24th April 2025 Current Affairs

National news

MSDE and Microsoft Signed a MoU to Launch “AI Careers for Women”

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft Corporation, headquartered in Redmond, Washington (USA), to roll out a major skilling initiative titled ‘AI Careers for Women’. This program aims to empower women in higher education institutions (HEIs) by equipping them with industry-relevant Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, enabling their participation in the digital economy and fostering innovation-led growth in India.

Key Highlights:

1. Training Goal:
   Microsoft will train 20,000 women through a 240-hour AI training curriculum, aligned with the standards set by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), New Delhi.
2. Infrastructure Development:
   • 30 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) will be established in women’s colleges across 6 Indian states.
   • These CoEs will function as hubs supporting 150 spoke institutions located in Tier-II and Tier-III towns.
3. Program Implementation:
   The initiative will be executed by Edunet Foundation, a Bengaluru-based non-profit organization. The foundation will collaborate with academic institutions, government agencies, corporates, and industry leaders to foster ecosystem-wide transformation.
4. Integrated & Inclusive Approach:
   • The program will be embedded into credit-linked university curricula in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP).
   • Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary learning and industry-relevance.
5. Comprehensive Opportunities:
   Participants will gain access to AI certifications, internships, apprenticeships, fellowships, and career guidance — with a strong focus on innovation and hands-on application.
6. Focus on Rural Empowerment:
   The program seeks to unlock AI-driven innovation and economic prospects for women, especially in rural India.

About MSDE:

• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge): Jayant Chaudhary
• Member of Parliament: Rajya Sabha, Uttar Pradesh

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Launches “The Bharat Project” to Foster 1 Million Entrepreneurs

In April 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, heading the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I), launched “The Bharat Project” — a national initiative by YourStory, one of India’s leading digital media platforms. The launch event was held at Radisson Goregaon, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The Bharat Project is focused on empowering entrepreneurs from Tier-II, Tier-III cities, and rural areas across India, with a target of creating 1 million new entrepreneurs.

Key Pillars of the Bharat Project:

1. Co-Pilot for Entrepreneurs:
   A mobile-first, AI-powered platform offering startup guidance, curated learning content, mentorship access, and inspiring success stories — available in both Hindi and English.
2. Education & Upskilling:
   Drives state-level and district-level activations, featuring WhatsApp-based learning modules to help youth learn the fundamentals of starting and scaling a business.
3. Bharat Ideathon:
   A nationwide challenge aimed at discovering innovative business ideas from over 1,000 districts. Top founders will receive mentorship and support.
4. BharatSparks:
   A launchpad initiative where selected entrepreneurs from small towns can pitch to investors, compete for grants, and receive long-term support to build scalable ventures.
5. Shuru-Kar:
   A seven-part web documentary series showcasing real startup journeys from across India. The series will feature innovators, investors, and policymakers, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs through authentic stories.

India’s Aviation Revolution: From Regional Runways to Global Routes

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s aviation sector has experienced transformative growth and modernization, aligning with the Government of India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 — the goal to become a developed nation by 2047.

Key Highlights of the Aviation Transformation:

1. Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025:
   • Passed by both Houses of Parliament in April 2025.
   • Aligns India’s aircraft leasing and financing framework with global norms, particularly those outlined in the Cape Town Convention (2001).
2. Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024:
   • Enacted to replace and modernize the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934 (a British-era law).
   • Passed in 2024 and came into effect on January 1, 2025.
   • Marks a significant reform in India’s aviation governance and regulatory framework.
3. Infrastructure Expansion – New Terminals:
   • The Government of India has laid the foundation stones for new terminals at key airports including:
     • Varanasi and Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
     • Darbhanga (Bihar)
     • Bagdogra (West Bengal)
4. Greenfield Airport Development:
   • Since 2014, 21 Greenfield Airports received ‘in-principle’ approval.
   • Out of these, 12 airports have been operationalised, contributing significantly to regional connectivity and infrastructure.
5. Surge in Domestic Air Travel:
   • Domestic air passenger traffic in 2024 reached an impressive 22.81 crore, more than double the 10.38 crore passengers recorded in the 65 years prior to 2014.

