National News

Strengthening Bonds: Indian Parliamentary Delegation's Diplomatic Move

• Recently, the Indian Parliamentary Delegation, spearheaded by Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh, engaged in a bilateral meeting with Armenian counterparts during the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) event in Geneva, Switzerland.
• This diplomatic encounter, attended by Hakob Arshakyan, the Vice President of the National Assembly of Armenia, emphasized the growing partnership between India and Armenia.
• Harivansh Narayan Singh lauded Armenia's support for India in various multilateral initiatives, signifying a deepening of ties between the two nations.

Government's Fiscal Strategy: Borrowing Plans for H1 FY25

• The Indian government has unveiled its borrowing strategy for the first half of the fiscal year 2024-25, aiming to raise Rs 7.5 lakh crore from the market.
• This substantial amount will be acquired through the issuance of diverse bonds, including sovereign green bonds.
• The government's plan entails conducting auctions for bonds with maturities ranging from 3 years to 50 years, reflecting a comprehensive approach to fiscal management.

International News

Historic Participation: Saudi Arabia's Debut in Miss Universe

• Rumi Alqahtani, a renowned 27-year-old model and influencer from Saudi Arabia, made history by announcing her participation in the Miss Universe competition.
• Her participation marks the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's inaugural appearance in this prestigious pageant.
• With notable accolades such as Miss Saudi Arabia and Miss Arab World Peace 2021 under her belt, Rumi Alqahtani's representation signifies a significant step towards inclusivity and cultural representation.

Political Milestone: Senegal Elects Youthful President

• In a groundbreaking development, Bassirou Diomaye Faye emerged victorious in Senegal's presidential election, securing 54.28 per cent of the votes in the first round.
• At 44 years old, Faye is poised to become Africa's youngest elected president and the first opposition candidate to win in the initial round since Senegal's independence.
• While awaiting validation from Senegal's Constitutional Council, Faye's triumph heralds a new era in Senegalese politics.

Appointments News

Lokpal Reinforcement: Induction of New Members

• Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi has been sworn in as the new judicial member of Lokpal (ombudsman), highlighting the institution's commitment to bolstering its ranks.
• Administered by Justice AM Khanwilkar, Chairman of the Lokpal of India, this oath-taking ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Central Vigilance Commissioner Praveen Kumar Srivastava.
• Additionally, the induction of Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Tirkey as new members further strengthens Lokpal's resolve to uphold justice and transparency.

Security Sector Reshuffle: Leadership Changes in Key Agencies

• The Indian government has undertaken significant appointments within key security agencies, aiming to fortify national security infrastructure. Notable changes include Sadanand Vasant Date's appointment as the new Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
• Similarly, Piyush Anand and Rajeev Kumar have been entrusted with leadership roles in the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) respectively.
• These strategic appointments underscore India's commitment to enhancing efficiency and addressing evolving security challenges.

Sports News

Record-Breaking Performance: SRH's Dominance in IPL 2024

• In a remarkable display of skill and prowess, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) team etched their name in history by scoring a monumental 277/3 against the Mumbai Indians (MI) during their clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 held in Hyderabad.
• This stellar performance surpassed the previous highest total in IPL history, previously held by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who scored 263 runs against Pune Warriors India in 2013.

Glory on the Table: Sreeja Akula Triumphs at WTT Feeder Beirut II 2024

• Indian paddler Sreeja Akula showcased exceptional talent as she secured the women’s singles title at the WTT Feeder Beirut II 2024 tournament in Beirut, Lebanon.
• Ranked 47th globally, Akula staged a remarkable comeback, defeating Sarah D Nutte of Luxembourg with a score of 6-11, 12-10, 11-5, 11-9 in the final.
• Her victory included a notable win against top seed Suh Hyo Won of South Korea earlier in the competition.
• This triumph marks Akula's second WTT singles career title, adding to her accolades after winning the Feeder Corpus Christi in January.

Ranks and Reports News

Insights into Employment Dynamics: ILO's India Employment Report 2024

• The recent release of the 'India Employment Report 2024' by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Institute of Human Development (IHD) sheds light on the prevailing employment landscape in India.
• Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran unveiled the report, which offers comprehensive insights into the challenges confronting the Indian job market as the fiscal year approaches its end.
• The report delves into significant shifts in employment patterns and highlights trends in education levels among the unemployed, covering a span of two decades up to 2022.

Science and Technology News

Empowering Youth in Space Science: ISRO's START 2024 Program

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 program in April and May, aiming to inspire and educate the youth in the realm of space science.
• ISRO invites expressions of interest (EOI) from educational institutes, universities, and colleges across India offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in physical sciences and technology to host START-2024.
• This initiative seeks to cultivate interest and expertise among the younger generation in space exploration and technology.

Books and Authors News

Journey of Success: "From A Car Shed To The Corner Room & Beyond" by S. Raman

• Raman's autobiography, "From A Car Shed To The Corner Room & Beyond," chronicles his extraordinary journey from a clerk at SBI to his ascent as the Chairman and Managing Director of Canara Bank, along with his role as a full-time Member of SEBI.
• Through this memoir, Raman intricately narrates the nuances of personal integrity, professional challenges, and systemic intricacies within the financial sector.
• This insightful book provides readers with a glimpse into the transformative power of determination and perseverance in navigating the corporate landscape.