01st-02nd April 2025

1. MoU Signed between CAG and NIUA for Capacity Building in Urban Development
2. NIXI Hosted UA Day 2025, promoting a multilingual internet for Viksit Bharat
3. Axis Bank and J.P. Morgan Launched Blockchain-based 24/7 Cross-Border Payments
4. Japanese mathematician Masaki Kashiwara awarded the Abel Prize 2025
5. Dalai Lama Received Gold Mercury Award for Peace, Sustainability
6. Chandrasekaran Joined the IMF’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth
7. Federal Bank Acquired Additional 4% Stake in Ageas Federal Life Insurance
8. 2025 Asian Wrestling Championships: India Secured 10 Medals with 1 Gold by Manisha Bhanwala
9. Gurindervir Singh Breaks Men’s 100m National Record at Indian Grand Prix 1
10. Anahat Singh Clinches Indian Open Squash Women’s Title
11. International Transgender Day of Visibility 2025 – March 31
12. Telangana Signed MoU with Himachal Pradesh for 520 MW Hydropower Project
13. Odisha CM Majhi Launched ‘Antyodaya Gruha Yojana’ in Kalahandi
14. Uttarakhand Launches ‘Bhagirath Mobile App’ Under Jal Sanrakshan Abhiyan 2025 to Conserve Water Sources
15. Chhattisgarh Signs MoU with NASSCOM to Boost Skill Development and IT Ecosystem
16. Rajnigandha Achievers Winner Of Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup 2025
17. Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Flower Garland Receive GI Tag
18. Ahmedabad’s Famous Saudagari Block Print Receives GI Tag
19. IIT Madras Pravartak Completes Training of First Batch of Cyber Commandos
20. 21% of Rs 2000 Banknotes Returned to Banking System, Says RBI
21. India Records Highest Child Adoptions in 12 Years
22. Salila Pande Appointed as MD & CEO of SBI Card, Effective
23. EY Report Projects 6.5% Growth in FY26 For India
24. Dalai Lama Honored with Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability
25. Vandana Katariya Retires from International Hockey at the Peak of Her Career
26. N Chandrasekaran Joins IMF Managing Director’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth
27. Navika Sagar Parikrama II: INSV Tarini Reaches Cape Town, South Africa
28. Shirley Botchwey Becomes First African Woman Secretary General of the Commonwealth
29. Army Commanders’ Conference 2025 Begins in New Delhi
30. India’s Defence Exports Surge to Record High in FY 2024-25
31. India’s 6.5% Growth Highest Amongst Advanced, Emerging G20 Nations: Moody’s
32. Sarhul Festival of Jharkhand 2025
33. The Great Conciliator A Book On Lal Bahadur Shastri
34. Aryna Sabalenka Wins Miami Open 2025, Defeats Jessica Pegula in Straight Sets
35. Ambuj Chandna Joins DBS Bank India as MD & Head of Consumer Banking Group
36. SpaceX Successfully Launches Fram2 Mission: First Humans to Travel Over Earth’s Poles
37. Uttarakhand Government Renames 15 Places to Reflect Indian Culture and Heritage
38. World Autism Awareness Day 2025
39. Home Minister Amit Shah Unveils Maharaja Agrasen’s Statue & Other Initiatives
40. Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025: Strengthening India-US HADR Cooperation
41. Utkal Dibasa: Honoring Odisha’s Formation
42. Renowned Historian MyNaa Swamy to Receive Prestigious Ugadi Award
43. 4th Edition of India-US Naval Exercise ‘Tiger Triumph’ Commenced in Visakhapatnam
44. Waaree Energies opens India’s largest solar cell plant in Gujarat
45. Jitendra Singh Delivered the Dr. Rajendra Prasad Annual Memorial Lecture at IIPA’s 71st Foundation Day.
46. Gujarat CM Inaugurates India’s Largest Chlorotoluene Plant at Dahej
47. IAF Participates in Multinational Air Exercise ‘INIOCHOS-25’ in Greece
48. NABARD & SBI Sign MoU to Drive Sustainable Growth in Rural Assam
49. IndusInd Bank Transfers Rs 10,000 Crore Loans to ICICI, Federal Bank via IBPC
50. Shirley Botchwey becomes 1st African woman to be appointed Commonwealth Secretary-General
51. GoI to Acquire 48.99% Stake in Vodafone Idea via Rs 36,950 Crore Equity Conversion
52. SpaceX Launched ‘Frame7’ Mission, 1st Human Spaceflight over Earth’s Polar Regions
53. Russia Unveils ‘Zircon’ Hypersonic Missile to Strengthen Naval Dominance
54. Indian GM Nihal Sarin Clinched 2025 Tashkent Open Agzamov Memorial Title
55. Rajgir (Bihar) to Host Men’s Asia Cup Hockey 2025