ASI host 38th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology

On 23rd April 2025, the 38th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA) was hosted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in New Delhi. The meeting was presided over by Yadubir Singh, the Director General of ASI.

Previous Meeting:

• The 37th meeting of the CABA was held on 14th June 2022 in New Delhi.

About the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA)

• Constitution: The CABA was constituted by the Government of India in 1945 and is reconstituted every three years by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Function:
  • The Board plays a vital role in strengthening the collaboration between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Indian Universities, State Governments, and Research Institutions involved in archaeology, heritage studies, and cultural preservation.
  • The Board meets annually to discuss critical matters relating to archaeology and offers advisory support to the Union Ministry of Culture on issues related to archaeology.

About the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

• Establishment: The ASI was established in 1861 by the British Indian government.
• Administrative Control: The ASI functions under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Primary Functions:
  • The ASI is the leading body for archaeological research in India.
  • It is responsible for the protection and management of the country’s cultural heritage, including archaeological sites and remains.
  • The ASI is governed by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and is the sole authority in India overseeing the protection and management of archaeological sites.

Agreement news

India &Saudi Arabia sign Four MoUs during PM Modi’s visit

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Saudi Arabia on 22nd and 23rd April 2025, significant developments were made between the two nations, reflecting their growing bilateral ties. However, the visit was cut short due to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on 22nd April, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 27 tourists.

Highlights of PM Modi’s Visit to Saudi Arabia

1. Third Visit to Saudi Arabia:
   • Prime Minister Modi visited Saudi Arabia for the third time as India’s Prime Minister. His previous visits were in 2016 and 2019.
   • In 2016, he was conferred with Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor, the King Abdulaziz Sash—the first time an Indian Prime Minister received such an honor.
   • The visit marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister visited the Saudi port city of Jeddah in 43 years. The last visit was by Indira Gandhi in 1982.
2. Special Gestures:
   • As a mark of respect and goodwill, the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F-15 fighter jets escorted PM Modi’s plane when it entered Jeddah airspace.
3. Meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman:
   • PM Modi held discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, addressing various key issues such as:
     • Energy partnerships
     • Defense cooperation
     • Trade and investments
     • Technology, culture, and people-to-people ties.
4. India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council:
   • The India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council was co-chaired by both leaders in Jeddah. This is the highest-level forum for bilateral meetings.
   • The Council was initially established during PM Modi’s 2019 visit. The first meeting was held in September 2023 during the visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India.
   • PM Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman agreed to expand the Council by adding two new committees:
     • Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation
     • Committee on Tourism and Cultural Cooperation
   • With the addition of these committees, the total number of committees under the Council increased to four. The other existing committees are:
     • Committee on Political, Consumer, and Security Cooperation
     • Committee on Economy, Energy, Investment, and Technology

Saudi Arabia:

• Capital of Saudi Arabia: Riyadh 
• Currency: Saudi Riyal 
• King of Saudi Arabia: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud 
• Crown Prince and Prime Minister: Mohammed bin Salman 

India to bring 8 cheetahs from Botswana under the Project Cheetah

As part of the Project Cheetah, the Madhya Pradesh government has announced that India will soon receive eight cheetahs from Botswana. This marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to reintroduce cheetahs to India, where they were declared extinct in 1952.

Details of the Cheetah Import:

• Source: The cheetahs will be imported from Botswana, an African country known for its wildlife conservation efforts.
• Relocation: The cheetahs will be relocated to the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh. This sanctuary is being developed to support the cheetah population, with an area of 8,900 hectares specifically allocated for their habitat.

Phased Arrival of Cheetahs:

• Phase 1: Four cheetahs will be brought to India in May 2025.
• Phase 2: Another four cheetahs will arrive in subsequent months.

About the Cheetahs and the Project:

• The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), the world’s fastest mammal, can reach speeds of up to 121 km/h.
• Project Cheetah, initiated by the Indian government in 2009, aims to reintroduce cheetahs to India, where they once roamed freely before being declared extinct.
• After an initial attempt to bring cheetahs from Iran, India signed agreements with Namibia and South Africa to source the animals.
• Current Status: The project began with the release of eight cheetahs from Namibia in September 2022, followed by twelve more from South Africa in February 2023. The current cheetah population at Kuno National Park stands at 26.

