National
1. Odisha Day, also known as Utkala Dibasa, is a significant day for the Indian state of Odisha. Celebrated on 1st April every year, the day commemorates the formation of the state as a separate entity out of Bihar and Orissa Province.
2. Recently, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav introduced the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023, in the Lok Sabha. This amendment bill seeks to clarify India's forest conservation law and exempt certain categories of land from its ambit to fast-track security-related projects of national importance.
3. The space system design lab was inaugurated recently in Ahmedabad by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe). The Space Systems Design Lab's purpose is to help space start-ups turn their innovative ideas into implementable models more quickly, and reduce research and development costs.
4. India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and Bharti Airtel have partnered to launch banking services through WhatsApp for their customers in India. Through WhatsApp Banking, IPPB customers can now access banking services on their preferred messaging app.
5. The Competition (Amendment) Bill 2022 was recently passed by the Lok Sabha with the aim of promoting fair competition in the market and preventing anti-competitive practices. The bill was originally introduced in the lower house on 5th August 2022, and was referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, which was headed by Jayant Sinha.
6. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), an initiative by NITI Aayog, has launched three new resources aimed at fostering innovation and creativity among India's youth. With a focus on promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, AIM has introduced the ATL Tinkering Curriculum, Equipment Manual, and the Calendar of Activities for 2023 - 24.
7. Odisha, a state located on the east coast of India, is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, with cyclones hitting the state every 15 months on average and a coastline of 480 km exposed to tsunami risk. In response to these risks, the World Bank has announced a $100 million loan for the state under the Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Program (OSCRGP).
8. India has been facing several challenges related to sanitation, and to overcome these issues, the Indian government launched the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in 2014. The mission aims to achieve universal sanitation coverage and make the country open defecation free.
9. On 3rd April 2023, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, inaugurated the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The CBI was established by a resolution of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India on 1st April 1963, and has been the premier investigating agency in India since then.
10. The Tata Trusts recently released the India Justice Report 2022, which ranks the police forces of states across India. The report provides insights into the current state of the country's law enforcement agencies, highlighting strengths and weaknesses across various parameters.
11. The Sarbat Khalsa, a term meaning "all congregation", refers to a traditional assembly of all factions of Sikhs (Khalsa) to discuss political, social, and religious issues of great importance to the community. The idea of a deliberative assembly of Sikhs originated in the 18th century and was convened twice a year.
12. The Places of Worship Act, 1991, is an important legislation in India that seeks to protect the character of religious places of worship as they existed on 15th August 1947. The law prohibits any suit or proceeding against the encroachment of any religious properties before this date, and any such pending proceeding stands abated.
13. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is a statutory body that regulates the telecommunications and broadcasting industries in India. It was established in 1997 by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act to promote competition and protect consumer interests.
14. The Petroleum Planning Analysis Cell is the data backbone of the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It recently celebrated its 22nd foundation day. It was inaugurated on 3rd April 2002, PPAC has been instrumental in maintaining a reliable and comprehensive database on the Indian oil and gas sector.
15. The world-famous Basohli Painting from the Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir has obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. This is the first time in the history of GI registration that the Jammu region got a GI tag for handicrafts.
16. The Cabinet has given its approval for the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) project, which will be implemented by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), to secure a loan from the German development bank, KfW. The objective of this project is to facilitate grid integration and power evacuation of Renewable Energy power.
17. The State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021 - 22 report was released on 12th April this year during the RPM meeting of States and State Utilities in New Delhi. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and Alliance for an Energy-Efficient Economy (AEEE) developed the SEEI index.
18. In recent years, the media industry in India has been subjected to increased scrutiny and censorship. The case of "Madhyamam Broadcasting Limited vs Union of India & Ors" is an example of such censorship, where the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting refused to renew the broadcast license of the Malayalam channel MediaOne.
19. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is the regulatory body responsible for monitoring and regulating the telecommunications sector in India. Established in 1997, TRAI's primary objective is to ensure that the interests of consumers are protected and that there is fair competition in the market.
20. Diabetes is a chronic medical condition in which the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels. In Chhattisgarh, cases of lean diabetes is seen among tribal communities. Lean diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects individuals who have a low BMI and are often impoverished and malnourished.
21. The National Medical Council (NMC) is an apex body responsible for regulating medical education and professionals in India. Recently, the NMC issued a set of guidelines for medical students, teachers, and institutions, outlining their professional responsibilities.
22. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued guidelines for the first time for conducting a preliminary assessment to determine whether a child should be treated as a minor or not in criminal cases which come under the "heinous" offences category of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
23. Several amendments were made by the Central Government to the IT Rules related to online gaming and the spread of false and misleading information regarding government business. These amendments seek to enforce greater due diligence by online gaming and social media intermediaries.
24. A recent incident in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh has raised concerns about the safety and security of journalists in India. On 15th April 2023, mafia don-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother were shot dead by three individuals posing as TV news reporters.
25. The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) in India is a comprehensive guideline that serves as a blueprint for school education. The NCF is periodically updated to reflect changing student and societal needs. The new draft NCF proposes significant changes to the school day and academic year.
26. The Two Day Global Conference on Compressed Biogas (CBG) was organized by IFGE-CBG Producers Forum with assistance from Ministry for Petroleum & Natural Gas. The conference was held on 17th to 18th April. It focused on creating a progressive policy framework for the growth and development of the CBG industry in India.