National News

1. Universal Acceptance Day Promotes Multilingual Internet for Digital Inclusion

• What:
  • NIXI organized Universal Acceptance (UA) Day on March 28, 2025, at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, to promote digital inclusivity and multilingual internet under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected – Building a Multilingual Internet for Viksit Bharat.”
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to ensure all citizens can participate in the digital economy regardless of language while simplifying access through Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) and translation tools.
• Tell me more:
  • Key speakers included Shri S. Krishnan (Secretary, MeitY), Tim Curtis (UNESCO South Asia Office), and Dr. Devesh Tyagi (CEO, NIXI).
  • India’s contributions like the “Bhashini Portal” and advocacy for multistakeholder approaches were highlighted.
  • Industry leaders emphasized scaling technical competencies for interoperability.

Source: PIB

2. Dr. Jitendra Singh Highlights Governance Reforms at IIPA Foundation Day

• What:
  • Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh delivered the keynote address at the 71st Foundation Day of Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), emphasizing governance reforms under PM Modi’s leadership.
• Why:
  • The event highlighted the government’s commitment to citizen-centric governance and democratization of service delivery, aligning with the Antyodaya principle.
• Tell me more:
  • Key reforms include increased representation of women in civil services, multilingual recruitment exams, abolition of interviews for certain posts, and simplified pension processes.
  • India ranks 4th globally in patent filings, with 56% filed by resident Indians, and has nearly 5,400 scientists among the top 2% worldwide.
  • An MoU between IIPA and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) was exchanged, and a book titled Antyodaya Se Sarvodaya was unveiled during the event.

Source: PIB

State News

1. Telangana and Himachal Pradesh Sign MoU for Hydropower Projects

• What:
  • Telangana and Himachal Pradesh governments signed an MoU to establish 400 MW Seli and 120 MW Miar hydropower projects in Lahaul-Spiti district at a cost of ₹6,200 crore.
• Why:
  • The collaboration aims to strengthen Telangana’s renewable energy capacity and leverage Himachal Pradesh’s hydropower potential.
• Tell me more:
  • Telangana has paid ₹26 crore as an upfront premium, and Himachal Pradesh will receive free power shares of 12%, 18%, and 30% over the first 40 years.
  • After 40 years, the projects will be transferred to Himachal Pradesh.
  • Telangana will contribute 1.5% of the project cost to the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) and provide an additional 1% free power for LADF post-commissioning.
  • The projects are expected to generate around 5,000 direct and indirect jobs for Himachal Pradesh’s youth.

Source: IE

2. Antyodaya Gruha Yojana Launched in Odisha

• What:
  • Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana to provide housing for low-income households excluded from PMAY-G, aiming to construct over five lakh houses in three years with a budget of ₹2,600 crore this year and ₹7,550 crore over three years.
• Why:
  • The scheme addresses housing needs of marginalized groups ignored for decades and aims to speed up construction compared to the slower progress under Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana.
• Tell me more:
  • Beneficiaries will receive ₹1.20 lakh for constructing pucca houses along with integrated amenities like toilets (Swachh Bharat Mission), LPG connections (Ujjwala Yojana), drinking water (Jal Jeevan Mission), and electricity (Saubhagya Yojana).
  • Eligible groups include victims of calamities, displaced households, PwDs, widows, cancer patients, serious ailment sufferers, and Forest Rights Act beneficiaries.
  • A survey identified 26 lakh people for housing benefits; 23 lakh houses have already been constructed under PMAY-G.

