National News

Union Minister Hardeep S Puri Launches Ethanol 100 Fuel Initiative

• In a move towards environmental sustainability and emission reduction, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has introduced 'Ethanol 100' as an automotive fuel option.
• This initiative forms a crucial part of the government's strategy to enhance ethanol blending in petrol, with significant progress already seen in infrastructure and availability across various states.

International News

UK tests a laser weapon that can hit a coin from a kilometre

• Britain has successfully conducted test firings of its DragonFire Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW), demonstrating its capability to intercept enemy aircraft and missiles at a remarkably low cost.
• A recent demonstration in Scotland showcased the precision of the laser in targeting and neutralizing aerial threats, indicating a potential revolution in air defense technology.

States News

Maharashtra Renames Ahmednagar as ‘Ahilyanagar’

• In a significant move, the Maharashtra Cabinet has decided to rename Ahmednagar district as 'Ahilya Nagar'.
• This decision holds profound significance as it pays homage to the illustrious 18th-century Maratha queen, Ahilyabai Holkar.
• Ahilyabai Holkar is celebrated for her exemplary leadership and contribution to the welfare and development of her kingdom. This renaming not only honors her legacy but also serves as a reminder of her invaluable contributions to Maharashtra's history and culture.
• The renaming of Ahmednagar to 'Ahilya Nagar' is a testament to the state's rich heritage and the enduring legacy of its historical figures.

Rajasthan Government to Distribute Free Millet Seeds to Farmers

• Meanwhile, the Rajasthan government has taken a commendable step towards promoting agricultural sustainability by announcing the distribution of free seeds of millets and coarse grains to the state's farmers.
• This initiative is aimed at bolstering millet production in Rajasthan, thereby enhancing food security and agricultural diversity.
• Millets are known for their resilience to adverse environmental conditions and their nutritional benefits, making them an important crop for sustainable agriculture.

Tamil Nadu Tops Illegal Trade in Shark Body Parts

• On a concerning note, recent analysis by TRAFFIC and WWF-India has revealed that Tamil Nadu leads the illegal trade in shark body parts, accounting for nearly 65% of seizures between January 2010 and December 2022.
• This revelation underscores the rampant exploitation of marine resources and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
• The illegal trade in shark body parts poses a grave threat to marine biodiversity, as sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of marine ecosystems.

Important Days News

National Vaccination Day 2024, Date, History and Significance

• National Vaccination Day serves as a reminder of the critical role vaccines play in safeguarding public health by protecting against deadly diseases such as polio and smallpox.
• It is observed on March 16th each year to raise awareness about vaccination and encourage individuals to get vaccinated for their well-being.
• This year, National Vaccination Day falls on a Saturday, emphasizing the ongoing importance of immunization efforts.

Indian Navy Gets Its Own Headquarters Named ‘Nausena Bhawan’

• Indian Navy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the newly constructed Nausena Bhawan, the dedicated headquarters building for the Indian Navy.
• Located at Delhi Cantonment, this marks a crucial milestone for the Indian Navy, providing it with a centralized operational hub to streamline its functions and enhance efficiency.
• The establishment of Nausena Bhawan reflects the government's commitment to bolstering India's maritime capabilities and strengthening national security infrastructure.

Chameli Devi Jain Award 2024 for Outstanding Woman Media Person

• The prestigious Chameli Devi Jain Award 2024 for Outstanding Woman Media Person of the Year has been conferred jointly to two exemplary journalists: Greeshma Kuthar, an independent journalist, and Ritika Chopra from the Indian Express.
• This recognition underscores the remarkable contributions of women journalists in shaping public discourse and upholding journalistic integrity.
• The Chameli Devi Jain Award celebrates excellence in media and serves as a testament to the pivotal role played by women in the field of journalism.

V-Dem Institute’s Democracy Report 2024: India’s Decline into Electoral Autocracy

• The V-Dem Institute’s Democracy Report 2024 has brought to light India's concerning descent into electoral autocracy.
• Highlighting the erosion of democratic values and institutions, particularly in areas such as freedom of expression, media independence, and civil liberties, the report paints a grim picture of India's democratic trajectory.
• India's classification as one of the top standalone autocracies underscores the urgency of addressing systemic challenges and safeguarding democratic principles.

B Sairam is the New Chairman and Managing Director of NCL

• In the realm of corporate leadership, B Sairam has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), the Singrauli-based flagship Subsidiary of Coal India Limited.
• With his vast experience and expertise, Sairam is poised to lead NCL towards achieving greater operational excellence and sustainable growth.
• His appointment reflects a strategic move to steer the organization through dynamic market conditions and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the coal sector.

Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade Retires from Red-Ball Cricket

• In the world of sports, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has announced his retirement from red-ball cricket (first-class cricket).
• With a career marked by stellar performances and unwavering commitment to the sport, Wade's decision to retire signifies the end of an era in Australian cricket.
• His contributions to the game, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on cricketing history, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
• As Wade bids farewell to red-ball cricket, his legacy as a formidable cricketer and a true sportsman will continue to inspire future generations.