27. India is the world's second-largest tea producer after China. However, the tea industry in India has been facing a major setback due to the infestation of tea mosquito bugs. This has led to a significant decline in tea production, especially in the Valparai region of Tamil Nadu, where the production has fallen by around 50% over a decade.
28. The Indian government recently approved the Indian Space Policy 2023, with the aim of institutionalizing and facilitating private sector participation in the Indian space sector. The policy's approval by the Cabinet Committee, helmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a significant step towards transforming India into a major space power.
29. The world has seen a significant change in the way governments deliver solutions to the common citizen in a post-COVID world. The Deloitte Center for Government Insights' report titled 'Government Trends' highlights the nine trends that are reshaping this landscape. The report goes into great depth on the paradigm shifts driving these changes.
30. Arunachal Pradesh is a state in the northeastern region of India that is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. The state is home to various indigenous tribes, one of which is the Idu Mishmi tribe. It is currently protesting against the proposed tiger reserve in the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.
31. India's development of a "world-class digital public infrastructure" has been lauded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a working paper titled 'Stacking up the Benefits Lessons from India's Digital Journey.' The paper credits India's building block approach and focus on supporting innovation for the success of its digital public infrastructure (DPI).
32. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has recently issued the Sagarmala Innovation and Start-up Policy to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the maritime sector in India. The policy aims to create a conducive environment for the growth of start-ups and other entities in the maritime sector, leading to sustainable development and employment opportunities.
33. The Union Cabinet recently approved the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023. The proposed legislation seeks to curb the transmission of pirated film content on the internet. The announcement was made by Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur, who stated that the bill would be introduced in the upcoming session of Parliament.
34. The Global Buddhist Summit 2023 was held in New Delhi and concluded successfully with the New Delhi Declaration. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the two-day summit on 20th April 2023, which focused on modes of disseminating and internalizing universal values to address global challenges and offer a sustainable model for the future of the world.
35. India is home to the largest population of tigers in the world, and their protection and conservation is of utmost importance. The country conducts a scientific estimation of its tiger population once every four years, and the latest report was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently.
36. The Muthuvans are a tribe of cultivators who dwell in the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore and Madurai and Kerala's Adimali and Devikulam forest regions of Idukki district. However, in recent times, they have been facing severe problems with human-animal conflict, particularly with elephants.
37. The Unified Portal of Central Bureau of Narcotics was recently launched to facilitate the ease of doing business of Narcotic Drugs and Controlled Substances in India. The launch of this portal is expected to be a significant stepping stone towards achieving better compliance and transparency.
38. The Thales Data Threat Report 2023 is a comprehensive analysis of cybersecurity trends and threats. It has revealed some concerning findings about ransomware attacks and cloud data breaches in India and globally. The report finds that ransomware attacks have seen a significant increase in India and worldwide.
39. RailTel Corporation of India Limited is a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Railways. Recently, RailTel Corporation of India Limited has been awarded an order worth Rs. 76.10 Crores by the Bihar State Electronics Development Corporation (BSEDC) to provide high capacity, scalable and reliable network infrastructure for the Electronic Knowledge Network project.
40. The Indian government recently launched the Ambedkar circuit tourist train under the Dekho Apna Desh initiative, aimed at promoting domestic tourism in the country. This eight-day special tour covers eight significant places associated with Ambedkar i.e., New Delhi, Mhow, Nagpur, Sanchi, Sarnath, Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda.
41. India is known to have one of the deadliest road systems in the world, with fatal accidents happening every few minutes. In response to this alarming issue, the country's Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has launched a program to expand Incident Management Services (IMS) across all national highways in India.
42. During the SC's hearing on same sex couple's right to marry, the Centre, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, challenged the validity of the petitions and the judiciary's authority to grant legal recognition to the "socio-legal institution" of marriage.
43. The National Health Authority has invited participation in the National Health Claims Exchange (HCX)-Sandbox recently under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The HCX is expected to lead to a reduction in operational overheads and increase trust among payers and providers through a transparent and rule-based mechanism
44. The Union Civil Aviation Ministry launched the fifth round of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), known as Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN). It is expected to further boost the connectivity to remote and regional areas across India.
45. The Union Home Ministry has approved the conduct of the Constable (General Duty) examination for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in 13 regional languages in addition to Hindi and English. This landmark decision seeks to boost the participation of local youth in the CAPF and encourage the use of regional languages.
46. The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) and NGO Ashraya Hastha Trust (AHT) signed an MoU recently to test the feasibility of a model comprehensive rural mental health program named "NAMAN" (NIMHANS-AHT Comprehensive Mental-Health Action Program for Rural Communities) in two taluks before launching it nationwide.
47. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot is set to inaugurate the 'Mehngai Rahat Camp' on 24th April at Mahapura village panchayat of Sanganer. The camp, which will continue till 30th June this year, aims to provide relief to the general public and deprived sections from rising prices and inflation.
48. The Union Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has launched a unique initiative to develop 100 food streets in 100 districts across the country. This pilot project aims to promote safe and healthy practices to reduce food-borne illnesses and improve overall health outcomes for citizens.