Source: IE

3. Uttarakhand Launches Bhagirath Mobile App for Water Conservation

• What:
  • Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the Bhagirath mobile app under Jal Sanrakshan Abhiyan 2025 to identify and revive endangered water sources.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to conserve water sources and ensure public participation in water conservation efforts across the state.
• Tell me more:
  • The app allows people to share information about critical water sources for government-led revival efforts.
  • SARA (Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority) has stored about 3.12 million cubic meters of rainwater and treated over 6,500 water sources.
  • IIT Roorkee and NIH Roorkee are preparing detailed reports for river rejuvenation projects in the state.
  • Workshops will be organized to develop Gram Panchayat capacity, and Dhara Naula Conservation Committees have been formed at village levels for local involvement.

Source: TOI

4. Chhattisgarh Signs MoU with Nasscom to Boost Development

• What:
  • The Chhattisgarh government signed an MoU with Nasscom to enhance development and generate employment through skill-based initiatives.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to align the state’s workforce with industry needs and attract investments under its industrial policy.
• Tell me more:
  • The state has attracted investment proposals worth ₹4.4 trillion under its new industrial policy, with ₹1 trillion coming from Raipur, Delhi, and Mumbai.
  • Naya Raipur is being developed as an IT hub with several companies starting operations, inspired by Bengaluru and Hyderabad’s models.
  • Companies in engineering, textiles, electronics, IT/ITES, food processing, and green fuel sectors proposed investments worth ₹3,700 crore.
  • GPSR Arya plans to set up compressed bio-gas (CBG) plants in various districts using stubble, providing additional income to farmers and reducing pollution.

Source: BS

5. Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Garland Receive GI Tag

• What:
  • Kumbakonam betel leaf and Thovalai maanikka maalai flower garland are set to receive the Geographical Indications (GI) tag after no objections were raised during the application process.
• Why:
  • The GI tag recognizes the unique qualities and heritage of these products, promoting their cultural and economic significance.
• Tell me more:
  • Kumbakonam betel leaf, grown along the Cauvery River in Kumbakonam and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, is known for its green color and flavor.
  • Thovalai maanikka maalai, crafted by artisans in Kanniyakumari, is made using oleander and rose flowers arranged to resemble rubies or gems through a meticulous folding technique.
  • The betel leaf is the first agricultural product from the delta region to receive a GI tag.

Source: IE

6. Ahmedabad’s Famous Saudagari Block Print Receives GI Tag

• What:
  • Saudagari block print from Jamalpur, Ahmedabad, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique craftsmanship.
• Why:
  • The GI tag recognizes the traditional art and aims to preserve the heritage of Saudagari block printing.
• Tell me more:
  • The craft is done by hand on fabric and used in kurtis, chunris, dhotis, turbans, and shawls.
  • The printing technique dates back 300 years and uses colors derived through ancient methods.
  • Shakir Banglawala’s family has been preserving this craft for generations, with his daughter Irina Banglawala winning the Young Artisan Category award for Saudagari block print.

Source: ETV

7. Sarhul Festival Celebrated by Adivasis in Chhotanagpur Region

• What:
  • Adivasis in Jharkhand and Chhotanagpur region celebrated the Sarhul festival, marking the new year and spring season with nature worship.
• Tell me more:
  • Sarhul is a three-day festival with rituals performed at Sarna Sthals, including offerings of Sal flowers, rooster sacrifices, and holy water sprinkling.
  • Traditional dances like Jadur, Gena, and Por Jadur are performed, followed by ceremonial fishing and a grand community feast with handia (rice beer).
  • Tribes such as Oraon, Munda, Santal, Khadia, and Ho celebrate Sarhul with unique customs across regions like Assam, Andaman Islands, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.

Source: IE

8. Uttarakhand Announces Renaming of Mughal-Era Named Regions

• What:
  • Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the renaming of 15 regions with Mughal-era names to reflect Indian culture and heritage.
• Why:
  • The renaming aims to align with public sentiment, preserve Indian culture, and honor historical personalities.
• Tell me more:
  • Locations renamed include Aurangzebpur to Shivaji Nagar, Gaziwali to Arya Nagar, Chandpur to Jyotiba Phule Nagar, and Sultanpur Patti municipality to Kaushalya Puri.
  • Changes affect areas in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar districts.

