National News

1. India's Strategy to Cease Urea Imports by 2025

• India has set a bold target to completely halt urea imports by the year 2025. This ambitious goal is to be achieved through a dual approach of ramping up domestic production and advocating for the use of alternative fertilizers.
• Currently, India heavily relies on imports to meet approximately 30% of its annual urea demand.
• This strategic move aims to enhance self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on foreign sources for agricultural needs.

Appointment News

2. Meenesh Shah Assumes Chairmanship of NCDFI

• Meenesh Shah has been elected as the Chairman of the National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India Ltd. (NCDFI), a pivotal organization in the dairy sector at the national level.
• His unanimous election underscores the trust and confidence vested in his leadership abilities by the stakeholders of the federation.
• Shah's appointment heralds a new chapter in the management of NCDFI, promising continued growth and development in the dairy industry.

Defence News

3. Indian Army Integrates Akashteer System for Enhanced Air Defence

• In a significant development aimed at bolstering the country's air defence capabilities, the Indian Army has commenced the induction of the indigenous Akashteer system.
• Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), this state-of-the-art automated air defence control and reporting system is poised to revolutionize the army's approach to air defence.
• By seamlessly integrating various air defence units, the Akashteer system is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency and response capabilities.

Awards News

4. SJVN Recognized for Exemplary Corporate Social Responsibility

• SJVN Limited, a leading public sector undertaking, has been bestowed with two prestigious awards at the 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2024 for its outstanding contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR).
• The Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) lauded SJVN's remarkable initiatives in this regard, acknowledging the company's commitment to social welfare and sustainable development.
• These accolades serve as a testament to SJVN's unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on society.

Schemes and Committees News

5. Former Judge Najmi Waziri Tasked with Leading Committee for Delhi Forest Protection

• In response to growing concerns over the protection of forests in the national capital, the Delhi High Court has appointed former judge Najmi Waziri to spearhead a specialized committee.
• This committee is entrusted with the crucial responsibility of devising and implementing effective measures to safeguard Delhi's invaluable natural resources.
• The decision to appoint Judge Waziri underscores the court's commitment to addressing environmental challenges and ensuring sustainable development in the region.

Sports News

6. Bilquis Mir: The First Indian Woman on the Paris Olympics Jury

• Bilquis Mir, a distinguished canoeist from Jammu and Kashmir, is set to create history as the first Indian woman to serve as a jury member at the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris.
• This prestigious appointment, officially conveyed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to the J&K administration, highlights Mir's exceptional achievements and contributions to the sporting arena.
• Her participation on the Olympics jury not only reflects her individual prowess but also signifies a significant milestone for women in Indian sports.

Important Days

7. International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2024

• April 6th marks the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP), dedicated to recognizing the transformative power of sports in promoting peace, inclusion, and sustainable development worldwide.
• The theme for IDSDP 2024, "Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies," underscores the unique role of sports in fostering unity, social cohesion, and positive change.
• This global observance serves as a poignant reminder of the universal language of sports in bridging divides and building a better future for all.

8. National Handmade Day 2024, Celebrating Artisanal Craftsmanship

• National Handmade Day, observed annually on the first Saturday of April, honors the skill, creativity, and dedication of artisans who create handmade goods.
• This year, falling on April 6, 2024, the theme of "Buy a Handmade Product" encourages support for local businesses and artisans.
• It serves as an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship embodied in handmade products, while also promoting sustainable consumption and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

9. National Library Day 2024, Celebrating Knowledge and Learning

• April 6th marks National Library Day, a celebration of the invaluable role played by libraries and librarians in fostering knowledge, literacy, and lifelong learning.
• This annual observance highlights the importance of making books and information accessible to all segments of society.
• Despite the digital age, libraries remain essential pillars of education and cultural preservation, serving as inclusive spaces for exploration, discovery, and community engagement.

Miscellaneous News

10. Excavation Unearths 5,200-Year-Old Harappan Settlement in Kachchh, Gujarat

• A groundbreaking archaeological excavation led by researchers from Kerala University has unearthed a 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement at Padta Bet, near Khatiya village in Kachchh district, Gujarat.
• This significant discovery sheds new light on the cultural evolution of Early Harappan civilizations in the region.
• Led by assistant professors Abhayan G.S. and Rajesh S.V., the expedition unearthed vital evidence illuminating the ancient origins and societal structures of early settlements in Gujarat.