Current Affairs

Current Affairs is the most important part of every competitive exam in India. At gknow.in, we provide accurate, exam-focused, and easy-to-read current affairs to help aspirants prepare confidently for SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, State PCS, and other government exams.

This parent category covers all major current affairs topics, including:

  • National Current Affairs – Government updates, policies, bills, and major developments

  • International Affairs – Global events, agreements, and geopolitical updates

  • Awards & Honours – National and international recognitions

  • Culture & Heritage – Festivals, traditions, and notable cultural events

  • Science & Technology – ISRO, DRDO, space missions, innovations, discoveries

  • Polity & Governance – Constitutional amendments, committees, judicial updates

  • Important Days & Themes – Monthly observances and exam-relevant themes

  • Government Schemes – New initiatives, updates, launches, and budgets

Our content is:
✅ Daily updated
✅ Exam-oriented
✅ Available in simple language

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s 134th Birth Anniversary on April 14

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, fondly called Babasaheb, is being honored across India on his 134th birth anniversary. Born on April 14, 1891, Ambedkar was the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of social justice.

Rising from humble beginnings, he became a social reformer, economist, politician, and a symbol of hope for marginalized communities. Ambedkar’s lifelong fight against social and caste discrimination led to a Constitution rooted in justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

An accomplished scholar, he earned degrees from Columbia University and the London School of Economics. Across the country, people celebrate his legacy through cultural events, processions, and discussions on equality and inclusion.

AIKEYME 2025 Begins in Tanzania: Indian Navy Joins African Nations for Maritime Drill

Africa India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME), a multilateral maritime exercise, began on 13 April 2025 in Tanzania and will conclude on 18 April 2025. The exercise focuses on collaborative solutions to regional maritime challenges.

Participating countries include Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and India. The Indian Navy is represented by INS Chennai, INS Kesari (a Landing Ship Tank), and INS Sunayna.

The harbour phase features an inauguration ceremony and deck reception, while the sea phase (16–18 April) emphasizes strengthening maritime security cooperation.

Sourav Ganguly Reappointed as ICC Men’s Cricket Committee Chairperson

Sourav Ganguly, former Indian cricket captain, has been reappointed as the chairperson of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee as of April 13, 2025. He first took on the role in 2021, succeeding Anil Kumble.

The ICC Men’s Cricket Committee advises the ICC Board on key areas such as playing conditions, rule changes, and the sport’s long-term development. Under Ganguly’s leadership, the committee aims to further modernize and grow the game globally.

Joining him on the committee are prominent names like VVS Laxman, Temba Bavuma, Hamid Hassan, Desmond Haynes, and Jonathan Trott, bringing diverse and global perspectives.

Ganguly’s reappointment signals the ICC’s trust in his vision and progressive leadership, promising positive strides for the future of cricket.

India Wins Gold in Compound Mixed Team Archery at World Cup 2025

The Indian archery duo of Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Rishabh Yadav won the gold medal in the compound mixed team event at the Archery World Cup Stage 1 in Florida, USA, on April 12, 2025. They defeated Chinese Taipei’s Huang I-Jou and Chen Chieh-Lun with a score of 153-151.

After a slow start, losing the first two series, the Indian pair staged a strong comeback, dominating the final two rounds. This was Rishabh Yadav’s first World Cup gold and Jyothi’s 11th. Notably, they became the first-ever champions in this category since it was officially added to the Olympic program for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

Mohun Bagan Wins ISL 2024-25 Title with 2-1 Victory Over Bengaluru FC

Mohun Bagan Super Giant won the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) title with a 2-1 victory over Bengaluru FC on April 12, 2025, at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium, Kolkata. Bengaluru took the lead via an own goal by Alberto Rodríguez in the 49th minute, but Jason Cummings equalized with a penalty in the 72nd minute. Greg Maclaren scored the winning goal in extra time, sealing the title.

This marked Mohun Bagan’s second ISL title (after 2022-23) and made them only the second team after Mumbai City FC to win both the League Winners Shield and ISL Cup in the same season.

Hanuman Jayanti 2025: Celebrating the Spirit of Devotion, Strength, and Selflessness

Hanuman Jayanti, celebrated on April 12, marks the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, a symbol of devotion, strength, and courage in Hindu mythology.