49. PM Modi is all set to inaugurate the first phase of the Kochi Water Metro project in Kerala on 25th April. The Kochi Water Metro project is said to revolutionize transportation in India as it is the country's first-ever water metro system of its kind.
50. The Indian government has recently tightened regulations for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), which is commonly used to treat infertility through vitro fertilization (IVF). The health ministry's move aims to regulate the mushrooming money-making industry that often carries out unnecessary procedures to make profits.
51. The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sing Sukhu recently announced the launch of the Sukh-Ashraya Yojana, a scheme that aims to provide better life and education opportunities to orphans and destitute children in the state. This initiative addresses a long-neglected issue of caring for children who are deprived and needy.
52. The Hakki Pikki tribe is a nomadic tribe that resides in several states in western and southern India. The tribe's name itself reveals a lot about their history and identity. "Hakki" means "bird" in Kannada, while "Pikki" means "catchers". This highlights the tribe's close association with birds and their expertise in capturing them.
53. Manamadurai, a small village in the Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu, is known for its pottery making. The tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, and today, Manamadurai pottery is recognized worldwide for its unique style and craftsmanship.
54. The Union Cabinet of India recently cleared the National Quantum Mission, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at harnessing the power of quantum technologies. With a budget of Rs. 6,003 crore and an expected duration of eight years, the mission seeks to unlock the potential of quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.
55. Animal pandemics and zoonotic diseases pose significant threats to both animal and human health, and addressing them requires a holistic approach. The Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative and the World Bank-funded Animal Health System Support for One Health are comprehensive efforts launched by the Indian government.
56. The Tamil Nadu government has recently passed The Factories (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Bill, 2023 to amend the Factories Act, 1948, in a bid to provide greater flexibility to the manufacturing sector. The proposed amendment suggests inserting a new Section 65A in the Act, which will allow factories to have flexible working hours.
57. Guchhi, also known as Morel mushroom, is a prized delicacy found in the Himalayan region. It is a wild mushroom belonging to the Morchellaceae family and is known for its unique spongy head. This mushroom is not only delicious but is also packed with essential nutrients. It is expected to receive GI tag in the near future.
58. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is the national regulatory body for civil aviation security in India. It recently commemorated its raising day. Recently, BCAS celebrated its 37th raising day in New Delhi.
59. Border disputes between Indian states are not uncommon, with many long-standing disagreements between neighboring states. One such dispute is between the northeastern states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It centers around the demarcation of their shared border, which spans over 800 kilometers.
60. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recently released a report titled "The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems" which sheds light on the gender disparities in agriculture and its impact on global economy and food security.
61. Healthcare is one of the most crucial sectors for the development of any nation. Adequate healthcare facilities not only ensure the wellbeing of citizens but also contribute to the overall economic growth of a country. In India, the healthcare sector has witnessed some significant changes over the past few years.
62. The Ministry of Jal Shakti conducted its first-ever census of water bodies in India between 2018-19. The objective of this census was to collect comprehensive data on all aspects of water bodies in the country, including their condition, encroachment status and usage.
63. On 26th April 2023, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched IFFCO's liquid nano Di-Ammonia Phosphate (DAP), marking an important step towards making India self-reliant in the field of fertilizers. The Nano DAP, which has been manufactured by the cooperative major IFFCO, which regulates the sale, pricing and distribution of fertilizers in India.
64. The upcoming 6th edition of Advantage Healthcare India (AHCI) 2023, also referred to as One Earth One Health, will be addressed virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will take place on 26th and 27th April, and will be held at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, the national capital.
65. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organized the third edition of the Summit on Farm Machinery Technology, which was held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi from 27th - 28th April 2023 in physical format. The previous two editions of the summit were conducted virtually, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
International
1. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe and tangible, people around the world are looking for ways to hold their governments accountable for inaction on this pressing issue. In Europe, senior citizens in Switzerland have taken the bold step of filing a case against their government in the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
2. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a loan program worth $15.6 billion for Ukraine as part of a larger $115 billion package to aid its war-torn economy. With one-third of Ukraine's population displaced, the IMF's support comes as a crucial aid in reconstructing the country's economy.
3. Myanmar, also known as Burma, has been in political turmoil since the military coup on 1st February, 2021. The military junta, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, seized power and detained the country's elected leader, Aung San Suu Kyi and other prominent figures. The military claimed voter fraud in the 2020 election.
4. Australia's Safeguard Mechanism (Crediting) Amendment Bill 2023 has been passed by Parliament, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to address climate change. With the new arrangements taking effect from 1st July 2023.
5. The European Union member states' ambassadors have approved a new proposal that aims to digitise the visa application process. This move will replace the current 'Schengen' sticker with a digital barcode to streamline the process and reduce visa processing delays among the 27 European nations that comprise the Schengen area.
6. In recent years, Russia has been pursuing a new foreign policy strategy aimed at strengthening its relationships with countries like India and China. This new approach is outlined in a policy document called 'The Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation,' which was unveiled by President Vladimir Putin.
7. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is a trade pact that originated from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) after the United States withdrew in 2017. The agreement includes 11 countries, namely Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.
8. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is an organization that regulates and controls the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources on the ocean floor outside of the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) of its 167 member states. The organization was established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1994 and is headquartered in Jamaica.