Release of Cheetahs to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:

• On April 20, 2025, two cheetahs were released from the Kuno National Park into the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.
• The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including spotted deer, sambar, and other species, providing an ideal environment for the cheetahs.

About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Established: 1978
• Area: 368 square kilometers
• Location: Eastern Madhya Pradesh, spanning across Mandsaur and Nimach districts.
• The Chambal River flows through the sanctuary, contributing to its biodiversity.

Project Implementation:

• The project is spearheaded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the Ministry of Forests, Environment, and Climate Change.
• It is carried out in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh government and expert committees set up by the Supreme Court of India.

About Botswana:

• Location: Southern Africa
• Capital: Gaborone
• Currency: Pula
• President: Duma Boko
• Independence: Gained independence in 1966 (previously called Bechuanaland under British colonial rule).

Banking news

RBI simplify minor bank account operation & allow mother as guardian

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made important updates to the rules and regulations for opening and operating minor bank accounts, aiming to promote financial inclusion and make banking more accessible for minors and their families. The new guidelines, issued on 21 April 2025, offer greater flexibility and inclusivity, including the option for mothers to be the guardians of minors for opening and managing the accounts, even if the father is alive.

Key Highlights of the Updated Guidelines:

1. Guardian for Minor Accounts:
   • Minors can open bank accounts through their natural or legal guardian, which now includes the mother, even when the father is alive.
2. Types of Minor Accounts:
   • Minors can only open savings accounts and term deposit accounts (both fixed and recurring). Current accounts are not allowed for minors.
3. Age-Based Classification: The RBI has classified minors into two groups:
   • Minors up to 10 years of age:
     • Can open accounts through their natural guardians, legal guardians, or mother.
     • These accounts will be operated by the guardian or mother on behalf of the minor.
   • Minors above 10 years but below 18 years:
     • Can open and operate their bank accounts independently, without the need for a guardian.
     • The banks have the authority to set deposit limits and other terms based on their risk assessment policies.
4. Account Operation Guidelines:
   • The minor’s account must maintain a positive balance at all times and cannot be overdrawn. No loans will be provided on these accounts.
5. Additional Banking Facilities:
   • Based on their risk policies, banks may offer additional services, such as:
     • Internet banking
     • ATM/debit cards
     • Cheque book facilities

RBI announces amendments to Liquidity Coverage Ratio framework

On April 21, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced key amendments to the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) framework to strengthen liquidity risk management practices in the banking sector.

These changes will be applicable to all Commercial Banks, excluding:

• Payments Banks
• Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
• Local Area Banks (LABs)

To ensure a smooth transition, the revised guidelines will come into effect from April 1, 2026.

Key Amendment – 2.5% Additional Run-off Factor for IMB-Enabled Deposits

RBI has introduced a 2.5% additional run-off factor for retail deposits enabled with internet and mobile banking (IMB) facilities. This change impacts the calculation of LCR by revising the run-off percentages for such deposits:

• Stable Retail Deposits (with IMB):
  • Revised Run-off Factor: 7.5%
  • (Previously 5%)
• Less Stable Retail Deposits (with IMB):
  • Revised Run-off Factor: 12.5%
  • (Previously 10%)

Economy news

IMF Lowered India’s GDP Forecast to 6.2% for FY26; 6.3% for FY27

In April 2025, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), headquartered in Washington DC, USA, released its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) titled “A Critical Juncture amid Policy Shifts.” The report revised India’s growth projections downward for the upcoming fiscal years due to evolving global and domestic economic conditions.

India-Specific Highlights:

• FY 2025-26 (FY26):
  • GDP Growth Forecast: Revised down by 30 basis points to 6.2% (from 6.5%).
  • Growth is supported primarily by private consumption, especially in rural areas.
• FY 2026-27 (FY27):
  • GDP Growth Forecast: Lowered to 6.3% (from 6.5%), citing trade tensions and global uncertainties.