Source: IE

9. Amit Shah Unveils Maharaja Agrasen Statue and Highlights Haryana’s Achievements

• What:
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled Maharaja Agrasen’s statue, inaugurated an ICU, and laid the foundation stone for a PG hostel in Hisar, Haryana.
• Why:
  • The initiatives aim to honor Maharaja Agrasen’s legacy, promote Indian culture, and improve healthcare and education infrastructure in Haryana.
• Tell me more:
  • Maharaja Agrasen was celebrated for ensuring prosperity by helping newcomers with food, shelter, and employment.
  • Haryana’s achievements highlighted include transparent youth recruitment, leading Basmati rice exports, winning medals in sports, and ensuring toilets in every household.

Source: PIB

10. Odisha Celebrates Utkala Dibasa 2025

• What:
  • Odisha observed Utkala Dibasa (Odisha Foundation Day) on April 1, 2025, commemorating its establishment as an independent state in 1936.
• Tell me more:
  • Odisha was part of the Bengal Presidency before becoming an independent state based on linguistic principles.
  • Key leaders like Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, and Fakir Mohan Senapati played significant roles in achieving autonomy for Odia speakers.
  • Utkala Dibasa is marked with pride and remembrance of Odisha’s heritage and resilience.

Source: IE

11. Gujarat CM Inaugurates India’s Largest Chlorotoluene Plant

• What:
  • Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated India’s largest Chlorotoluene plant, established by Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL) in Dahej, Gujarat.
• Why:
  • The plant aims to manufacture chlorine-based value-added products and contribute to India’s economic growth through exports and job creation.
• Tell me more:
  • Built at a cost of ₹350 crore, the plant has an annual production capacity of 30,000 tonnes.
  • It will generate approximately ₹130 crore in foreign exchange through exports to Europe, America, and South Asia.

Source: BS

12. NABARD and SBI Sign MoU for Rural Development in Assam

• What:
  • NABARD and State Bank of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote sustainable rural development in Assam.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to improve rural livelihoods, enhance the credit ecosystem, and support farmers and artisans in starting enterprises through bank financing.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU targets financing ₹500 crores in FY 2025-26, with an annual goal of ₹1,000 crores from the second year onward.
  • It focuses on agriculture, MSMEs, rural artisans, and institutional lending to foster sustainable growth.
  • NABARD emphasized capacity-building efforts to address skill gaps among rural communities.

Source: ET

International News

1. SpaceX Fram2 Mission: First All-Civilian Polar Orbit Spaceflight

• What:
  • SpaceX’s Fram2 mission launched on March 31, 2025, becoming the first all-civilian crewed spaceflight to orbit Earth from pole to pole.
• Why:
  • The mission aims to capture images of Earth’s polar regions and conduct 22 experiments focused on human health and space performance.
• Tell me more:
  • The Crew Dragon Resilience entered a 90-degree polar orbit at 267 miles altitude, completing each orbit in 46 minutes.
  • The crew includes Chun Wang (leader), Jannicke Mikkelsen (vehicle commander), Rabea Rogge (pilot), and Eric Philips (mission specialist).
  • Key studies include the first x-ray of the human body in space, mushroom growth in microgravity, and atmospheric observations.
  • The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster successfully landed on a droneship for reuse, and the crew will spend four days in space before splashing down off California’s coast.

Source: ABC

2. Russia Unveils Zircon Hypersonic Missile and Naval Expansion

• What:
  • Russia unveiled the Zircon hypersonic missile capable of Mach 9 speeds, alongside plans for naval expansion, including submarines and surface ships.
• Why:
  • The missile aims to enhance Russia’s military precision and strike capabilities, while the naval expansion strengthens national security and global strategic balance.
• Tell me more:
  • Zircon can strike land, sea, and air targets with extreme speed and maneuverability, making it nearly impossible to intercept.
  • The Perm submarine, equipped with Zircon missiles, is part of Russia’s Yasen-M class submarines with advanced stealth and automation features.
  • Russia plans to build five Yasen-M class submarines, three Borei-A class submarines, and additional surface ships by 2050.

Source: MoC

Banking and Economy

1. Federal Bank to Increase Stake in Ageas Federal Life Insurance

• What:
  • Federal Bank signed an agreement to acquire an additional 4% stake in Ageas Federal Life Insurance Co Ltd (AFLIC), raising its total stake to 30%.
• Why:
  • The acquisition aims to strengthen Federal Bank’s position in AFLIC and enhance its involvement in the insurance sector.
• Tell me more:
  • The agreement was executed through a binding Memorandum of Understanding with Ageas Insurance International NV.
  • The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals, execution of the Share Purchase Agreement, and satisfaction of conditions mentioned in the SPA.
  • Reserve Bank of India approved the acquisition for up to ₹105 crore.