9. Lithium has become an essential component of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. As the world seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the demand for lithium has skyrocketed. Chile is currently looking to partner with India to tap into the potential of lithium value chain.
10. Paris, the city of love, is known for its beauty and charm. The city's streets are filled with tourists and locals alike, with many of them relying on rental e-scooters to navigate the city. However, with the recent Paris e-scooter referendum, the city has decided to ban rental e-scooters by the end of August 2023.
11. On 4th April this year, Finland officially became a member of the NATO, marking a definitive shift in Europe's post-World War II alignment and isolating Russia further. The move ends over 70 years of military non-alignment for the small Nordic country that shares a 1,340 km border with Russia.
12. Australia has recently passed a new law aimed at addressing the gender pay gap in the country. The law requires companies with over 100 employees to reveal their gender pay gaps, a move towards transparency that is expected to make businesses accountable for their actions.
13. The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has raised concerns over Ukraine's security and stability. The United States has pledged significant military aid to Ukraine to help them defend themselves against Russian aggression. The US recently approved $2.6 billion military assistance for Ukraine.
14. India's recent election to the UN Statistical Commission is a testament to its expertise in the field of statistics, diversity and demography. The UN Statistical Commission is the highest decision-making body for international statistical activities and is responsible for setting statistical standards and the development of concepts and methods.
15. The FBI and the Justice Department recently led a massive operation to combat illicit state-backed cybercrime. Dubbed "Operation Cookie Monster," the effort involved an international consortium of law enforcement authorities and resulted in the seizure of Genesis Market, a Russia-linked marketplace that sold tens of millions of hacked accounts to cybercriminals around the world.
16. On 5th April 2023, Japan announced its decision to provide financial support to help nations strengthen their defences. This announcement marked a radical departure from the regulations that have been preventing the use of foreign aid for military objectives.
17. Poland's highest order, the Order of the White Eagle, has a rich history dating back to its official institution on 1st November 1705, by Augustus II the Strong, King of Poland and Elector of Saxony. Originally bestowed on only eight of his closest diplomatic and political supporters, the order has become a symbol of prestige, honour, and service to the nation.
18. On 6th April, Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed into law House Bill 232, which creates a new crime called "abortion trafficking". The law makes it illegal for adults to get abortion drugs for a minor or to "recruit, harbor or transport the pregnant minor" across state lines to terminate a pregnancy without parental consent.
19. India and Japan have been working together to strengthen their defense and security cooperation. The latest development in this regard was the 7th India-Japan Defense Policy Dialogue, which was co-chaired by the defense secretaries of both countries on 6th April 2023.
20. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has recently vowed to tackle hay fever, a pollen allergy that affects a significant portion of the Japanese population. In a recent parliamentary committee, Kishida referred to hay fever as a "social problem" and pledged to work with ministers to devise a response to the issue.
21. Hikikomori is a social phenomenon affecting people of all ages in Japan, where individuals withdraw from society and remain isolated for extended periods. The term Hikikomori was coined in the 1990s in Japan to describe the phenomenon of social withdrawal.
22. The Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, is a historic peace agreement that ended the sectarian violence in Northern Ireland, commonly referred to as "The Troubles." The agreement was signed on 10th April 1998, by the British and Irish governments, along with political parties in Northern Ireland.
23. France is hosting the multinational wargame codenamed Orion, which is expected to be held from the third week of April to 5th May. This exercise will involve various countries, including India, and will test their combat capabilities in a simulated war scenario.
24. The Buzi Bridge in Mozambique was virtually inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. It has been built by India as part of the 132 km Tica-Buzi-Nova-Sofala Road project. This newly constructed bridge is a practical example of India - Mozambique solidarity and friendship.
25. The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has formed a task force to address concerns related to OpenAI's ChatGPT chatbot. This move comes after the Italian government banned the use of ChatGPT in the country and accused OpenAI of stealing users' data and failing to have an age-verification system to bar minors from being exposed to illicit material.
26. Europe's most powerful nuclear reactor, Olkiluoto 3, has recently started producing regular energy in Finland after a delay of 14 years from its original completion timeline. This costly reactor, with a capacity of 1,600 megawatts, has been connected to the Finnish national power grid in March 2022.
27. Cuba's political landscape recently witnessed a significant development as Miguel Diaz-Canel secured a second five-year term as the President of the country. With a parliamentary vote that had him as the sole candidate, Diaz-Canel's bid to serve as the most powerful man in Havana's corridors of power was confirmed by an overwhelming majority.
28. The European Union's legislature has granted final approval to the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulations, which are the new common rules for the crypto space in Europe. The MiCA will regulate the supervision, consumer protection and environmental safeguards of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
29. On 8th April 2023, the art world will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passing of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. It is a day that marks not only his death but also a celebration of his remarkable work and artistic legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of artists.
30. Bangladesh recently announced its 15-point Indo-Pacific Outlook (IPO), envisioning a free, open, peaceful, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's tri-nation visit to Japan, the USA and the UK prompted the announcement of the IPO.
31. On 25th April 2023, veteran politician Mohammed Shahabuddin was sworn in as the 22nd president of Bangladesh at a state ceremony held at the Durbar Hall of Bangabhaban. Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, the Speaker, administered the oath to the 73-year-old Shahabuddin.