Other Key Projections for India:

• Consumer Price Inflation:
  • Expected to decline to 4.2% in FY26, from 4.7% in FY25.
  • Further drop to 4.1% projected for FY27.
• Current Account Deficit (CAD):
  • Projected at 0.9% of GDP in FY26, rising to 1.4% in FY27.
• Unemployment Rate:
  • Anticipated to remain steady at 4.9%.
• The report acknowledges persistent risks from geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, but highlights positive drivers like:
  • Rising employment levels
  • Improved access to credit
  • Moderating inflation

Global Economic Outlook:

• Global GDP Growth:
  • CY 2025: Projected at 2.8%
  • CY 2026: Projected at 3.0%
  • Both figures are down from 3.3% in the IMF’s January 2025 update.
  • This marks a combined 80 basis point downgrade and places global growth below the 2009–2019 average of 3.7%.
• Global Inflation:
  • Expected to decline gradually to:
    • 4.3% in CY25
    • 3.6% in CY26
  • Revisions indicate higher inflation for advanced economies, with slight downward adjustments for emerging markets.
• Emerging & Developing Economies:
  • Growth now projected at:
    • 3.7% in CY25
    • 3.9% in CY26

About the IMF:

• Managing Director: Kristalina Georgieva
• Headquarters: Washington DC, USA
• Established: 1944
• Member Nations: 191

Defence news

IAF with Mig-29 and Jaguar aircraft in UAE for Exercise Desert Flag-10

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a contingent of its MIG-29 and Jaguar fighter planes to participate in the 10th edition of Exercise Desert Flag, taking place at Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The three-week multinational exercise is scheduled from April 21 to May 8, 2025.

Key Highlights of the Exercise:

• Location: Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE (the same base that provided refueling support for India’s first Rafale jets during their journey from France).
• Host Nation: The exercise is hosted by the UAE Air Force.
• Participating Countries: Twelve nations are participating in this edition, including:
  • United States
  • Australia
  • France
  • Germany
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Korea
  • Bahrain
  • Turkey
  • Qatar
  • India
  • United Kingdom
  • UAE
• India’s Participation: This marks the third time India is participating in the exercise. The IAF previously took part in the 6th edition in 2021 (with Su-30MKI aircraft) and the 8th edition in 2023 (deploying LCA Tejas and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft).

Objective of the Exercise:

The Desert Flag exercise is modeled after the Red Flag series of exercises, designed to simulate realistic combat scenarios in a multinational environment. The key objectives of the exercise include:

• Enhancing the tactical, operational, and strategic capabilities of the participating air forces.
• Building cohesive fighting forces that can operate effectively together across diverse aircraft and military structures.
• Providing strategic training for collaborative operations among the air forces of multiple nations.

Bilateral Military Exercises between India and UAE:

In addition to Desert Flag, India and the UAE also conduct bilateral military exercises to further strengthen defense ties, including:

• Desert Eagle: An air exercise between the IAF and UAE Air Force.
  • First held in 2008 in the UAE.
  • The second edition was conducted in 2016.
• Gulf Star: A naval exercise between the Indian Navy and UAE Navy, which was first held in March 2018 off the coast of Abu Dhabi.

Award news

Goldman Environmental Prize 2025: ​7 Grassroots Environmental Activists Honored

On April 21, 2025, the Goldman Environmental Foundation, based in California, USA, announced the recipients of the 36th Goldman Environmental Prize (2025), widely recognized as the ‘Green Nobel Prize’. The award honors seven grassroots environmental activists for their exceptional contributions to environmental protection across the six inhabited continents.

The prestigious ceremony took place in San Francisco, California, celebrating the transformative impact of grassroots leadership in the global fight for environmental sustainability.

Key Highlights:

• Seven Recipients: The 2025 Goldman Environmental Prize was awarded to seven activists representing six geographical regions, each recognized for their environmental efforts at the grassroots level.
• Batmunkh Luvsandash: A former electrical engineer from Mongolia, Batmunkh Luvsandash was honored with the 2025 Goldman Environmental Prize for Asia for his exceptional environmental activism.

About the Goldman Environmental Foundation:

• President: Susan R. Gelman
• Headquarters: California, USA
• Established: 1989

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) Achieves Prestigious ACA Level-5 Carbon Accreditation

In April 2025, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Limited (RGIA), located in Hyderabad, Telangana and operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL), proudly announced that it has been awarded Level-5 Accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme by Airports Council International (ACI).

This achievement places RGIA among the top four airports in the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East region to receive Level-5, the highest level of carbon management certification under the ACA framework.