Source: ET

2. 98.21% of ₹2000 Notes Returned to Banking System

• What:
  • The Reserve Bank of India announced that 98.21% of ₹2000 banknotes have been returned to the banking system following their withdrawal from circulation on May 19, 2023.
• Why:
  • The withdrawal aims to reduce the circulation of ₹2000 notes while ensuring their legal tender status remains intact.
• Tell me more:
  • The total value of ₹2000 notes in circulation reduced from ₹3.56 lakh crore on May 19, 2023, to ₹6,366 crore as of March 31, 2025.
  • Deposit and exchange facilities for ₹2000 notes were available at all bank branches until October 7, 2023, and remain available at RBI’s 19 issue offices.
  • People can send ₹2000 notes via India Post to RBI issue offices for credit to their bank accounts.

Source: NOA

3. Waaree Energies Inaugurates India’s Largest Solar Cell Gigafactory

• What:
  • Waaree Energies inaugurated a 5.4 GW solar cell manufacturing gigafactory in Chikhli, Gujarat, with commercial operations starting on March 29, 2025.
• Why:
  • The facility aims to advance India’s renewable energy goals, contribute to decarbonization objectives, and promote sustainability.
• Tell me more:
  • Waaree Energies plays a key role in India’s target of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Source: ET

4. IndusInd Bank Transfers Corporate Loans to Shore Up Liquidity

• What:
  • IndusInd Bank has transferred highly rated corporate loans to peer banks like ICICI Bank and Federal Bank through the Inter-Bank Participation Certificate (IBPC) market.
• Why:
  • The bank aims to shore up liquidity amid concerns over potential deposit outflows following an investigation into accounting lapses that could reduce its net worth by ₹2,000 crore.
• Tell me more:
  • The loan transfers are estimated to be worth over ₹10,000 crore, with some sources suggesting around ₹6,000 crore transferred this month.
  • IndusInd Bank receives 40% of the loan amount as borrowing, which can be used to retire deposits if needed.

Source: ET

5. Government Converts Vodafone Idea’s Spectrum Dues into Equity

• What:
  • The government converted ₹36,950 crore of Vodafone Idea’s spectrum payment dues into equity, increasing its stake in the company to 48.99%.
• Why:
  • The move aims to improve Vodafone Idea’s financial position, reduce statutory obligations, and provide cash flow assistance amid regulatory payment pressures.
• Tell me more:
  • Private promoters Vodafone Plc and Aditya Birla Group saw their stakes reduced to 16.1% and 9.4%, respectively, while retaining operational control.
  • Vi’s annual payment obligation will reduce from ₹43,000 crore to ₹17,000 crore starting FY27.
  • Citi Research set a target price of ₹12 per share for Vodafone Idea, projecting a potential 76% increase from the last closing price.

Source: TOI

GDP Forecasts

1. India’s Economy Projected to Grow at 6.5% in FY 2025-26

• What:
  • Moody’s Ratings projected India’s economy to grow at 6.5% in FY 2025-26, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing G-20 nation.
• Why:
  • The growth is supported by tax measures, monetary easing, and India’s ability to attract capital despite global uncertainties.
• Tell me more:
  • India’s growth rate for FY 2024-25 is estimated at 6.7%, moderating to 6.5% in FY 2025-26.
  • Inflation is expected to average 4.5% in FY 2024-25, down from 4.9% in the previous fiscal year.
  • The government increased the income tax rebate threshold from ₹7 lakh to ₹12 lakh, offering ₹1 lakh crore tax relief to the middle class.
  • The RBI cut interest rates by 25 basis points in February, bringing them down to 6.25%, with further cuts expected on April 9, 2025.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. INSV Tarini Completes Fourth Leg of Global Circumnavigation

• What:
  • INSV Tarini arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, completing the fourth leg of its global circumnavigation under the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition.
• Why:
  • The expedition promotes women’s empowerment in the Indian Armed Forces and strengthens maritime ties between India and South Africa.
• Tell me more:
  • The mission, flagged off on October 2, 2024, covers over 23,400 nautical miles and will conclude in Goa by May 2025.
  • INSV Tarini will stay at Royal Cape Yacht Club for maintenance while the crew engages with the South African Navy and community outreach events.