Lord Hanuman, a key figure in the Ramayana, is revered for his loyalty to Lord Rama, heroic deeds like carrying the Sanjeevani mountain, and his unwavering faith and humility.

On this day, devotees visit temples, chant the Hanuman Chalisa, and engage in bhajans, kirtans, fasting, and rituals. Many also perform charity and community service, reflecting Hanuman’s spirit of selflessness.

Hanuman Jayanti serves as a reminder to embrace devotion, humility, and inner strength in our lives, drawing inspiration from Lord Hanuman’s teachings and actions.

Mahatma Phule Jayanti: Honoring a Visionary Social Reformer

Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jayanti, observed annually on April 11, commemorates the birth anniversary of one of India’s most influential social reformers, Jyotirao Phule. Born in 1827 in Satara, Maharashtra, Phule dedicated his life to challenging caste discrimination, promoting education for all, and advocating for social equality.

Phule’s revolutionary contributions include establishing schools for girls and marginalized communities, alongside his wife, Savitribai Phule, India’s first female teacher. Together, they founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Truth Seekers) to fight caste injustices and promote rational thinking. His literary work, Gulamgiri (Slavery), boldly critiqued Brahminical supremacy and called for the empowerment of oppressed communities.

DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’ with Su-30 MKI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted release trials of the Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’ from a Su-30 MKI aircraft on 12 April 2025.

The Gaurav bomb demonstrated a range close to 100 km with high accuracy during the trials, according to the Defence Ministry.

Gaurav is a 1000-kg class indigenously developed glide bomb, designed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), and the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha.

Senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Air Force (IAF) were present and reviewed the trials.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, IAF, and industry for the successful development, stating that Gaurav will significantly enhance the Armed Forces’ capabilities. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat also congratulated the DRDO team on the successful trials.

India’s Industrial Growth Slows to 2.9% in February 2025: Mixed Sector Performance Noted

India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose 2.9% year-on-year in February 2025, showing moderate growth compared to 5.0% in January, as per the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Sector-wise:

  • Manufacturing (highest weight in IIP) grew 2.9%
  • Electricity generation rose 3.6%
  • Mining increased by 1.6%

Overall IIP stood at 151.3 in February, up from 147.1 last year.

Within manufacturing, 14 of 23 industry groups posted gains, led by:

  • Basic metals: 5.8%
  • Motor vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers: 8.9%
  • Other non-metallic mineral products: 8%

Key drivers: auto components, alloy steel, cement, and prefabricated concrete blocks.

Use-based trends:

  • Capital goods: +8.2%
  • Infrastructure/construction goods: +6.6%
  • Primary goods: +2.8%
  • Consumer durables: +3.8%
  • Consumer non-durables: -2.1%

The report included revised figures for January 2025 (first revision) and November 2024 (final), with 94% and 95% response rates respectively.

March 2025 IIP data will be released on April 28.

Tahawwur Rana Extradited to India: Major Breakthrough in 26/11 Mumbai Terror Case

Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, was extradited to India on April 9, 2025. A Canadian national of Pakistani origin, Rana aided David Headley in conducting reconnaissance for the attacks. He will be in NIA custody for 18 days for interrogation.

His extradition, following failed legal appeals in the U.S., marks a major step in India’s pursuit of justice. This move highlights global cooperation against terrorism and may reveal further details about the 2008 attacks that killed 166 people and injured over 238.

Indian Men’s Recurve Archery Team Enters World Cup Final

The Indian men’s recurve archery team—Dhiraj Bommadevara, Atanu Das, and Tarundeep Rai—has reached the final of the Archery World Cup Stage 1 in Florida, USA. They defeated Spain 6-2 in the semi-finals on April 10, 2025, after a 6-2 win over Indonesia in the quarterfinals.

The team will face China in the final on Sunday evening.

Mahavir Jayanti 2025 – Celebrating the Birth of Lord Mahavir

Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important religious festivals in Jainism. It celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm on Sunday, April 10. On this day, Jains across the world pay homage to Lord Mahavir’s teachings of non-violence, truth, and simplicity.

