National News (India)
India Launches “Jal Suraksha Abhiyan”
The Government of India has launched a national campaign, “Jal Suraksha Abhiyan,” to address the water crisis in drought-affected regions. The initiative focuses on rainwater harvesting, restoring traditional water bodies, and promoting efficient water use at the grassroots level.
Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) Inaugurated
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated India’s first Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) at the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL), New Delhi (Capital: New Delhi). This makes India the 17th country globally to establish such a unit, aligning with international anti-doping standards and enhancing ethical sports practices.
AIIMS, New Delhi Among World’s Best Hospitals
AIIMS, New Delhi, has secured the 97th position in the 2024 World’s Best Hospitals ranking by Newsweek and Statista, reflecting India’s growing reputation in healthcare.
Digital Platform for Freshwater Biodiversity
Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Paatil launched a new digital platform in Delhi to promote freshwater biodiversity conservation and support sustainable water management.
RBI and FIU-IND Sign Agreement
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) have entered into an agreement to strengthen efforts against money laundering and financial crimes.
DPS Wetland Declared Flamingo Conservation Reserve
The Maharashtra State Board of Wildlife has declared the DPS wetland in Navi Mumbai as a Flamingo Conservation Reserve, enhancing efforts to protect migratory bird habitats.
Defence News
India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI Begins
The 6th edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise, DUSTLIK-VI, commenced at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune. The exercise, running until 28.04.2025, aims to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the armed forces of both countries. India is represented by the JAT Regiment and Indian Air Force, while Uzbekistan is represented by the Uzbekistan Army.
Uzbekistan (President: Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Capital: Tashkent)
International News
India and Brazil Sign Renewable Energy Trade Agreement
India and Brazil have signed a new trade agreement to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy technologies, focusing on solar and biofuels to promote clean energy transitions.
Brazil (President: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Capital: Brasília)
Former Peruvian President Sentenced
Former President of Peru, Ollanta Humala, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering.
Peru (President: Dina Boluarte, Capital: Lima)
Baisakhi Celebrated at Washington State Capitol
For the first time, the festival of Baisakhi was celebrated at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia, USA, marking a significant cultural milestone.
United States of America (President: Joe Biden, Capital: Washington, D.C.)
G4 Nations Oppose Religious Criteria for UNSC Seats
India and other G4 nations have opposed the allocation of seats in the reformed United Nations Security Council based on religion, reaffirming their commitment to secular and inclusive global governance.
Type 5 Diabetes Officially Recognized
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), at its 75th World Congress in Bangkok (Thailand, Prime Minister: Srettha Thavisin, Capital: Bangkok), officially recognized Type 5 Diabetes as a distinct form of diabetes.
Gabon Presidential Election Developments
In Gabon, General Brice Oligui Nguema (President: Brice Oligui Nguema, Capital: Libreville) has been accused by opposition leader Bilie-By-Nze of using state resources for his campaign, which the government denies. Oligui, a former head of the Republican Guard, seeks to consolidate power with a new seven-year term.
Economy and Infrastructure
India Set to Become Fastest-Growing Major Aviation Market
India is projected to become the world’s fastest-growing major aviation market by 2026, with a passenger traffic growth rate of 10.5%, outpacing China’s 8.9%. The growth is driven by a rising middle class, improved aviation infrastructure, expanding airline networks, and supportive policies such as UDAN and Gati Shakti.
Important Days
World Heritage Day 2025
Observed on 18.04.2025, World Heritage Day highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage worldwide.
Science and Technology
Type 5 Diabetes Recognition
The International Diabetes Federation has officially recognized Type 5 Diabetes, marking a significant development in global health and diabetes research.