Source: ANI

2. Army Commanders’ Conference 2025 Held in New Delhi

• What:
  • The Army Commanders’ Conference is being held in New Delhi from April 1 to April 4, 2025, to review security and discuss operational priorities.
• Why:
  • The conference aims to address emerging challenges, enhance decision-making, and improve the welfare of personnel and their families.
• Tell me more:
  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will chair the session and deliver the keynote address, with a presentation on the Indian Army’s ‘Year of Reforms.’
  • The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and NITI Aayog CEO will address the senior leadership on building a ‘Saksham & Sashakt Bharat.’

Source: PIB

3. India Achieves Record Defence Exports of ₹23,622 Crore in FY 2024-25

• What:
  • India’s defence exports reached an all-time high of ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, registering a 12.04% growth compared to ₹21,083 crore in the previous year.
• Why:
  • The growth aligns with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision to reduce import dependency and strengthen its position as a global defence supplier.
• Tell me more:
  • Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) contributed ₹8,389 crore to exports, growing by 42.85%, while the private sector dominated with ₹15,233 crore.
  • India’s defence products are exported to around 80 countries, including ammunition, sub-systems, and components for major platforms.
  • The Department of Defence Production issued 1,762 export authorizations in FY 2024-25, a 16.92% increase from the previous year.
  • Policy reforms included simplifying licensing procedures and extending the validity of defence manufacturing licenses.

Source: PIB

4. India-US Tiger Triumph 2025 HADR Exercise Begins in Visakhapatnam

• What:
  • The fourth edition of the India-US joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, Tiger Triumph 2025, commenced onboard INS Jalashwa in Visakhapatnam.
• Why:
  • The exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the two nations in large-scale HADR operations and strengthen professional collaboration.
• Tell me more:
  • The harbour phase (April 1-7) includes planning, training, and Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) events covering special operations, emergency medical response, and multi-domain operations.
  • The sea phase (April 8-12) will involve joint maritime and amphibious training, culminating in a humanitarian relief camp at Kakinada.
  • Indian Navy assets like INS Jalashwa, INS Mumbai, INS Gharial, INS Shakti, and various aircraft are participating alongside Indian Army infantry battalion groups and special operations forces.

Source: IE

5. India Participates in INIOCHOS-25 Multinational Air Exercise

• What:
  • The Indian Air Force is participating in the INIOCHOS-25 multinational air exercise hosted by Greece, involving Su-30 MKI fighter jets, IL-78 refuellers, and C-17 Globemasters.
• Why:
  • The exercise aims to strengthen India’s strategic partnership, enhance joint operational capabilities, and counter the influence of Pakistan and Turkey in the Mediterranean region.
• Tell me more:
  • The drill includes air forces from 15 countries, such as the US, France, Israel, Spain, and Qatar.
  • Real-time combat exercises over the Mediterranean Sea involve targeting enemy air defence systems and ground targets.
  • The exercise will continue until April 11, 2025, at Greece’s Andravida Airbase.

Source: IT

Science and Technology

1. IIT Madras Trains First Batch of Cyber Commandos

• What:
  • IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation trained the first batch of 37 Cyber Commandos under a Union Ministry of Home Affairs initiative to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.
• Why:
  • The programme aims to strengthen India’s cyber defence and equip law enforcement agencies to proactively prevent cyberattacks and combat cybercrimes.
• Tell me more:
  • Officers were trained in network security, digital forensics, ethical hacking, and cyber threat intelligence using live simulations and legal components.
  • The initiative focuses on creating a dynamic team to tackle advanced cyber threats and includes proposals for refresher courses and digital platforms for monitoring officer expertise.

Source: IT

Awards

1. Dalai Lama Honored with Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability

• What:
  • The Dalai Lama received the Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability 2025 at his residence in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh.
• Why:
  • The award recognizes his dedication to global peace, human rights, and environmental advocacy.
• Tell me more:
  • Nicolas De Santis, President of Gold Mercury International, presented the award and praised the Dalai Lama’s commitment to non-violence, interfaith dialogue, and ecological responsibility.
  • Gold Mercury International celebrates leaders who demonstrate vision and integrity in governance and sustainability.