Who Was Lord Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BCE in Kundagrama, near Vaishali (in present-day Bihar, India). Born to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, he renounced his royal life at the age of 30 and embarked on a spiritual journey. After 12 years of intense meditation and penance, he attained Keval Gyan (absolute knowledge) and spent the rest of his life spreading the message of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession).

Cricket at Los Angeles Olympics 2028: T20 Format Confirmed

Cricket will be played in the T20 format at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, with six teams each in the Men’s and Women’s tournaments. The IOC Executive Board has approved the event programme and athlete quotas, allowing 90 players per gender (15 per team).

Cricket is one of five new sports added to LA 2028, alongside baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash. Venues for cricket matches are yet to be finalised.

India Approves Purchase of 26 Rafale Jets for Navy

On April 9, 2025, India approved the acquisition of 26 Rafale fighter jets from France to strengthen its naval capabilities amid growing Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean. The deal, estimated at ₹630 billion (approx. $7 billion), includes 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater jets from Dassault Aviation.

Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the agreement is expected to be signed soon, with France’s defence minister likely to visit India beforehand. This move aligns with India’s goals to modernize its military, reduce dependence on Soviet-origin systems, and bolster defence ties with France, its second-largest arms supplier.

RBI Cuts Repo Rate to 6% in April 2025 Monetary Policy Review

On April 9, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%, marking the second consecutive rate reduction this year. The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) was adjusted to 5.75%, while the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) and Bank Rate were set at 6.25%.

The MPC also shifted its policy stance from neutral to accommodative, citing evolving economic conditions and the need for close monitoring. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra mentioned that unless shocks arise, the committee will consider either maintaining rates or further cuts in future.

Inflation data showed food inflation dropped to a 21-month low of 3.8% in February 2025, while core inflation rose to 4.1%, driven by higher gold prices. The RBI projects CPI inflation at 4% for 2025–26, noting positive signs like falling crude oil prices, but also warning of risks from global uncertainties and weather-related disruptions.

The Governor also addressed global trade tensions, including tariff uncertainties, which he said could hurt both global and domestic growth, though exact impacts are hard to quantify. He added that all central banks are adopting a cautious approach due to weakening US dollar, lower bond yields, and falling oil prices.

The next MPC meeting is scheduled for June 4–6, 2025.

Trump Pauses Global Tariffs for 90 Days, Excludes China

On April 9, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for all countries except China, surprising many after days of strong rhetoric. Trump cited non-retaliation from over 75 countries as the reason for the pause, and during this period, a reduced 10% reciprocal tariff will apply. However, tariffs on China were hiked to 125%, reflecting ongoing tensions.

The pause came amid internal concerns, particularly from the US Treasury Department, about a selloff in the bond market and fears of a global recession. Trump admitted the decision was emotionally driven, claiming it was “written from the heart.”

The move caused a massive stock market rally in the US:

  • Dow Jones surged nearly 2,500 points
  • Nasdaq jumped 12.2%, its best day in 24 years
  • S&P 500 rose by 6%
  • Oil prices and the US dollar also strengthened

Impact on India:

India had been hit by a 26% reciprocal tariff, but the 90-day pause is expected to provide relief. The Indian government, through ongoing negotiations with the US, is working toward a mutually beneficial trade agreement, said MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

World Homoeopathy Day 2025: Honouring Dr. Hahnemann and Embracing Natural Healing

World Homoeopathy Day is celebrated every year on April 10 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homoeopathy. The day aims to recognize his contributions and promote awareness of homoeopathy as a holistic and natural system of healing.

The theme for 2025 is “Adhyayan, Adhyaapan, Anusandhaan” (Education, Practice, and Research), emphasizing the core pillars for the development and integration of homoeopathy in modern healthcare.

Homoeopathy follows the principle of “like cures like,” using minute doses of natural substances to stimulate the body’s healing processes with minimal side effects. Celebrations include global seminars, workshops, and discussions focusing on research, clinical practice, and education.

The day highlights the continued relevance of homoeopathy in addressing modern health challenges and encourages individuals to explore safer, personalized treatment approaches rooted in nature.