32. The Indian government has launched a rescue operation in Sudan to evacuate its stranded citizens. The operation, named Operation Kaveri, is currently underway. As per official data, around 4,000 Indians are stuck in Sudan. The Indian government has deployed two C-130s aircraft and the navy ship INS Sumedha on standby to evacuate Indians from the violence-hit African nation.
33. Nagorno-Karabakh is a landlocked, mountainous area in the South Caucasus that has been a source of conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan for decades. It is predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians but is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan.
34. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a major disruption in healthcare services, with more than 100 countries registering a drop in immunization levels. A targeted global initiative named The Big Catch-up has been implemented by a consortium of organizations such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, and Immunization Agenda 2030, among other public health organizations, to elevate vaccination levels among children, as they have dropped due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
35. Recently, a raid by Israeli police on Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque sparked an intense reaction from Palestinians across the occupied West Bank and the wider Arab and Muslim world. The incident underscores the sensitivity and significance of the Al-Aqsa mosque, a flashpoint for deadly violence over matters of sovereignty and religion in Jerusalem.
36. The State of the Global Climate report is an annual publication from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) that presents the latest findings on the state of climate change worldwide. The most recent report, released ahead of Earth Day 2023, reveals several alarming trends that highlight the urgent need for climate action.
37. Sudan has been engulfed in a violent conflict between its military and paramilitary forces since April this year. The ongoing battle has led to at least 420 deaths, with many more injured and displaced.
38. The world population has reached eight billion and is expected to grow for decades, but many countries are facing a sharp drop in working-age adults. A recent report from the World Bank, titled "World Development Report 2023 Migrants, Refugees and Societies", proposes policies for better migration management in destination, transit and origin countries, underscoring its urgency.
39. The Montevideo Maru was a ship that sunk during World War II, resulting in the loss of about 1,060 prisoners of war and civilians from 14 different countries. For 81 years, the wreckage of the ship remained elusive, until a recent discovery by the Silentworld Foundation, led by Captain Roger Turner, a technical director and submarine specialist who spent years researching the wreck.
Defence
1. The Defence Ministry recently signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of 13 indigenously developed Lynx-U2 fire control systems. It will be placed in the new generation offshore patrol vessels, which will be constructed indigenously at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers and Goa Shipyard Limited.
2. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed a contract worth Rs. 8,161 crore with the Ministry of Defence for the production and supply of Akash Weapon System (AWS) for two regiments of the Indian Army. This Hyderabad-based defence public sector unit is gearing up to meet the production demands of the weapon system, which will be completed within three years.
3. The Combined Commanders Conference (CCC) is an annual event where India's top military commanders come together to discuss and brainstorm on military matters and national security. The conference serves as a platform for the country's military leaders to exchange ideas, review the preparedness of the Armed Forces, and discuss the way forward.
4. The defence ministry recently signed a deal worth over Rs. 1,700 crore for the procurement of the Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range), commonly known as NGMMCB (LR). This deal, in combination with the BrahMos missiles, will strengthen Indian Navy's maritime strike capabilities along the coast.
5. India, like many countries, faces threats from artillery and rocket fire across its borders. To counter this, India developed the Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) Swathi, a mobile artillery-locating, phased array radar system. Recently, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with BEL to procure the WLR Swathi, with a cost of over Rs. 990 crore.
6. SLINEX-2023 is the 10th edition of the annual India-Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime Exercise. The exercise is aimed at improving mutual understanding, enhancing interoperability, and exchanging best practices/procedures in multi-faceted maritime operations between both Navies.
7. On the 8th of February 1999, India lost one of its foremost military thinkers, General K. Sundarji. He was the 13th Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army from 1986 to 1988. To commemorate his memory, the Indian Army organised the 3rd General Sundarji Memorial Lecture at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi, on the 3rd of April 2023.
8. India and the United States are set to conduct the next edition of their bilateral air exercise called 'Cope India'. This is aimed at enhancing the interoperability between the air forces the two countries. The air exercise will take place from 10th to 21st April 2023, at the air force base in Kalaikunda, West Bengal.
9. In a historic move, the Indian Army is set to commission its first lot of women officers in the artillery regiments later this month. The Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai will see these women officers pass out after receiving training to handle howitzers and rocket systems.
10. The Balikatan drills are annual military exercises conducted between the United States and the Philippines. The name "Balikatan" is derived from the Tagalog word "shoulder-to-shoulder," reflecting the strong partnership between the two countries.
11. In a recent development, the Indian government has announced that it will station six out of the seven Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) battalions in Arunachal Pradesh, the north eastern border state of India, to counter China's manoeuvres.
12. The Indian Army has recently made significant progress in the field of defence by signing a contract to purchase over 450 completely indigenous Nagastra-1 loitering munitions. Developed by Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries, in collaboration with Z-Motion from Bangalore, Nagastra-1 is a game-changer for India's defence industry, surpassing competitors from Israel and Poland to secure the contract.
13. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently approved a proposal for industry-friendly reforms related to the Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP). The AHSP is responsible for generating, maintaining, updating, or declaring obsolete the entire history and technical information of defence products.
14. The Indian Army conducts the Army Commanders Conference (ACC) biannually to discuss critical matters related to security and other related aspects. The first edition of the ACC for the year 2023 is being organized from 17th to 21st April.