Source: IT

2. Historian MyNaa Swamy Honored with Ugadi Award

• What:
  • The Andhra Pradesh government announced the Ugadi Award for historian and archaeologist MyNaa Swamy for his contributions to historical research and social service.
• Why:
  • The award recognizes Swamy’s efforts in epigraphic research and preserving the history of the Vijayanagara Empire and Lepakshi Veerabhadra temple complex.
• Tell me more:
  • The award includes the ‘Kalaratna’ title, ‘Hamsa’ medal, a certificate of appreciation, and a cash prize, presented by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram, Vijayawada.
  • Swamy has deciphered over 100 previously unknown inscriptions in Telugu, Kannada, and Sanskrit.
  • Scholars and writers from Anantapur district congratulated Swamy for receiving the honor.

Source: TH

Important Days

1. International Transgender Day of Visibility – March 31

2. World Autism Awareness Day – April 2

• Theme: Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Source: UN

Sports

1. India Wins 10 Medals at Asian Wrestling Championships 2025

• What:
  • Indian wrestlers won 10 medals, including one gold, three silver, and seven bronze, at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2025 held in Amman, Jordan.
• Why:
  • The medals reflect India’s strong performance in wrestling and showcase its athletes’ competitiveness on the continental stage.
• Tell me more:
  • Deepak Punia won silver in the men’s freestyle 92kg category, losing to Iran’s Amir Hossein Firouzpour.
  • Udit secured silver in the men’s freestyle 61kg category after losing to Japan’s Suda Takara.
  • Dinesh won bronze in the men’s freestyle 125kg category by defeating Turkmenistan’s Zyyamuhammet Saparov.
  • Manisha Bhanwala claimed India’s only gold medal in the women’s 62kg category.
  • Other medalists included Antim Panghal (bronze, women’s 53kg), Reetika Hooda (silver, women’s 76kg), and several Greco-Roman wrestlers.

Source: OC

2. Gurindervir Singh Sets New National Record in 100m Sprint

• What:
  • Gurindervir Singh set a new national record of 10.2 seconds in the men’s 100m sprint, winning gold at the Indian Grand Prix 1.
• Why:
  • The achievement highlights the importance of a strong support system and advanced training for Indian athletes to excel.
• Tell me more:
  • Gurindervir credited his success to his new coach James Hillier and the support from Reliance Foundation, which he joined six to seven months ago.
  • Amlan Borghohain also won the men’s 200m race after securing third place in the 100m event.

Source: TOI

3. Rajnigandha Achievers Win Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup 2025

• What:
  • Rajnigandha Achievers defeated Jindal Panther to win the Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup 2025, India’s premier polo tournament.
• Why:
  • The event honors Shri Aditya Vikram Birla’s passion for polo and horse riding, celebrating his love for the sport.
• Tell me more:
  • The winning team included Dino Dhankhar, Shamsheer Ali, Abhimanyu Pathak, and Daniel Otamendi.
  • Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Rajashree Birla presented the trophy at the event held in collaboration with the Army Polo & Riding Centre, New Delhi.
  • The tournament featured three teams: Rajnigandha Achievers, Jindal Panther, and Cavalry Royal Enfield.

Source: TOI

4. Vandana Katariya Retires from International Hockey

• What:
  • Vandana Katariya, the most capped player in Indian women’s hockey, announced her retirement from international hockey after a 15-year career.
• Tell me more:
  • Katariya played 320 international matches, scored 158 goals, and was the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Olympics during Tokyo 2020.
  • She debuted for the senior team in 2009 and played her last match in February during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League.

Source: ET

5. Aryna Sabalenka Wins Her First Miami Open Title

• What:
  • Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula to win her first Miami Open title and the $1.1 million prize.
• Tell me more:
  • Sabalenka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has reached the finals of four out of six events this year, winning titles in Brisbane and Miami.
  • The match was a rematch of the 2024 U.S. Open final, where Sabalenka also defeated Pegula in straight sets.
  • The men’s doubles final was delayed due to rain but concluded with Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic winning the championship.