Govt Merges 26 Regional Rural Banks Under ‘One State, One RRB’ Plan

On 8 April 2025, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) under the Ministry of Finance announced the amalgamation of 26 Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) as part of the fourth phase of consolidation, following the principle of “One State, One RRB.” This move aims to improve operational efficiency, rationalize costs, and enhance rural financial inclusion.

The merger, based on stakeholder consultations since November 2024, covers RRBs in 10 states and one union territory. With this move, the number of RRBs is now reduced from 43 to 28, operating over 22,000 branches across 700 districts, with 92% branches in rural and semi-urban areas.

The government has been implementing RRB mergers in phases:

  • Phase 1 (2006–2010): RRBs reduced from 196 to 82
  • Phase 2 (2013–2015): Reduced to 56
  • Phase 3 (2019–2021): Reduced to 43
  • Phase 4 (2025): Now 28 RRBs remain

The reform is expected to boost the scale and efficiency of RRB operations and support India’s broader financial inclusion goals.

Navkar Mahamantra Divas 2025 Promotes Global Peace and Spiritual Unity

Navkar Mahamantra Divas is a spiritually significant event rooted in Jain philosophy, dedicated to the collective chanting of the Navkar Mahamantra—a sacred prayer that honors enlightened beings rather than deities. It emphasizes core values like non-violence (ahimsa), humility, self-awareness, and spiritual elevation.

In 2025, the day is celebrated with a grand global event at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, with participation from over 108 countries and more than one crore devotees worldwide. The event also precedes Mahavir Jayanti, honoring Lord Mahavir’s legacy of truth, non-violence, and renunciation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering, highlighting the mantra’s universal message of harmony and compassion. This global celebration reflects the timeless relevance of Jain principles in promoting a more peaceful and united world.

Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 Comes into Effect to Ensure Transparent Property Management

The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 officially came into force on April 8, 2025, following President Droupadi Murmu’s assent. The legislation had been passed by both Houses of Parliament the previous week.

The amended law focuses on:

  • Improving the management of Waqf properties
  • Safeguarding heritage sites
  • Promoting social welfare initiatives

Key objectives include:

  • Enhancing transparency and accountability in Waqf property administration
  • Better coordination between Waqf Boards and local authorities
  • Protecting the rights of stakeholders

The Act aims to build a secular and well-governed system for Waqf affairs, ensuring public trust and effective use of assets for community benefit.

India Shines at ISSF World Cup 2025 as Suruchi Singh and Vijayveer Sidhu Strike Gold

India continued its dominance in shooting at the ISSF World Cup 2025 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with stellar performances on April 8, 2025, by Suruchi Singh and Vijayveer Sidhu.

  • Suruchi Singh, just 18 years old, won her first-ever gold in the women’s 10m air pistol event, defeating top Chinese contenders. With a final score of 244.6, she outshot China’s Qian Wei and Jiang Ranxin, securing a major international breakthrough.
  • Vijayveer Sidhu made history by becoming the first Indian ever to win gold in the men’s 25m rapid fire pistol. His composed, world-class performance reaffirmed his place among India’s elite shooters.

These victories lifted India to the top of the medal tally, with a total of 4 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze, marking a remarkable run at the event. This performance reflects India’s growing prowess in shooting and raises high hopes for upcoming Olympic shooting events.

RBI Begins Bi-Monthly Policy Review, Repo Rate Cut Expected

On April 7, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) began its three-day bi-monthly monetary policy review meeting, with a key focus on deciding the benchmark repo rate. The meeting is led by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and includes six members of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). The final decision is scheduled to be announced on April 9, 2025.

This session is significant as it marks the first MPC meeting of the new financial year and follows the Union Budget 2025, which aimed to boost consumer spending through changes in income tax slabs.

In February 2025, the MPC cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 6.25%—its first rate cut in nearly three years (since May 2020).

Experts predict another 25 bps rate cut in this meeting as a response to global economic uncertainties, including the US announcement of reciprocal tariffs, which could impact trade and inflation.

President Droupadi Murmu Honoured with “Key to the City” in Lisbon, Strengthens India-Portugal Ties

On April 7, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu was conferred the prestigious “Key to the City of Lisbon”, the highest civic honour of the Portuguese capital. The symbolic gesture, presented by Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas, officially recognises her as an honorary citizen of Lisbon. The ceremony took place at the Câmara Municipal de Lisboa and was attended by diplomats, citizens, and members of the Indo-Portuguese community.