Key Points:

• ACA Programme Overview: The ACA programme is the industry benchmark for evaluating airports’ efforts in managing and reducing carbon emissions.
• Levels of ACA Accreditation: The ACA programme comprises seven levels, ranging from Level-1 (Mapping) to Level-5 (Excellence in Carbon Management). Level-5 represents the highest certification, recognizing airports that have demonstrated the most advanced practices in carbon reduction.

Appointment news

Captain (Retd.) Jagmohan Appointed as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)

In April 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Captain (Retd.) Jagmohan as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), a premier Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), located in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Captain Jagmohan assumed charge as the CMD of MDL on 21 April 2025, with his tenure extending up to his superannuation on 30 September 2029, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. He succeeds Biju George, who had been holding the additional charge as CMD since March 2025, following the retirement of Sanjeev Singhal in February 2025.

Klaus Schwab Steps Down as WEF Chairman; Peter Brabeck Appointed Interim Chairman

In April 2025, Klaus Schwab, the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF) based in Geneva, Switzerland, announced his immediate resignation as Chairman and member of the Board of Trustees.

Following Schwab’s resignation, the WEF’s Board of Trustees convened an extraordinary meeting and, in a unanimous decision, appointed Peter Brabeck-Letmathe as the interim Chairman.

Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, an Austrian businessman and former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nestlé S.A., has been associated with the WEF as the Vice Chairman of the Foundation Board.

Science and tech news

India Celebrates 50 Years of Aryabhata – The First Indian Satellite

In April 2025, India celebrated the Golden Jubilee of its first satellite, Aryabhata, marking 50 years since its launch on April 19, 1975. This milestone honors India’s entry into space exploration and highlights the significant advancements achieved by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) over the past five decades.

The satellite was launched aboard a Kosmos-3M rocket from Kapustin Yar, Astrakhan Oblast, Russia, with assistance from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

Key Details of Aryabhata Satellite:

• Developed by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), under the leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the founder of India’s space program, and Prof. U.R. Rao, the then Project Director.
• Weight: 360 kilograms (kg)
• Design: 26-sided polyhedron with a diameter of 1.4 meters (m)
• Power Source: 24 solar-panel-covered faces, generating 46 watts (W) of electricity
• Purpose: To conduct experiments in Solar Physics, Aeronomy, and X-ray Astronomy

Significance of the Mission:

1. India’s Entry into Space: Aryabhata made India the 11th country to launch a satellite into orbit.
2. Legacy of the Mission: Despite a power failure after five days, Aryabhata transmitted crucial data, which contributed to the development of future satellites.
3. End of Mission: Aryabhata re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and burned up on February 11, 1992, after nearly 17 years in orbit.

Naming of Aryabhata:

The satellite was named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. The name was chosen by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from a list of three options: Aryabhata, Mitra, and Jawahar.

Legacy and Impact:

• Aryabhata laid the foundation for India’s advancements in satellite technology.
• Since 1975, ISRO has developed 131 satellites, with 55 currently operational in orbit.
• The mission inspired future programs such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, establishing India’s position as a key player in global space exploration.

About Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):

• Chairman: Dr. V. Narayanan
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Established: 1969

ISRO Develops Indigenous Stellite Nozzle Divergent for PSLV, Cuts 90% Import Cost

In April 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully developed and tested an indigenously made nozzle divergent using Stellite alloy for the fourth stage (PS4) of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

This achievement aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative and marks a significant milestone in reducing India’s dependence on foreign suppliers. The new nozzle divergent replaces the previously imported Columbium (C103) material used in the PS4 engine with Stellite (KC20WN), a cobalt-based alloy that contains Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Tungsten (W), and Iron (Fe).

Key Details of the Development:

• Material Replacement: Stellite (KC20WN) alloy replaces Columbium (C103), offering a cost-effective alternative.
• Temperature Resistance: Tests confirmed that the Stellite-fabricated nozzle divergent can maintain structural integrity at elevated temperatures up to 1150°C.
• Hot Test Success: The final hot test of the nozzle divergent was successfully conducted for 665 seconds on April 8, 2025 at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test followed three earlier qualification tests.

