Appointments News

Nita Ambani's Transition and Reliance Board Changes

Reliance Industries recently announced a notable shift in its leadership structure. Isha Ambani, Akash Ambani, and Anant Ambani have officially taken on roles as non-executive directors on the company's board. As part of this transition, Nita Ambani, the spouse of Mukesh Ambani, has decided to step down from the Reliance Industries Board. Despite this, she will continue to lead as the Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, the company's philanthropic arm. The visionary Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, not only aims to guide his children towards a unified direction but also to chart Reliance's path of expansion and increased value.

Agreements News

Enhancing Civil Aviation Cooperation between India and New Zealand

In a significant move towards fostering collaboration in civil aviation, India and New Zealand governments have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to facilitate increased air transport between the two nations. With the implementation of an open sky policy and expansion of point of calls, the aviation landscape is poised for transformation. A crucial aspect of the MoU is the extension of traffic rights for designated airlines from New Zealand, allowing diverse services using various aircraft types. Additionally, third and fourth freedom traffic rights have been granted to and from prominent Indian points, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

Strengthening Maritime Security: GSL and Kenya Shipyard Collaboration

To bolster security in the Indian Ocean Region, particularly along the eastern coast of Africa, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) and Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for maritime security cooperation. This agreement focuses on capacity building and collaboration in ship design and construction. GSL, a significant exporter of defense ships from the Indian subcontinent, brings extensive expertise, while Kenya Shipyards Limited, established to meet the operational requirements of the Kenyan Navy, offers strategic geographical positioning along crucial shipping lanes.

Miscellaneous News

GI Tag for Assam's Chokuwa Rice

Chokuwa rice, affectionately known as "Magic rice," has been granted the esteemed Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique attributes and heritage. This semi-glutinous winter rice, categorized as Sali rice, has a storied history and was a staple for the Ahom dynasty's troops. Notably sticky and glutinous, Chokuwa rice comes in Bora and Chokuwa types based on amylose content. Cultivated exclusively in the Brahmaputra River region encompassing areas like Tinsukia, Dhemaji, and Dibrugarh in Assam, this rice variety now holds official recognition.

National News

National War Memorial in NCERT Curriculum

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has taken a significant step towards instilling patriotism by introducing a new chapter in the Class 7 English textbook. Titled "A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers," the chapter delves into the history and significance of the National War Memorial. This memorial stands as a tribute to the sacrifices of post-independence soldiers and holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.

India and ADB's Climate Change and Health Hub

India, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is launching a climate change and health hub in Delhi. This hub aims to share knowledge, promote partnerships, and foster innovation, particularly for developing countries beyond the G-20. It will prioritize climate-resilient health systems and low-carbon healthcare supply chains, contributing to sustainable, quality healthcare.

Akashvani's Connection with the Indian Diaspora

Akashvani, India's national public radio broadcaster, organized a special event in New Delhi as part of the Know India Programme (KIP), an initiative under the Ministry of External Affairs. This event brought together around 55 students of Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) from across the world, emphasizing the ministry's commitment to connecting with the Indian diaspora youth through KIP. Launched in 2014, KIP aims to familiarize young PIOs with their roots and contemporary India.

Dadi Prakashmani Commemorated with a Postage Stamp

A postage stamp honoring Dadi Prakashmani was unveiled by President Draupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. This initiative, under the Department of Posts' 'My Stamp' program, pays tribute to Dadi Prakashmani's enduring influence and contributions to spirituality and society. As the former chief of Brahma Kumaris, her legacy as a spiritual leader and her efforts in spreading Indian values are immortalized through this stamp.

Important Days News

Celebrating World Sanskrit Day

World Sanskrit Day, also known as International Sanskrit Day, is celebrated on Shravana Poornima in the Hindu calendar, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. This year's Sanskrit Diwas falls on August 31st. The day aims to promote Sanskrit, a foundational language for classical texts in various disciplines. With its significance in literature, philosophy, mathematics, and science, Sanskrit holds a special place in India's cultural heritage.