15. Exercise INIOCHOS-23 is a multi-national air exercise hosted by the Greece Air Force, in which the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be participating. It is one of the three exercises that the IAF will be taking part in simultaneously, along with Exercise Cope India with the U.S. underway at Kalaikunda and a multilateral exercise Orion hosted by France, in which four Rafale fighters are participating.
16. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing for several years now. Recently, the Ukrainian government has reported an increase in the number of guided bomb attacks carried out by the Russian forces.
17. India recently achieved a significant milestone in its ambitious ballistic missile defense (BMD) program by successfully conducting the maiden flight trial of an endo-atmospheric interceptor missile. The test happened off the coast of Odisha in the Bay of Bengal.
18. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has a rich history of valor and sacrifice in serving the nation, and 44 Squadron is an integral part of this legacy. 44 Squadron was raised on 6th April 1961, equipped with AN-12 aircraft.
19. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is a world-renowned think tank that specializes in research and analysis of security issues. Established in 1966, SIPRI conducts independent research on issues related to peace, conflict and security.
20. The Indian Army recently concluded its Army Commanders Conference (ACC), which was held from 17th - 21st April. The conference was attended by the Army Commanders, Director-General of Military Operations, and various other senior officers. It was held in a hybrid mode for the first time, with both in-person and virtual participation.
21. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) is India's largest nuclear power plant located in Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu. The plant was built in collaboration with Russia's Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation and was constructed in two phases.
Business, Economy & Banking
1. The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) is a small savings scheme designed exclusively for women in India. The scheme was launched on 1st April 2023, as a part of observing Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, which is a celebration of India’s 75th year of Independence. The initiative was announced during the Union Budget in February 2023 and was opened by the Union Minister, Smriti Irani.
2. India hand made Portal is an e-commerce portal launched by the Indian Government with the aim of empowering artisans and weavers by providing them a platform to sell their products directly to customers. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to promote local artisans and craftsmanship, and support the "Vocal for Local" movement.
3. Reliance General Insurance has made history by becoming the first general insurance company to accept the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) e-Rupee (e₹) for premium payments. The insurer has partnered with YES Bank to facilitate the collection of premiums in digital mode using the bank’s e-rupee platform.
4. City Union Bank Limited (CUB) has introduced a new feature that allows customers to use voice biometric authentication when logging into the bank's mobile banking app, aimed at improving security. The bank plans to extend this feature to net banking users as well, and the development process is currently underway.
Science & Technology
1. The phenomenon of upward lightning, also known as upward flashes, has long been a fascinating sight for scientists and observers alike. Recently, Brazilian researchers succeeded in capturing high-speed images of the event, showcasing a self-initiated lightning streak that develops from tall objects, traveling upward towards electrified storm clouds.
2. In October 2022, astronomers recorded a pulse of gamma-ray radiation that could potentially overturn a decades-long theory of gamma-ray burst (GRB) jets. The radiation was captured by a joint observation involving several institutions. The name given to this observation was GRB 221009A.
3. Scientists in Australia have discovered evidence of a previously unknown ancient marsupial called Mukupirna fortidentata. This ancient species roamed the country around 25 million years ago. Researchers at Flinders University pieced together fossils of this long-extinct marsupial after finding it in Australia's remote Northern Territory.
4. The piezoelectric effect is a phenomenon whereby certain materials, such as quartz crystal, generate an electric current when subjected to mechanical stress. Recently, researchers have discovered that this effect can also occur in liquids, opening up a host of novel applications.
5. The European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 mission, consisting of two spacecrafts, will demonstrate precision formation flying in space. It is set to revolutionize scientific observation and space applications.
6. Space weather, or the effects of solar activity on Earth's magnetic environment, can have mild to severe impacts on various technologies and infrastructures. That's why NASA researchers have developed a new computer model, called the Deep Learning Geomagnetic Perturbation (DAGGER) model, which integrates artificial intelligence (AI) with satellite data to forecast geomagnetic disturbances and provide a warning for impending solar storms.
7. On 2nd April 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted a successful Reusable Launch Vehicle Autonomous Landing Mission (RLV LEX) at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga, Karnataka.
8. The world of insects is vast and diverse, with new species being discovered all the time. Recently, a team of researchers led by Aarini Ghosh and Ranjana Jaiswara discovered three new species of bush crickets in India. These new species are members of the Hexacentrus cricket family, and they are unique in their ability to produce ultrasonic sounds of up to 60 kHz.
9. A recent case report published in Medical Mycology Case Reports revealed that a man in Kolkata, India, was infected with Chondrostereum purpureum, a plant fungus. This discovery has raised concerns about the potential risks of fungal infections in humans, especially in the context of global warming.
10. A marine biologist in The Netherlands, Jaco Havermans, recently spotted a rare sea lamprey on a beach. The sea lamprey, which is a parasitic fish, was found for the first time in six years. It was given to Ecomare, a nature museum and aquarium.
11. Red squirrels are one of Britain's most iconic species, and yet, they are under threat from a virus that causes a fatal disease known as squirrelpox. The virus is thought to have originated in North America and was accidentally introduced to the UK by grey squirrels. It is a major threat to the red squirrel population in Wales, where numbers have declined dramatically in recent years.