Benefits of the Development:

1. Cost Reduction: The new nozzle divergent saves 90% of the expenses previously spent on importing Columbium.
2. Self-Reliance: Strengthens India’s capability in manufacturing space hardware, contributing to the nation’s technological self-sufficiency.
3. Strategic Independence: Reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, enhancing India’s strategic autonomy in space technology.

Sports news

Armand Duplantis & Simon Biles wins 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards

On 21st April 2025, the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony took place in Madrid, Spain, where Armand Duplantis and Simone Biles were honored with the World Sportsman and World Sportswoman of the Year awards, respectively. These awards are among the most esteemed accolades in global sports, celebrating exceptional achievements in the athletic world.

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: Armand Duplantis

• Armand Duplantis, the Swedish pole vaulter, was awarded the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award.
• This was Duplantis’ third nomination for the prestigious title. He was presented the award by Novak Djokovic, the 2024 winner of the award.
• Duplantis made history as the first athlete to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in pole vaulting. He secured his gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and again at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year: Simone Biles

• Simone Biles, the American artistic gymnast, received her fourth Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award.
• Biles is widely regarded as one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, with a record-breaking tally of 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals.

About the Laureus World Sports Awards

• The Laureus World Sports Awards were established in 2000 by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, a charitable institution headquartered in London, UK.
• Athletes across seven categories—Sportsman, Sportswoman, Team, Breakthrough, Comeback, Action, and Sport for Good—are shortlisted by votes from over 1,000 sports media representatives from more than 70 countries.
• Nominees in the Disability category are selected by the International Paralympic Committee.
• The final winners are determined by the Laureus World Sports Academy, which consists of eminent sports figures.
• The Academy also selects recipients of the Lifetime Achievement and Iconic awards.

ISSF World Cup Lima 2025: India Secures Third Place with 7 Medals

The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Rifle/Pistol and Shotgun (RPSH) World Cup 2025 was held in Lima, Peru, from April 13 to 22, 2025, with around 400 shooters from 43 countries participating.

India finished in third place on the medal tally with 7 medals: 2 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze, trailing behind China (13 medals) and the United States of America (USA) (7 medals). This was the second World Cup of the 2025 ISSF season, following the first event in Buenos Aires, Argentina (April 1-10, 2025), where India secured 8 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze), finishing second behind China.

Key Highlights from ISSF World Cup Lima 2025:

• India’s Contingent: India sent a 42-member contingent, the second-largest team after China’s 46-member team.
• Suruchi Singh: Won the gold medal in Women’s 10m air pistol, defeating Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medalist.
• 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team: Suruchi Inder Singh and Saurabh Chaudhary clinched the gold medal, defeating Hu Kai and Yao Qianxun of China.

Qualification for ISSF World Cup Final (WCF) 2025:

• Gold Medalists: The gold medalists from the Lima event have qualified for the ISSF World Cup Final (WCF) 2025, which will be held in Doha, Qatar, from December 4 to 9, 2025.

6th Asian U18 Athletics Championships 2025: India’s Historic Performance

The 6th Asian U18 Athletics Championships 2025 took place from April 15 to 18 at the Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz Sports City in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. This biennial event, organized by the Asian Athletics Association (AAA), brought together young athletes aged 15 to 17 from across Asia.

India concluded the championships with a total of 11 medals (1 Gold, 5 Silver, and 5 Bronze), securing the 8th position in the overall medal standings. China topped the medal tally with 36 medals, followed by Uzbekistan with 12 medals.

Key Highlights:

• Qatar finished in 4th place with 6 medals (2 Gold, 3 Silver, 1 Bronze).
• Saudi Arabia, the host nation, ranked 5th with 5 medals (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze).
• Himanshu Jakhar made history by winning India’s first-ever gold in the boys’ javelin throw at the Asian U18 Athletics Championships. He threw a distance of 67.57 meters, surpassing Lu Hao from China (63.45m) and Ruslan Sadullaev from Uzbekistan (61.96m).

This gold medal victory by Himanshu Jakhar marked a significant achievement in India’s athletic history, being the first time India won a gold at the Asian U18 Athletics Championships.

Sourav Kothari Wins IBSF World Billiards Championship 2025

In April 2025, Indian cueist Sourav Kothari clinched the prestigious IBSF World Billiards Championship title, defeating Pankaj Advani, a multiple-time world champion, in the final. The match was held at the Snooker and Billiards Ireland (SBI) Academy in Carlow, Ireland.