Source: BS

6. Nihal Sarin Wins Classical Tashkent Open Agzamov Memorial 2025

• What:
  • Indian chess player Nihal Sarin won the classical Tashkent Open Agzamov Memorial 2025, finishing undefeated with eight points out of ten rounds.
• Tell me more:
  • Nihal defeated prominent players like Adhiban Bhaskaran, Jingyao Tin, and Sanan Sjugirov.
  • The win earned him $20,000 (₹17 lakh) in prize money and added 7.1 rating points to his score.

Source: IE

7. Rajgir to Host Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025

• What:
  • Rajgir, Bihar, will host the Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7 at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
• Why:
  • The tournament aims to promote sports infrastructure in Bihar and showcase the state’s ability to host prestigious international events.
• Tell me more:
  • Eight teams, including India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia, will participate, with two teams qualifying through the AHF Cup.
  • South Korea is the most successful team in the tournament’s history with five titles, followed by India and Pakistan with three titles each.

Source: NOA

Memorandum of Understanding

1. CAG Signs MoU with NIUA to Enhance Urban Audit Capabilities

• What:
  • The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India signed an MoU with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).
• Why:
  • The collaboration seeks to equip Indian Audit and Accounts Department (IA&AD) officials with specialized skills for auditing urban development programs.
• Tell me more:
  • The initiative includes developing content and course material relevant to urban audits.
  • A Community of Practice platform will be developed for knowledge sharing among CAG officials and urban auditors.

Source: ANI

Appointments

1. N Chandrasekaran Joins IMF’s Advisory Council on Growth

• What:
  • N Chandrasekaran, Tata Sons Chairman, joined the IMF’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth, announced by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.
• Why:
  • The Council aims to address declining productivity growth and stimulate innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity-led growth.
• Tell me more:
  • The Council includes leaders from business, finance, academia, and policymaking to shape IMF research and policy frameworks.
  • Discussions will occur every three months under Chatham House rules to ensure open exchanges.
  • Chandrasekaran is also a member of the Reserve Bank of India’s board.

Source: TN

2. Salila Pande Appointed MD & CEO of SBI Card

• Salila Pande has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBI Card, effective April 1, 2025.

Source: ET

3. Shirley Botchwey Becomes 7th Commonwealth Secretary-General

• What:
  • Shirley Botchwey assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, becoming the first African woman to hold this position.
• Tell me more:
  • Botchwey has 20 years of experience in diplomacy, international relations, governance, and public service.
  • She served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration from January 2017 to January 2024 and was a member of Ghana’s National Security Council.
  • The Secretary-General is nominated by Commonwealth leaders and can serve a maximum of two terms of four years each.

Source: NOA

4. Ambuj Chandna Joins DBS Bank India as MD

• What:
  • Ambuj Chandna, former President at Kotak Mahindra Bank, joined DBS Bank India as Managing Director and Head of Consumer Banking Group.
• Why:
  • Chandna’s appointment aims to strengthen DBS Bank India’s leadership and enhance its consumer banking operations.
• Tell me more:
  • Chandna replaces Prashant Joshi, who joined DBS Bank in 2020 during its acquisition of Lakshmi Vilas Bank.
  • Chandna was associated with Kotak Mahindra Bank for over 16 years and played a key role in its retail operations overhaul after ING Vysya Bank’s acquisition in 2015.
  • His appointment follows Rajat Verma taking charge as DBS Bank India’s CEO in March 2025.

Source: MoC

Miscellaneous

1. India Records Highest Child Adoptions Since 2015-16

• What:
  • India recorded 4,515 child adoptions in FY 2024-25, the highest since 2015-16, with 4,155 domestic adoptions.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to streamline the adoption process and increase legal adoptions through improved identification and awareness campaigns.
• Tell me more:
  • The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) introduced 8,598 newly identified children into the adoption pool and set up 245 new adoption agencies.
  • CARA conducted state orientations in 12 states and UTs, along with 45 virtual training sessions on adoption timelines, foster care, and counseling.
  • From October 2024 to January 2025, CARA partnered with 16 states to organize adoptive parent meets.
  • Foster Care and Foster Adoption Modules were introduced on the CARINGS portal for family-based alternate care for older children.

Source: PIB

2. Sanjeev Chopra’s latest book, The Great Conciliator

• Author Sanjeev Chopra’s latest book, The Great Conciliator, is a celebration of the life and works of India’s second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Source: IE

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