement among India's youth populace.

Agreements News

SJVN Partners With IIT Patna To Enhance Tunneling Project Performance

• SJVN, formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam, has forged a strategic alliance with the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology Patna (IIT Patna) with the aim of revolutionizing tunneling project performance.
• This collaborative endeavor seeks to leverage advanced geological models to enhance the efficiency and efficacy of tunneling projects, thereby contributing to infrastructural development and progress.

Awards News

Dr. Karthik Kommuri Honoured at National Fame Awards 2024

• Karthik Kommuri's exemplary contributions to orthodontics and dentistry have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition.
• Renowned for his unwavering dedication to patient care and clinical excellence, Dr. Kommuri was bestowed with the prestigious title of Distinguished Overseas Dental Specialist (Orthodontics and Orofacial Pain) at the esteemed National Fame Awards 2024.
• The ceremony, graced by distinguished personalities including chief guest Dia Mirza, celebrated Dr. Kommuri's exceptional achievements and profound impact in the field of dental healthcare.

Important Days

United Nations Observes International Mine Awareness Day on 4th April

• The United Nations commemorates International Mine Awareness Day on April 4th annually, dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating impact of landmines and other explosive remnants of war on civilian populations.
• This observance underscores the imperative of safeguarding lives and promoting peace in conflict-ridden regions.
• The theme for International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action 2024, 'Protecting Lives, Building Peace', underscores the pivotal role of mine action in mitigating human suffering and fostering sustainable peace in affected areas worldwide.

Sports News

Chess: India has a new No. 1 as Arjun Erigaisi Climbs to No. 9 in the World

• India's burgeoning prowess in the realm of chess is exemplified by Arjun Erigaisi's remarkable ascent to the summit of the national rankings.
• With an impressive standard rating of 2756, Erigaisi has clinched the coveted title of India's numero uno chess player, ascending to the ninth position in the global rankings.
• His meteoric rise heralds a new era of excellence and achievement in Indian chess, inspiring aspiring players and aficionados alike.

Miscellaneous News

Bundelkhand Wheat Variety Gets GI Tag

• In a momentous accolade for agricultural heritage, the indigenous wheat variety from the Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh, known colloquially as Kathiya Gehu, has been accorded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI)
• This esteemed recognition not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage and biodiversity of the region but also underscores the significance of preserving and promoting indigenous agricultural practices.