• Sourav Kothari triumphed with a score of 725 points, surpassing Pankaj Advani’s 480 points.
• A key highlight of the match was Kothari’s remarkable break of 325 points, which stood out as the match’s best performance, showcasing his exceptional cue control and focus. He also scored impressive breaks of 119 and 112 points.

Significance of the Victory:

• This victory marked Sourav Kothari’s first IBSF World Billiards title in the timed format, making him the third Indian to win both the IBSF and World Billiards League (WBL) World titles.
• His achievement was also historically significant, as it came 35 years after his father, Manoj Kothari, won the IBSF title in 1990.

Other Notable Performances:

• Dhruv Sitwala (India) and David Causier (England) shared the bronze medals, with Sitwala continuing his consistent performances on the international stage.

Jasprit Bumrah & Smriti Mandhana named Wisden’s Leading Cricketers

The 2025 edition of the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack has named the world’s leading cricketers, recognizing outstanding performances in the year 2024 across different formats of the game. Below are the key highlights of the recognition:

Leading Men’s Cricketer: Jasprit Bumrah

• Jasprit Bumrah has been named the Leading Men’s Cricketer in the World for 2025.
• His incredible performance in 2024 earned him the Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year and the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year Award.
• Performance Highlights:
  • Claimed 71 Test wickets at an average of under 15 runs.
  • Became the first bowler in cricket history to take 200 Test wickets with an average under 20 runs.
  • Played a pivotal role in leading the Indian bowling attack to victory in the ICC T20 World Championship held in West Indies and USA in June 2024.

Leading Women’s Cricketer: Smriti Mandhana

• Smriti Mandhana was recognized as the Leading Women’s Cricketer in the World for 2025, continuing her remarkable performances.
• She was also named the Leading Women’s Cricketer in the World in 2018.
• Performance Highlights:
  • Scored a total of 1659 runs across all formats of the game in 2024.
  • Became the leading run-scorer in women’s cricket, including four centuries in ODIs—a record for women’s cricket.
  • Her exceptional ODI performance earned her the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award.

Leading T20 Player: Nicholas Pooran

• Nicholas Pooran, the West Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, was named the Leading T20 Player in the World for 2025.

Five Wisden Cricketers of the Year

Each year, Wisden selects five cricketers for their performances during the English domestic season, with the award given only once to a player. The five selected for 2025 are:

• Gus Atkinson
• Jamie Smith
• Dan Worral
• Liam Dawson
• Sophie Ecclestone

Wisden Trophy for the Year’s Outstanding Performance: Mitchell Santner

• Mitchell Santner of New Zealand received the Wisden Trophy for the Year’s Outstanding Performance for his match-winning 13-wicket haul against India in the Pune Test in 2024.
  • This performance helped New Zealand take a 2-0 lead in the series, ultimately winning the Test series 3-0—India’s first Test series defeat at home since December 2012.

Books and author

Himachal Pradesh CM Releases Book ‘Mere Achhe Din’ on Statehood Day

In April 2025, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Chief Minister (CM) of Himachal Pradesh (HP), released the book “Mere Achhe Din” during the state-level Himachal Day celebrations at Pangi, HP.

• The book was authored by Hari Singh Rana, a 90-year-old veteran social worker, and former Pradhan (Head) of Killar Gram Panchayat (1979–1984).
• During the event, Hari Singh Rana, wearing the traditional Pangi white cap, also submitted a memorandum outlining various developmental demands for the region. These included infrastructure and tribal welfare initiatives aimed at improving the area.

About the Book:

• “Mere Achhe Din” chronicles the developmental journey of Himachal Pradesh since its formation in 1971.
• The book, published by the Himachal Pradesh Department of Information & Public Relations, highlights key achievements of the state, including progress in infrastructure, education, and tourism.

State news

Maharashtra launches Pink E Rickshaw Scheme with Kinetic Green

The Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme was officially launched by Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, on April 21, 2025, in Pune. This initiative aims to empower women and make them financially independent by providing them with electric three-wheelers, creating opportunities for women in rural and urban areas.