President Murmu thanked the city for the honour, appreciating Lisbon’s spirit of tolerance, diversity, and inclusiveness. She noted the strong cultural and economic contributions of the Indian diaspora, which forms the fourth-largest immigrant community in Portugal.

The President underscored Portugal’s role as a vital partner in India’s engagements with the European Union and Lusophone countries, and reaffirmed India’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat by 2047” guided by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family.

During her visit, President Murmu:

  • Held delegation-level talks with Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
  • Discussed cooperation in trade, green energy, startups, IT, and skilled mobility.
  • Visited the Statue of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi to pay floral tributes.
  • Is scheduled to meet Portuguese PM Luis Montenegro and visit the Assembly, Champalim Foundation, and Radhakrishna Temple.

Her visit marks 50 years of diplomatic ties between India and Portugal and precedes her historic two-day visit to Slovakia, the first by an Indian President in 29 years.

Rudrankksh Patil Wins Gold at ISSF World Cup 2025 in Buenos Aires

Indian shooter Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle event at the ISSF World Cup 2025 in Buenos Aires on April 6, 2025. This is Patil’s second individual World Cup gold, having previously won the title at the 2023 Cairo edition.

Local favorite Marcelo Julian Gutierrez secured bronze with a score of 230.1. India now jointly leads the medal tally alongside China, with both countries winning 2 golds, 1 silver, and 1 bronze so far. The USA also has two golds and ranks third, while Hungary secured one gold medal. There are still eight finals left in the competition.

Meanwhile, Arjun Babuta, who finished fourth in the Paris 2024 Olympics, ended seventh in the final with a score of 144.9, narrowly missing the podium again. Kiran Ankush Jadhav, who shot 631.5 in qualifications, did not compete in the final as he was participating under Ranking Points Only (RPO).

This victory marked India’s fourth medal at the first ISSF World Cup of the 2025 season.

10 Years of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

On April 8, 2025, India marks 10 years since the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), a flagship government scheme that provides collateral-free institutional finance to non-corporate, non-farm micro and small enterprises.

Since its inception in 2015, PMMY has sanctioned over 52 crore loans worth ₹32.61 lakh crore. The average loan size has increased from ₹38,000 in FY16 to ₹1.02 lakh in FY25, reflecting growing credit demand among small businesses.

📈 Key Highlights:

MSME Credit Growth: Lending to MSMEs rose from ₹8.51 lakh crore in FY14 to ₹27.25 lakh crore in FY24, with projections to cross ₹30 lakh crore in FY25.

Women Empowerment: Women account for 68% of Mudra loan recipients. The average loan to women borrowers grew at 13% CAGR, while their savings rose at 14% CAGR.

Social Inclusion: 50% of accounts are held by SC, ST, and OBC entrepreneurs, and 11% by minority communities, improving financial inclusion.

Loan Categories:

  • Shishu: Up to ₹50,000
  • Kishor: ₹50,000 – ₹5 lakh (grew from 5.9% to 44.7% share)
  • Tarun: ₹5 lakh – ₹10 lakh
  • Tarun Plus: ₹10 lakh – ₹20 lakh (new addition)

Top States by Disbursal:

  1. Tamil Nadu – ₹3.23 lakh crore
  2. Uttar Pradesh – ₹3.14 lakh crore
  3. Karnataka – ₹3.02 lakh crore
  4. West Bengal – ₹2.82 lakh crore
  5. Bihar – ₹2.81 lakh crore

UT Leader: Jammu & Kashmir with ₹45,816 crore across 21 lakh loans

Sector Impact: The scheme supports units in manufacturing, trading, processing, and services, employing nearly 10 crore people, making it India’s second-largest source of employment after agriculture.

Global Recognition: The IMF has praised PMMY for expanding financial access, promoting self-employment, and supporting women-led businesses.

Implemented By: Scheduled Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks, NBFCs, and Microfinance Institutions under MUDRA (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency).

World Health Day : 7 April 2025

World Health Day is being observed globally on 7 April 2025, focusing on the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” as declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). This year’s theme emphasizes ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths and promoting the long-term health and well-being of women.