12. In a significant moment for space exploration, astronaut Christina Hammock Koch has been announced as the first woman to circle the Moon. The US space agency, NASA, has declared that Koch will be the mission specialist when four humans board the Orion spacecraft for a trip around the Moon.
13. A group of lepidopterists discovered a butterfly subspecies from the peripheries of Akkulam and Vembanad lakes in Kerala. The newly-discovered taxon is named Caltoris bromus sadasiva, and it is the first record of the species Bromus swift from the Western Ghats and Peninsular India.
14. In the world of mathematics, there are problems that have been around for centuries, or even millennia, waiting to be solved. One such problem is the Penrose. The Penrose tiling problem asks if it is possible to cover a surface with tiles that are aperiodic, meaning they can never be repeated in a regular pattern. In 2017, retired printing technician David Smith discovered a shape that can solve the Penrose tiling problem, which he named "The Hat".
15. In early 2022, a research team was located in Meghalaya, a state in Northeast India, for over three months. The team, consisting of scientists and researchers, embarked on a mission to discover new species of spiders. The team's hard work paid off, and they discovered several new species of jumping spiders.
16. In a recent cyberattack, eight Central government entities, including central paramilitary forces and the Income Tax department, were targeted by the Raccoon Stealer malware. The attack was brought to the attention of the affected agencies by the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), a specialized intelligence agency under the National Security Advisor.
17. Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by finding the closest black hole to Earth, located in our cosmic backyard. This discovery has opened up a new world of possibilities for studying these enigmatic cosmic objects and understanding their role in shaping the universe.
18. The JUpiter ICy moons Explorer (JUICE) is a mission by the European Space Agency (ESA) set to launch on 13th April 2023, from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. The primary focus of JUICE's science goals is the Jupiter system, with a particular emphasis on Ganymede as a planetary body and potential habitat.
19. The Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) is the primary imaging instrument of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). It covers the infrared wavelength range from 0.6 to 5 microns, making it an invaluable tool for studying various celestial objects. It played a crucial role in the recent discovery of four of the most distant galaxies ever observed.
20. Siren sphagnicola is a recently discovered species of elongate, eel-like aquatic salamanders that inhabits seepage areas in the eastern Gulf Coastal Plain of the United States. Siren sphagnicola belongs to the family Sirenidae, which is part of the order Caudata (salamanders).
21. NASA's Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) released a breathtaking image of the Crab Nebula, a celestial object that has intrigued astronomers for centuries. Although scientists know that X-rays are emitted from the Crab Nebula, they are still unsure about the exact location and process that causes the emission.
22. On 15th April 2023, SpaceX's commercial resupply services will transport tomatoes grown on the Vegetable Production System (Veggie) aboard the International Space Station (ISS) back to Earth. These tomatoes were grown as part of the Veg-05 experiment, which probed the impact of light quality and fertiliser on fruit production, microbiological safety and nutritional value.
23. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the world by providing unprecedented benefits to industries ranging from healthcare to finance. However, a recent study by the University of Colorado Riverside and University of Texas at Arlington, titled "Making AI Less Thirsty," sheds light on an aspect of AI that has remained under the radar - its water footprint.
24. IIT Indore, NASA-Caltech and Sweden's University of Gothenburg have collaborated to develop a low-cost camera setup called CL-Flam, which can revolutionize scientific imaging. This device has the capability of capturing multispectral images of four chemical species in a flame using a single DSLR camera, unlike the previous complex system that required four cameras.
25. Scientists from the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) have identified and studied Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) waves, a form of plasma waves observed in the Earth's magnetosphere, at the Indian Antarctic station, Maitri.
26. SpaceX, the private space exploration company founded by Elon Musk, is set to launch its Starship rocket from its facility in South Texas. The Starship rocket is the most powerful rocket ever constructed, generating nearly 16.5 million pounds of thrust at liftoff. The inaugural launch of the Starship rocket is scheduled to take place on 17th April.
27. Plants are often thought of as silent, passive beings that lack the ability to communicate. However, recent research by a group of scientists at Tel Aviv University has challenged this notion. The group, led by biologist Lilach Hadany, has discovered that plants emit distinct, high-pitched sounds in the ultrasonic range when subjected to stress or distress.
28. On 20th April, sky gazers and astronomy enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for a rare celestial event known as the "Ningaloo Eclipse." This solar eclipse is unique as it is a hybrid eclipse, transitioning from an annular eclipse to a total eclipse in certain regions before becoming an annular eclipse again.
29. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a highly contagious virus that belongs to the herpesvirus family. It is one of the most common human viruses worldwide, affecting more than 90% of the world's population. EBV is known to cause infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono and is primarily transmitted through saliva.
30. RHESSI (Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager) is a NASA satellite that has been orbiting the Earth for over 20 years, providing valuable insights into the sun's powerful bursts of energy known as solar flares. Launched in 2002 and decommissioned in 2018, RHESSI is now expected to make its final descent to Earth this week, bringing an end to its remarkable mission.
31. Scientists from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) have made an exciting discovery in Mai Po Nature Reserve, located in northern Hong Kong. They recently found a new species of box jellyfish, which is the first of its kind to be discovered in Chinese waters.
32. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. The disease is characterized by high blood sugar levels and can lead to a number of serious health complications. Recent research has found a link between COVID-19 infection and an increased likelihood of a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
33. NASA researchers have developed a new high-strength, high-temperature-resistant alloy called GRX-810 that could revolutionize the aerospace industry. GRX-810 is a nickel-cobalt-chromium-based alloy developed by materials scientists at NASA's Glenn Research Center.
34. SuperBIT is a state-of-the-art scientific instrument designed to measure precise weak gravitational lensing of galaxy clusters. As the joint project of Durham University, the University of Toronto, Princeton University, and NASA. SuperBIT aims to detect the presence and quantity of dark matter in galaxy clusters.
35. Recently, ISRO successfully launched the PSLV-C55/TeLEOS-2 mission to send two Singapore-made satellite into space. An Orbital Experimental module was also launched as part of this mission to carry out tests in the space vacuum.
36. Heat domes are high-pressure systems that result in extremely hot and dry weather conditions, causing a variety of impacts on human health, the environment, and society. As the frequency and intensity of heat domes increase, understanding their causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies becomes crucial.
37. Chromosomes are an essential part of our DNA, and they have been the subject of much scientific research for centuries. Researchers have recently identified Shugoshin, a protein that plays a crucial to the formation of the iconic X-shape of chromosomes.
38. Zero Shadow Day is a unique and fascinating phenomenon that occurs when the sun is directly overhead, causing the shadow of vertical objects to disappear. This phenomenon is caused by the Earth's tilt and revolution around the sun.
39. A new study has revealed fascinating insights into the innermost layer of Mars - its core. The Red Planet's core is estimated to have a radius of approximately 1,780 - 1,810 kilometers, smaller and denser than previously thought. It is likely in a liquid state, according to the research published in the journal PNAS.
40. Plants are often thought of as silent, passive beings that lack the ability to communicate. However, recent research by a group of scientists at Tel Aviv University has challenged this notion. The group, led by biologist Lilach Hadany, has discovered that plants emit distinct, high-pitched sounds in the ultrasonic range when subjected to stress or distress.
Government Schemes
1. On 7th April this year, Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the Vibrant Village program at Kibithu, a remote village located at an altitude of 9,000 feet above sea level, near the India - China border in Arunachal Pradesh. This program aims to transform rural areas into self-sufficient and prosperous communities.
2. Arjun Munda, the Minister of Tribal Affairs, has recently launched the Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from North-Eastern Region (PTP-NER) scheme in Manipur. This ambitious scheme aims to enhance procurement, logistics, and marketing efficiency of tribal products from the North-Eastern Region and strengthen the livelihood opportunities of tribal artisans.
3. Animal pandemics and zoonotic diseases pose significant threats to both animal and human health. The Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative and the World Bank-funded Animal Health System Support for One Health are comprehensive efforts launched by the Indian government to enhance preparedness and response to potential animal pandemics through a coordinated and holistic approach that involves various stakeholders.
Awards & Honours
1. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed was recently named the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the oil-rich capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He is the eldest son of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his appointment places him next in line to take over as the leader of the federation.
2. Anjali Sharma, a mountaineer from India, has made history by successfully scaling the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro in Southern Africa (Tanzania) while wearing a traditional Gaddi dress, or Luanchadi. She is the first Indian woman to achieve this feat while wearing the Gaddi costume, and she aims to promote Gaddi culture on mountain peaks.
3. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jayanti is a day observed on 11 April every year to remember the works of Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, a social activist, thinker, writer and anti-caste social reformer. Jyotiba Phule, together with his wife, Savitribai Phule, fought for women's education in India and were the first to facilitate schooling for women in the country.
4. Virginia Norwood was an American inventor and scientist whose contribution to the development of the scanner has revolutionized the field of remote sensing. Her invention enabled scientists to record images of the earth from space and paved the way for the Landsat program.
5. The Maharashtra Bhushan award is the highest civilian award presented annually by the state government. It is a prestigious recognition that celebrates outstanding achievements and contributions in various fields. The award has a rich history and has been conferred upon numerous notable individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
6. The Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Public Administration is a recognition program for extraordinary and innovative work done by districts and organizations of central and state governments for the welfare of the people. They were recently conferred at the National Civil Services Day event in New Delhi.
7. Indian Railways is set to launch the Puri–Gangasagar Divya Kashi Yatra to promote religious tourism. This initiative aims to offer a unique opportunity for pilgrims to visit important religious destinations across the country. The tour is being launched under the "Dekho Apna Desh" and "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" Scheme, which promotes domestic tourism in India.
8. Mana village is located near the famous pilgrimage site of Badrinath in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The village has gained prominence recently after it was renamed as part of the government's 'Vibrant Village' scheme mentioned in Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget speech in Parliament. The scheme aims to develop villages in 46 border blocks across 19 districts, four states and one Union Territory.
9. Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, has been awarded the Order of Australia (AO), which is Australia's highest civilian honour. The announcement was made by Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Barry O'Farrell. The award was given to Tata in recognition of his contributions towards strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Australia.
Sports
1. On 2nd April this year, former Indian cricketer Salim Durani passed away at the age of 88 in Gujarat's Jamnagar. He underwent a surgery for thigh bone fracture in January 2023. Salim Durani, born in Kabul, Afghanistan, was a left-arm orthodox bowler and a handy batsman who played 29 Tests for India.
References:
jagranjosh.com
gktoday.in
business-standard.com
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