Key Features of the Scheme:

• Administering Body: The scheme is being administered by the Women & Child Development Department of Maharashtra.
• Partner: The scheme is partnered with Kinetic Green Energy, which will supply the electric three-wheelers to the beneficiaries.

Targeted Districts:

The scheme will be implemented in eight districts of Maharashtra:

1. Nagpur
2. Ahmednagar
3. Solapur
4. Kolhapur
5. Amravati
6. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar
7. Pune
8. Nashik

Beneficiaries:

• Primary Beneficiaries: Women aged 20 to 50, especially those who are widows, divorcees, and from economically weaker backgrounds.

Financial Assistance and Subsidy:

• The Maharashtra government will provide a 20% subsidy on each e-rickshaw.
• Beneficiaries are required to make a 10% down payment (cash) of the e-rickshaw’s cost.
• Banks will offer low-interest loans to the beneficiaries to cover the remaining amount.

Training and Support:

• Kinetic Green will provide a five-year warranty for the e-rickshaw.
• The company will train women beneficiaries in driving and assist them in obtaining a driving license.

Infrastructure Support:

• Kinetic Green will set up 1500 charging stations across the eight districts to support the operation of these e-rickshaws.

Karnataka to Become First State to Complete Village-Level Survey of Antiquities

In April 2025, Karnataka is set to make history by becoming the first state in India to complete a village-level survey documenting its antiquities. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage (DAMH), aims to create a comprehensive inventory of historical monuments, inscriptions, and sculptures, focusing on better conservation and preservation of Karnataka’s rich heritage.

Key Highlights:

1. Survey Scope:
   • The initiative includes recording inscriptions, sculptures, and monuments, with each item being geo-tagged to ensure accurate mapping of locations across the state’s villages.
2. Progress:
   • As of April 2025, documentation has been completed in 119 taluks (administrative divisions) across Karnataka, with plans to cover the remaining areas by the end of the Financial Year 2025–26 (FY26).
3. Monument Protection:
   • Karnataka currently safeguards over 800 state-protected monuments, alongside more than 600 monuments protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
   • The DAMH has proposed adding 110 more monuments to the state-protected list and is working to include an additional 1,000 monuments to ensure their long-term conservation.

Important days

UN English Language Day 2025 – April 23

The United Nations (UN) English Language Day is celebrated annually on April 23 to honor the English language and its pivotal role in fostering international communication.

This observance reflects the UN’s commitment to promoting multilingualism and cultural diversity across its global operations.

Background:

• Established in 2010 by the UN Department of Public Information (DPI), the day was part of a broader initiative to designate separate days for each of the UN’s six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. The goal is to encourage the equitable use and appreciation of linguistic diversity.
• April 23 was chosen for English Language Day as it coincides with the birth and death anniversary of William Shakespeare (1564–1616), the renowned English playwright and poet, further linking the day to the rich legacy of the English language in literature and culture.

The observance serves to celebrate the English language while recognizing its importance in global dialogue, diplomacy, and education.

MoHFW Observes Pan-India ‘Fire Safety Week’ from April 21-25, 2025

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) organized a nationwide Fire Safety Week from 21st to 25th April 2025 to raise awareness and preparedness for fire and electrical safety across healthcare facilities. This initiative was undertaken in collaboration with States, Union Territories (UTs), and Central Ministries and Departments.

Key Highlights:

• Nationwide Pledge Ceremony: On 22nd April 2025, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava led a virtual nationwide pledge ceremony under the theme ‘Fire Safety in Health Facilities’ at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi. Over 3,000 participants from both public and private healthcare institutions joined the event, which also included webinar sessions.

Initiatives:

1. Fire Safety Audits: All healthcare facilities (both public and private) were instructed to conduct fire and electrical safety audits using specific checklists provided by the MoHFW.
2. Capacity Building: The MoHFW emphasized training healthcare staff, conducting mock drills for fire preparedness, and enhancing evacuation protocols.
3. Awareness Campaigns: Various activities, including poster-making, quizzes, and demonstrations on fire safety equipment usage, were organized, especially in medical colleges and tertiary hospitals.
4. Collaboration with MyGov: The MoHFW collaborated with the MyGov platform under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to launch an online fire safety pledge and quiz to further promote safety awareness.