In India, the central government is actively working to improve the country’s healthcare system and ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for all. Key national health initiatives include:

  • Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): Over 55 crore people are covered under a ₹5 lakh health insurance per family annually, with more than 40 crore Ayushman Cards issued.
  • Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Around 1.76 lakh centers provide comprehensive primary healthcare across the country.
  • Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan and the National TB Elimination Programme are also significant steps in advancing public health.

These efforts reflect India’s strong commitment to building a healthier, more inclusive nation, particularly in the fields of maternal and child health, disease prevention, and universal health coverage.

Sudarsan Pattnaik Becomes First Indian to Win Fred Darrington Sand Master Award

Renowned Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has become the first Indian to win the prestigious Fred Darrington Sand Master Award for his exceptional contribution to sand art. The honor was presented at the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival held in Dorset, England.

To celebrate the occasion, Pattnaik crafted a 10-foot sculpture of Lord Ganesha bearing the message of “World Peace.” The award carries special meaning this year as it coincides with the 100th birth anniversary of legendary British sculptor Fred Darrington.

A Padma Shri awardee from Odisha, Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand art festivals, known for artworks that blend spiritual themes with social messages. The Sandworld exhibition at Lodmoor Park, famous for large-scale sculptures made from just sand and water, featured global talent—but Pattnaik’s peace-themed creation stood out as a highlight.

His win is not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Indian art on the world stage.

Hitesh Gulia win Gold medal at World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025

Hitesh Gulia has etched his name in the annals of Indian boxing history by clinching the gold medal at the prestigious World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025 on 6 April 2025. Competing in the 70kg weight category, Gulia emerged victorious in the final held at Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. His opponent, Odel Kamara of England, was unable to compete due to injury, granting Gulia a walkover.

This remarkable achievement marks the first time an Indian boxer has won gold at the World Boxing Cup. Gulia’s journey to the final was nothing short of extraordinary, as he defeated French Olympian Makan Traore with a dominant 5-0 unanimous decision in the semifinals. A sailor with the Indian Navy, Gulia has consistently showcased his prowess, having previously won gold at the Senior National Boxing Championships and the Uttarakhand National Games.

India’s campaign at the World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025 concluded with an impressive haul of six medals: one gold, one silver, and four bronze. This milestone not only highlights Gulia’s individual brilliance but also underscores the growing strength of Indian boxing on the global stage.

India’s First Vertical-Lift Sea Bridge: Connecting Rameswaram Island to Mainland India

On April 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, India’s first vertical-lift sea bridge, marking a major milestone in the country’s infrastructure and engineering capabilities. Spanning 2.07 km across the Palk Strait, the bridge enhances connectivity between Rameswaram Island and mainland India, replacing the original 1914 structure.

The bridge was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and offers improved vertical clearance for maritime traffic, as demonstrated by the successful passage of an Indian Coast Guard boat and a train during the event. The project was sanctioned in 2019, is three metres taller than the original, and designed for higher speed, load capacity, and durability.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi joined the inauguration. Vaishnaw also marked the BJP’s foundation day by hoisting the party flag. The New Pamban Bridge symbolizes India’s leap in infrastructure, standing alongside global engineering icons like the Golden Gate and Tower Bridge.

Parliament Budget Session concludes, both houses adjourned sine die

The Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31, 2025, officially concluded on April 5, 2025, with both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die. The Monsoon Session will be scheduled later.

In his valedictory remarks for the 267th Rajya Sabha session, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar praised members for their active participation. The Upper House sat for 159 hours, achieving 119% productivity, including a historic longest sitting on April 3–4 from 11 AM to 4:02 AM. A record 49 private members’ bills were introduced.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reported 26 sittings and a 118% productivity rate. During the session, 10 government bills were introduced and 16 were passed, including the key Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which passed after midnight following an intense debate. The bill received 128 votes in favor and 95 against.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, revised based on recommendations from a Joint Parliamentary Committee, aims to modernize the 1995 Act by improving the efficiency of Waqf Boards, simplifying the registration process, and integrating technology for better management of waqf properties.

The Budget Session was split into two parts: Jan 31–Feb 13 and from March 10 onwards.

Scroll to Top